Though there is a lot of catching up that needs to be done, I feel as though this recent event should be voiced.
A number of years ago, I lived in California with my parents and spent a whopping four years before heading to college in Wyoming-for those of you who don't know, this is a state. Pronounced Why-o-ming. Yes, we have electricity, you can still ride horses, they do use cars and no, we do not hate gay people. While in the awesome Cowboy State, I attended the university, got a degree, made some college driven poor decisions, became a resident of the state and attempted to make a life for myself.
Now becoming a resident of Wyoming, logically that means no longer a resident of California. Not to mention the copious amounts of change of address forms I filled out what seemed like once a year would also indicate, California, no longer in the picture. License, license plates, permanent address the whole thing. Now, yes my parents were still listed if anything should happen to me so I can understand if the blondes of California might have gotten confused with all of this.
After spending quite some time in Wyoming, several plus years, I picked myself up and moved here to Oregon where I have lived almost happily for over a year now. And yes, there are tons of hippies here, no not everyone smokes pot, yes it rains quite a bit and no every month does not have a parade, but close.
Recently my family took a month long vacation to Europe leaving the mail situation up to a friend of the family. Obviously opening other people's mail is against the law so yes, a months worth of mail piled up. Upon my dad's return he found a jury summons for me. We had gotten one of these before and simply replied with the fact that I no longer lived in the state nor was I a resident. This one however was followed up with a threaten to fine thousands of dollars and/or imprison me for not filling out the paperwork. Paperwork which had just been opened. Now for clarification, had I been younger and unemployed, hell yes, I would have been with my siblings and folks on this trip. So regardless, yes I would have gotten the second notice anyway.
The thing that baffles me is, I have not lived in California for almost 8 years now and not been a resident for almost 5. Do states call dibs even when their residents leave? Now, when trying to fill out the paperwork because now they give this handy option where you can do stuff on the internets now, I was denied, unable to identify. And they want me to fill out boxes from the paperwork they sent me...yes the paperwork I can't actually see but thank goodness for my dad coming home early to relay information.
So, in order to get out of this sticky situation, I need to talk to a Jury Clerk or Administrator at a the number provided during the designated time frame. Would you like to know how much time they give you? One, uno, 1, un HOUR. Now let's take a look at this. An hour-for the entire state of California to call in to provide hardships, changes, other information and more than likely to bitch out the clerk. Luckily, my last employer had to let people go so now that time frame has become available right after my other job and only during the hours when everywhere I need to run errands is open.
I have to say, this is probably the most efficient way to get things done.
There is no tip for today rather, I very rarely, if at all complain about our system. And though this seems very miniscule to what some of our other problems may be in this country, this one made me want to go find that California Grizzly Bear and punch him in the kidney. Being resident of another state not a good enough hardship for you? You'd like to pay for my two week trip from here, stay and back? Well you just wait til I go punch that bear. But California, in all seriousness, about 12 years ago I lived in Michigan, could you please start sending all my important documents there?
Monday, June 27, 2011
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Spring/Summer is just around the corner
I can feel it! Sunshine is trying it's best to push through the clouds of our fair city. The rain is still coming down hard most days. In the past 19 days, it has rained 18 of those days. BUT! The has still managed to peek through for the past few days. So it's time to start putting what culinary lessons I have learned to make some healthy choices aka foods and increase the amount of exercise in my life!
Tip for the Day: Having the best of both worlds near by, the mountains and the beach, should allow for a variety of weather to fulfill your life. Take advantage.
Tip for the Day: Having the best of both worlds near by, the mountains and the beach, should allow for a variety of weather to fulfill your life. Take advantage.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Communication
Communication is the key to any relationship. In the work place, with significant others, with friends and family.
And contrary to popular belief, I am not a mind reader. So, in the work place, if you need something or would like me to get something done, all you have to do is ask-with ACTUAL WORDS. Coming into my work area and writing a fruit name on a box and walking out of the room, means absolutely nothing to me. Would you some of that fruit, would you like me to order some, want me to send it back or would you like to to chuck some at your head as you give me that stupid look like I should know what you're talking about.
The same goes with significant others. I am not a physic. If you decide that this evenings plans are not going to happen you actually have to tell me. And don't get upset because you made a decision but didn't tell anyone but yourself. Likewise, if you decide that you don't want to see me anymore, you actually have to tell me that too. ACTUAL WORDS seem to get your point across much better than having someone guess.
