Today is moving at a much slower pace then yesterday, as everything is now finished for the website. I contacted IS and asked them to start moving it to production, so we'll see what happens! My fingers are crossed!
I just ordered a bunch of books for the paper I'm writing. I decided to order them, because I don't have time to get to DC to use the library before my class, and it's always good to begin building my library.
I've been emailing back and forth with one of my professors re: my thesis statement. I never knew that so many assumptions could be drawn from a few sentences. Where she thought I was going wasn't where I was going at all. I wrote her back last night and explained my perspective and some context of what I was trying to explore, and came up with a different thesis statement. I keep going back to the directions that were given out in class, which says that the paper is supposed to be on the "history of OD". I think we are just supposed to pick a topic and research it, but we need some sort of thesis. When I spoke with my professor in class, her comment was "good lord, woman, you have an entire theory and experiment!" I have to keep reminding myself that this is just a 3-5 page paper.
I really liked the example thesis that was given on the directions, but I know I'm not allowed to use that one. I reformed it, and used a bunch of synonyms so hopefully it'll be able to pass muster.
After all of this long winded-ness, I'm just basically trying to determine if Appreciative Inquiry would work with my problem child client, considering the culture is so foul.
You would think it would be that straightforward, but they are very perceptive to judgements, so even categorizing anything as working in a "negative" way (no, I would not use the word "foul" in a thesis) causes alarm and I'm warned against making sweeping generalizations. Contrary, I have all of this data from the surveys, and focus groups that I conducted which support my sweeping generalization that it's a toxic environment!
My fingers are crossed that this thesis will work.
Bowling last night wasn't that great for me. I don't know if it's because we had a different set of seats, I sat on the wrong side, or that I wore long pants, but I couldn't get into my groove. We normally sit on the lower level, next to the lane, I sit across from Heather, and I wear shorts. Maybe there is something programed in me that helps my muscle memory. Then, 1/2 way through the 2nd game, I forgot how to do my approach. I couldn't get my feet right, so there were lots of laughs as I practiced walking. I was over thinking it, and paying attention to my steps and not to my mark, which was just making everything wonky! JEEBUS!
I'm going back to the gym tonight after my hiatus due to my back. I'll be rinding my bike into the happy place - I miss my exercise! :)
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
Pictures and other things
I finally got around to uploading the pictures from the crab feast last night. They turned out okay, but I don't have many of them.
I heard from my professor with feedback and a grade from my first paper - A-! WOOO HOOO! I was expecting a low B, so I was glad to see that grade.
I'm still working on my research paper, and will be heading to the library sometime this week to find a book. Fun times are had by all at the library.
I've been working on our website all day at work - and it's driving me crazy. I hate these 11th hour changes. You've had almost a year to decide that you don't like the text on a page, why decide now that it "doesn't feel right" but can't pinpoint exactly what you don't like about it. I have to give IS the "ok" to move it from testing to production, and unfortunately it isn't that easy. The poor guy has to replicate every page, and we want it live by Wednesday. Now I'm sitting here waiting for them to come back from meetings, so I can give them the go ahead. My boss keeps complaining that when she goes to a page via a link, it's in the middle in she has to scroll up. Lady, if that's all you have to worry about, then you're doing good. IS is currently looking into that, but I think it's because of her display settings, as I don't have that problem.
Anyway - Bowling tonight! I get to chill with Ryan and company, it feels like it's been forever since I saw them.
Here's the pics:
I heard from my professor with feedback and a grade from my first paper - A-! WOOO HOOO! I was expecting a low B, so I was glad to see that grade.
I'm still working on my research paper, and will be heading to the library sometime this week to find a book. Fun times are had by all at the library.
I've been working on our website all day at work - and it's driving me crazy. I hate these 11th hour changes. You've had almost a year to decide that you don't like the text on a page, why decide now that it "doesn't feel right" but can't pinpoint exactly what you don't like about it. I have to give IS the "ok" to move it from testing to production, and unfortunately it isn't that easy. The poor guy has to replicate every page, and we want it live by Wednesday. Now I'm sitting here waiting for them to come back from meetings, so I can give them the go ahead. My boss keeps complaining that when she goes to a page via a link, it's in the middle in she has to scroll up. Lady, if that's all you have to worry about, then you're doing good. IS is currently looking into that, but I think it's because of her display settings, as I don't have that problem.
Anyway - Bowling tonight! I get to chill with Ryan and company, it feels like it's been forever since I saw them.
Here's the pics:
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| OLQP Crab Feast 2008 |
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Nights in Rodanthe
My Mom wanted to see this movie, as she's a big Nicholas Sparks fan, and she loves romances like this. I like chick-flicks too, but I hate the ones that are so sad and depress you. One really can't go wrong with Richard Gere, either.
But, like a trooper, Mom and I went this morning to see the movie, and it was worth it. I'm not usually someone who cries at movies. I don't have a heart of steel, but it normally takes a lot for me to cry at a movie.
Well... I cried, and cried, and cried, and cried. Actually the entire audience bawled for almost the last 30mins of the movie.
Be prepared... it's a tear-jerk-er!
But, like a trooper, Mom and I went this morning to see the movie, and it was worth it. I'm not usually someone who cries at movies. I don't have a heart of steel, but it normally takes a lot for me to cry at a movie.
Well... I cried, and cried, and cried, and cried. Actually the entire audience bawled for almost the last 30mins of the movie.
Be prepared... it's a tear-jerk-er!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
paper writing
I slept in this morning and then got up to start working on my paper. The good thing about being an IT undergrad major is that I didn't have to write a lot of papers. Reports - yes, Papers - no.
My major this time around is in the school of public affairs, and it's considered a form of psychology, in the behavioral sciences field - those people love papers. So, not only do I have to write, but I have to write in the APA format - goodbye MLA!
I need 7-8 sources for a 3-5page paper... umm.. isn't that pushing it?
I'm a procrastinator by nature, and it's always worked for me. I do my best work under pressure, but because of the amount of research, I had to start early, in case I had to go to the campus library in DC. To keep myself distracted, I've played on Facebook, Myspace, and updated my profile on okcupid a few times.
This is for a good cause.. this is for a good cause... this is for a good cause. I keep telling myself that.
My major this time around is in the school of public affairs, and it's considered a form of psychology, in the behavioral sciences field - those people love papers. So, not only do I have to write, but I have to write in the APA format - goodbye MLA!
I need 7-8 sources for a 3-5page paper... umm.. isn't that pushing it?
I'm a procrastinator by nature, and it's always worked for me. I do my best work under pressure, but because of the amount of research, I had to start early, in case I had to go to the campus library in DC. To keep myself distracted, I've played on Facebook, Myspace, and updated my profile on okcupid a few times.
This is for a good cause.. this is for a good cause... this is for a good cause. I keep telling myself that.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Priceline is the BOMB!
Yes, you read correctly, I just used "The BOMB" in a sentence.
Some ladies in my class and I were talking about where to stay when we are in DC once a month, as the Holiday Inn at Georgetown wasn't the best one we've seen.
Someone mentioned using Priceline, and she was staying at the big Hilton downtown for around $80. A few of us decided to give it a try witch much success! I'm actually at the Omni in November, which is absolutely beautiful, and at the Hilton when I'm there in October! 4 Stars baby, for only $82 a night!!
