This is not a random thought, just something I wanted to get off my chest.
However, I may have written it in a random way, and for that I apologize.
People at work who are "team leads" or "managers", but who do not know how to lead or create team mentality, and who only manage to create chaos, create backlash from their favoritism practices, and put discourse in place from their own backstabbing and setting people one against the other...those are the impostors.
Impostors practice incessant lying and covering up of things gone wrong, making masses of issues and stacks of boxes, and tempers flare. There is one expert impostor in the White House (and he's put many more like himself - they're called 'yes men' - in places of power) slinging his malicious brand of subterfuge and ignorance. We are all suffering because of this buffoon impostor.
Even our new HR rep accused me of 'trying to pull one over on the new guy' when I brought to his attention a pervasive problem regarding my vacation time. I thought I'd found a fresh set of ears to listen and help me figure it out and fix the oversight. Fortunately, he finally ended up looking further than his ego (and initial perception of my request), and righted the wrong. I just couldn't believe his initial response was to whitewash it by accusing me of trying to cheat the company out of something I had earned and was entitled to, rather than to listen with an open mind.
Our specific building is chockablock full of impostors in positions of leadership, and they have no idea of what they are doing - except when they practice their crap skills, totally intending to create chaos in other directions to keep the eyes of scrutiny engaged in looking in the wrong place, and not focused on problems caused by the impostor's own inadequacies.
Impostors light a fuse then stand back and watch with glee.
Atomic boom.
Showing posts with label job. Show all posts
Showing posts with label job. Show all posts
3.21.2020
11.09.2019
What a difference a week makes
I spent last weekend at work.
Yup, you read that right - "at work"!
I know, I know. Who does that, right? You spend five days in a row getting out of bed, (usually) disappointed at the prospect for the next nine-plus hours - unless you have *a job that brings you joy and satisfaction, and friendships that keep you encouraged throughout your hours and years together.
Side note: I have actually had *that in two jobs over my lifetime (but if you know me, you would know that this is not a good average, as I have had too many jobs over my lifetime...and pauses in between for life's intrusions and national economic setbacks), so I know it can happen.
At any rate, I am not at work this weekend, even though the enticement of a real hourly wage (read as overtime pay - woohoo!) would've been enough to have me return for another round of labeling.
No, last week I signed up to help relabel product on Saturday because the advent of 8 hours of OT pay was going to be a welcome boon towards outstanding obligations. And then [insert ominous musical notes here] we were sent home hours early, but asked if we wanted to work Sunday for five to six hours (AT DOUBLE TIME)! No idiot turns that down, right?
This idiot didn't.
Sunday, we were once again sent home hours early, so our expectations were not met. Yes, we had several hours of extra pay - very nice - but when management asks folks to be at the building at 6AM (or even 7AM), for a forecast period of time, and then changes the day and monetary expectations drastically...well, that's not cool. The whole thing about actually being there early (when you are only just normally getting up to begin with) is one thing - and yes, it was my choice to go in Saturday, but the understanding was the time/pay was for 8 hours.
You think twice about ignoring an extra-early wake-up call for a mere four hours. Trust me.
Today, Karl and I have dental obligations, and I have an additional medical 'date' (which I rescheduled to help last weekend), and didn't feel like trying to reschedule any of it again, so I avoided rising to an early alarm. Nope, I just let the two ding-a-lings perform their usual shenanigans at 5AM....BUT, I didn't have to dress and drive - and that's the difference a week makes.
Yup, you read that right - "at work"!
I know, I know. Who does that, right? You spend five days in a row getting out of bed, (usually) disappointed at the prospect for the next nine-plus hours - unless you have *a job that brings you joy and satisfaction, and friendships that keep you encouraged throughout your hours and years together.
Side note: I have actually had *that in two jobs over my lifetime (but if you know me, you would know that this is not a good average, as I have had too many jobs over my lifetime...and pauses in between for life's intrusions and national economic setbacks), so I know it can happen.
At any rate, I am not at work this weekend, even though the enticement of a real hourly wage (read as overtime pay - woohoo!) would've been enough to have me return for another round of labeling.
No, last week I signed up to help relabel product on Saturday because the advent of 8 hours of OT pay was going to be a welcome boon towards outstanding obligations. And then [insert ominous musical notes here] we were sent home hours early, but asked if we wanted to work Sunday for five to six hours (AT DOUBLE TIME)! No idiot turns that down, right?
This idiot didn't.
Sunday, we were once again sent home hours early, so our expectations were not met. Yes, we had several hours of extra pay - very nice - but when management asks folks to be at the building at 6AM (or even 7AM), for a forecast period of time, and then changes the day and monetary expectations drastically...well, that's not cool. The whole thing about actually being there early (when you are only just normally getting up to begin with) is one thing - and yes, it was my choice to go in Saturday, but the understanding was the time/pay was for 8 hours.
You think twice about ignoring an extra-early wake-up call for a mere four hours. Trust me.
Today, Karl and I have dental obligations, and I have an additional medical 'date' (which I rescheduled to help last weekend), and didn't feel like trying to reschedule any of it again, so I avoided rising to an early alarm. Nope, I just let the two ding-a-lings perform their usual shenanigans at 5AM....BUT, I didn't have to dress and drive - and that's the difference a week makes.
6.03.2019
I love the Material Handlers & Re-Pack Folks
No two ways about it, they made me feel important and missed.
Their friendship and caring, and the concern they expressed, made me feel like I matter. Some of the best medicine - EVER!
Golly, it was a long day, and I am not too proud to admit I am pooped. I also have a feeling it will be an awfully long week. There is a lot of overdue work in my inbox, many requests that need tending to, and still the 100% verifications to contend with. Sorted through the glut of tasks and made myself a game plan for the next few days.
Was not surprised to learn the new QC Eng did not pick up any slack, nor did the WH Lead, who had a huge hand in creating/allowing the mislabeling debacle.
Their friendship and caring, and the concern they expressed, made me feel like I matter. Some of the best medicine - EVER!
Golly, it was a long day, and I am not too proud to admit I am pooped. I also have a feeling it will be an awfully long week. There is a lot of overdue work in my inbox, many requests that need tending to, and still the 100% verifications to contend with. Sorted through the glut of tasks and made myself a game plan for the next few days.
Was not surprised to learn the new QC Eng did not pick up any slack, nor did the WH Lead, who had a huge hand in creating/allowing the mislabeling debacle.