Being a poor communicator just means you're a coward. Confrontation may not be something that you want; however, if you want something done, you have communicate with others. To run a successful business you can't keep your associates guessing what you want and if they don't do something to your liking then you need to explain to them what it is and how to make it better. If you want to have a successful relationship with someone you have to be able to tell them how you feel without apologizing for feeling that way and if there is a problem, you have to be able to work it out together or move on alone.
Tip for the Day: Use ACTUAL WORDS. Or pictures if that's better, but saying and doing nothing gets nothing done.
And contrary to popular belief, I am not a mind reader. So, in the work place, if you need something or would like me to get something done, all you have to do is ask-with ACTUAL WORDS. Coming into my work area and writing a fruit name on a box and walking out of the room, means absolutely nothing to me. Would you some of that fruit, would you like me to order some, want me to send it back or would you like to to chuck some at your head as you give me that stupid look like I should know what you're talking about.
The same goes with significant others. I am not a physic. If you decide that this evenings plans are not going to happen you actually have to tell me. And don't get upset because you made a decision but didn't tell anyone but yourself. Likewise, if you decide that you don't want to see me anymore, you actually have to tell me that too. ACTUAL WORDS seem to get your point across much better than having someone guess.
Being a poor communicator just means you're a coward. Confrontation may not be something that you want; however, if you want something done, you have communicate with others. To run a successful business you can't keep your associates guessing what you want and if they don't do something to your liking then you need to explain to them what it is and how to make it better. If you want to have a successful relationship with someone you have to be able to tell them how you feel without apologizing for feeling that way and if there is a problem, you have to be able to work it out together or move on alone.
Tip for the Day: Use ACTUAL WORDS. Or pictures if that's better, but saying and doing nothing gets nothing done.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Animal Cruelty
This past weekend I went with K Dub to do a house check for a charity for chained up animals. FFF helps pets who are chained up expand their homes and better their relationships with their owners. The house that we went to go check on was apparently a tough case to begin with. FFF went and built the family a new fence, provided them with a dog house and let the little guy run free in his yard.
To start the day off, we got lost trying to find this house and I decided that places off the Yellow Line are not places that I want to live. After about thirty minutes of walking around in circles we finally found the house. It was covered in trash, shoes on the roof, empty beer bottles scattered through the overgrown lawn and did I mention the trash everywhere?
K Dub knocked on the door, with no barking or dog in sight and a elderly Hispanic woman answered the door. After realizing that she did not speak English, I practiced what little I knew. Apparently the dog ran away. There was no fence or dog house in sight. And it had only been a few weeks since they put this all together. And I am willing to give people the benefit of the doubt, but I'm sorry a miniature poodle cannot handle 30 degree weather.
Tip for the Day: Animals are like people, they need care and attention. So putting them outside and thinking they will fend for themselves only works if you don't chain up and let them eat and shit where they live. Would you like to live that way? Then don't do it to your pets. If you can't care for your pet, don't get one, don't be selfish.
To start the day off, we got lost trying to find this house and I decided that places off the Yellow Line are not places that I want to live. After about thirty minutes of walking around in circles we finally found the house. It was covered in trash, shoes on the roof, empty beer bottles scattered through the overgrown lawn and did I mention the trash everywhere?
K Dub knocked on the door, with no barking or dog in sight and a elderly Hispanic woman answered the door. After realizing that she did not speak English, I practiced what little I knew. Apparently the dog ran away. There was no fence or dog house in sight. And it had only been a few weeks since they put this all together. And I am willing to give people the benefit of the doubt, but I'm sorry a miniature poodle cannot handle 30 degree weather.
Tip for the Day: Animals are like people, they need care and attention. So putting them outside and thinking they will fend for themselves only works if you don't chain up and let them eat and shit where they live. Would you like to live that way? Then don't do it to your pets. If you can't care for your pet, don't get one, don't be selfish.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Valentine's Day
So, y'all know today is not an actual holiday.
Personally for me, holidays are defined by copious amounts of drinking in celebration and spending time with all your friends and family. New Year's, Super Bowl, St. Patty's, Memorial Day, the 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas...etc- holidays.
I find that this day is mostly for the kids. And way back when, I remember we couldn't wait until you got a box of those candied hearts with ridiculous sayings on them. And we made our parents go out for those awesome Star Wars or Strawberry Shortcake valentines to give out to our classmates. And then you even had those over achieving kids and their parents that would bake each kid their own personal heart shaped cake filled with love to out bake some other parent and their kid. But then you actually have those parents who love spending that time with their kids anyway, to make them happy with those red velvet cupcakes and heart frosted brownies, when you leave them at school-that was Valentine's Day. Man! To be a kid again...