Some ladies in my class and I were talking about where to stay when we are in DC once a month, as the Holiday Inn at Georgetown wasn't the best one we've seen.
Someone mentioned using Priceline, and she was staying at the big Hilton downtown for around $80. A few of us decided to give it a try witch much success! I'm actually at the Omni in November, which is absolutely beautiful, and at the Hilton when I'm there in October! 4 Stars baby, for only $82 a night!!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Fake, Nosey, and Petty
So, I had another meeting this morning with my problem client. Actually, now that I'm thinking about it, I have to put the next meeting on my calendar... BRB.
Anyway... WOW. I started by asking them to tell me what's working well within the team. They sat in silence, and some of them smirked. I quickly transitioned to what needs improvement - and when they were finished I had 3 flip-charts filled with stuff. I went back to what was working well, and their answer was that despite everything the patients get seen.
I knew I was in for a treat! I started working through the list of improvement with them, and it involves spending a lot of time defining terms so that everyone is on the same page. "Be Respectful" really doesn't tell someone how to act - as respect means a lot of different things, based on background/upbringing, etc. We talked about customer service, taking responsibility for tasks, and being accountable even when something doesn't work out in their favor.
The last piece, and 3 separate items on the list, was Fake, Nosey, and Petty. I grouped them together, asked for specifics, and then asked them what the work day would look like if Fake, Nosey, and Petty didn't show up.
It's pretty sad that I have to give a personal challenge to adults about twice my age, that if Fake, Nosey, and Petty show up to work for the rest of the week, they are to be sent home because there isn't a job for them in the office. Sigh.
Anyway... WOW. I started by asking them to tell me what's working well within the team. They sat in silence, and some of them smirked. I quickly transitioned to what needs improvement - and when they were finished I had 3 flip-charts filled with stuff. I went back to what was working well, and their answer was that despite everything the patients get seen.
I knew I was in for a treat! I started working through the list of improvement with them, and it involves spending a lot of time defining terms so that everyone is on the same page. "Be Respectful" really doesn't tell someone how to act - as respect means a lot of different things, based on background/upbringing, etc. We talked about customer service, taking responsibility for tasks, and being accountable even when something doesn't work out in their favor.
The last piece, and 3 separate items on the list, was Fake, Nosey, and Petty. I grouped them together, asked for specifics, and then asked them what the work day would look like if Fake, Nosey, and Petty didn't show up.
It's pretty sad that I have to give a personal challenge to adults about twice my age, that if Fake, Nosey, and Petty show up to work for the rest of the week, they are to be sent home because there isn't a job for them in the office. Sigh.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Scent linked to memories
I was shampooing my hair this morning and I used shampoo that I got in Hawaii when I was last there with my ex (I haven't used it in a couple of months, as I've been using new stuff). It's amazing what a scent can do for the memories, as everything of that trip came back to me: walking on the beach, fun on the balcony, sailing, visiting, and just relaxing... wow! The power of memories!
Anyway, I've been reading my chapters to get ready for my next class in October, but I haven't even started writing my paper yet. I have to have 7-8 sources for a 3-5page paper (double spaced)... so this should be interesting!
My boss also mentioned that she is feeling out of the loop and wants to be over communicated to - so I've been sending her 8 paragraph detailed emails about what I do all day. I think it's overkill, she thinks it's 'helpful'. But whatever!
Anyway, more meeting prep to do... I'll write more later!
Anyway, I've been reading my chapters to get ready for my next class in October, but I haven't even started writing my paper yet. I have to have 7-8 sources for a 3-5page paper (double spaced)... so this should be interesting!
My boss also mentioned that she is feeling out of the loop and wants to be over communicated to - so I've been sending her 8 paragraph detailed emails about what I do all day. I think it's overkill, she thinks it's 'helpful'. But whatever!
Anyway, more meeting prep to do... I'll write more later!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
flat on my back... and not in a good way
So, remember that whole dancing thing I was so excited about and missed yesterday? Yeah, now I remember why I haven't been dancing in a long time.
Well, actually, there is more to it then that.
About 8 years ago, between junior and senior year of college, I had a slipped disc issue with my lower back. The last one, L-something, slipped completely out to the left and onto my sciatic nerve. The one right above started slipping to the right. For some reason, like most things in life, things affect me differently than normal, and my problem was that I couldn't sit for long periods of time. (People with this problem normally have to sit, and can't stand.) My entire leg from my buttocks to my feet would suddenly go numb, and I would fly out of my chair, which would relieve the pressure.
After a few x-rays and a MRI, I was sent to the neurosurgeon. I had to wait a few weeks for my appointment, and by the time I actually got to see him, I was no longer experiencing pain. I tribute this to prayer, as my neurosurgeon took one look at my MRI and asked how it was possible that I even walked into his office.
He did some tests, and basically told me not to do any heavy lifting, and just be very careful of how I sit/move, so I don't hurt it again.
Fast forward to the purchase of our new living room set about 3 years ago. Apparently the overstuffed/over-sized chair is not a good piece for me. In order to rest my back against the back of the chair, I have to practically climb into it, and I usually end up leaning on the side with my legs curled up. I normally get up from it with my back hurting (it's not the legs curled up thing, because that's how I sit on the sofa without problems), so I made a mental note not to sit in it.
Well, sometimes I'm in a rush, and I forget. Or I figure I'll only be sitting there for a minute, and sit. Saturday morning I had to get up and take my mom to the eye doctors. I made myself a mini bagel, and because I didn't feel like moving all the pillows off the sofa to sit on it, I sat in the chair. When I got up, my back went into spasm. I was able to function, and when we got back from the doctor's, I laid on the floor for awhile stretching it.
Later that night, after a hot shower, I was feeling fine with just some tenderness, so I did a lot of dancing/wiggling. Again, it wasn't hurting when I was doing it, so I thought I had worked out the muscle spasm. Yeah no...
Last night I was sitting slouched in my computer chair, and when I went to sit up, I couldn't. When happens is that my muscles seem to relax themselves so much, that they aren't firm enough to life me using my core (or at least that's what it feels like). I have to use my arms and legs to brace myself, and basically "climb" up from a seated position, as using the core muscles are out of the question. I figured a good night's sleep will fix it.. but I spent most of the evening bracing myself, as I couldn't roll over unaided. Bending forward is out of the question, so I had to do a modified side bend to get to my shampoo and shave my legs this morning. I'm sure to an outside, it would look hysterical.
I had to cancel my canoeing trip with Ryan and Heather, which I was really bummed about. I just didn't think it would be a good idea for me to climb in and out of a canoe, and try to paddle, in this condition.
It usually goes away after a day or so... as it works it's own self out. But I guess it taught me to things - 1. Don't sit in that chair, stupid! and 2. I'm getting old.
Well, actually, there is more to it then that.
About 8 years ago, between junior and senior year of college, I had a slipped disc issue with my lower back. The last one, L-something, slipped completely out to the left and onto my sciatic nerve. The one right above started slipping to the right. For some reason, like most things in life, things affect me differently than normal, and my problem was that I couldn't sit for long periods of time. (People with this problem normally have to sit, and can't stand.) My entire leg from my buttocks to my feet would suddenly go numb, and I would fly out of my chair, which would relieve the pressure.