12.30.2018
Just a thought
If some people I work with spent as much time simply allowing me to do my job (and assisted, as they are supposed to), instead of obstructing and scheming, things would run so much more smoothly and efficiently - and there'd be far less 'Peyton Place' drama where it doesn't belong.
Seriously, they really have that much free time to screw over a co-worker, as opposed to doing a better job at accomplishing their own tasks? What the...?
Seriously, they really have that much free time to screw over a co-worker, as opposed to doing a better job at accomplishing their own tasks? What the...?
2.11.2018
Wow, it's already 9AM
Some days drag on, right from the very moment your cats wake you up. Then there are those days that whip right past you, as though you put the viewer on fast forward and can't find the pause button.
It was a short few weeks ago that I had an interview for a full time position as a "Quality Administrator" (A.K.A. "Quality Technician"... or, "Quality Analyst"). I heard quickly after the interview (from the staffing agency who sought me out) that I had the job - "if I wanted it."
IF I WANTED IT!?!? IF??
Why wouldn't I want it?
Oh...well, they found me over-qualified and feared I had moved on in the time it took them to weed out, and slog through, the last of their interviewees. They presumed I would not (with my over-qualifications) want a position for the contractor rate they were offering. Why would I stoop to it?
I reasoned that the contracted amount would increase once I served my 90 days and was brought onboard as a true and permanent employee. I added that it was a full time position - far superior to the part time gig with the county - and that it exceeded my wildest dreams, following my terrible drought. It was a chance to practice my skills as a detail-minded team player - in an office, no less!
It was a full time job,
with a future,
that offered benefits and real money,
and a chance to do more than survive,
and would give my mother a break.
Thank you, YES, I would love to accept your job.
Thank you so much for this chance.
God is great.
It's taking longer than I thought to acclimate to the work/home thing after so long out of it. The job is also more physical than I would have thought, but that's a great thing. I enjoy the people, and I am learning a lot about the different processes and areas within the distribution center and it's small production area. There is much to learn, but I am up to the challenge!
More about it all another time, for now I simply wanted to update those who are keeping an eye on the employment status.
It was a short few weeks ago that I had an interview for a full time position as a "Quality Administrator" (A.K.A. "Quality Technician"... or, "Quality Analyst"). I heard quickly after the interview (from the staffing agency who sought me out) that I had the job - "if I wanted it."
IF I WANTED IT!?!? IF??
Why wouldn't I want it?
Oh...well, they found me over-qualified and feared I had moved on in the time it took them to weed out, and slog through, the last of their interviewees. They presumed I would not (with my over-qualifications) want a position for the contractor rate they were offering. Why would I stoop to it?
I reasoned that the contracted amount would increase once I served my 90 days and was brought onboard as a true and permanent employee. I added that it was a full time position - far superior to the part time gig with the county - and that it exceeded my wildest dreams, following my terrible drought. It was a chance to practice my skills as a detail-minded team player - in an office, no less!
It was a full time job,
with a future,
that offered benefits and real money,
and a chance to do more than survive,
and would give my mother a break.
Thank you, YES, I would love to accept your job.
Thank you so much for this chance.
God is great.
It's taking longer than I thought to acclimate to the work/home thing after so long out of it. The job is also more physical than I would have thought, but that's a great thing. I enjoy the people, and I am learning a lot about the different processes and areas within the distribution center and it's small production area. There is much to learn, but I am up to the challenge!
More about it all another time, for now I simply wanted to update those who are keeping an eye on the employment status.
10.15.2017
A brief recap
...followed by (no doubt) a lot of extra catch-up stuff.
Hello, once again!
I did say that entries would be hit or miss for a while, and I did promise (myself more than the lot of you) to try and be more upbeat in my writing, too (but that was all, what... over a year ago?). So, here's me, feeling a bit more buoyed and a tad more hopeful in sharing a somewhat cheerier self.
The job market may be on the uptick, but employers seem to be stuck in 'stupid mode'. I am stuck in the data entry job I won back at the beginning of 2016; come early January I will have been there two years. While immensely grateful to have the job, I need a place to work with a job that will allow me to do what it is I can do, very well, and to the benefit of my employer.
No, I do not have a Bachelor Degree, but what the heck would an administrative position require of a BS? The expectation of employers for job seekers to hold sheepskin that will never be used on the job is asinine. Try hiring someone with years of experience, not years of schooling.
Other things -
I've been s l o w l y working a high protein, low-to-no grain, limited ingredient moist food into Odin's wet helpings over the last several months. It is the same 'hi-pro, lo-to-no, LI' food we are feeding Booker, and the hope is to eventually be able to wean Odin off of his very expensive prescription food and have him eating a more easily obtained (and more affordable) diet. He may always have to have his special prescription crunchy chow, but my thought is he will be able to handle an over the counter canned food by the end of the year! So far, so good. His intestines are processing it better than before. and if we see an issue with his body not being able to adjust to an increase at any time, the amount fed goes backwards until he stabilizes and his poos are back to normal.
The only real trouble is keeping Odin away from Booker's crunchy food, and Booker from eating any of Odin's kibble.
The twins are also bonding in big and little ways. Odin walked up to Book, who was reclining on the floor, they sniffed one another, then Booker lowered his head just a bit and Odin licked the big fella between the ears. Much more of their romping and play is also being done in full view of us humans, too.
Karl is doing well enough in his ethics course, but must get moving with the one long writing assignment he has. The first deadline is quickly approaching, with no wiggle room to speak of.
We are walking a little more regularly (Karl and myself), which is a very necessary activity. This past week I arrived home after work to find Karl had left the house on his own! He walked to a friend's house, roughly ten blocks away, and then on to the dollar store - over a mile away... in one direction!
A few weeks back I fell down some stairs in a workplace stairwell, spraining my right hand and ankle, and bruising my left hip and buttocks; it was an amazing bounce down five steps. I am no longer wearing the wrist brace, but still massaging the wrist and thumb. I've even begun stitching on my CQs again!
Yesterday was one long, rainy day. I'm not certain about how much of the state received rainfall, but my house was rained on from 8AM until midnight, with a forty-five minute break right around 8:30PM.
Maybe you could let me know what's happening in your life.
Hello, once again!
I did say that entries would be hit or miss for a while, and I did promise (myself more than the lot of you) to try and be more upbeat in my writing, too (but that was all, what... over a year ago?). So, here's me, feeling a bit more buoyed and a tad more hopeful in sharing a somewhat cheerier self.