Valentine's Day, according to my survey, is the day for people to celebrate their love and feelings with the people that they care about most in their lives. That day when your man will do anything you ask him to do and take you to a romantic meal or you make him that special dinner and share a night in together. You tell them that you love and appreciate them, because if you can't say it, when can you eh? The day that you tell all your close friends just how much you appreciate, care and love them. Don't get me wrong because it truly is great to see how much everyone does care about the people that they have surrounded themselves with...BUT shouldn't we being doing this already? Seriously, we have to take the day and feel obligated to do this? Who you chose to be your valentine, to show them how much you love them and appreciate all the good things with, shouldn't they always be your valentine...The world has done a great job on capitalizing on people's feelings and beliefs for many, um, holidays. And also on the great doings of past saints. This hits the top of the list.
And I'm sure you're sitting there thinking, "Jesus, she must be single and is jealous of all the other people in lust, er love". Well, I am on my own but far from jealous. I grew up always having a valentine, my mom and dad. And though they often reinforced this day with awesome chocolates and goodies, there was never a day that went by where they didn't tell me they loved me and my siblings. And now, years later and many failed relationships, they'll still always be.
Through all of those relationships, there were many a Valentine's Days celebrated and man, those were the days, I've never felt more unappreciated. Capitalism and society builds up our expectations for days like today and when you don't meet those expectations for that person it's like the world is going to end. Not to mention how many people feel the expectation, ha or obligation for sex. I mean I know this may be the one day of the year for some of you, but maybe try less, you might get more. So no, I'm not jealous of all the other people going to what end to make themselves look all dolled up to head out to an overpriced meal, where there will be a violinist playing and a fake cupid floating around poking people. I'm not jealous of the fact that you just had to go out and buy your girlfriend some fancy, expensive piece of jewelry because you think she expects something nice.
Oh geez, if she doesn't care about this then why is she still bitching about this?! Right, say it! Today at work we took on a plethora amount of food to accommodate all the anticipated lovers coming in for their romantic evening. And seeing those prices, man, I'm just trying to help ya out in this time where many of us are strapped for money. And if I were in grade school, hugging and all to wish me a Happy Valentine's Day would all right, but we're a wee bit older now and in a professional work environment and just because today is barfing out hearts and sparklers and pretty jewelry, this does not give you the excuse to touch me.
Tip for the Day: Fellas remember there are 363 other days (I have left out her birthday because it's a given you should do something nice and ladies that works the other way around) to go out to romantic dinner, spend a weekend away or just to spend time together. Ladies, most of your guys do a lot for you, so take them out every once and a while and don't expect so much, this isn't Christmas. And it never hurts to say I love you to that person or even Thank You on days other than today ;)
So, the next person that wishes me a Happy Valentine's Day and tries for an extra long hug, is going to get slapped.
Personally for me, holidays are defined by copious amounts of drinking in celebration and spending time with all your friends and family. New Year's, Super Bowl, St. Patty's, Memorial Day, the 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas...etc- holidays.
I find that this day is mostly for the kids. And way back when, I remember we couldn't wait until you got a box of those candied hearts with ridiculous sayings on them. And we made our parents go out for those awesome Star Wars or Strawberry Shortcake valentines to give out to our classmates. And then you even had those over achieving kids and their parents that would bake each kid their own personal heart shaped cake filled with love to out bake some other parent and their kid. But then you actually have those parents who love spending that time with their kids anyway, to make them happy with those red velvet cupcakes and heart frosted brownies, when you leave them at school-that was Valentine's Day. Man! To be a kid again...
And I'm sure you're sitting there thinking, "Jesus, she must be single and is jealous of all the other people in lust, er love". Well, I am on my own but far from jealous. I grew up always having a valentine, my mom and dad. And though they often reinforced this day with awesome chocolates and goodies, there was never a day that went by where they didn't tell me they loved me and my siblings. And now, years later and many failed relationships, they'll still always be.
Through all of those relationships, there were many a Valentine's Days celebrated and man, those were the days, I've never felt more unappreciated. Capitalism and society builds up our expectations for days like today and when you don't meet those expectations for that person it's like the world is going to end. Not to mention how many people feel the expectation, ha or obligation for sex. I mean I know this may be the one day of the year for some of you, but maybe try less, you might get more. So no, I'm not jealous of all the other people going to what end to make themselves look all dolled up to head out to an overpriced meal, where there will be a violinist playing and a fake cupid floating around poking people. I'm not jealous of the fact that you just had to go out and buy your girlfriend some fancy, expensive piece of jewelry because you think she expects something nice.