After a few x-rays and a MRI, I was sent to the neurosurgeon. I had to wait a few weeks for my appointment, and by the time I actually got to see him, I was no longer experiencing pain. I tribute this to prayer, as my neurosurgeon took one look at my MRI and asked how it was possible that I even walked into his office.
He did some tests, and basically told me not to do any heavy lifting, and just be very careful of how I sit/move, so I don't hurt it again.
Fast forward to the purchase of our new living room set about 3 years ago. Apparently the overstuffed/over-sized chair is not a good piece for me. In order to rest my back against the back of the chair, I have to practically climb into it, and I usually end up leaning on the side with my legs curled up. I normally get up from it with my back hurting (it's not the legs curled up thing, because that's how I sit on the sofa without problems), so I made a mental note not to sit in it.
Well, sometimes I'm in a rush, and I forget. Or I figure I'll only be sitting there for a minute, and sit. Saturday morning I had to get up and take my mom to the eye doctors. I made myself a mini bagel, and because I didn't feel like moving all the pillows off the sofa to sit on it, I sat in the chair. When I got up, my back went into spasm. I was able to function, and when we got back from the doctor's, I laid on the floor for awhile stretching it.
Later that night, after a hot shower, I was feeling fine with just some tenderness, so I did a lot of dancing/wiggling. Again, it wasn't hurting when I was doing it, so I thought I had worked out the muscle spasm. Yeah no...
Last night I was sitting slouched in my computer chair, and when I went to sit up, I couldn't. When happens is that my muscles seem to relax themselves so much, that they aren't firm enough to life me using my core (or at least that's what it feels like). I have to use my arms and legs to brace myself, and basically "climb" up from a seated position, as using the core muscles are out of the question. I figured a good night's sleep will fix it.. but I spent most of the evening bracing myself, as I couldn't roll over unaided. Bending forward is out of the question, so I had to do a modified side bend to get to my shampoo and shave my legs this morning. I'm sure to an outside, it would look hysterical.
I had to cancel my canoeing trip with Ryan and Heather, which I was really bummed about. I just didn't think it would be a good idea for me to climb in and out of a canoe, and try to paddle, in this condition.
It usually goes away after a day or so... as it works it's own self out. But I guess it taught me to things - 1. Don't sit in that chair, stupid! and 2. I'm getting old.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Dancing the night away...
Wow! It's been a very long time since I've been out dancing and I had a blast tonight. I used to go country line dancing every Sunday night during college, but the group grew out of it as Nashville's closed, and then Little Texas became even more shady.
I went to a crab feast at my church tonight, which had very heavy and large steamed crabs, plus a whole buffet of other food. But, I was too busy dancing to really pay much attention to any of it. I did enjoy the crabs though - very delicious!
My dancing partner in crime was my cousin TJ, but if he isn't able to make the functions, I normally pull my priest out on the dance floor with me. But, since TJ was there tonight, I didn't let him rest. I taught him how to schotish, el paso, and swing... plus we did a lot of the oldie but goodie line dances. And it's always fun to just shake your booty to the music when we didn't know a formal dance to it.
Remarkably I got a lot of compliments as I was walking out with a bunch of people, on my dancing. Sometimes it's just a great feeling to be so carefree!
Anyone wanna dance with me?
I went to a crab feast at my church tonight, which had very heavy and large steamed crabs, plus a whole buffet of other food. But, I was too busy dancing to really pay much attention to any of it. I did enjoy the crabs though - very delicious!
My dancing partner in crime was my cousin TJ, but if he isn't able to make the functions, I normally pull my priest out on the dance floor with me. But, since TJ was there tonight, I didn't let him rest. I taught him how to schotish, el paso, and swing... plus we did a lot of the oldie but goodie line dances. And it's always fun to just shake your booty to the music when we didn't know a formal dance to it.
Remarkably I got a lot of compliments as I was walking out with a bunch of people, on my dancing. Sometimes it's just a great feeling to be so carefree!
Anyone wanna dance with me?
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
One day, I will have a door.
I have to hope, and keep true to the belief that all of this means something, and it's not "all for nothing."
Aspirations, drive, and goals in life are what keep me sane. My newest aspiration, based on a conversation I had earlier today with my friend David, is that after we both graduate, we'll go into private business together. I worked for David back in my elearning days, and we made an amazing team. He's still with the company, but he's also getting a holistic certification in breathing.
Breathing is actually more then a simple act, and through the breath, so much can be found. I don't know all of the details, but through deep breathing and simple meditation, many insights reveal themselves. My piece of that puzzle is that my grad degree can be used in various ways. Namely coaching through work-related/life decisions and helping to facilitate the process of a change - work or personal. Together, we can help an individual self-actualize and learn how to use their best "self" and make that leap to wherever they want to go.
It's an interesting thought... but maybe in 2 years we'll both be ready for it.
So I have lots of 2 year plans to aspire to:
1. Buying a house
2. An external consulting business on the side
3. And the hope, that one day, I'll have a door, and no longer live in a cube. (That would meet my need for having the ability to take cat naps at work!)
Aspirations, drive, and goals in life are what keep me sane. My newest aspiration, based on a conversation I had earlier today with my friend David, is that after we both graduate, we'll go into private business together. I worked for David back in my elearning days, and we made an amazing team. He's still with the company, but he's also getting a holistic certification in breathing.
Breathing is actually more then a simple act, and through the breath, so much can be found. I don't know all of the details, but through deep breathing and simple meditation, many insights reveal themselves. My piece of that puzzle is that my grad degree can be used in various ways. Namely coaching through work-related/life decisions and helping to facilitate the process of a change - work or personal. Together, we can help an individual self-actualize and learn how to use their best "self" and make that leap to wherever they want to go.
It's an interesting thought... but maybe in 2 years we'll both be ready for it.
So I have lots of 2 year plans to aspire to:
1. Buying a house
2. An external consulting business on the side
3. And the hope, that one day, I'll have a door, and no longer live in a cube. (That would meet my need for having the ability to take cat naps at work!)
the rest of the week...
Well, it's Wednesday... time to reflect on the rest of the week.
Tonight I'm facilitating the People Engagement Meeting at church, which should be interesting. They wanted me to do a power point on that, and I generally don't like to do them, as they have a bad stigma associated with them. My humble opinion is for them to be just a visual, not a composite of run-on sentences. But people immediately get a feeling about how the night is going to go, if they see a power point. But, I do what I'm told, and I really didn't feel like arguing about it.
Good thing I looked at my calendar, as I have a New Leader Assimilation to do with a new Director in the CBO tomorrow. I need to finish prepping for that, but it's not until the afternoon.
Friday I'm facilitating part of the Manager's meeting, and we'll be discussing problem solving... that's always a fun topic.
Saturday I have to take my mom to the eye doctor, and then I have a church thing Saturday night. Then Sunday... I'm going canoeing. That's right, I'm going canoeing.
Tonight I'm facilitating the People Engagement Meeting at church, which should be interesting. They wanted me to do a power point on that, and I generally don't like to do them, as they have a bad stigma associated with them. My humble opinion is for them to be just a visual, not a composite of run-on sentences. But people immediately get a feeling about how the night is going to go, if they see a power point. But, I do what I'm told, and I really didn't feel like arguing about it.