The job market may be on the uptick, but employers seem to be stuck in 'stupid mode'. I am stuck in the data entry job I won back at the beginning of 2016; come early January I will have been there two years. While immensely grateful to have the job, I need a place to work with a job that will allow me to do what it is I can do, very well, and to the benefit of my employer.
No, I do not have a Bachelor Degree, but what the heck would an administrative position require of a BS? The expectation of employers for job seekers to hold sheepskin that will never be used on the job is asinine. Try hiring someone with years of experience, not years of schooling.
Other things -
I've been s l o w l y working a high protein, low-to-no grain, limited ingredient moist food into Odin's wet helpings over the last several months. It is the same 'hi-pro, lo-to-no, LI' food we are feeding Booker, and the hope is to eventually be able to wean Odin off of his very expensive prescription food and have him eating a more easily obtained (and more affordable) diet. He may always have to have his special prescription crunchy chow, but my thought is he will be able to handle an over the counter canned food by the end of the year! So far, so good. His intestines are processing it better than before. and if we see an issue with his body not being able to adjust to an increase at any time, the amount fed goes backwards until he stabilizes and his poos are back to normal.
The only real trouble is keeping Odin away from Booker's crunchy food, and Booker from eating any of Odin's kibble.
The twins are also bonding in big and little ways. Odin walked up to Book, who was reclining on the floor, they sniffed one another, then Booker lowered his head just a bit and Odin licked the big fella between the ears. Much more of their romping and play is also being done in full view of us humans, too.
Karl is doing well enough in his ethics course, but must get moving with the one long writing assignment he has. The first deadline is quickly approaching, with no wiggle room to speak of.
We are walking a little more regularly (Karl and myself), which is a very necessary activity. This past week I arrived home after work to find Karl had left the house on his own! He walked to a friend's house, roughly ten blocks away, and then on to the dollar store - over a mile away... in one direction!
A few weeks back I fell down some stairs in a workplace stairwell, spraining my right hand and ankle, and bruising my left hip and buttocks; it was an amazing bounce down five steps. I am no longer wearing the wrist brace, but still massaging the wrist and thumb. I've even begun stitching on my CQs again!
Yesterday was one long, rainy day. I'm not certain about how much of the state received rainfall, but my house was rained on from 8AM until midnight, with a forty-five minute break right around 8:30PM.
Maybe you could let me know what's happening in your life.
12.28.2015
Fresh start(s)
My life seems to be a series of beginnings.
Lots of beginnings - some very unwelcomed ones. Lots of very unexpected ones. Many sought after and hard won. Some longed for but lost, and others despised and egregious. But all of them was a fresh start - for the most part. Not surprisingly, those beginnings came with a price, more often than not. On occasion they were anticipated costs - even precipitated by something I purposefully set in action - but a good number of the endings were shocks and disappointments.
Unfortunate as they were, even some of the worst endings brought about some great beginnings. Those are the ones I would prefer to think about. However, this is all a matter for another discussion at another time.
Currently, I am headed for two beginnings in 2016, and I couldn't be more pleased. Although, it feels a very tempered excitement, I am eager to begin. The first is quite obviously the beginning of the new year, but of course, you probably went there straight away, you clever reader. The second is a new job - IN AN OFFICE - at long last. There will be more on this development in the coming weeks, but for now, I must get busy if I am to make a dent in what needs doing over the course of the next week.
So, if you will excuse me, I need to slip away to the sewing area to start another new thing or two - a skirt and a pair of trousers. There's also a top I've cut out and need to assemble, so I may as well get started. It'll be nice to have some fresh clothes to wear on my first day.
By the way, I wrestled with the phrase "new beginnings", but realized a 'beginning' is actually something new, so why the need to qualify it as a 'new beginning'?
Lots of beginnings - some very unwelcomed ones. Lots of very unexpected ones. Many sought after and hard won. Some longed for but lost, and others despised and egregious. But all of them was a fresh start - for the most part. Not surprisingly, those beginnings came with a price, more often than not. On occasion they were anticipated costs - even precipitated by something I purposefully set in action - but a good number of the endings were shocks and disappointments.
Unfortunate as they were, even some of the worst endings brought about some great beginnings. Those are the ones I would prefer to think about. However, this is all a matter for another discussion at another time.
Currently, I am headed for two beginnings in 2016, and I couldn't be more pleased. Although, it feels a very tempered excitement, I am eager to begin. The first is quite obviously the beginning of the new year, but of course, you probably went there straight away, you clever reader. The second is a new job - IN AN OFFICE - at long last. There will be more on this development in the coming weeks, but for now, I must get busy if I am to make a dent in what needs doing over the course of the next week.
So, if you will excuse me, I need to slip away to the sewing area to start another new thing or two - a skirt and a pair of trousers. There's also a top I've cut out and need to assemble, so I may as well get started. It'll be nice to have some fresh clothes to wear on my first day.
By the way, I wrestled with the phrase "new beginnings", but realized a 'beginning' is actually something new, so why the need to qualify it as a 'new beginning'?
9.28.2013
Post-P.S
Turned down a Scripty job on an indie which is due to begin shooting in the state on Monday or Tuesday.
Yes, I turned down another film. Same ol' same ol': 'turds wouldn't respond to important questions such as what would be my daily rate? Also, the Production Coordinator knew absolutely nothing at this late date as far as schedule items (like: of a five-day work week, what are the standing days off?). Did they have a locked script? Nope, but here's version 14 of the (as yet) unfinished work...'enjoy'.
Um, can't line an 'unlocked' script if it's so up in the air that there are multiple changes to it every day.
In addition to all of that, I had received no paperwork - no contract, no NDA, no W2s...no nothin' - so I sent a "no-thanks" email yesterday. Yes, it broke my heart (a little), but I have things going on that I would have had to juggle and allocate to others, and fix, and so on, so it would have been a pain-in-the-end right up to the first minute of rolling camera.
It's better this way.
[yeah, beth, just keep muttering that to yourself over and over - eventually, you'll believe it]
Yes, I turned down another film. Same ol' same ol': 'turds wouldn't respond to important questions such as what would be my daily rate? Also, the Production Coordinator knew absolutely nothing at this late date as far as schedule items (like: of a five-day work week, what are the standing days off?). Did they have a locked script? Nope, but here's version 14 of the (as yet) unfinished work...'enjoy'.
