February 28, 2006
Son #2
Some of you are familiar with The Blogless Wonder, others are not. But in any case, he is no longer known by such a malicious moniker...
So without further ado...
Allow me to introduce my second son, the one that insists I refer to him as my red-headed step-child, Two Foot Onion. You'll have to get him to tell you the story behind his name but he now blogs at The Wonder Formally Known As Blogless on blogspot.
So go give him a hello and make him feel welcome in our world
Posted by: Princess Cat at
09:00 PM
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Two foot onion? I SO do not want to know...
Posted by: Ogre at March 01, 2006 03:02 PM (/k+l4)
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damn, aren't we busy? it's called the pill, and you need to get on it. seriously, though, congrats on your second son, maybe we can arrange a play date?
Posted by: shoe at March 02, 2006 07:36 PM (0E4d+)
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February 27, 2006
Coping
Despite all the supportive comments and e-mails, I can't say I've been coping real well over the last couple of weeks. In fact, I generally feel like I'm falling apart. Though, I'm sure that was pretty obvious by now.
I put on a good show in front of the people that will remember if I don't, but most days I can't even bring myself to answer the phone. I've been going to work like usual, sometimes a little later than I should be. I've missed a class or two, but nothing that should do any real harm. To most people, the irritations have appeared minor.
In reality, I have been coping by shutting down. I have abanoned people that have needed my support. The blog has gone without much posting. E-mails go unanswered for days or weeks, if they ever get answered at all. My phone runs out of battery before I am willing to even look at it, and the voicemails just keep piling up without ever being heard.
Naturally, I have found myself at a breaking point or two as a result of this unhealthy habit of mine ... That evening in my office where I just had to close the door to make the world go away, or the evening I sat crying by the sink on the floor of a public restroom, or the nights I lay in bed with the tears welling up in my eyes as I pray that the morning will never come, just so that I don't have to put on the mask and face the world again before I'm ready to.
I always knew that shutting down was how I coped, but I couldn't see until now how far away from reality that place really can be. There is a part of me that can see the danger and the red flags in all of this, but that part of me doesn't usually win out. And unfortunately, through all of the abandonment and lack of trust in my short life, I just haven't quite learned anything better.
So I continue on, behind my mask of strength, coping with the negative as best I can despite the flawed methods ... hoping that the sun will soon burn through the clouds and shed the rays of warm sun on my face again.
Posted by: Princess Cat at
09:20 PM
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Wishing you a day like this, very soon:
http://www.cordair.com/knowles/skip.aspx
Posted by: Harvey at February 28, 2006 04:08 PM (ubhj8)
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Just a hello and a fatherly hug. If I could take away your pain I'd do it in a minute. I've lost all 4 of my grandparents in the last 10 years or so. I definitely know how you feel. The only way to get over the pain and learn to live again is talk to someone you trust about it. Shutting down and closing out the world will just make things harder for you. Believe me, I did the same thing the first time this happened to me. Hope you get better soon. I'll say a prayer for you.
Posted by: assrot at February 28, 2006 07:45 PM (ARCEn)
3
Coming from someone of my stature... I don't know what it'll mean, but...Stay the course. After we met, I knew how intelligent you are, and I have faith that you'll get through it. The only advice I've got is : let it come naturally. End of sermon.
Posted by: Johnny - Oh at February 28, 2006 09:25 PM (uKudz)
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February 26, 2006
Even in Death...
It is going to take a lot of time for me to accept that my grandmother is gone and that she was stolen away by some selfish prick with nothing better to do than drink his pathetic life away. I'm incredibly angry at life for taking her now, like this, so unfairly.
But even in death there is still a silver lining, of sorts ... I suppose ... In some sick and morbid way, I'm kind of glad that my grandmother died the way she did - she died being who she was - a helper, a doer, and one stubborn lady.
You see, my grandmother was not your typical lady. Her husband died of cancer over 40 years ago, leaving her to raise 3 kids on her own. After that she designed and built the house she lived in for the rest of her life. She was a school teacher with two Masters Degrees and a world traveler that most military personnel couldn't hold a candle to. There are places that today even young men should be careful about traveling to that she brazenly went to over the last 25 years, even as an elderly woman. She followed protocol and custom, always learning about cultures around the world - I found no less than 5 foreign language dictionaries on just one of her bookshelves. She was a ground breaking woman that did what she thought was right, regardless of how difficult it might be.
Even in her death, she will continue to push the limits of what society has accepted as normal. This time, she will be the center of creating a new local legal precedent. The case brought against the other driver will be the first in the county to be prosecuted under new, stricter, and more lengthy maximum punishments. As tough as it will be, I'm am glad that my grandmother, such a strong woman in life, will continue to help her fellow man through her death.
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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.. glad you are back, Cat....
Posted by: Eric at February 27, 2006 06:15 PM (r5XsL)
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Wow. Just wow. I hope you are hanging in there; I love the tribute you are able to give your grandmother. And that stepmom of yours? Holy crap. I hope your grandmother will be able to poke that woman around a little bit and straighten her up from where she is.

Jesus H, I still can't believe that this is a true story, all of it. I'm so sorry that you had to lose her this way.
Posted by: dawn at February 27, 2006 08:29 PM (D+5+4)
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February 21, 2006
Enroute
Well, I'm off ... the time has come to head to Kansas to say my final goodbyes.
In the interest of keeping prying eyes off the blog, I don't imagine I'll be doing any posting until I get back. The last thing I need is to let the entire family know about this place all at once.
Those with keys, feel free to keep her warm for the next couple of days.
Posted by: Princess Cat at
06:41 AM
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safe trip, and hugs!
wish I could think of something better to say.