Good thing I looked at my calendar, as I have a New Leader Assimilation to do with a new Director in the CBO tomorrow. I need to finish prepping for that, but it's not until the afternoon.
Friday I'm facilitating part of the Manager's meeting, and we'll be discussing problem solving... that's always a fun topic.
Saturday I have to take my mom to the eye doctor, and then I have a church thing Saturday night. Then Sunday... I'm going canoeing. That's right, I'm going canoeing.
Monday, September 15, 2008
In the moment... again
The strong theme for the weekend was to "trust the process" and "live in the moment" of what is happening, and learn from it. We learned yesterday that there are a lot of "reflective and thinking" type people in the class, which is going to force me to stop and not push for a deliverable so quickly. I like ambiguity, but I like knowing what I'm supposed to deliver after I figure it out - because, like everyone else in the class, I have a strong need to get it right. Especially when there is a grade attached to dealing with the ambiguity, and a B- is below a 3.0, and you "failed".
But, it's the process that is the learning, not the learning in a means to an end. As long as I keep that in the front of my mind, I can stumble through it.
I have a lot going on this week: bowling tonight (which conflicts with the Parish Council meeting that I was appointed to last week, therefore I'm skipping Parish Council until next month, to not let my team down), two meetings tomorrow toward DC, homework for my small group due Tuesday, and my problem child on Wednesday morning. That takes me to Thursday... and well, I haven't even looked that far yet.
But.... trust the process!
But, it's the process that is the learning, not the learning in a means to an end. As long as I keep that in the front of my mind, I can stumble through it.
I have a lot going on this week: bowling tonight (which conflicts with the Parish Council meeting that I was appointed to last week, therefore I'm skipping Parish Council until next month, to not let my team down), two meetings tomorrow toward DC, homework for my small group due Tuesday, and my problem child on Wednesday morning. That takes me to Thursday... and well, I haven't even looked that far yet.
But.... trust the process!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Libations Seminar
Or, in other words - a liquid involved debrief! Christine, who spent 20 years in the Army before going into consulting, was the first to use the term "libations seminar" during our morning check-in with the group. I love the term, and will be using it to describe my other drinks with the group! hehe
Today was horrid. I really can't even explain it, but there was a whole bunch of processing of the process, lots of instructions with no clear deliverable, and people playing the game of "telephone" when sharing information. We had our 2 hour "community" time after our full day of class, and it was clear that none of us were happy. But we will be working on addressing the issues tomorrow... thank God.
I'm packed up for the morning when I check out, but I have another full day of class before driving back up to Baltimore. It's been a long 5 days. I don't think it's going to be as bad when I'm just here for the weekend, but a full week is just too much. There are so many data points, and we can't process them.
My hotel-mates and I walked down the long hill to Georgetown tonight to have dinner at a great Asian inspired restaurant on M street. LOVED IT! They have various themes, but the tables downstairs were amazing. The music was really loud, but I loved the atmosphere of the place... but alas, I did not get up with the belly dancer and show off my stuff. We had to wait over an hour for our dinner, but it was really good.
I'm kinda blanking... as I have to get up extra early, finish getting my stuff together, check out, and get us over to school in time for class to start at 8:30am. But I can do it!
Today was horrid. I really can't even explain it, but there was a whole bunch of processing of the process, lots of instructions with no clear deliverable, and people playing the game of "telephone" when sharing information. We had our 2 hour "community" time after our full day of class, and it was clear that none of us were happy. But we will be working on addressing the issues tomorrow... thank God.
I'm packed up for the morning when I check out, but I have another full day of class before driving back up to Baltimore. It's been a long 5 days. I don't think it's going to be as bad when I'm just here for the weekend, but a full week is just too much. There are so many data points, and we can't process them.
My hotel-mates and I walked down the long hill to Georgetown tonight to have dinner at a great Asian inspired restaurant on M street. LOVED IT! They have various themes, but the tables downstairs were amazing. The music was really loud, but I loved the atmosphere of the place... but alas, I did not get up with the belly dancer and show off my stuff. We had to wait over an hour for our dinner, but it was really good.
I'm kinda blanking... as I have to get up extra early, finish getting my stuff together, check out, and get us over to school in time for class to start at 8:30am. But I can do it!
Friday, September 12, 2008
1st day of Class
Today was the official start of my grad program, with my first full day of class. I was pleasantly surprised how un-academic it was. I'm trying to figure out how they are going to combine the adult learning principles in a group setting with the academics. I felt some conflicting emotions as my professor, and director of the program, mentioned that we should think of them as colleagues, not as a "teacher". But, my colleagues never were responsible for grading me and the final decision on whether or not I pass! Especially when I'm paying so much damn money out of my own pocket!
This morning we presented our first paper on "emerging challenges" in our field. I spoke about two of the many in healthcare, namely time and lack of systems thinking. But it seems that the speedy advancement of technology, generational gaps, and pressure to prove value in our field were prevalent.
We broke for lunch, and some of us decided to try out the Student Union for lunch, in the main cafeteria. What a HOOT! hehe When we walked in, the one cashier thought we were new faculty and tried to direct us upstairs to the lounge! But for $7.33, it was all you could possibly eat, and me, not coming from a large university environment had no idea what variety would be available. I was impressed, and the food wasn't that bad. Mary, Svenja and I were torn, as we didn't know what to get for lunch this morning. We saw the Balducci's on the way to the parking lot, and went in, but couldn't figure out what to get, as everything needed refrigeration. But now that we know there is a fridge and microwave available to us in the building, we'll be shopping there more often.
After lunch we came back to an interesting activity. There was a huge paper timeline on the wall, from pre 1930s, to post 2020. Our job was to put any and every life altering impactful "thing" that happened during that time. This was an interesting activity, as it really showed where the group thinking was/is. Our group is social and cultural based, as we thought those were important facts to add. I may use this activity with groups, because depending on the mix of the room, you'll get a variety of different time lines. It's a way to see what drives people, and what had the most impact on them.
We moved into a small group project, where we each had an era of time, and had to do the history of OD through it. Our group had the 50s and 60s, and that was when a lot of the western European thought and theory of social systems really started to take hold and be practiced. That's when action research was invented, which is based on data collection and presenting feedback to the audience involved for validation. Prior to that, feedback was never really solicited in groups. People weren't asked what they "thought" or how they "felt".
Some of us were in desperate need of a drink afterwards, so we headed over to a little place on New Mexico. I had the yummiest dinner - a watermelon cosmo and a cheese plate with fig and crostini. I was in heaven. I stopped in Balducci's to get a snack for later of hummus and pita.. which I've been enjoying in the privacy of my hotel room.
Tomorrow we spend the entire afternoon in the library researching our first major paper. We'll see how that goes! hehe :) But I'm having fun so far!
This morning we presented our first paper on "emerging challenges" in our field. I spoke about two of the many in healthcare, namely time and lack of systems thinking. But it seems that the speedy advancement of technology, generational gaps, and pressure to prove value in our field were prevalent.
