Twitchy tagged me!

The way it works is you put down 5 things people probably don’t know about you and then pass the tag on to 5 more people.

Hmm...I'm sure if you put together everyone who knows probably knows something from my list. But here goes :)

1. I once stole a tank top and got caught after I left the store, but the sales girl didn't do anything about it except let me go. I felt so bad about stealing that top that I ended up donating it. But I did wear it twice.

2. I've never driven a standard.

3. I enjoy getting Brazilian waxes. Sometimes I think I have a semi-high threshold of pain. 

4. Some accents really get on my nerves, and then I want to stop listening to the people speaking. 

5. I usually brush my teeth only once a day. 

I'm going to tag my last 5 visitors (Thanks for coming by!): katz, doeeyed, 69whisper, themarina, and LadyG. I hope you participate :-D

Last night's dinner went okay in terms of the boyfriend meeting the dad. But if it wasn't for Mr. Nick, I probably would have declined the dinner in the first place. I will avoid any opportunity being alone with my dad again.

He gave me a really hard time when I appeared to have forgotten that he gave me some money for the down payment of my condo. "No wonder your mother thinks I don't give you money." And I just hate his passive-aggressive tone...the way he gets when he is trying to prove a point that he is king. He couldn't just let it go. He had to go and describe the conversation we had when he gave me the cheque, and then he repeatedly told me to go look up my bank records. And that he would dig up his bank records. And then he tried to recalculate how much my place cost, how much my down payment must have been, and what my mortgage was. I bought my place two years ago.

This conversation was in Chinese and in front of Mr. Nick. I was getting mad and I felt the inklings of heartburn (I seem to get instant heartburn when I have stressful conversations with my dad). I was getting angry, so I couldn't look at him. I wasn't sure if I was going to cry or if I was going to rip him a new one or just get up and leave the restaurant. I lost my appetite.

Anyhow, I'm soooo glad my dad can remember all these details but can't even bother to call me on my birthday.

And I am glad his "friend" wasn't at the dinner. I would have been even less pleased. He said she wanted to come for the food, but he didn't want her at this dinner. Good. She is nobody to me even if I am glad he has somebody to keep him in okay spirits with his depression and all.  Call me petty, but she won't be anyone to me unless I get a formal introduction.

The restaurant sucked, too. I thought we were going out for my birthday dinner instead of a regular dinner. I didn't get to choose most of what we ordered. I didn't get to choose the restaurant. I guess that is just typical of life with dad. He is king.

Mr. Nick is going to meet my dad tonight. My dad and I don't have a great relationship. A lot of my actions are based on a feeling of obligation.

Anyway, I rarely see my dad and he had suggested taking me out for dinner for my birthday. [Oh, one thing I've always disliked is that my dad will always ask where I want to eat, but he will never like my suggestion. Then we end up going to where he would normally go. I always tell him to choose, but he will insist I do it. Our conversations seem wasteful sometimes.]

There was a restaurant I wanted to go to, but he said he it wasn't that great. Instead, we're going to this dive near my place. Okay, it's probably not that bad, but I would have really liked to have gone to where I took my mom for our birthdays.

So...I returned my dad's call last night. I guess he had called the night before and left a voice mail for me at home. I haven't been home in a couple of days, so I didn't get his message. Actually, I am only assuming he left a voice mail. He left one on my cell phone last night. [Is there something about people in my parents' generation where they leave the lamest voice mails? "It's Dad. Call me." @#$!] When I called back, it was, "why didn't you call me back sooner?!"

Then we spent some time arguing about who was supposed to call whom. I *hate* how he focuses on really trivial things. Like who the hell cares who was supposed to call? Weren't we currently talking?!

And then he was like, "this friend you're bringing to dinner...is he...is he..." What he was trying to ask was if this person was majorly significant in my life. Every time I've made a big deal about a guy, my dad has always brushed him off, "oh, you can just call him a friend. He's nobody important."

I guess with my dad's generation and his old-school ways of thinking...he is ashamed that our family is not intact anymore. He suggested my mom be at the dinner too, so it didn't look so bad. Mr. Nick already knows about my family. For my modern mind, I thought his idea was ridiculous, but I didn't tell him that. I just told him it wasn't necessary and Mr. Nick and my mom can meet some other time.

First off, it isn't necessary for the whole family to be at dinner. Second of all, my mom wants nothing to do with my dad. She would find it absolutely torturous to be in his presence for even a couple of hours. 