Posted by: caltechgirl at February 21, 2006 01:56 PM (/vgMZ)
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Kansas huh? I hope where ever you are headed in my fair state that you are safe and that you always remember that you are loved. I also hope its a time of healing and peace for your family.
Posted by: Shelley at February 21, 2006 03:06 PM (iMGjE)
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*rummages through liquor cabinet*
Posted by: Harvey at February 21, 2006 08:58 PM (ubhj8)
4
Safe trip and as few annoyances as possible.
Holler if you need more booze, though.
Posted by: Lysander at February 22, 2006 06:07 PM (ShW/G)
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February 20, 2006
Of Course - The Fucked Up Part...
Naturally, emotions are running high through the whole family right now...
Trying to make arrangements for my grandmother, Dad sat in the very same funeral home that had taken care of his father some 40 years ago, simply by accident. The man across the desk said, "I know your family. My father took care of your father." It was an odd comfort, in a creepy kind of way.
But the creepiest part of all this ...? The step mom...
She flew in last night and will be staying with the whole family in my grandmother's house. My mom and step-mom in the same house ... awesome. But that's not it ... evil stepmom will be sleeping in my grandmother's bed. Maybe I'm the only one that has an issue with this but, in my book, that takes the dysfunctional cake at the moment. She doesn't know a thing about my grandmother, and then there's the fact that my grandmother didn't like a thing about the woman. Over the Christmas holiday, my grandmother did everything she graciously could to avoid going to stepmom's house and only spoke to her when it was impolite not to.
So much for thinking about what grandma would have wanted...
Posted by: Princess Cat at
11:39 AM
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Oh dear. I'm a little late in offering my heartfelt sympathies to you. I hope that you are able to get through this trying time. My thoughts are with you and your family!
Posted by: oddybobo at February 20, 2006 01:25 PM (6Gm0j)
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Well sweetie I am sorry that you lost your grandmother. It sounds like she was a very good woman. There is not much anyone can say or do to make you feel better. The death of a loved one is something we all have to learn to work through for ourself and we all do it different. I'll bet your grandma is in a better place right now and she is finally free of this troubled world. I doubt she cares who sleeps in what bed anymore. She probably just wants her loved ones to have good memories of her and for them to get on with life after a respectful mourning period. My prayers are with you and your family. I wish I could relieve your pain. Try to have a nice day. Here's a fatherly hug for you from an old almost bald fat dude. Hope you feel better soon.
:-)
Posted by: assrot at February 20, 2006 05:53 PM (ARCEn)
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Hang tough kiddo. Times like you're goin' through are tough on everybody around. I tried to bite my tongue through the last one I went through. It was a brother in law, preceeded by a mother in law, preceeded by a father in law. Be strong. I know you can be.
Posted by: RedNeck at February 22, 2006 08:51 PM (tSJ8V)
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February 19, 2006
It's Not Quite Real ... Yet
Thank you to all those who have offered their thoughts and prayers, sympathies and condolences. This whole situation doesn't quite feel real just yet.
Everyone expects that their grandparents (and eventually parents) will pass, it is a part of life that cannot be avoided. It is hard to watch as a body fails those we love, but the body is a fragile thing that just gives out after a while.
I remember being at my great-grandfather's funeral when I was a young child and I remember how it felt when my great-grandmother died 12 years ago, but I've never lost a family member that I am used to spending holidays and special events with.
When my great-grandfather passed I was too young to have any real emotion - in fact, I don't even know how he died. When my great-grandmother passed I remember feeling relieved. She had spent years in a nursing home, suffering with worsening dementia and Lord knows what else. She went to breakfast one morning and fell asleep at the table, where she peacefull passed and went onto a better place.
But this time ... my grandmother was a relatively healthy woman for her age, remarkably so, in fact. Her body was slowly beginning to fail in ways that her peers had experienced years before. She had a good 5 years left of her life to enjoy before she could be expected to suffer the 'hell of getting old.'
I don't ordinarly get angry when someone dies, but this time is different. She didn't reach the natural failure of her body, she was killed. Life brought to her, and to our family, a senseless, meaningless, stupid death that no one deserves.
I keep sitting here trying to reconcile my feelings on this but I keep coming back to the thought that my grandmother's life was stolen away ... she was nothing short of murdered by a selfish man who could think no farther than himself when he got behind the wheel of his truck that night.
Posted by: Princess Cat at
10:54 AM
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I'm so sorry Cat. Just so sorry for your loss.
Posted by: Tammi at February 19, 2006 05:34 PM (lfQya)
Posted by: Ted at February 19, 2006 06:48 PM (+OVgL)
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Damn, Cat, ...my condolences. I wish you and yours the best, that can be had in hard times like these.
Posted by: RedNeck at February 19, 2006 09:45 PM (tSJ8V)
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My deepest sympathies on your loss. My granmother passed away last summer, I understand your pain. I will offer a prayer for your grandmother.
Posted by: hoosierboy at February 20, 2006 10:35 AM (hgpXh)
Posted by: Tige at February 21, 2006 11:59 AM (QgCnE)
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February 18, 2006
A Heartwrenching End
I got a phone call from my dad last night at 3:30 am. He called to tell me that he and my brother had landed ... they were going to visit my grandmother for the weekend. But that was all he could say before the line went quiet and he handed my brother the phone.
He told me something had happened. I didn't learn the details until this morning.
My grandmother never showed up at the airport last night to pick them up. They called the police to go check on her, but she wasn't at her house. Before they knew anything else, they got a call from the Chaplain at the hospital - my grandmother had been in an accident.