Um, can't line an 'unlocked' script if it's so up in the air that there are multiple changes to it every day.
In addition to all of that, I had received no paperwork - no contract, no NDA, no W2s...no nothin' - so I sent a "no-thanks" email yesterday. Yes, it broke my heart (a little), but I have things going on that I would have had to juggle and allocate to others, and fix, and so on, so it would have been a pain-in-the-end right up to the first minute of rolling camera.
It's better this way.
[yeah, beth, just keep muttering that to yourself over and over - eventually, you'll believe it]
5.01.2013
April showers bring...
...well, May, anyway.
May follows April, regardless of whether it rains or not. And May has its own showers, so it's not really dependent upon April's rainfall at all for flower production.
I'm just sayin'.
This weather warm-up also has the wasps and flying, sting-y things out and about, and that alone is torture for Karl. The allergies are a nasty extra bit of discomfort for him. Lousy luck.
Oh, and before I forget, the boy did land the job at a somewhat-local home improvement store - so now he has two part time jobs. Oddly enough this turn of events makes him happier than the thought of a full-time position with the large chain store. ?!?
I know, right?
Well, if nothing else, I hope this incentivizes him in some way to do a better job of buckling down and looking for work in a much more determined and meaningful way. Although-----I know----it won't.
Karl passed his math class with a 95%! He was telling me he had no need to take the final because of the rest of his work throughout the semester. If he failed (or receives a low grade on) the final, that'd be the lowest score his instructor would 'throw out' before calculating his final grade.
It's the little battles won that make it all worthwhile.
May follows April, regardless of whether it rains or not. And May has its own showers, so it's not really dependent upon April's rainfall at all for flower production.
I'm just sayin'.
This weather warm-up also has the wasps and flying, sting-y things out and about, and that alone is torture for Karl. The allergies are a nasty extra bit of discomfort for him. Lousy luck.
Oh, and before I forget, the boy did land the job at a somewhat-local home improvement store - so now he has two part time jobs. Oddly enough this turn of events makes him happier than the thought of a full-time position with the large chain store. ?!?
I know, right?
Well, if nothing else, I hope this incentivizes him in some way to do a better job of buckling down and looking for work in a much more determined and meaningful way. Although-----I know----it won't.
Karl passed his math class with a 95%! He was telling me he had no need to take the final because of the rest of his work throughout the semester. If he failed (or receives a low grade on) the final, that'd be the lowest score his instructor would 'throw out' before calculating his final grade.
It's the little battles won that make it all worthwhile.
2.05.2013
Zero expectations
So, I was to have another one-student class tonight (I really dislike those classes with one student - especially when they've paid half price), but I've just had a phone call from the woman setting up the classes and she tells me the customer enrolled in the skirt class decided to cancel.
NOT due to the impending weather, but because in looking over the other courses she had enrolled herself in, she realized she was nowhere near ready to tackle a skirt with a zipper, let alone use a sewing machine!
Good call, woman, whoever you are. [patting her back and flashing the 'thumb's up']
Really, people. If you want to take a class - in whatever strikes your fancy - have the common sense to admit to YOURSELF that you must begin closer to the beginning if you have absolutely no skills in [whatever].
In this case, whether it's clothing or quilts or pillows or ottomans, thinking you can simply dive in anywhere and make a dress or skirt or whatever....think again! You must know the basics and understand the 'whys' before you can proceed with the 'hows'!
If:
you've never learned to read (or SELECT) a pattern;
you haven't the slightest idea in how to pin and/or cut a pattern;
you can't thread your own machine (or wind a bobbin);
you have no idea what is meant by a 5/8" seam allowance (and couldn't locate that demarcation on your machine deck), etc., etc.;
-- do everyone (including yourself) a HUGE favor and begin at the beginning!
However, thank you for calling ahead to cancel tonight's session before I had arrived at the store! Sincerely....I mean it.
I was having visions of tonight, thinking you would call in to say you weren't coming after I had already arrived and prepped the room and myself for the evening, with the feeble excuse that the weather was the culprit. Whew! What a load off.
:)
NOT due to the impending weather, but because in looking over the other courses she had enrolled herself in, she realized she was nowhere near ready to tackle a skirt with a zipper, let alone use a sewing machine!
Good call, woman, whoever you are. [patting her back and flashing the 'thumb's up']
Really, people. If you want to take a class - in whatever strikes your fancy - have the common sense to admit to YOURSELF that you must begin closer to the beginning if you have absolutely no skills in [whatever].
In this case, whether it's clothing or quilts or pillows or ottomans, thinking you can simply dive in anywhere and make a dress or skirt or whatever....think again! You must know the basics and understand the 'whys' before you can proceed with the 'hows'!
If:
you've never learned to read (or SELECT) a pattern;
you haven't the slightest idea in how to pin and/or cut a pattern;
you can't thread your own machine (or wind a bobbin);
you have no idea what is meant by a 5/8" seam allowance (and couldn't locate that demarcation on your machine deck), etc., etc.;
-- do everyone (including yourself) a HUGE favor and begin at the beginning!
However, thank you for calling ahead to cancel tonight's session before I had arrived at the store! Sincerely....I mean it.
I was having visions of tonight, thinking you would call in to say you weren't coming after I had already arrived and prepped the room and myself for the evening, with the feeble excuse that the weather was the culprit. Whew! What a load off.
:)
1.05.2013
In a galaxy - far, far away
A long time ago, I taught quilting at a fabric store (a large, chain store, no longer among the 'living'), and I was pretty good at it....for being a relative newbie myself at the time.
I believe I succeeded because I wasn't afraid to try, to learn, to say I didn't know it all, to practice, to explore. And also because I could identify so closely with the eager people interested in following suit. We were a part of the resurgence of quilting in the mid-eighties.
Now, I'm no published guru, no award-winning, well-known, quilting household name.......yet, but I am good at the craft.
I think.
I've been sewing the better portion of my life, mostly clothing, alterations, curtains, etc., until quilting became a member of my family, so I am pretty good at it.
Well, today I opened my 'book' and started a chapter over. I am teaching sewing at yet another retail chain giant - admittedly not what I would prefer to do, but it is work and I am making a difference in a small way (for some people). Originally I was told the beginning sewing class would be a multitude of two, but when I arrived to set up, the number had grown to three paid attendees.
Within 10 minutes of my arrival, the class had swelled to four curious sewing-challenged individuals!