I seriously hope my dad doesn't say anything to embarrass me. He asked me on the phone if Mr. Nick and I were going to get married. #$%@! I wanted to yell at him, but I didn't. All of a sudden, my dad wants me to have a family. After all these years of drilling the idea into me that guys are only after me to get in my pants. And then he forbid me from dating until I finished university (not that his rules stopped me).

This is the most formal way I've ever introduced a guy to my dad. When I was living at home, it was easy to have the guy pick me up, make an introduction, and then leave. But I don't live with my dad anymore. Or I just didn't introduce the guys to my dad -- just my mom. 

I am really not looking forward to Mr. Nick meeting my dad although I want my dad to meet Mr. Nick. I know dads can be embarrassing, but mine is especially. I will be really mad if he grills Mr. Nick on anything about the future or if he says any stupid shit. 

I don't like crowded shopping areas, but I ventured out to get some stuff today. The lineups were way too long! I first stopped off to get some Christmas light holders (and I ended up getting more Christmas lights), but there was a sale on Tide and toilet paper it seems. *Everyone* had some except me. Then I went to another store, and people had shopping carts full (literally!) with boxes and boxes of Ferrerro Rocher. When were people going to eat them all?!

I think next year I will get more into the decorating, if I'm in town. I really want to go to Hong Kong, and next winter would be good so I can use some 2008 holidays. It's so festive in Hong Kong around Christmas time. I really like being around friends and family for the holidays.

I met Mr. Nick's family on Christmas Eve. I didn't really feel nervous, but I'm generally quite shy. I know I didn't do anything offensive, anyway. But I doubt I made a strong impression either. That is fine with me! Mr. Nick is going to meet my dad this week.

I got some really nice gifts for my birthday and Christmas. I love my friends. They're all so thoughtful. Mr. Nick totally spoiled me for Christmas, too. I've decided to give his original Xmas gift to him for his birthday. Turns out my mom and I both got him the same sweater for Christmas, but only in different colours. I don't know if that's a good or bad thing. MWUAHAHAHA

I also got an email from The Eater. (I had to look him up in the archives to find his nickname...) I thought it was going to be another mass e-mail, but it was actually only for me.  It was really nice of him to wish me a merry Christmas, but really unnecessary. He let me know he hadn't forgotten me, and that he is still dating. He apologised for not having my number anymore. I deleted his number long ago. I'll write back to him later to be polite, and I will be sure to mention Mr. Nick!

Earlier this week, some girl friends and I went out for dinner.

We saw Jim Pattison at the next table. And when we left, I looked to see who he was dining with, and it was Paul Martin!

Anyway, I had my photo taken with Jim Pattison in the background, and now I know that the back of Paul Martin's head is in there, too!

FYI: Jim Pattison is some billionaire entrepreneur who lives here, and Paul Martin was Canada's last Prime Minister. 

Highlights of the day before my birthday...BWAHAHAA

1. I forgot it my Chinese birthday that night.

2. It was supposed to be my lucky day, and I think it was.

3. My close friends got together for my birthday (I was there, too.) They gave me some nice gifts, and we had cake.

4. I caught one of our contractors plagiarizing. How brilliant am I? I was reading his work. His content looked familiar, and it was unlike his usual writing style. And then I Googled. And then I found the article he did his "research" from. Unfortunately, my boss didn't want to cause a scene, so he hasn't said anything, but the contractor's recruiter knows. It's the contractor's last day today. Finally...I don't have to deal with his crappy work. There are a lot of crappy technical writers out there.

My birthday

1. I found a white hair. I pulled it out. I seem to find them on my birthday.  

2. Most of my day was spent driving around and running errands.

3. I got a few e-cards and phone calls. Those were really nice! I didn't hear from my dad or one of my best friends though :(

4. Mr. Nick took me out for dinner at the restaurant of my choice. I think we'll go back there even though some of the stuff we ordered didn't really tickle our palate. And the restaurant was LOUD. I had a headache, but it was mostly from not eating enough or being hydrated throughout the day.

5. I had lunch with some old co-workers. It was great to see them again. I wish I could retire at 45!

6. I had a good workout.

7. My car doesn't require major repairs. I brought it in for servicing. Sometimes I wonder if things become worse afterwards. The things that bothered me about my car are still there...the dinging of the ding and the "Check Engine" light is still on. The service guy figured everything was okay despite the light.

8. Mr. Nick's a thoughtful gift giver...*L* When I went on my shopping frenzy, I bought myself a shirt from bebe (one of my favourite clothing stores), but I felt so bad about spending the money that I returned it. Mr. Nick got the shirt for me, and wrapped it up. It was sweet that he tried to make the packaging look presentable. BWAHHAA He gets points for trying. He also got me a tripod and some flowers. *swoon* His birthday is in a couple of weeks. I think I will give him his original  xmas gift. I already got his card months ago, but it is going to be so cheesy and lame. He always puts a lot of thought into the cards he picks out. The one I got him definitely isn't sentimental!