She was hit head-on by an oncoming truck that came into her lane - Carolla vs S-10. Despite her good driving record and her new, safe, little car, the drunk driver was stronger. He fled the scene on foot but was later apprehended by the police.
I had hoped to hear she died instantly, but she had a pulse at the scene. She died either enroute or shortly after getting to the hospital, but before my dad and brother could make it there. My brother said she looked ok though - no largely traumatic injuries that could be seen at least.
But as if a car accident weren't a bad enough way for an elderly person to go, she died alone. That is the hardest thing for me to take right now. She lived alone, she always felt like no one was paying attention to her, and now she has died alone.
My dad has asked me to stay put until the services but none of those arrangements have been made.
Posted by: Princess Cat at
12:20 PM
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Cat,
I'm so sorry to hear that. If there's anything at all I can do, you know how to get in touch.
My deepest condolences for your loss.
Posted by: skippystalin at February 18, 2006 12:38 PM (ohSFF)
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Cat, I am so sorry. My condolences to your family.
Posted by: nic at February 18, 2006 01:32 PM (l+W8Z)
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Cat, I'm so very sorry to hear this news. My deepest condolences to you and to your family.
Posted by: Victor at February 18, 2006 01:41 PM (l+W8Z)
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Cat, I am so sorry for your loss. I really am. It is unthinkable for any relative to pass on, especially this way.
My deepest condolences.
I am sure though, that her family was there with her in her last moments in thought.
Posted by: Blogeline at February 18, 2006 08:53 PM (XcifK)
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That's horrible, Cat. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Posted by: Jim - PRS at February 18, 2006 10:04 PM (njBz/)
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I am sorry for your loss.
While I agree that she passed 'alone', I don't think she felt alone. If I understand your post, she was on her way to the airport to pickup her son and granson, right?
Well, if they were coming to visit, then she knew she wasn't alone.
I bet that if she had survived the crash, she would have been more concerned about leaving them stranded at the airport.
Posted by: _Jon at February 19, 2006 12:33 AM (/R7YK)
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my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I will have the prayer folks at my church lift you up in prayer. again, i am so terribly sorry.
Posted by: Shelley at February 19, 2006 03:00 AM (iMGjE)
Posted by: amelie at February 19, 2006 03:16 PM (J0CVQ)
9
... I saddened by this horrible news... my thoughts are with you and your family, Cat...
Posted by: Eric at February 19, 2006 04:34 PM (r5XsL)
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I am sorry to hear of your loss..
need anything just ask
katie
Posted by: Katie at February 20, 2006 06:26 PM (wZLWV)
11
{hug}
And _Jon is perfectly right. She had warm thoughts of her family when she passed.
Posted by: Harvey at February 21, 2006 09:01 PM (ubhj8)
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February 17, 2006
Where's Lil Bro?
Blog bro
RSM asked me to do a little guest blogging for him while he was away for the weekend ... but it seems
someone else got to his place first ...
I think I'll go see if I can't make myself at home anyway ;o)
UPDATE: Or not... I can't seem to get the log-in page to come up ...
Posted by: Princess Cat at
09:10 PM
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February 15, 2006
Freaked...
This morning, I was almost hit by a car.
I stepped into a crosswalk I use every day, confident that I had looked both ways. Apparently I hadn't. But somehow, on some level, I knew that the car was there when I walked into the street ... because there was no panic when I looked to my left and saw a car drawing closer. I stood there calmly, waiting to see if he would stop in time or swerve around me as he angrily gestured in my direction.
He stopped. I walked.
This evening, I walked past a girl sitting on the sidewalk with her arms and head on her knees - her pants and underwear pulled down to mid-thigh.
I walked past the girl, unaware of how long she'd been sitting there or how hold she was, and unable to stop. She was not using the sidewalk as her personal toilet, she was sitting with her naked skin on concrete. It was one of the most unnatural scenes I have ever run across.
I panicked. I walked ... quickly.
Tonight, I received an annonymous Valentine's Day gift.
Sitting on my kitchen table was a box from 1-800-flowers. The card read:
I couldn't have this delivered on Valentine's Day but this is your present from me. Since I don't have a girlfriend I wanted to give you something instead.
It was unsigned. I opened the box and found a teddy bear, dressed in biker gear. I know only two people that like bikes, one of which didn't send it, the other of which doesn't know my full name. I am at a loss for who could have sent it, and hoping that it wasn't any of those I am hiding from.
I am well and deeply freaked by today.
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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wasn't me baby, I may have shared your bed, but I never have sent anyone a bear....
Posted by: armywifetoddlermom at February 15, 2006 11:02 PM (Z7IAr)
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Was it biker gear or was it S-M gear?
Posted by: Telebush at February 16, 2006 08:37 AM (8VWOk)
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Love you dearly, Cat, but it wasn't me.
Even though it's true that I don't have a girlfriend ;-)
Besides, if *I* would've given you a bear, it would've looked more like this:
http://badexample.mu.nu/archives/067984.php
Posted by: Harvey at February 16, 2006 01:20 PM (ubhj8)
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.. whoa... that girl on the sidewalk?... crazy stuff... and the bear?... a mystery... I'd be freaked out too.....
Posted by: Eric at February 16, 2006 03:16 PM (r5XsL)
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Hello, short time lurker, first time commenter

You did have a freekie day... ever figure out who sent the VDay stuff? more importantly though, ever think of a reason for the girl 'enjoying the concrete'? After i read that i was running around work with that in my head... cant think of any logical reason myself, any ideas from anyone else? My dog used to do that, to cool off his Family Jewels, but i wouldnt think that would be an option for a girl. Anyway... love your blog, keep of the good work.