We were together for 2.5 solid hours, and I hope they learned something. At the very least, I hope they found the desire to go on and buy machines and continue on their own sewing sojourns.
After the class I was invited to stick around for the 'open house' at the store to talk with individuals who may want to take classes as well. You know, foster excitement, chat it up, and answer questions.
It must have worked because the education manager found me toward the end of the open house to say a good number of people signed up for sewing classes, so there would be further work for me (and other instructors) down the road. So wahoo!
On another note: there is only one more sleep 'til season three of "Downton Abbey" (to paraphrase the brilliant Muppets)!!!!!
Nobody call me tomorrow evening after 7PM EST. There will be no one taking calls around here. That's when I'll be on another planet - far, far way!
I believe I succeeded because I wasn't afraid to try, to learn, to say I didn't know it all, to practice, to explore. And also because I could identify so closely with the eager people interested in following suit. We were a part of the resurgence of quilting in the mid-eighties.
Now, I'm no published guru, no award-winning, well-known, quilting household name.......yet, but I am good at the craft.
I think.
I've been sewing the better portion of my life, mostly clothing, alterations, curtains, etc., until quilting became a member of my family, so I am pretty good at it.
Well, today I opened my 'book' and started a chapter over. I am teaching sewing at yet another retail chain giant - admittedly not what I would prefer to do, but it is work and I am making a difference in a small way (for some people). Originally I was told the beginning sewing class would be a multitude of two, but when I arrived to set up, the number had grown to three paid attendees.
Within 10 minutes of my arrival, the class had swelled to four curious sewing-challenged individuals!
We were together for 2.5 solid hours, and I hope they learned something. At the very least, I hope they found the desire to go on and buy machines and continue on their own sewing sojourns.
After the class I was invited to stick around for the 'open house' at the store to talk with individuals who may want to take classes as well. You know, foster excitement, chat it up, and answer questions.
It must have worked because the education manager found me toward the end of the open house to say a good number of people signed up for sewing classes, so there would be further work for me (and other instructors) down the road. So wahoo!
On another note: there is only one more sleep 'til season three of "Downton Abbey" (to paraphrase the brilliant Muppets)!!!!!
Nobody call me tomorrow evening after 7PM EST. There will be no one taking calls around here. That's when I'll be on another planet - far, far way!
1.04.2013
Activities
I spent a portion of the morning (into the early afternoon) working on the lower level. Cleaning, pitching, moving, cleaning, vacuuming, reconfiguring. There was a good deal of wondering, wishing, and tweaking going on, too, but none of that needs going in to at present.
I took advantage of Brian's presence to move the bulky/heavy walnut architect's desk. He and Karl handily separated the two pieces and moved them about until I was satisfied, then set the pieces back together again. In the heartbeat that followed me saying "thanks, that's great!" they were gone! Just like real men, they left me on my own to keep working away on the bits and pieces.
To be fair, Bud did have something he was looking forward to doing, and that meant he needed to pack and get ready to walk out the door; but he promised two days ago that he would help out all morning before he had to leave. I was only helping him stick to his promise. ;)
There'll be a time in the near future where I will call on them once more to help move the 6'x6' Ikea storage wall, but I'm good for now. The havoc this morning's maneuvering alone will cause the cats is enough to contend with (for the time being). The sheer thrill of just getting it accomplished (even in snitches and snatches) is enough for me!
Baby steps.
For now, I'm taking the rest of the day to ready myself 100% for tomorrow's sewing class. No last minute regrets or panic searches. Just want to be able to walk out the door content and relaxed.
I'll let you know how it goes!
I took advantage of Brian's presence to move the bulky/heavy walnut architect's desk. He and Karl handily separated the two pieces and moved them about until I was satisfied, then set the pieces back together again. In the heartbeat that followed me saying "thanks, that's great!" they were gone! Just like real men, they left me on my own to keep working away on the bits and pieces.
To be fair, Bud did have something he was looking forward to doing, and that meant he needed to pack and get ready to walk out the door; but he promised two days ago that he would help out all morning before he had to leave. I was only helping him stick to his promise. ;)
There'll be a time in the near future where I will call on them once more to help move the 6'x6' Ikea storage wall, but I'm good for now. The havoc this morning's maneuvering alone will cause the cats is enough to contend with (for the time being). The sheer thrill of just getting it accomplished (even in snitches and snatches) is enough for me!
Baby steps.
For now, I'm taking the rest of the day to ready myself 100% for tomorrow's sewing class. No last minute regrets or panic searches. Just want to be able to walk out the door content and relaxed.
I'll let you know how it goes!
1.02.2013
Well, it's dark again. Sun's down and the night grows darker and colder. And before you ask, today was a bit better than yesterday, so no complaints on my end.
I've been in the kitchen for the last hour or so chopping and saute'-ing; rinsing and pre-cooking; washing up dishes and pans and humming along with Christmas music quietly playing in the background.
Yes....I play Christmas music for quite a while past the holiday season, simply because I can't play it much throughout the correct time period as Brian hears more than his fill at work - starting in late October! So I take pity and wait as long as I can to start my jolly music around the house. And, I usually wait until he is away from home, too.
Karl doesn't seem to mind, and except for periodic forays out of his room, he rarely hears it anyhow.
Making a pot of bean soup, with a liberal dose of garlic. It's based on a recipe I came across online, so I hope it meets with happy faces after all is said and done. We'll see.
Got a little caught up on the Black Widow today; spending time making more adjustments to the blocks of the Greek border here and there. So it's coming together slowly but surely. Also spent a little time re-reading the 'syllabus' for the class I will be teaching this Saturday.
Yes, I have a pseudo-job as a contracted instructor for JAF. Beginning sewing....with a class of two....who paid half price for their class....and contractors are paid 60% of the fee collected - IF the students show up. I'll spare you the rest of my disappointment with the way JAF runs this program, as it has to do with instructors having to buy all the supplies OUT OF POCKET for each item demonstrated - with no reimbursement!
Ah, well. Right?
This is just me looking that 'gift hourse' right in its mouth! Right??
I guess I've got to start somewhere if the job market has a decidely unkind view of women my age trying to muscle their way back in after several years of uncommon (and temporary) employment in jobs that aren't quite 'mainstream'.