That is all for now! I should do some work! 

A lot of people don't have to work on Boxing Day, but I will have to. (Lame!) Since Home Depot opens early, my plan is to scope out the Christmas lights that I want to buy (like this afternoon), and then buy them on Boxing Day before I go into work.

I saw some really pretty LED lights that remind of those Lite-Brite pegs on some Christmas trees, and I would really like some of those! I hear they're pricey, but oh well. I want to stock up decorations and lights!! 

to Mr. Nick's Christmas Eve family dinner.

And that has nothing to do with my Simon says post. BWAHAHAA 

I told one of my friends. Her advice was "don't wear anything too short." BWAHAHAHA I do have some very short items of clothing, but I don't think I will wear it to Christmas dinner (even though it sounds like something I *would* do). I think his mom is on the conservative side, too. MWUAHAHAHA

Anyway, I hope to find a nice gift basket to bring with me. I kind of want it to be a surprise, but I don't want to buy the wrong thing either. 

FREAK OUT! GAAAAAAH!!

After this conversation, he will be blocked.

Back in the summer (late spring?), I was picked up at IKEA. We never met, but we exchanged e-mail messages, and talked on the phone once. I've never had much of an interest in meeting him. Anyway, I stopped hearing from him when I told him I started seeing someone. I was glad!

Then today I heard from him again. He still asked about getting together for coffee. I told him no because I am seeing someone. Then he told me he was seeing someone, too. We made more small talk, and that was it.

But now he's back (hours later)...and I have had it. He asked for some photos, too. Remember, I declined a coffee invitation this morning.

IG: Do you want to meet her [his girlfriend] one day?
Me: No.
IG: Why?
Me: I'm not interested in making new friends right now.
IG: Just to meet because of me.
Me: I haven't even met you.
IG: You can come with your boyfriend as well. I am okay with it.
Me: Okay [just to end the conversation]
IG: When? [does this guy give up?] if i call you from [my city] you can come and meet me?

Maybe at this point, he left the conversation. I'm not sure since he's not on my list, but I did say this: Have I not been clear? You are a nice person to talk to and such, but I am not interested in getting together.

And then I blocked him.

If I had declined meeting him, why the hell would I want to meet his girlfriend? Or have Mr. Nick meet them too?! Why would he keep asking??

Maybe the Euro French are nice and friendly like that, and I'm just some bitchy cold-hearted North American who needs to loosen up. But then again, I have enough going on in my life to take on more people. 

One of the contractors...he is sitting right next to me. Whenever he comes back from Starbucks, he reeks.

And now he is listening to music with his headphones on. I can hear what he is listening to. He has the volume high enough that he did not hear his cell phone ring. His cell phone ringtone is loud. He also got a voice mail message. Another tone let us know, but he didn't hear that either. He is sitting so close to me that he could read this. I can even reach over and touch him on the shoulder.

I guess cell phones in offices don't bother a lot of people, but everyone else's cell phones ringing all the time drives me bonkers. These are all personal calls!!! People who expect to get a lot of calls at work tend to have an office. Is it so hard to have your phone in silent mode in the office?? 

It's chilly in the office today, and I'm sitting here with wet hair. I made it to the gym this morning before work, and it was GREAT! The gym is so close to my office. The change rooms were much nicer than my home location too.

Last night I went out for dinner with my best friend and her family. Mr. Nick came along, too because she really wanted to meet him. She really likes him. "He's definitely a keeper! He's the best guy you've ever dated -- even better than Greekboy!" *L* It did strike me as a little odd that Mr. Nick met my best friend's family before meeting mine.

I had a bit of a freakout on the weekend. I always joked that I have a fear of commitment, but I don't. It's the fear of boredom. Mr. Nick and I have fallen into a routine, which is not a bad thing. But I worry that I will get bored. Maybe I miss the excitement of getting to know someone new. Then I worry our relationship is getting stagnant. I know...I can always do something about that. I like him a lot, and the last thing I want is for us to be kaput. But I've always thought that just liking someone isn't enough.

And our energy levels differ considerably. I can't take it personally, but it does affect things. If Mr. Nick and I are compatible in every way except physically (and I'm not talking about chemistry/attraction/etc.!), is that something I can or should just deal with?

See...I think too much.