Posted by: Chris at February 17, 2006 10:08 AM (CUz3I)
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Was the bottomless girl on the sidewalk at least cute? You leave out too many important details, you know that?
Christ, I'm adorable.
Posted by: skippystalin at February 17, 2006 10:23 AM (ohSFF)
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wow, what a weird bunch of coincidences. Maybe the bear wasn't malicious, just from someone who is shy. I think if it was malicious, the note would have seemed more threatening, but it's probably good to be on your guard...
Posted by: caltechgirl at February 17, 2006 01:51 PM (/vgMZ)
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February 14, 2006
Sweet Valentine
Valentines to come,
Valentines to pass,
Just take a moment,
and please kiss my ass...
Didn't I make you feel
Like you were the only man
Didn't I give you everything
That a woman possibly can
Each time I tell myself
That I can't stand the pain
You hold me in your arms
And I'll say it once again
Come on, come on, come on, come on, ay
Take another little piece
Of my heart now baby, yeah
Take another little piece of my heart, oh oh, oh oh
Take another little piece
Of my heart now baby
You know you got it
If it makes you feel good
You're out on the street lookin' good
Baby deep down in your heart
You know that it ain't right
No, you never, never, never, never hear me cry
Cry no, I cry, I cry all, all the time yeah
Each time I tell myself
That I can't stand the pain
You hold me in your arms
And I'll say it once again
Come on, come on, come on, come on, ay
Take another little piece
Of my heart now baby yeah
Take another little piece of my heart oh (take it)
Take another little piece
Of my heart now baby
You know you got it
If it makes you feel good, ooh, yeah
Come on, come on, come on ooh
Oh you take a peice of me
When you take my heart
Oh baby
You know you got it
If it makes you feel good
Take another little piece
Of my heart now baby yeah (take it)
Take another little piece of my heart oh oh
Take another little piece
Of my heart now baby
You know you got it
If it makes you feel good yeah
Take a piece of my heart
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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Yeah ! I love Janis Joplin ! I find it hard to believe that someone your age even knows who she is much less likes her music.
Posted by: assrot at February 15, 2006 06:08 PM (ARCEn)
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February 12, 2006
I Still Don't Get It...
Maybe this is just my weekend to bitch, but...
How is is possible that the very same world that created wonderful, caring, and selfless people like Blackfive, Andi, ArmyWife, etc can also create people without any real grasp on the concept of compassion?
You know the people I'm talking about ... the people that aren't necessarily mean on purpose, they are just so inwardly focused that they kind of suck to talk to. The people that are appalled and offended that you would dare accuse them of being empathetically impaired ... Yeah, you know the ones I mean - the ones that can only see their own feelings and blame the you for why they can't see yours.
Someone just tell me how it is all possible. Because I still don't get it...
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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February 11, 2006
I Just Don't Get It...
Why is it so easy for some people to treat others poorly?
Friday was just not a good day at work. I finally reached a boiling point after a long series of run-ins with the USN CAPT that I work with and ended up closing the door to my office so I could sit and cry the stress out.
It was an early morning - one, because of our conference but two, because our first presenter, the CAPT, wasn't done making his powerpoint by the time I left work on Thursday. I had to show up early to run through it with him because I am the techie intern ... Naturally, he wasn't ready when I showed up and thus the timeline for getting our attendees into the conference was delayed and I had to run around like a chicken with my head cut off to get everything coordinated.
The conference timeline was completely jacked. First, because of our delay in getting the attendees into the building, second because the CAPT (and POC for the conference as a whole) gave a terrible and lengthy "brief" that pushed the entire timeline back. And of course, it was on a day that I needed to be across town for lunch... More running...
When I finally was able to read my email and listen to voicemail at 2pm, there were important tasks for me to handle ... and I jumped right in. But someone else had other plans...
In the middle of a phone call, discussing one of our important databases and the needs of another agency for using it CAPT barged into my office. I assumed he'd leave once he realized I was on the phone, for business purposes ... but he didn't. So I asked the person if they could hold on.
CAPT had me put the other agency on hold while he asked if I could do his photocopying. And not just photocopying ... photocopying of select pages of a large document ... and NOW. I explained that I was in the middle of important business and he explained he needed the copying done yesterday and the other intern was gone for the weekend already. I was to do what he needed NOW.
In my head: If it's so damn important, why didn't you ask me yesterday...?
I ended up having to call the other agency back so that he could get his copies. And then ... when I finished (within his 20 minute deadline), he wasn't in his office. AND, he left the office without ever saying a word to me.
Now can anyone explain to me why it is necessary to treat another person that way? There is no reason you need to be rude to people in a situation like that. There is no excuse for being so condescending.
I just don't get it...
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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I don't get folk like that either. They got to jump you to get their stuff done hasta pronto, then when you go to tell 'em it's done, they ain't nowhere to be found. Kinda makes you want to "undo" it, and wait 'til they ask you WTF, and you say, well, I stopped, dropped, and rolled, to get you what you needed to put out your fire, but when I went to relieve you, you were nowhere to be found.
To some folk, everything seems to be a "needed by yesterday" deal, just 'cause they were slackin' a bit. Folks that come to me with that kinda 'tude, if they don't come often, and stick around to square the deal, I don't have a problem goin' above and beyond for. Folks that make demands like that, then boot scoot the hell on out, I point to a picture in my lovely large cubicle that says somethin' pretty damned simple...
"Failure to plan on your part does not constitute an emergency on mone". Then I say, I'll get too it 'soon as I can.