I have been gathering up items to demonstrate during the class. JAF's sketchy list of things to talk about and demo for "Sewing 101" leaves a few holes to fill, but I am up to the task! So let the games begin. ;)
OK, time to step away from this keyboard and get back to work around here. Have a nice evening, and stay safe and warm over the next few days - it's getting bitter out there.
I've been in the kitchen for the last hour or so chopping and saute'-ing; rinsing and pre-cooking; washing up dishes and pans and humming along with Christmas music quietly playing in the background.
Yes....I play Christmas music for quite a while past the holiday season, simply because I can't play it much throughout the correct time period as Brian hears more than his fill at work - starting in late October! So I take pity and wait as long as I can to start my jolly music around the house. And, I usually wait until he is away from home, too.
Karl doesn't seem to mind, and except for periodic forays out of his room, he rarely hears it anyhow.
Making a pot of bean soup, with a liberal dose of garlic. It's based on a recipe I came across online, so I hope it meets with happy faces after all is said and done. We'll see.
Got a little caught up on the Black Widow today; spending time making more adjustments to the blocks of the Greek border here and there. So it's coming together slowly but surely. Also spent a little time re-reading the 'syllabus' for the class I will be teaching this Saturday.
Yes, I have a pseudo-job as a contracted instructor for JAF. Beginning sewing....with a class of two....who paid half price for their class....and contractors are paid 60% of the fee collected - IF the students show up. I'll spare you the rest of my disappointment with the way JAF runs this program, as it has to do with instructors having to buy all the supplies OUT OF POCKET for each item demonstrated - with no reimbursement!
Ah, well. Right?
This is just me looking that 'gift hourse' right in its mouth! Right??
I guess I've got to start somewhere if the job market has a decidely unkind view of women my age trying to muscle their way back in after several years of uncommon (and temporary) employment in jobs that aren't quite 'mainstream'.
I have been gathering up items to demonstrate during the class. JAF's sketchy list of things to talk about and demo for "Sewing 101" leaves a few holes to fill, but I am up to the task! So let the games begin. ;)
OK, time to step away from this keyboard and get back to work around here. Have a nice evening, and stay safe and warm over the next few days - it's getting bitter out there.
11.16.2012
Absence
Yup, I have been away for a bit.
I received a call right around eight in the evening this past Tuesday, asking if I would be interested in stepping into a scripty job. Their script super walked away, taking the book with her, and leaving them in a lurch for the next day. Actually, the next ten days!
The daily wage is dismally, APPALLINGLY low, but I need the work and, in this case, I also need what little pay I will make during my time on this piece of dung.
"Art film" my butt. Yes, it's a piece of dung.
I may live to regret it...we'll see.
Working with a fairly young (but NOT green) film team, and I know a good deal of them! Lots of friends and former crew mates from other film jobs. Nice to see friendly faces, and to be appreciated and warmly welcomed - at least by them.
Judging from the apologies and stories I have heard around the camera, this is going to be a tough gig. The director does not believe in (OR RESPECT) continuity, so everything will be an uphill battle. And, after my day one, I can understand the mindset of the crew, and the pitiful looks I am getting from one and all.
Not only is continuity unnecessary, it is trampled on with gay abandon by this nut job. Thrown under the bus and scoffed at. I hope he gets an eyeful when he sits with the poor, poor editor for the months it will take to review and edit all the footage into something resembling a storyline.
I received a call right around eight in the evening this past Tuesday, asking if I would be interested in stepping into a scripty job. Their script super walked away, taking the book with her, and leaving them in a lurch for the next day. Actually, the next ten days!
The daily wage is dismally, APPALLINGLY low, but I need the work and, in this case, I also need what little pay I will make during my time on this piece of dung.
"Art film" my butt. Yes, it's a piece of dung.
I may live to regret it...we'll see.
Working with a fairly young (but NOT green) film team, and I know a good deal of them! Lots of friends and former crew mates from other film jobs. Nice to see friendly faces, and to be appreciated and warmly welcomed - at least by them.
Judging from the apologies and stories I have heard around the camera, this is going to be a tough gig. The director does not believe in (OR RESPECT) continuity, so everything will be an uphill battle. And, after my day one, I can understand the mindset of the crew, and the pitiful looks I am getting from one and all.
Not only is continuity unnecessary, it is trampled on with gay abandon by this nut job. Thrown under the bus and scoffed at. I hope he gets an eyeful when he sits with the poor, poor editor for the months it will take to review and edit all the footage into something resembling a storyline.
10.18.2012
Operation "Omission"
I have opted over the first two-plus weeks of October to remain silent rather than rant. To practice abstention over my need to explain, or question, or expound.
I exercised silence in hopes of finding my voice once again - but it's still missing.
The feeling that I have nothing to offer persists. Nothing that anyone would give a rat's ass about, anyway. My melancholia is evident in spades, and I resent it!
This time of year is usually my favorite. The cooler days; the languid afternoon sun shining down at awkward, elongated angles; shorter hours of daylight; falling evening temps; the changing colors of the trees and foliage around the yard. It all normally buoys my spirit and raises my happiness meter to new heights.... but not this year - and I don't know why.
Over the past few weeks I have hidden away from all of my normal activities. Found a deep recess in the attic space of my psyche and burrowed in, wholly surrendering to oblivion and ennui. Eshewed the handful of brilliantly sunlit days (when I would normally revel in them with my quilting projects) and ignored the overabundant dark and rainy days, keeping myself cloistered and walled off from the daily disappointment of the less-than-satisfactory responses to job applications (mostly), the ignorant SPAM comments being shovelled in this direction, and the daily barrage of Karl's strange, Autistic-shunning friend seeking help and guidance she laughingly will not give credence to.
She is a time waster and an emotional drain. An 'ask hole,' and unworthy of the space in my head and the indigestion she has caused. A walking whirlwind of discontent. But, she is another story foranother. No!
I've told you already, she is a drain, and I won't go there any more....never-in-a-million-years!
At any rate, I am feeling a bit more optimistic this afternoon, so I thought it might be a good time to share a little information. Don't know how enlightening or significant you may find any of it, but here it is.
Karl's photography class is proceeding down it's slow, slow path. It's not the sort of class he thought it would be (maybe that'll teach him to read the darned class description when mom suggests it), and it is a bit of a backward step for him, but at least he is getting outside the house once a week and having to deal with meeting new people and being in unfamiliar territory.
We (Karl and I) had lunch with Maria in Ferndale about a week ago, and had a very nice time at a restaurant named Como's. Always wondered about that spot every time I would pass it coming home from a film gig in the D. Now I know!