Oh geez, if she doesn't care about this then why is she still bitching about this?! Right, say it! Today at work we took on a plethora amount of food to accommodate all the anticipated lovers coming in for their romantic evening. And seeing those prices, man, I'm just trying to help ya out in this time where many of us are strapped for money. And if I were in grade school, hugging and all to wish me a Happy Valentine's Day would all right, but we're a wee bit older now and in a professional work environment and just because today is barfing out hearts and sparklers and pretty jewelry, this does not give you the excuse to touch me.
So, the next person that wishes me a Happy Valentine's Day and tries for an extra long hug, is going to get slapped.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Here's to moving forward
It's been a rough couple of weeks and it's only January. But you know, there are still eleven months to go, so there's no where to go but up!
It's raining again in Portland. I dropped out of culinary school. I discovered one of our friends is crazy and some people will never grow up. My place of employment is no longer a fun and desirable place to work in. Technology is not always your friend. Trusting and confiding into people are no longer a priority. Finding the need to run away from my problems. And wasn't being broke supposed to end after college?
But of course there are always positives. I have more time to find another job to pay off some bills. I am looking for a new place to live. I chopped 7 inches off my hair, instead of moving-it's cheaper. There are still two friends that I have here. Taco Bell will always be on my list of comfort foods.
It's important to keep moving, as long as you keep moving forward. So, the job may suck now, but it's a great company that allows for career development. People will always come and go through your life and it's important to keep the ones that mean the most.
It's raining again in Portland. I dropped out of culinary school. I discovered one of our friends is crazy and some people will never grow up. My place of employment is no longer a fun and desirable place to work in. Technology is not always your friend. Trusting and confiding into people are no longer a priority. Finding the need to run away from my problems. And wasn't being broke supposed to end after college?
But of course there are always positives. I have more time to find another job to pay off some bills. I am looking for a new place to live. I chopped 7 inches off my hair, instead of moving-it's cheaper. There are still two friends that I have here. Taco Bell will always be on my list of comfort foods.
It's important to keep moving, as long as you keep moving forward. So, the job may suck now, but it's a great company that allows for career development. People will always come and go through your life and it's important to keep the ones that mean the most.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Becoming an adult
As silly of a resolution as it may seem to want to become an adult, it's on my list.
So what constitutes being an adult. And I'm pretty sure I've written about this before, but here's another go.
At first, I thought being an adult meant, being on your own, completely on your own. No parents there to bail you out, no living on your buddy's couch to make it to the next month, and having the funds to make ends meet.
Then I thought being an adult meant having a full time job because having a full time job meant that you had lots of money coming into your pockets. You could then make more friends through work and full time means benefits! And benefits are something adults have so that they can provide health care for their family.
With a full time job, many times you get paid time off. Well of course this makes you an adult because you can take your PTO and go on vacation...and get paid to be on vacation. And if you work for a company like the one I work for, you also get some pretty sweet deals when you travel. So of course, having PTO makes you an adult because there are so many perks!
And then I thought being an adult means you have all this power to do things. Power to get better jobs, to make better decisions. The power to remember to throw away the rotting milk in the fridge and the power to remember to pay your bills on time with all that money that you've made through that full time job.
Being an adult means responsibility. Financial responsibility, responsibility for my well-being, responsibility to myself. So, working on the financial and as for the other stuff....I have a problem. When things get a little tough, I get scared and I run. So now, now I have a responsibility to myself to tough it out. Things got a little tough these past few months and I got scared and in this moment I want to run. I've started looking at new schools on the East Coast and even in the South, so I can knock off a few more states off the list.
But, in order for me to be more financially responsibility, there shall be no running for four months. So we're toughing it out. This will make me a better person. And who knows, maybe things will get better and Portland will start to grow on me again.
Tip for the Day: Getting close to a state of permanence is scary as a friend has just reminded me. Flexibility helps with finding our way. But flexibility does not mean running. So stop running for a little bit.
So what constitutes being an adult. And I'm pretty sure I've written about this before, but here's another go.
At first, I thought being an adult meant, being on your own, completely on your own. No parents there to bail you out, no living on your buddy's couch to make it to the next month, and having the funds to make ends meet.
Then I thought being an adult meant having a full time job because having a full time job meant that you had lots of money coming into your pockets. You could then make more friends through work and full time means benefits! And benefits are something adults have so that they can provide health care for their family.