I think your situration is different then mine, the ranks certainly are, but at times, the arrogance isn't. I try to do the best I can to provide my
customer with what they need when they need it, but if they cry wolf every damned day... somethin's gotta give, and I tell myself at times, hell 'Neck, you
were lookin' for a job when you found this one.
Don't sweat the small stuff Cat... It'll make you ol' and Grey like me 'fore your time.
Posted by: RedNeck at February 14, 2006 06:19 PM (tSJ8V)
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Long(er) Days
Bonus points for anyone that can guess what time I left work today...
:-\
UPDATE:
That 1 Guy pretty much nailed it. I finally left work about 00:15.
I had gotten up at 05:00 and arrived at work by 07:15.
Talk about cheap labor...
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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8:30.... on a friday. I'd call a human rights organization.
Posted by: Telebush at February 11, 2006 01:45 AM (8VWOk)
2
2112
(I managed to sneak out by 1820, but I'm headed back at 0730 on a Saturday)
Posted by: RSM at February 11, 2006 07:00 AM (ODxF4)
Posted by: Princess Cat at February 11, 2006 10:40 AM (leeb2)
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One million dollars!
Oh, the time - hmm. 11:59 P.M.
Posted by: Lysander at February 11, 2006 11:56 AM (ShW/G)
5
10:14:29
(or thereabouts)
Posted by: That 1 Guy at February 11, 2006 11:57 AM (lfQya)
6
So far, Lysander is closest...
Posted by: Princess Cat at February 11, 2006 11:59 AM (leeb2)
Posted by: That 1 Guy at February 11, 2006 12:45 PM (lfQya)
8
STOP!! Don't do it! Seriously - you'll miss too much.
I mean it. It ain't worth it. Nothing is.
Posted by: Tammi at February 11, 2006 06:48 PM (lfQya)
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February 09, 2006
Long Days
I walked into the house this evening, coming home straight from 11 hours at work ... with a relatively short commute ... and I still set foot inside my door only to mark less than 11 hours until I had to be back
at work.
Dinner, laundry, ironing, attempt at a life, job applications...
... shower, hair, make up, breakfast, rush hour commute ...
Unpaid
AWESOME
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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Posted by: Sissy at February 11, 2006 12:59 AM (gCk3+)
2
"Dinner, laundry, ironing, attempt at a life, job applications...
... shower, hair, make up, breakfast, rush hour commute ...
Unpaid"
Just checked the dictionary... sure enough, that's the definition of "insanity" :-)
Posted by: Harvey at February 11, 2006 02:15 PM (ubhj8)
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February 08, 2006
Twice A Wake Up
I've always been one that is really hot at night...
No no, you dirty boys, my body temperature rises while I'm sleeping. I usually keep my room a little cooler than I could tolerate fully clothed & awake, just because I'll overheat and can't sleep if I don't. More than once I've had a boyfriend ask me if I was feeling ok in the morning because he thought I had a fever the night before.
So that being said...
What the crap is this whole night sweats thing I've got going on lately? I'm 25 freakin years old! I wake up a couple of hours before my alarm is supposed to go off and I'm covered in sweat ... head to toe. I don't feel overly warm and I am able to go back to sleep reasonably quickly, I'm just all wet ...
But this waking up twice thing has really got to stop
Posted by: Princess Cat at
11:49 PM
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1
Only get those when I'm really sick.
Posted by: the Pirate at February 09, 2006 10:13 AM (0ZKi5)
2
Hmm. You might keep an eye on it - if it's really happening a lot, it may be bloodsugar related (as in your bloodsugar is getting lower while you sleep).
Then again, might just be random body changes.
Posted by: beth at February 09, 2006 01:07 PM (BuBkx)
3
... how much tequila had you drank before hitting the rack?... could be that you were just sweating it out...
Posted by: Eric at February 09, 2006 05:52 PM (r5XsL)
4
My dad and I are both that way.
We have been our entire lives.
Posted by: _Jon at February 09, 2006 06:08 PM (/R7YK)
5
Sorry, I don't believe you get that much warmer when you sleep. Prove it.
Posted by: RSM at February 09, 2006 06:46 PM (ODxF4)
6
Sorry, agree with Eric, it's the tequila.
Posted by: Sissy at February 11, 2006 01:01 AM (gCk3+)
7
Nah - I'm that way too. I have to have the room about 20 degrees cooler than I would normally tolerate. Sometimes, I've even turned the air on in the middle of winter. Of course, as soon as I wake-up and my feet hit the ground, up goes the thermostat.
Snowed in today?
Posted by: Andi at February 12, 2006 09:36 PM (PJs/i)
8
Wish the GF had that problem. She's cold all the time.
Posted by: Victor at February 13, 2006 12:01 PM (L3qPK)
Posted by: Tige at February 13, 2006 03:40 PM (QgCnE)
10
That would be "you're". I hate grammer.
Posted by: Tige at February 13, 2006 03:41 PM (QgCnE)
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February 07, 2006
Job Fair Day
I think this is where I find out if all this "education" has made me employable.
Somehow, I think I'm screwed...
Update: 9:15 PM
After 2 hours, 17 conversations, and 12 resumes ... either I have a lot of smoke blown up my skirt, which would be really embarassing to have happen (again), or it wasn't an entirely unsucessful afternoon.
At least four of the potential employers appeared interested enough to pursue an application...
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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Posted by: Eric at February 07, 2006 10:02 AM (r5XsL)
2
Am in much the same postion as yourself... It's totally freaking me out, as long as I don't end up as an admin/secretary gopher after shelling out thousands to 'better myself' it'll be ok... good luck!