We broke for lunch, and some of us decided to try out the Student Union for lunch, in the main cafeteria. What a HOOT! hehe When we walked in, the one cashier thought we were new faculty and tried to direct us upstairs to the lounge! But for $7.33, it was all you could possibly eat, and me, not coming from a large university environment had no idea what variety would be available. I was impressed, and the food wasn't that bad. Mary, Svenja and I were torn, as we didn't know what to get for lunch this morning. We saw the Balducci's on the way to the parking lot, and went in, but couldn't figure out what to get, as everything needed refrigeration. But now that we know there is a fridge and microwave available to us in the building, we'll be shopping there more often.
After lunch we came back to an interesting activity. There was a huge paper timeline on the wall, from pre 1930s, to post 2020. Our job was to put any and every life altering impactful "thing" that happened during that time. This was an interesting activity, as it really showed where the group thinking was/is. Our group is social and cultural based, as we thought those were important facts to add. I may use this activity with groups, because depending on the mix of the room, you'll get a variety of different time lines. It's a way to see what drives people, and what had the most impact on them.
We moved into a small group project, where we each had an era of time, and had to do the history of OD through it. Our group had the 50s and 60s, and that was when a lot of the western European thought and theory of social systems really started to take hold and be practiced. That's when action research was invented, which is based on data collection and presenting feedback to the audience involved for validation. Prior to that, feedback was never really solicited in groups. People weren't asked what they "thought" or how they "felt".
Some of us were in desperate need of a drink afterwards, so we headed over to a little place on New Mexico. I had the yummiest dinner - a watermelon cosmo and a cheese plate with fig and crostini. I was in heaven. I stopped in Balducci's to get a snack for later of hummus and pita.. which I've been enjoying in the privacy of my hotel room.
Tomorrow we spend the entire afternoon in the library researching our first major paper. We'll see how that goes! hehe :) But I'm having fun so far!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Orienation Day 2
Orientation, Day 2. I have two people staying in the hotel with me, and we drove in this morning together, after finding out that the road I planned to take, can't have left turns on weekdays. What is wrong with this city?
Today we spent the morning in the library, where we learned all about it's resources and available services. Oh fun... and then we spent the afternoon in "community time" doing life maps. I do this activity with my kids in confirmation, but it's been awhile since I've done it with an adult group.
We got through all 22 people in about 2 hours, and it was amazing to see what they bring to the table. Many of them have traveled and moved to many different cities, there are only a few like me who have only lived in one state. We had some common themes, mainly that we all had a life altering moment when we got tired of the current system, and started searching for a way to change it.
I know that I've always been called to this sort of work, but I could never being to put a name to it until I entered the work force. Even while in college, when I was leading workshops with ACUI themes, I knew that I was supposed to be doing this work.
For some reason what really stood out for me doing my life map was my high school experience. Based on the feedback I got, it seems that it was rare, in the amount of support I got. Because we were an all female environment, we were constantly told and pushed to learn and be the best at who we are. It was instilled in me that I'm going to be a powerful female, and I have life-changing work to do. It's now that I am finally ready to take on the role.
I went to dinner tonight with a friend who lives in Reston. We met in Bethesda and went to the Mongolian BBQ, which was delicious! I highly recommend it, if you have one in your area.
I'm relaxing tonight, getting ready for 3 more days of actual class. I'm not going to obsess about it, just relax and enjoy it!
Today we spent the morning in the library, where we learned all about it's resources and available services. Oh fun... and then we spent the afternoon in "community time" doing life maps. I do this activity with my kids in confirmation, but it's been awhile since I've done it with an adult group.
We got through all 22 people in about 2 hours, and it was amazing to see what they bring to the table. Many of them have traveled and moved to many different cities, there are only a few like me who have only lived in one state. We had some common themes, mainly that we all had a life altering moment when we got tired of the current system, and started searching for a way to change it.
I know that I've always been called to this sort of work, but I could never being to put a name to it until I entered the work force. Even while in college, when I was leading workshops with ACUI themes, I knew that I was supposed to be doing this work.
For some reason what really stood out for me doing my life map was my high school experience. Based on the feedback I got, it seems that it was rare, in the amount of support I got. Because we were an all female environment, we were constantly told and pushed to learn and be the best at who we are. It was instilled in me that I'm going to be a powerful female, and I have life-changing work to do. It's now that I am finally ready to take on the role.
I went to dinner tonight with a friend who lives in Reston. We met in Bethesda and went to the Mongolian BBQ, which was delicious! I highly recommend it, if you have one in your area.
I'm relaxing tonight, getting ready for 3 more days of actual class. I'm not going to obsess about it, just relax and enjoy it!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Orientation Day 1
Yesterday I was the last to leave my office, and I was looking around helplessly, wondering if I have everything together to start my new journey into grad school. I felt full of anxiety, and slightly fearful of what to expect.
It's really difficult for me to explain, but I basically get to work under the direction and guidance of the people who invented OD, my field. I'm talking back in the 60s and 70s when the idea of democracy in the workplace was a novel concept, and interpersonal skills were never discussed or broached at the workplace. These people were working on the cutting edge, and really began to define what true leadership and group dynamics means. It's a wonderful opportunity, yet my own self-expectations are now extremely high, as I want to continue their work, and their good name.
I arrived early this morning, having gotten up at 4:30am to finish packing and preparing for my long drive into DC. As I was the first one here, I began introducing myself to my fellow students as they entered, and I realized that we were all having the same fears and the same anxiety.
Us OD people (I'm calling myself one now) like to work in small groups, talk about feelings, and really understand what emotions are present in the room that influence the atmosphere of learning. We jumped right in with a small-group workshop on our Hopes and Anxieties for the program, and it was encouraging to see everyone in the same boat that I am. I felt peace, and my stress level decreased.
I was really amazed about how over-whelmed everyone was with the readings. Yes, it was a lot, but class starts on Friday, and more than 1/2 haven't completed them. I guess that's on me, as coming from the school of thought that I do as I'm told, and the expectation is for the work to be completed, so it's my duty to do that. But, it was rewarding to hear from past graduates who mentioned that skimming was more than appropriate and just having a basic understanding will get you through.
All of our class time is very experiential, meaning we sit in a circle facing one another, and we talk... a lot. We process, talk, process some more, and then write papers about it.
I'm nervous about the paper writing, as I don't do that kind of writing in my work. Apparently we will get an extreme amount of feedback on our writing style in the first 2 sets of classes, an they are looking for improvements in the style. I was also startled to see that a B- doesn't cut it. That's actually below a 3.0, and one will be out of the program, or on probation very quickly. But we met the writing lab folks, who were very clear that they are here to help.
It was interesting how quickly we opened up to each other as a group and established trust. But again, it takes a certain kind of person to do this work, and being in the room with like-minded individuals helps that. They kept reminding us that we were hand selected, and every person in the room had an intense discussion by the administration about them, and how their skills would gel with everyone else. We are the largest group, with 22 people, which brings a variety of skills to the table. They warned us against comparing ourselves, as that is not the intent and purpose.
It's amazing, that everyone we heard speak today, mentioned that this program is going to be a life altering experience. That we are going to learn so much about ourselves that it will shape us forever. Hearing about the Human Interaction Lab that I will be taking, and other work about "use of self" leads me to believe that they are correct.