Thank you, Maria -- a-g-a-i-n!
I had some farm animal materials to give her (pulled from my stash, Mom) for the charm block challenge happening in the quilting guild she belongs to. I hope she can use them, or pass them along to others who can. Goodness knows it's all sat long enough in my collection!
My surprise was in receiving one of her wonderful tote bags with a flap! Made of beautiful, upholstery-like material, it's lined and has interior pockets, and a very long strap which is wide and comfy for over the shoulder use. Thank you so much, lady, I've already had an opportunity to use it and will continue to do so!!
Been contacted for a scripty gig but most likely will be turning it down, as 'they' are unresponsive regarding questions I have, and have yet to send the script for a breakdown (production begins 10/29). Rushing for every little scrap of time is not my ideal way of working. Plus, the daily rate is absolute crap - AGAIN!
Damned California production companies thinking they can undervalue MI talent while taking advantage of the incentives (what little remains of them). I may as well continue to look for 'regular' work outside of the industry during those three weeks as opposed to all of the driving I'd be doing; spending money on gas and a place to stay, and bringing home little $ for bills and the bank. Not worth it. SO not worth it.
On top of all those detractors is the real issue of arranging a ride for Karl to and from class for those three weeks. He can't afford to miss that much time....so, it's a definite "no" for this cheap Cali-indie.
Yes, Bud is still with his company, working 40 hour weeks, and they are gearing up for the holidays already - annoying music and all. Hoping it would incentivize him to find other work while the finding is good (for his ilk), but he seems determined to stick it out at M's and continue internalizing the grief and sniping of his workmates and staff. [tsk, tsk] He'll have an ulcer if he never leaves there.
Karl had been contacted by Target over a week ago, and had a cursory phone interview ending with the vague promise of a return call in a week's time. Yeah, yeah...right.
No, he hasn't heard from them again. Yes, we know it takes time. Yes, we are aware this particular wheel grinds slowly (if at all), but please understand how eager he is to find a job at a place he would prefer to be.
Tall order without the Autism thrown in for good measure. At any rate, we wait. See? This is why I have omitted myself from blogging of late.
Tick. Tock. Tick.
Hope things are well for you, wherever you are.
I exercised silence in hopes of finding my voice once again - but it's still missing.
The feeling that I have nothing to offer persists. Nothing that anyone would give a rat's ass about, anyway. My melancholia is evident in spades, and I resent it!
This time of year is usually my favorite. The cooler days; the languid afternoon sun shining down at awkward, elongated angles; shorter hours of daylight; falling evening temps; the changing colors of the trees and foliage around the yard. It all normally buoys my spirit and raises my happiness meter to new heights.... but not this year - and I don't know why.
Over the past few weeks I have hidden away from all of my normal activities. Found a deep recess in the attic space of my psyche and burrowed in, wholly surrendering to oblivion and ennui. Eshewed the handful of brilliantly sunlit days (when I would normally revel in them with my quilting projects) and ignored the overabundant dark and rainy days, keeping myself cloistered and walled off from the daily disappointment of the less-than-satisfactory responses to job applications (mostly), the ignorant SPAM comments being shovelled in this direction, and the daily barrage of Karl's strange, Autistic-shunning friend seeking help and guidance she laughingly will not give credence to.
She is a time waster and an emotional drain. An 'ask hole,' and unworthy of the space in my head and the indigestion she has caused. A walking whirlwind of discontent. But, she is another story for
I've told you already, she is a drain, and I won't go there any more....never-in-a-million-years!
At any rate, I am feeling a bit more optimistic this afternoon, so I thought it might be a good time to share a little information. Don't know how enlightening or significant you may find any of it, but here it is.
Karl's photography class is proceeding down it's slow, slow path. It's not the sort of class he thought it would be (maybe that'll teach him to read the darned class description when mom suggests it), and it is a bit of a backward step for him, but at least he is getting outside the house once a week and having to deal with meeting new people and being in unfamiliar territory.
We (Karl and I) had lunch with Maria in Ferndale about a week ago, and had a very nice time at a restaurant named Como's. Always wondered about that spot every time I would pass it coming home from a film gig in the D. Now I know!
Thank you, Maria -- a-g-a-i-n!
I had some farm animal materials to give her (pulled from my stash, Mom) for the charm block challenge happening in the quilting guild she belongs to. I hope she can use them, or pass them along to others who can. Goodness knows it's all sat long enough in my collection!
My surprise was in receiving one of her wonderful tote bags with a flap! Made of beautiful, upholstery-like material, it's lined and has interior pockets, and a very long strap which is wide and comfy for over the shoulder use. Thank you so much, lady, I've already had an opportunity to use it and will continue to do so!!
Been contacted for a scripty gig but most likely will be turning it down, as 'they' are unresponsive regarding questions I have, and have yet to send the script for a breakdown (production begins 10/29). Rushing for every little scrap of time is not my ideal way of working. Plus, the daily rate is absolute crap - AGAIN!
Damned California production companies thinking they can undervalue MI talent while taking advantage of the incentives (what little remains of them). I may as well continue to look for 'regular' work outside of the industry during those three weeks as opposed to all of the driving I'd be doing; spending money on gas and a place to stay, and bringing home little $ for bills and the bank. Not worth it. SO not worth it.
On top of all those detractors is the real issue of arranging a ride for Karl to and from class for those three weeks. He can't afford to miss that much time....so, it's a definite "no" for this cheap Cali-indie.
Yes, Bud is still with his company, working 40 hour weeks, and they are gearing up for the holidays already - annoying music and all. Hoping it would incentivize him to find other work while the finding is good (for his ilk), but he seems determined to stick it out at M's and continue internalizing the grief and sniping of his workmates and staff. [tsk, tsk] He'll have an ulcer if he never leaves there.
Karl had been contacted by Target over a week ago, and had a cursory phone interview ending with the vague promise of a return call in a week's time. Yeah, yeah...right.
No, he hasn't heard from them again. Yes, we know it takes time. Yes, we are aware this particular wheel grinds slowly (if at all), but please understand how eager he is to find a job at a place he would prefer to be.
Tall order without the Autism thrown in for good measure. At any rate, we wait. See? This is why I have omitted myself from blogging of late.
Tick. Tock. Tick.
Hope things are well for you, wherever you are.