Posted by: The Lady Muck at February 07, 2006 11:32 AM (eV6hb)
3
I got no problem finding work, heck jobs are abundant and paying very very well (Bachelors & 0 yrs experience - $50-63k, Masters & o yrs experience $65+k) and not to mention I'm keep getting calls from headhunters.
Good luck with the search!
Posted by: the Pirate at February 07, 2006 12:11 PM (0ZKi5)
4
huh? can i get a pirate job? i had no idea they paid so well for wearing eye patches and saying "aaarrrgghh" good to know
you know i have a job for you, right? sure it doesn't have squat to do with your interests, nor your education, but it pays huge dividends in personal fufillment. think about it. applications accepted in austin april 28th. please say i'll see you there.
Posted by: shoe at February 08, 2006 07:47 AM (TIk6S)
5
Of course they're interested.
Good luck!
Posted by: Tammi at February 08, 2006 07:58 AM (lfQya)
6
Of all of the blowing up your skirt that I'd enjoying engaging in, I can't see smoke being introduced.
Anyhow, best of luck.
Posted by: skippystalin at February 08, 2006 09:08 AM (ohSFF)
7
Nah I didn't get in piracy for the money, I did it for the wenches!
Posted by: the Pirate at February 08, 2006 12:31 PM (0ZKi5)
8
Woohoo i got my fingers crossed for you
katie
Posted by: Katie at February 08, 2006 02:27 PM (E+7PI)
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February 05, 2006
Tetris In The Clouds
Last night was another very sucessful blogmeet ... but I must admit being the guilty party to mess part of it up. While the restaurant messed up the reservation all on their own, it is my fault that
Jen & company were not in attendance. Looking back at the mailing, her email address is not in the list ... dammit. Sorry all!! Guess it really is all in the details, isn't it? I can't take the blame for the
Cranky Neocon though ... he was just MIA.
Our full list of guests that DID arrive included: Blogeline & her husband (Blogeline's Journal), Buckethead (Ministry of Minor Perfidy), Goddess Dawn (Caterwauling), Lysander (Lysander of Alexandria), Robert (Llama Butchers), Victor (Publius & Co), Nic (Shoes, Ships, and Sealing Wax), Ted & his wife & daughter (Rocket Jones), and the Wonder Formerly Known As Blogless.
Personally, I got a huge kick out of playing tetris with the tables. But then again, I was stuck in a corner where I couldn't move any of the tables. I think those that were doing the moving and being moved stopped seeing the humor after the second time ... maybe the third ... but certainly by the fourth.
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1
"Stuck in a corner"? I rather think it was "artfully displayed, out of the traffic flow".
Posted by: Ted at February 06, 2006 05:56 AM (blNMI)
2
Semantics, my friend ... mere semantics ...
Posted by: Princess Cat at February 06, 2006 07:04 AM (leeb2)
3
Table Tetris! Ingenious! Loved hanging with everyone and our collective superiority because we blog and thus, we rock. Even if we can't arrange tables wortha a sh*t.
Posted by: dawn at February 06, 2006 08:41 AM (i086L)
4
Table Tetris! Ingenious! Loved hanging with everyone and our collective superiority because we blog and thus, we rock. Even if we can't arrange tables worth a sh*t.
Posted by: dawn at February 06, 2006 08:42 AM (i086L)
5
We weren't stuck in a corner; we were strategically positioned to oversee the morphing of the tables into new and interesting shapes. (That's my story, and I'm sticking to it!)
Posted by: Lysander at February 06, 2006 10:06 AM (ShW/G)
6
Hey, no worries! We'll be there next time...
Posted by: jen at February 06, 2006 11:28 AM (UMVKj)
7
Thanks for taking care of the organizing! It was great fun, especially for those of us who never had to do the heavy lifting.
Posted by: nic at February 06, 2006 07:29 PM (l+W8Z)
8
I hope no one accidentally fell asleep "anywhere"...only to recieve monies for looking homeless....
Posted by: armywifetoddlermom at February 06, 2006 11:25 PM (sYmwT)
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February 04, 2006
Hi, I'm Here Because I'm Fat
I just read
Tammi's post about her issues with food. It made me incredibly sad ... because I too have issues with food. I guess a lot of people do. But even a good face can't erase the food demons. The body image demons scream even louder most days.
You see, I grew up the fat girl. I have never known what it was like to be skinny. There are pictures of me as a kid before I was old enough to be in school where I am thin. But once you get to the third and fourth grade, the time that I can begin to remember, the pictures portray a fat girl. The teasing that I remember was aimed at a fat girl.
When I was young, it was "baby fat" that I would "grow out of" ... but I never did. By junior high, I wore clothes from Lane Bryant. I was not in fashion, for any age group, let alone my own. In order to find a dress for my 8th grade graduation I had to go to a special "fat lady" store. My dress was a Woman's 1X. I looked like I was wearing a big pink tent with lace.
The weight just kept coming on. I was as awkward as any freshman I suppose but my anxiety and depression made me feel like I was the only one. Compounded by the fact that I didn't really have any friends to speak of. By my sophomore year, I was at Weight Watchers meetings every Saturday morning. They helped a little, but not much ... and certainly not in a lasting way. My prom dress was more black fabric than I ever hope to see again. Again, not even close to fashionable for prom.
I'm sure there are a lot of factors that contributed to the reason why, but the weight just never went away. Before I knew it, I weighed 215 pounds. And at only 5'9" ...
Over a year and a half or so I was able to lose a total of 50 pounds by learning to like new types of food, by learning to give into a craving with a bite (not a whole cake), by being conscious of not only what I was eating but how I was eating and realizing the psychological effect of foods.
Most of those 50 pounds has stayed off ... but not all of it ... and I want to lose 25 more, at least.