I'm drained, but I'm meeting some people at 8pm for dinner... so at least I have some downtime to process until then. My room is okay, it's no Marriott (my ex got me partial to them) but at least it's clean, and I have free internet service.
It's really difficult for me to explain, but I basically get to work under the direction and guidance of the people who invented OD, my field. I'm talking back in the 60s and 70s when the idea of democracy in the workplace was a novel concept, and interpersonal skills were never discussed or broached at the workplace. These people were working on the cutting edge, and really began to define what true leadership and group dynamics means. It's a wonderful opportunity, yet my own self-expectations are now extremely high, as I want to continue their work, and their good name.
I arrived early this morning, having gotten up at 4:30am to finish packing and preparing for my long drive into DC. As I was the first one here, I began introducing myself to my fellow students as they entered, and I realized that we were all having the same fears and the same anxiety.
Us OD people (I'm calling myself one now) like to work in small groups, talk about feelings, and really understand what emotions are present in the room that influence the atmosphere of learning. We jumped right in with a small-group workshop on our Hopes and Anxieties for the program, and it was encouraging to see everyone in the same boat that I am. I felt peace, and my stress level decreased.
I was really amazed about how over-whelmed everyone was with the readings. Yes, it was a lot, but class starts on Friday, and more than 1/2 haven't completed them. I guess that's on me, as coming from the school of thought that I do as I'm told, and the expectation is for the work to be completed, so it's my duty to do that. But, it was rewarding to hear from past graduates who mentioned that skimming was more than appropriate and just having a basic understanding will get you through.
All of our class time is very experiential, meaning we sit in a circle facing one another, and we talk... a lot. We process, talk, process some more, and then write papers about it.
I'm nervous about the paper writing, as I don't do that kind of writing in my work. Apparently we will get an extreme amount of feedback on our writing style in the first 2 sets of classes, an they are looking for improvements in the style. I was also startled to see that a B- doesn't cut it. That's actually below a 3.0, and one will be out of the program, or on probation very quickly. But we met the writing lab folks, who were very clear that they are here to help.
It was interesting how quickly we opened up to each other as a group and established trust. But again, it takes a certain kind of person to do this work, and being in the room with like-minded individuals helps that. They kept reminding us that we were hand selected, and every person in the room had an intense discussion by the administration about them, and how their skills would gel with everyone else. We are the largest group, with 22 people, which brings a variety of skills to the table. They warned us against comparing ourselves, as that is not the intent and purpose.
It's amazing, that everyone we heard speak today, mentioned that this program is going to be a life altering experience. That we are going to learn so much about ourselves that it will shape us forever. Hearing about the Human Interaction Lab that I will be taking, and other work about "use of self" leads me to believe that they are correct.
I'm drained, but I'm meeting some people at 8pm for dinner... so at least I have some downtime to process until then. My room is okay, it's no Marriott (my ex got me partial to them) but at least it's clean, and I have free internet service.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
I got a TURKEY!
I tried what the Canadian told me a few weeks ago, and yeah, they must bowl differently in Canada. I'm sure it would work, but I didn't have enough time to practice before trying it, and I rode the gutter too often!
So, by the 2nd game I went back to my way of bowling, and my scores significantly increased! WOOO HOOO! AND I GOT A TURKEY (3 strikes in a row, for those following along at home)!
I think I need to start stretching before I bowl, as my lower back begins to hurt by the end of the 3 games. But I'm having fun! WOO HOO!
And.... I start school tomorrow! THE PLOT THICKENS!
So, by the 2nd game I went back to my way of bowling, and my scores significantly increased! WOOO HOOO! AND I GOT A TURKEY (3 strikes in a row, for those following along at home)!
I think I need to start stretching before I bowl, as my lower back begins to hurt by the end of the 3 games. But I'm having fun! WOO HOO!
And.... I start school tomorrow! THE PLOT THICKENS!
Monday, September 8, 2008
getting ready for school
All weekend I've been working on homework, or rather "prework", to get ready for Wednesday. I finished all of my readings, my paper, and my brochure, so all that is left is to show up on Wednesday for Orientation.
I took a drive yesterday to plan my route, so I know how to get from the hotel to AU, and back, without hardship. There are a lot of hidden signs that say "no left turn" and traffic circles to contend with, but I think I'm going to be fine. Plus, I have my garmin, so if all else fails, it'll find me.
I'm ahead of schedule for the website at work, and I like to keep it that way. I just hope IS keeps with their part of the bargain, as I haven't heard from them since the meeting. I keep sending them status updates of things that are completed, but one date that I'm hanging on is Sept 12. Paul has to have the DB they created for us re-worked so it has the fields that I need. I can't start populating it online until they are there.
Bowling is tonight, which I'm really excited about. I missed not going last week, so I'm looking forward to tonight. And of course, no bowling evening would be complete without grilled cheese! We do have pay sanctions again, until we get everything fixed (if at all) from the bowling fiasco. I'm still feeling very removed from that, as it's just so damn surreal.
Busy Busy Busy! :)
I took a drive yesterday to plan my route, so I know how to get from the hotel to AU, and back, without hardship. There are a lot of hidden signs that say "no left turn" and traffic circles to contend with, but I think I'm going to be fine. Plus, I have my garmin, so if all else fails, it'll find me.
I'm ahead of schedule for the website at work, and I like to keep it that way. I just hope IS keeps with their part of the bargain, as I haven't heard from them since the meeting. I keep sending them status updates of things that are completed, but one date that I'm hanging on is Sept 12. Paul has to have the DB they created for us re-worked so it has the fields that I need. I can't start populating it online until they are there.
Bowling is tonight, which I'm really excited about. I missed not going last week, so I'm looking forward to tonight. And of course, no bowling evening would be complete without grilled cheese! We do have pay sanctions again, until we get everything fixed (if at all) from the bowling fiasco. I'm still feeling very removed from that, as it's just so damn surreal.
Busy Busy Busy! :)
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Hole in the Wall
So, I was flipping through channels early this evening, and I came upon Fox 45, and a show called "Hole in the Wall." I have never seen such an animal, so I stopped to see what was happening.
Teams of 3 work against each other to fit through a hole in the wall. They stand on the end of a "pier" (indoors) with yellow water behind them, and a foam wall with a human shape posed in various ways comes at them. They have to fit through the shape, without falling into the water.
In round one, it's an individual against an individual. That was kinda funny, as one team was called the "abs" and were body builders, and the other team was called the "beer bellies", and, well, they weren't body builders.
During round two, two of your team members have to fit through 2 holes. Well, that's about when I started peeing my pants - literally! I was laughing so hard, that tears were rolling down my cheeks, and I started snorting. The "beer bellies" were up first, (I'm hysterical just thinking about it) and they did the pose, and waited for the wall to reach them, but instead of going through, they got stuck in the wall, and it actually picked them up and carried them over the water, where it promptly broke in 1/2!
If that wasn't enough, Round three came up, and it's where all 3 of your team members work together. Again, the "beer bellies" had an interesting item, as it was just a small hole cut into the bottom of the wall. The team captain pushed them down on top of each other, and he squeezed on top to barely fit through, they had to hold him so he wasn't carried away with the wall! Again, laughing hysterically!