4.22.2012
Not feeling it
Well, I guess I haven't been as effusive and informative this month - go figure.
Possible points of interest over the last couple of days:
- In less than a week I will be celebrating another birthday (my own, not someone elses), so I would welcome birthday greetings by week's end....thank you. : )
- I now have another quilt commission - only my fifth - but it never ceases to make me happy! A paying job is a paying job!
Also, the thought that someone somewhere will be living with (and enjoying) something I made, for years to come, gives me a special thrill. You can watch that progress (if you're so inclined) on the quilt blog.
Otherwise, no news.
Huh. That must be 'good news' then, eh?
11.03.2011
Who'd-a figured?
I had made up my mind that I wasn't going to hunt for any more Scripty gigs.
The pay is too low in this state, and the production teams (Producers, UPMs, Directors - the ATL) figure they can abuse the crews on short turn-arounds because nobody ever cares if the ATL sticks to SAG rules or not (not to mention no thought is given to common sense, either). Neither do they care that forced calls and holding us past twelve hours isn't any good for morale. And lack of sleep, for those who need to drive or run their dirty little errands, isn't given a passing thought.
You have to be young and made of pretty tough stuff to work film in MI. Sadly, in my declining years I feel myself getting a little squidgy around the edges.
Imagine my surprise when I received a call out of the blue asking me to crew on an international espionage flick coming stateside from India. I had worked with the UPM on a job last November/December, and he contacted his aide here in MI to have him call and check on my availability for this action-thriller.
Random, strange, WTF-sort of coincidence, or a message from on high?
Question: Would a smart person say "yes, I'm available" or "no thank you"?
No...seriously. I'm wondering if there are any smart folk out there with any smart-like opinions to offer.
10.08.2011
That felt SO good!
After a day of filming - running-and-gunning, guerrilla-style shooting - I arrived home and remained awake (and upright) long enough to speak with each of the boys, hugged them good night (regretted not doing some dishes) and then fell in to bed - literally.
I was so brain-drained I don't even recall lying down!
The girls must have known how badly I needed the sleep, for when I woke up this morning, there wasn't one cat in sight. Sweetly, they even left me alone until I woke up on my own. Usually there is clamoring for food and mews to help me wake up and realize my wrongdoing...but not today. Nope, today I was allowed to sleep until I actually woke myself and tumbled out of bed.
[heavy satisfied sigh]
It felt SO good.
Spent the day yesterday crisscrossing the city, filming what is commonly referred to as "b-roll" in the film and television industry. Even though it was written as individual scenes and not a montage, the footage will be strung together in editing to show our drifter-artist character as on the move, heading somewhere, alone and footloose.
The best part of the day was gaining entrance to the new Cass Tech High library balcony in order to shoot an 'overhead', high-angle view of an earlier shot (because the writer-director had this vision in his head). Of course, we were about a mile or so from the actual first location, but the sixth floor bird's-eye view afforded us almost a perfectly unobstructed shot.
I protested that they had our actor walking the wrong way to match the shot, but they were not concerned, so I noted my concern and moved on.
The funny for the day happened when we were riding from one location to the next, and one of the cam crew was relating a little Detroit history to our actor, David Dastmalchian. David had commented on the beauty of some of our older Detroit landmark structures, and he was sad to learn that many are standing derelict shells.
Sadly, they are being left to decay and vandalism.
Well, our eager camera assistant went on to say that the patriarch (not his word) of one of Detroit's more affluent (also not his word) families named Belle Isle after his daughter - "Belle."
"Yeah," he said, "that Isle family sure had a lot of money."
INFORMATIONAL SIDENOTE: You Michigan folk may have chuckled, but for those of you unfamiliar with Detroit history you should know we once had a large number of shakers and rollers back in the glory days of our metropolis flagship. After many names and uses, the island which graces our shoreline in the Detroit River was eventually (officially) named for the daughter (Isabelle) of one of our illustrious citizens who became governor of the great lake state - Gen. Lewis Cass. NOT "the Isle family."
Ah well, that was worth a giggle or two.
If we are to work the entire shoot without a video village, without chairs and nothing for me to write on, this is going to be a monstrously horrible experience.
But, I managed to finish prepping my book and got the day's paperwork in 'on the day,' so I am happy. That felt so good, too.
10.03.2011
Three things
- I've got a raging headache.
- Another car has just run down my mailbox (actually, backed over it). Brand new Compass with a lot of rear rt bumper, tail light and wheel well damage. Justice!
- I got the Scripty gig in the D; name of the production is "Cass." May end up having two more paid days than originally discussed, so that's a good thing. Still sad to have turned down working on "Mickey Matson and the Copperhead Conspiracy."
C'est la vie.
It's official
Brian is out the door and on his way to his new store as a full time "Customer Experience Manager." (Or, is it "C-E-Supervisor"? - I can never keep it straight.)
His excitement is tempered with the detracting factors - the distance of the drive now; the fact that the drive is a lot of two-lane back roads (instead of the pleasant seven mile expressway trip); the fact that his days will now be a 'real life' eight hours - or close to it - each day, and not the old 5-hour-day he had grown happy with and accustomed to. There will definitely be a lot more (of the same) responsibilities, and a larger slice of the managerial pie to swallow now, but he is up to it.
Perhaps he will find the commute a way to decompress after the day is done. Hopefully, the customers will be agreeable and the smaller staff less prone to malicious gossip and backstabbing. I know the increase in pay and the resulting benefits of a 401K (with employer matching) will make the rest of the issues seem less bothersome (or will at least make them somewhat worthwhile).
He's already said he likes the manager at the new store, and that he is thrilled at the size of the place! Despite the fact that this new store does less in sales than the store Brian is leaving, that isn't something he needs to really concern himself with. The possibilities are good to increase sales, but mostly it is simply a great opportunity for him.
It hasn't even been a year since he began work as a "seasonal employee," destined to be out of work again after the holiday sales had ended and 2011 began. But, the management liked the way he worked and the way he dealt with the customers and issues which arose. He was offered a chance to stay on and become a permanent employee right away, but then moved up the ladder very quickly through three positions of title to where he is now!
Recommended to fill an important vacancy by his manager and the District Manager!
Oh, Brian, I am so very proud of you, and I pray that you find happiness and a way to a prosperous and content future. You just keep being yourself and others will continue to see the possibilities in you, too.
Dear Lord, please keep Bud safe in his travels to and from work, and help him to understand Your hand in some of these events.
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