I have massive anxiety about eating with people I don't know very well. At parties or gatherings with strangers, I hardly eat a thing because I feel the eyes watching, judging, waiting to tell me that my food choices are why I am so fat. At get togethers with a buffet, I've been known to be too scared to get my own food and had a boyfriend get it for me.
There are still days that I take out my contacts or refuse to put on my glasses, just so I don't have to see myself naked in the mirror. I hate myself naked. I disgust myself. I only have boobs because of the fat. I am a hideous pear. I have more stretch marks than some women who've had three kids. No amount of exercise will give me a flat, toned midsection. The extra skin and kangaroo pouch are a permanent reminder of my painful, lost youth. My body is forever ruined. I will never know the simple pleasure of living in a young, nubile body.
Some days I ask myself, why watch what you eat if you'll never be who you want to be? And those are the days I'm glad I don't keep much food in my house.
Posted by: Princess Cat at
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1
I've met you.
Were I single, I'd never have the guts to approach you in a bar, because I'd be too busy thinking "she's WAY out of my league".
And yet you don't like the way you look.
If you could see through my eyes, your demon would catch a bad case of laryngitis.
Posted by: Harvey at February 04, 2006 07:42 PM (ubhj8)
2
... everyone holds themselves up in a less-than-good light every so often.... you are a charming girl..... have faith in your self...
... oh, and never forget, sis... Harvey is a perv of the highest caliber..... I just thought I'd warn you.... they don't call him Mr. Bad Example for nothing, you know.....
Posted by: Eric at February 04, 2006 08:17 PM (r5XsL)
3
I have met you
if I were a single, younger, childless, and a lesbian...
I would totally be intimidated by your looks...
Posted by: armywifetoddlermom at February 04, 2006 11:07 PM (rO8n5)
4
While I would never attempt to trivialize your self loathing, these are powerful emotions that are not "fixed" by pithy comment.... I was distressed by your assertion that life was a little less shiny because you were never going to get to live in a nubile body. I will never be President, or have a Maserati in my driveway. I will never have a six pack no matter how much work I put into it. I look at it through another, probably less complex, lense. There is all sorts of other shit out there in the world that I will do my darndest to see, experience, taste, smell, drive, fly and enjoy... and my dissappointment at never being President will fade.
Posted by: Dee Mack at February 05, 2006 12:08 AM (Y04sZ)
5
I'm going to go against the grain of the previous comments. Why? Because I can completely relate to you. I may have never quite gotten to 215, but I hit 200 once upon a time. And well, you are about an inch taller than me. Anyways, I understand where you're coming from. As for what guys say, I'm sure you and I both know that a woman can look very different naked with all her stretch marks, cellulite, loose skin, etc. than with her clothes on. And THAT is what we fear. We fear that even though we have slimmed ourselves down that guys will still be disappointed...because who we used to be is permanently imprinted on our bodies. I know sometimes my boyfriend will see someone on TV who has just a few stretch marks or who is definitely smaller than me but maybe a little pudgy...and he might make some kind of negative comment. Hearing those comments about other women is what continues to fuel our negative self-images. It doesn't matter if my boyfriend says that I'm beautiful etc...it's how I see transplant his words about other women onto me.
Now, why am I against the grain? Because I say Cat, you CAN have a flat tummy. Never rule out plastic surgery. Plastic surgery was made for women like you and me so that we could feel better about ourselves. Sure, stretch marks can't be completely removed, but your tummy can be smoothed--your legs can be hardened--and your image improved.
Maybe other people will think I am wrong to bring up the plastic surgery angle. But you know what? I don't think any amount of therapy is going to blind you to your own naked body. You can learn to 'live with it' but why do that? I just had plastic surgery last week to fix my chin. I know it sounds stupid, but my whole life, I have always hated how prominent my chin is. I have been called Jay Leno jokingly by friends and family. Well, no more. Plastic surgery has taken that away.
And all the pain I'm in right now, all the drugs I have to take, and all the liquid foods I have to eat, it makes it all worth it because I will feel so much more comfortable in public now.
Do you know that they actually will finance plastic surgery through Capital One? Just thought I'd tell you. I know a lot of people might read my comment and think that I am wrong for not saying "Cat you're beautiful." However, I don't think any amount of me trying to convince you otherwise is going to make you feel better. It's all about your own mind.
Posted by: Dorothy at February 05, 2006 12:13 PM (i2wOe)
6
I would have never thought....
....but I totally understand
Posted by: Sissy at February 05, 2006 12:33 PM (gCk3+)
7
You're hot, Cat.
Now if you want to see horrifically ugly, fly thee to Toronto soonest. But I suggest swiping a few of the air-sickness bags from the plane for the meeting.
On the other hand, I look fantastic naked! Just like an 11 year old girl, in fact. The problem is my head. If that were to be severed from my body and set on fire in a dumpster somewhere, I'd be the perfect specimen of manhood.
And that's why I take all my vacations in the North West Frontier Province of Pakistan.Well, that and the fact that pleading for my life on videotape is a turn-on for me. That's not kinky, is it?
But that's another story for another day.
Posted by: skippystalin at February 05, 2006 03:25 PM (ohSFF)
8
Princess Cat... we are in the same boat... if you need to talk..I am near by so let me know.
Katie
Posted by: Katie at February 05, 2006 08:04 PM (Ffvoi)
9
The image we have of ourselves is a two edged sword. The secret it in accepting who we are and not letting the words or veiws of others to muddy the water. Tough - tough. Especially when you're used to the harsh judgement of others being so very prevelent (sp).
You are a beautiful young woman, inside and out. And my prayer is that someday you'll see that as easily as we all do.