The winning team, in this case, the "abs" had to do the final challenge, where they send a team member to the pier with blind goggles, and they have to direct him by voice through the hole.
There really are no words.... but HYSTERICAL! I encourage everyone to check it out! hehe :)
Teams of 3 work against each other to fit through a hole in the wall. They stand on the end of a "pier" (indoors) with yellow water behind them, and a foam wall with a human shape posed in various ways comes at them. They have to fit through the shape, without falling into the water.
In round one, it's an individual against an individual. That was kinda funny, as one team was called the "abs" and were body builders, and the other team was called the "beer bellies", and, well, they weren't body builders.
During round two, two of your team members have to fit through 2 holes. Well, that's about when I started peeing my pants - literally! I was laughing so hard, that tears were rolling down my cheeks, and I started snorting. The "beer bellies" were up first, (I'm hysterical just thinking about it) and they did the pose, and waited for the wall to reach them, but instead of going through, they got stuck in the wall, and it actually picked them up and carried them over the water, where it promptly broke in 1/2!
If that wasn't enough, Round three came up, and it's where all 3 of your team members work together. Again, the "beer bellies" had an interesting item, as it was just a small hole cut into the bottom of the wall. The team captain pushed them down on top of each other, and he squeezed on top to barely fit through, they had to hold him so he wasn't carried away with the wall! Again, laughing hysterically!
The winning team, in this case, the "abs" had to do the final challenge, where they send a team member to the pier with blind goggles, and they have to direct him by voice through the hole.
There really are no words.... but HYSTERICAL! I encourage everyone to check it out! hehe :)
Friday, September 5, 2008
For all of those on the search...
I've been cleaning out my closet, and I came upon a bunch of books that I had stored in there. Most were on body language (I went through this phase in my early 20s when I wanted to understand how to send the right signals to the opposite sex.. yadda yadda yadda), but I found an oldie but goodie, "He's Just Not Into You."
That book was wildly popular a few years back, written by a man to educate women to stop making excuses for men when they treat you poorly. Basically, if he doesn't call when he says he will (emergencies aside) or really can't be bothered with giving you any time, he's just not into you. It also warns against being the "fill in" girl when he's bored and has nothing to do.
The author goes on to say that men are hunters, and if they really want something, they will go out of their way to get it. So if he's not going out of his way, he really doesn't want it.
I wonder if that thought can be applied to online dating. I guess if a guy was really interested he'd "go out of his way" to make his interest known. I'm all about being a woman of the 2000s and making first contact, but maybe it does apply? Who knows! I've been journaling rapidly on the okcupid site, as folks have been debating on the response rate of other people. I've come to the conclusion that it's a website of people living in fear, and hoping that someone else will make the first move.
But, I journal about it, just as a reminder, that relationships shouldn't be about jumping through hoops to keep someone's attention. You shouldn't feel ignored, or on the bottom of the list of priorities.
There was an article on CNN.com two days ago from Oprah's website, which was talking about women being "wanty," which ties in nicely. Basically women have wants, but they are afraid to vocalize them in relationships because of fear of being labeled as "high maintenance, bitchy, aggressive, etc." As more and more relationship experts explained the difference in the sexes over the last few years, and pretty much every comedian has a joke about, women have developed a fear of being labeled negatively for vocalizing what they want out of the relationship, or sharing their expectations. So instead, they play the "I don't know, what do you want to do?" game. Which turns into complacency when dealing with men who "just aren't into you." They'd rather bite their tongue, and keep him, then do without.
I had posted about this earlier in the week, but really didn't have time to reflect based on all the work I've been doing to get ready for the launch of the website and school work for next week. But I'm one of those women who is afraid to be "wanty".
I can pinpoint when I started to feel that way, it was right after I graduated from college and entered the dating world. I mentioned before that I was a late bloomer. Someone I trusted a lot, who I was really interested in, called me high maintenance. And ever since then, I've bent over backs to be low maintenance, as I didn't like the connotation around that term.
In general, based on my personality style (and not in relation to this incident), it takes a hell of a lot of get me pissed off. And when I am pissed, I have no problem telling someone directly what I feel about them, and where to go.
But if the issue is on the table, and I really don't care about the outcome, I won't state an opinion, or even suggest what I want - because it really doesn't matter. Take for instance dinner - I don't have any food allergies, I like pretty much anything, and every restaurant I've been to, I always find something that sounds appetizing. So, I really don't care where we go... so, "I don't know, whatever you want" is an appropriate response. Because I really don't know, and I can see possibilities in whatever you suggest.
If things really matter, or they are morally related, I over-think them, until I find a solution. Most often I drag someone into my external dialog online, but I need that feedback in order to fully understand what I'm pondering. Once I determine what I want, I stick with it, and see it through. But with the little things in life... I really don't care, you decide.
That book was wildly popular a few years back, written by a man to educate women to stop making excuses for men when they treat you poorly. Basically, if he doesn't call when he says he will (emergencies aside) or really can't be bothered with giving you any time, he's just not into you. It also warns against being the "fill in" girl when he's bored and has nothing to do.
The author goes on to say that men are hunters, and if they really want something, they will go out of their way to get it. So if he's not going out of his way, he really doesn't want it.
I wonder if that thought can be applied to online dating. I guess if a guy was really interested he'd "go out of his way" to make his interest known. I'm all about being a woman of the 2000s and making first contact, but maybe it does apply? Who knows! I've been journaling rapidly on the okcupid site, as folks have been debating on the response rate of other people. I've come to the conclusion that it's a website of people living in fear, and hoping that someone else will make the first move.
But, I journal about it, just as a reminder, that relationships shouldn't be about jumping through hoops to keep someone's attention. You shouldn't feel ignored, or on the bottom of the list of priorities.
There was an article on CNN.com two days ago from Oprah's website, which was talking about women being "wanty," which ties in nicely. Basically women have wants, but they are afraid to vocalize them in relationships because of fear of being labeled as "high maintenance, bitchy, aggressive, etc." As more and more relationship experts explained the difference in the sexes over the last few years, and pretty much every comedian has a joke about, women have developed a fear of being labeled negatively for vocalizing what they want out of the relationship, or sharing their expectations. So instead, they play the "I don't know, what do you want to do?" game. Which turns into complacency when dealing with men who "just aren't into you." They'd rather bite their tongue, and keep him, then do without.
I had posted about this earlier in the week, but really didn't have time to reflect based on all the work I've been doing to get ready for the launch of the website and school work for next week. But I'm one of those women who is afraid to be "wanty".
I can pinpoint when I started to feel that way, it was right after I graduated from college and entered the dating world. I mentioned before that I was a late bloomer. Someone I trusted a lot, who I was really interested in, called me high maintenance. And ever since then, I've bent over backs to be low maintenance, as I didn't like the connotation around that term.
In general, based on my personality style (and not in relation to this incident), it takes a hell of a lot of get me pissed off. And when I am pissed, I have no problem telling someone directly what I feel about them, and where to go.
But if the issue is on the table, and I really don't care about the outcome, I won't state an opinion, or even suggest what I want - because it really doesn't matter. Take for instance dinner - I don't have any food allergies, I like pretty much anything, and every restaurant I've been to, I always find something that sounds appetizing. So, I really don't care where we go... so, "I don't know, whatever you want" is an appropriate response. Because I really don't know, and I can see possibilities in whatever you suggest.