But I guess I will go to his family's for Christmas. I was talking to my best friend about it, and she was thrilled. She said I should go, and that his family is opening up their home to me. And that they would be insulted if I didn't go. Thank goodness she is around to let me know all about the white etiquette!! *L* I just need to tell Mr. Nick. I don't know how I will bring it up. 

Oh...and we've started using cheaper toilet paper at work. It sucks! Even though it's called "Soft and bright," it's definitely NOT soft. Bring back the Charmin! Maybe I will start using Charmin at home. I wish they came in individually packaged rolls. 

Last night was my work Christmas party. I didn't think to trim my right thumbnail. And now I'm in pain!!!

We went bowling, and I always rip that nail off -- okay, maybe not that severe. But it always breaks, and the more I bowl, the more it keeps ripping across. I eventually asked for a band-aid, but it ruined my game! And the band-aid didn't really help either. I won a prize for getting 2 strikes in a row (it was weird; I was getting strikes every other frame, almost...BWAHAHAA). I got some lovely cups adorned with bowling balls and pins. I've been needing cups. The ones I bought when I moved in -- I've broken half of them!!

I felt bad for not making enough introductions to Mr. Nick. People were introducing themselves, so I thought he actually met everyone. Then he pointed out he had to introduce himself. Oops. Even though I don't have a problem introducing myself, I kind of like being introduced. I think he feels the same way. Man, was I thoughtless. 

And he mentioned his mom asked him if I was going over for Christmas dinner. I've never met his family before. Once again, he offered me an out in case I wasn't comfortable with the thought of meeting his family. "There is going to be a lot of people." But I think it's going to be his sisters, their families, and his parents?? I am thinking his grandparents will probably be there, too.

I don't have a burning desire to meet his family, but it'd be nice. I'm kind of indifferent to attending this dinner. Christmas is a big deal for him; it's not so much for me. I don't know...given the choice, I don't know if I'd want to go or not. I'd go if he wanted me there. 

A tidy home makes for a tidy life, I think.

I have SO much clutter. It's starting to annoy me, so I am going to try getting rid of it slowly. Last night, I cleared off my dining table! All I have left on it is a pile of birthday cards to give out!! (I really need a space in my study for things like that!) 

When I moved into my place, I envisioned a minimalist look...I'd have a vase of fresh flowers on the dining table all the time, and there'd be candles throughout. Right now, lighting candles would be hazardous! Piles of things are everywhere! But last night, I got this burst of energy. The dining table took an hour?? I was so wired that I couldn't fall asleep until about 3. I also tidied up my bathroom cupboard, but it is still on the messy side.

And more car woes. If I could even afford a down payment for a car, I'd go for it right now. I'm bringing my car in for servicing next week, and that is going to be a big chunk of change. And since it's a lengthy job, I have to rent a car, too!!!!! What a way to go for a birthday. MWUAHAHA :-(

We have a couple of tech writers on contract here. I guess I am supposed to be directing them, but I have a hard time doing that, only because they are older than I am and presumably have more experience.

One guy wants to have all three of us discuss style. I guess that is fine, but I guess in this situation, too many cooks would spoil the broth. This one guy who suggested it, I would be happy to discuss with him.

But the other contractor...I gave him a template to use for his writing, and I gave him a list of articles to write. I already knew he was wordy when I saw his samples. I wasn't really comfortable about having him hired. He does old school word processing. Nowadays in Word, after you end a sentence, you only need to type one space after the period. You no longer need to type period-space-space.

So this guy...didn't use my template, writes novels where the summary goes, his steps are like 4 lines long, and he used "it's" in its incorrect form.

GAAAAH

Maybe I am a technical writing snob, after all. I have been looking at candidates and seeing how closely their writing style resembles mine. My work may not be perfect, but it's pretty good!! My biggest flaw is that my writing is too concise, and sometimes I assume the reader knows too much.

Oh, and I have decided I am going to get a new car in 2010. I think I will need that much time to save up. However, my "Check engine" light came on today. I hope it's nothing to worry about because I don't plan on getting it checked out just yet! 

Last night was our special meeting for my strata. I waited an hour and 20 minutes before everyone was signed in and the meeting got under way! It was crazy! We had to vote on 2 issues. The first issue was vote by role call, too. And there were almost 300 homeowners there.

Here's some background info...

A few years ago, I purchased a new condo. It was the last new building of the strata. The first couple of buildings in the strata were built about 10 years prior. They are leaky. They've been needing repairs for years now. When I moved in, I had no idea about these older buildings. The agent (that was obviously not working for me) did not disclose this information. When I confronted him about it, he said they were rumours and would have been illegal for him to say anything. However, legally, he was supposed to show me the strata meeting minutes from the last 5 years. Had I seen those, I would have been aware of the issues. And I would have thought twice about buying my home.