Posted by: Tammi at February 06, 2006 09:05 AM (lfQya)
10
Hear me NOW and believe me later!
From what I've read on your site, you have your stuff grouped.
This is important in real life.... You be OK.
Posted by: The Old Man at February 07, 2006 01:03 PM (YtqTh)
11
Not so. I told the husband that I'm sure the troops loved you coming to see them because you are "easy on the eyes". You are a very striking woman, Cat - whether you believe it or not.
Posted by: Andi at February 07, 2006 07:25 PM (PJs/i)
12
You one fine looking young woman, you are.
Posted by: Jim - PRS at February 07, 2006 08:15 PM (njBz/)
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February 01, 2006
DC Unite!
For those readers in the DC Metro area that haven't heard yet - blogmeet ... Saturday... email me for the details.
Agenda for the evening: Plans - Taking Over World
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1
damnit i wish i didnt live in kansas....and had a cool blog. such a shame.
Posted by: shelley at February 02, 2006 02:42 PM (iMGjE)
2
Times that I wished I lived near DC are very few. But this is one of them. Please make sure to consume at least one beverage for me!
Posted by: That 1 Guy at February 03, 2006 10:28 AM (lfQya)
3
Have fun, I'll be enjoying my warm weather @ Mancrappin Beach.
Posted by: the Pirate at February 03, 2006 12:16 PM (0ZKi5)
4
Cat,
Darling have at least 6 for me...
Posted by: armywifetoddlermom at February 03, 2006 03:17 PM (Az6hX)
5
I thought we were gonna drink and talk.
Posted by: Victor at February 03, 2006 04:01 PM (L3qPK)
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And Then What?
...I've been asking myself that question for the last 5 days... And then what? The pain, the anger, the confession... And then what?
I've had a really hard time recovering from the spewing of my deepest secret last week. I mean, really ... How does one return to regular blogging after that? It all seems just a little too blah to be read about once the underbelly has been exposed.
Truthfully, I've gone into hiding since last week. Not just on the blog but on email for the most part and via phone. I know I've upset a few people and made others worry far more than necessary, but I have felt very raw. I know everyone that cares about me means well, but I haven't been ready for the "so how are you doing" conversations just yet.
I just want to feel normal again but now I know that everyone knows my struggle. How do you feel normal when everyone else knows your daily life is an emotional roller coaster, no matter how strong a face you put on it?
So I suppose I'm working on "normal"...
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1
... life IS a rollercoaster.... and each of us is riding their own... some scream and some laugh, but it's still a rollercoaster... me?... I scream bloody murder, but I still write my blog as if I laugh.... hang on, kiddo... the ride ain't even CLOSE to being over....
Posted by: Eric at February 01, 2006 07:03 AM (r5XsL)
2
Cat,
You know, you're a sweet kid for worrying about your readers, but now really isn't the time for it. This is more of a time for you to worry about you and how you feel about all of this. If that means taking a break, then for Christ's sake, take a break. Trust me, no one will hold it against you or think any less of you for it.
Normal will come when you're ready for it. So get yourelf ready. We'll still be here when it comes.
Posted by: skippystalin at February 01, 2006 09:11 AM (ohSFF)
3
I did talk to my daughter and neice about what to do if attacked. I'm leary about practicing 'cause after all, it would hurt.
But they're clear - no mercy.
Without your sharing, I would have never thought to bring up such an important topic and teach them.
Posted by: _Jon at February 01, 2006 06:57 PM (/R7YK)
4
you need to take time for yourself. there are no clear cut answers in situations such as this. i do like reading this blog as it humors me and has helped me come to terms with my own struggles. thank you, no matter what you decide to do.
Posted by: Shelley at February 01, 2006 07:44 PM (iMGjE)
5
Shoot, I think that it toojk a lot of guts to write and post the initial story...but that doesn't negate what came before it. Although the previous stuff may have been "trite" or "unimportant", it doesn't mean that it's not part of who you are as well.
We don't expect a "Bombshell" from you every day, just more of the "little things" that make you who you are.Those of us who've had the pleasure of your acquaintance, should think no less of you because you shared a "deep thing" on your site. We've still met you... and liked the person we saw. As far as I'm concerned, nothing's changed. Just continue to "Be Yourself", and we'll keep coming back.
Remember the awkward hug I gave you at the airport? There's another available, anytime you need one.
Anyway's, Just take care of "you" girl...we'll be here when you need us.
Posted by: Johnny - Oh at February 02, 2006 10:28 PM (uKudz)
6
you keep moving forward. And you can be safe in knowing some of us will be there when you are ready.
Posted by: RSM at February 04, 2006 07:11 AM (ODxF4)
7
The normalcy feeling comes from knowing that people know your secret and guess what? We are still here. It means that now you should know that you are not alone, that it has happened to other people too. The important thing for you to focus on and the source of your anxiety is that you don't know how you could have avoided it in the first place so there is probably a real fear of it happening again at some point. My solution would be for you to seek out something empowering to you, something that is going to lessen that fear..karate lessons comes to mind as something that would fall into that category.
The power lies within you.
Posted by: Kelly at February 04, 2006 09:13 AM (/rG6R)
8
sadly, you're just normal. everybody says stuff on their blog they regret or feel retarded about. no big deal. look at velociman, it could be worse. that dude is totally fucked up. you'll be back to normal soon enough.
by the way, you are coming to austin. you are coming to austin. you are coming to austin. understand?
Posted by: shoe at February 04, 2006 10:10 AM (9gf5R)
9
Like Kelly said.
I'm still here.
Posted by: Harvey at February 04, 2006 07:44 PM (ubhj8)
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