If things really matter, or they are morally related, I over-think them, until I find a solution. Most often I drag someone into my external dialog online, but I need that feedback in order to fully understand what I'm pondering. Once I determine what I want, I stick with it, and see it through. But with the little things in life... I really don't care, you decide.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
all of this order is driving me crazy...
My MBTI result shows that I am an ENFP. I've known this for a long time, as my department administers the assessment, but I never saw it so clearly today at work.
I have a huge project that I'm working on - the website - to get up by Sept 30. I had a "come to Jesus" meeting with the IS department on Tuesday, and I walked away with a lot of work, but it's what we wanted.
My "P" doesn't like plans or organization. I have a little bit of "J" in me, so I am capable of making lists, but I don't like it. I was asked to make an actionable list of everything that the team needs to do, and begin assigning due dates.
Like most things, I was aggressive with the dates, because I like to pad time into the schedule for Murphy's Law. If you haven't heard yet, Murphy's Law follows me around.
After completing and printing out the list, I had to remove it physically from my immediate area, as it was causing me to hyperventilate. There was just too much structure around me and my work, and I found myself paralyzed for a few moments. My team thought this was incredibly funny, but maybe that was because I started yelling at the page, as I was regulating it to the other side of my cube.
I normally keep everything in my head, like most 'Ps', and it wanders to the front of my brain when it's about due. Seeing everything on paper makes me feel hemmed in and confined.
But, I am ahead of schedule.... so if everyone else keeps trucking, then it should work!
I have a huge project that I'm working on - the website - to get up by Sept 30. I had a "come to Jesus" meeting with the IS department on Tuesday, and I walked away with a lot of work, but it's what we wanted.
My "P" doesn't like plans or organization. I have a little bit of "J" in me, so I am capable of making lists, but I don't like it. I was asked to make an actionable list of everything that the team needs to do, and begin assigning due dates.
Like most things, I was aggressive with the dates, because I like to pad time into the schedule for Murphy's Law. If you haven't heard yet, Murphy's Law follows me around.
After completing and printing out the list, I had to remove it physically from my immediate area, as it was causing me to hyperventilate. There was just too much structure around me and my work, and I found myself paralyzed for a few moments. My team thought this was incredibly funny, but maybe that was because I started yelling at the page, as I was regulating it to the other side of my cube.
I normally keep everything in my head, like most 'Ps', and it wanders to the front of my brain when it's about due. Seeing everything on paper makes me feel hemmed in and confined.
But, I am ahead of schedule.... so if everyone else keeps trucking, then it should work!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Monday, September 1, 2008
clearing it all out...
What a great weekend! I went out with a new friend on Saturday night, and we had a good time seeing Tropic Thunder. I'm looking forward to more outings with him, as he's a pretty interesting guy.
It's funny, I had some long distance coaching on bowling from someone on okcupid. He was outraged by my bowling drama story, and we got to talking about bowling, and I found out that he gives lessons in Canada almost every day. He gave me some great pointers, so I'm looking forward to trying them out next Monday. He even pointed me in a direction of an online video that was really helpful. We'll see how it goes!
I checked my weight at the gym on Saturday, and I actually weigh what I was before going on the cruise. So that means I'm down 19lbs from my start in late April. We'll see how I do tomorrow when I get officially weighed-in. I saw an expose on chocolate syrup on the Food Network, which prompted me to have some with vanilla ice cream this evening.
I'm cleaning out my life, and am I'm starting with my room. I got some inspiration from a friend who is in the process of buying a condo. He's in worse shape than I am, but I really don't need some of the left overs from grade school clogging me down. I share the house with my mom, and all of my stuff is confined to my room, which is just over cluttered. I don't know what it is about me, but people like to buy me stuffed animals as gifts, so they all went. I kept OC, Ben, and the Koala Bear, but everything else went. I still have my piggy bank collection... but almost all of my flip-flops, old work-out clothes, books, and a few other odds and ends got either donated or tossed. I still have more shoes to go through, a few cabinets, and dressers to go through. I don't even go into those things on a daily basis... hell, I can't tell you when the last time I was in one dresser. I've also ordered new wooden blinds and a new bed spread. I have to be non-sentimental.... my mom likes to pull the "awwww... so and so gave you that, don't you want it?"
I was looking at my high matches on okcupid this evening, and I came to a startling conclusion: 80% of those men I'm matched with wouldn't be interested in me. That's not me being insecure, or in need of an ego boost, that's just reality. I need to find a way to weed out the 20% that would actually be interested in me. Even though I'm highly matched with a lot of them, I think they are looking for someone else physically appealing to them, and I don't fit the bill. It'll be interesting to see my response rate as my physical appearance changes. My criteria for this is that I've seen a lot of those same guys show up in my list time and time again, and they haven't even looked at my profile. (And before I get the third degree about being a woman of the 2000s and contacting them myself, I already do - why do you think I'm talking to a few of them now? If I had left it up to them, it wouldn't have happened.)
It's funny, I had some long distance coaching on bowling from someone on okcupid. He was outraged by my bowling drama story, and we got to talking about bowling, and I found out that he gives lessons in Canada almost every day. He gave me some great pointers, so I'm looking forward to trying them out next Monday. He even pointed me in a direction of an online video that was really helpful. We'll see how it goes!
I checked my weight at the gym on Saturday, and I actually weigh what I was before going on the cruise. So that means I'm down 19lbs from my start in late April. We'll see how I do tomorrow when I get officially weighed-in. I saw an expose on chocolate syrup on the Food Network, which prompted me to have some with vanilla ice cream this evening.
I'm cleaning out my life, and am I'm starting with my room. I got some inspiration from a friend who is in the process of buying a condo. He's in worse shape than I am, but I really don't need some of the left overs from grade school clogging me down. I share the house with my mom, and all of my stuff is confined to my room, which is just over cluttered. I don't know what it is about me, but people like to buy me stuffed animals as gifts, so they all went. I kept OC, Ben, and the Koala Bear, but everything else went. I still have my piggy bank collection... but almost all of my flip-flops, old work-out clothes, books, and a few other odds and ends got either donated or tossed. I still have more shoes to go through, a few cabinets, and dressers to go through. I don't even go into those things on a daily basis... hell, I can't tell you when the last time I was in one dresser. I've also ordered new wooden blinds and a new bed spread. I have to be non-sentimental.... my mom likes to pull the "awwww... so and so gave you that, don't you want it?"
I was looking at my high matches on okcupid this evening, and I came to a startling conclusion: 80% of those men I'm matched with wouldn't be interested in me. That's not me being insecure, or in need of an ego boost, that's just reality. I need to find a way to weed out the 20% that would actually be interested in me. Even though I'm highly matched with a lot of them, I think they are looking for someone else physically appealing to them, and I don't fit the bill. It'll be interesting to see my response rate as my physical appearance changes. My criteria for this is that I've seen a lot of those same guys show up in my list time and time again, and they haven't even looked at my profile. (And before I get the third degree about being a woman of the 2000s and contacting them myself, I already do - why do you think I'm talking to a few of them now? If I had left it up to them, it wouldn't have happened.)
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