With a full time job, many times you get paid time off. Well of course this makes you an adult because you can take your PTO and go on vacation...and get paid to be on vacation. And if you work for a company like the one I work for, you also get some pretty sweet deals when you travel. So of course, having PTO makes you an adult because there are so many perks!
And then I thought being an adult means you have all this power to do things. Power to get better jobs, to make better decisions. The power to remember to throw away the rotting milk in the fridge and the power to remember to pay your bills on time with all that money that you've made through that full time job.
Being an adult means responsibility. Financial responsibility, responsibility for my well-being, responsibility to myself. So, working on the financial and as for the other stuff....I have a problem. When things get a little tough, I get scared and I run. So now, now I have a responsibility to myself to tough it out. Things got a little tough these past few months and I got scared and in this moment I want to run. I've started looking at new schools on the East Coast and even in the South, so I can knock off a few more states off the list.
But, in order for me to be more financially responsibility, there shall be no running for four months. So we're toughing it out. This will make me a better person. And who knows, maybe things will get better and Portland will start to grow on me again.
Tip for the Day: Getting close to a state of permanence is scary as a friend has just reminded me. Flexibility helps with finding our way. But flexibility does not mean running. So stop running for a little bit.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Cooking School drop out
Well, another adventure done for the time being. As of this year, I am a culinary school drop out. And yes, I understand that some of you are disappointed and sad but this is not to say that I am not going to finish. The Portland LCB through many rumors and actual contacts has lost their accreditation. Some people say they are looking for a new one, some say they lost the accreditation that wasn't really the main one, some people say they never lost it. Regardless, something is not right. And to be totally honest, getting a culinary degree from a place that spends an hour on what a whole number is and has students pick out the verb, noun and preposition in the sentence should not be accredited to begin with, in my opinion.
And on top of all of that, I used to be a teacher, so just let me transfer credits over for an interpersonal communication course. Instead of giving your students the run around and asking them if they know what the big words mean...make me happy. I'm paying you $35,000 to teach me something I don't know.
So, I dropped out of culinary school. I'm still employed and learning more at my place of employment than at school. And I am still going through crappy things and learning from them. I am contemplating moving again to find myself some more new adventures and to find another school to finish my second degree. I now have less than five years to make it to the remaining states on my list and what better time then now. I will finish school, but for now I will be that cooking school drop out.
Tip for the Day: Don't let people try to convince you that what you're doing is wrong or that you should do something because they think it is right. Do it because you want to because you'll have fun and you'll learn something new and exciting.
And on top of all of that, I used to be a teacher, so just let me transfer credits over for an interpersonal communication course. Instead of giving your students the run around and asking them if they know what the big words mean...make me happy. I'm paying you $35,000 to teach me something I don't know.
So, I dropped out of culinary school. I'm still employed and learning more at my place of employment than at school. And I am still going through crappy things and learning from them. I am contemplating moving again to find myself some more new adventures and to find another school to finish my second degree. I now have less than five years to make it to the remaining states on my list and what better time then now. I will finish school, but for now I will be that cooking school drop out.
Tip for the Day: Don't let people try to convince you that what you're doing is wrong or that you should do something because they think it is right. Do it because you want to because you'll have fun and you'll learn something new and exciting.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
For the New Year
Ah. Well here's to the start of an all right year.
For my New Year's Resolutions (because I'll hold true to them until probably the end of the month)
- No more fast food...unless with K. Dub or if someone buys it for me...Puddin' and I have defined fast food as food that you wait less than 20 minutes for or have a drive through. Thus meaning, we have allowed the burrito cart and all of the other food carts in town.
- No more pop/soda/coke or whatever you want to call it
- Become an adult
With the new year, I have made several once again, live changing decisions. All have been based on my own well-being and pursuit of happiness and have not been influenced by any person or persons. Wouldn't it be nice if we lived life like this guy...
So until next time!
Tip for the Day: I've got nothin'
For my New Year's Resolutions (because I'll hold true to them until probably the end of the month)
- No more fast food...unless with K. Dub or if someone buys it for me...Puddin' and I have defined fast food as food that you wait less than 20 minutes for or have a drive through. Thus meaning, we have allowed the burrito cart and all of the other food carts in town.
- No more pop/soda/coke or whatever you want to call it
- Become an adult
With the new year, I have made several once again, live changing decisions. All have been based on my own well-being and pursuit of happiness and have not been influenced by any person or persons. Wouldn't it be nice if we lived life like this guy...
So until next time!
Tip for the Day: I've got nothin'
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