The first big obstacle was figuring out who should pay. The new homeowners who moved into their brand new buildings weren't even around when the leaks first came about, so it would have been unfair for us to pay. However, since everyone is part of the same strata, legally, the costs should be shared equally.  And the courts went with what was legal.

Over the last few years, everybody had voted against doing the repairs. I guess nobody wanted to spend the money. However, it's time for the buildings to be repaired. Legally, those have to be done, but work cannot start until everyone votes to approve the cost. The point of last night's meeting was to approve or oppose the cost.

I think everyone did want to approve the cost (the longer we wait, the more it's going to cost). However, almost all the new homeowners, i.e., the ones who bought into the new non-leaky buildings, had signed an indemnity from the developers.) Once again, my agent encouraged me to sign this and did not really explain what signing it meant.) So a few weeks before this meeting, we got several letters from the developers telling us that we had to vote their way because we signed the indemnity (or else lose some of our rights in regards to our warranty).

Needless to say, the developers strongly advised us to vote against the cost. They felt the cost did not have to be so high. However, their estimates do not cover some new building bylaws that just came into effect this week. Ugh.

So...the issue will continue to drag on. The only bright side is that I don't have to pay for any of this yet. The cost could get buy me a brand new car, and I am saving up for one of those!! 

And if we want to sue anybody to recover our costs, the repairs must be done first. There are a lot of angry people out there, and they are especially angry at the real estate agents and their agency who were not very upfront about this issue. Or they lied. Some homeowners were told that the developers were going to cover the costs of the leaky buildings. And then there are those who feel the developers should cover all the costs because they did a shoddy job in the beginning!

Even this is a sucky time knowing that I may have a really big bill coming, it is also interesting to see what pans out. These meetings get people very excited. There was yelling too! 

So my birthday is coming up, and it's going to be my 30th. I haven't thought much about it. I have friends asking me what I'm going to do (to celebrate). I've been telling them "nothing".

I don't want to organise something to celebrate me. It just seems narcissistic.

I've been spending more time organising a dinner for me and some girlfriends. It's a dinner in lieu of doing a gift exchange. I was majorly annoyed that I was waiting for one person to respond. Everyone else responded within that day. Then yesterday she sent out an e-mail sounding like she was organising it. For some reason, she just hadn't felt like replying to my original e-mails. Thanks.

My original plan for my real birthday was to go for a morning workout, go for lunch with my dad, go see a movie, and have dinner with Mr. Nick.

I can't get a morning workout. An old coworker suggested a bunch of us getting together for lunch, and the only day that's good for everyone is my birthday. So I may lose my workout (it'll be the last day before my trainer goes on mat leave), not see my movie, or my dad for lunch.

I am a little alarmed at my own apathy! I had planned out my whole birthday and it looks like there is a possibility of nothing coming to fruition.

Hershey's kisses with caramel...YES!

Ocean Spray cranberry sauce in a jar...NO. 

It's my tired week....and it's going to be an action-packed one, too. I'd love to get in some workouts, but every day is booked this week. My back is killing me today. I don't know what happened. Maybe it's Mr. Nick's bed. I think I have been at his place 4 nights in a row?! It will be nice to sleep in my own bed tonight...and this week. (I still love the commute to work from his place, though.)

Tonight one of my best friends is visiting. She's only in town for about a week and a half.

Tomorrow is my meeting for my building. Even though I could not find the record, I am pretty sure I signed an indemnity with the company dealing with the warranty. This company has suggested that everyone who signed to vote "no" on the upcoming costs of fixing the older leaky condos. Although I hate having this issue dragging on, I love that I will not have cough up any money yet. I am still not happy about having to pay for leaky condos that I never lived and that were leaky before I even moved into my own.

Thumbs down to my agent. He wasn't looking out for my best interests at all. I talked to a neighbour who also had my agent. Our agent had told him he had to sign the indemnity. He also ripped the poor guy off and told he had to pay an extra $4K after the design changed after he paid for his unit. Live 'n' learn.

Wednesday I'm going to see some IMAX thing. Thursday is my dance class. Friday is work xmas party. Saturday I can sleep. Normally that'd be the day my friends and I would celebrate my birthday, but I haven't wanted to organise anything. I don't think anyone is organising anything either. Sunday I will probably see one of my best friends for dinner downtown and to do her family's annual hotel tour walk.

She has said she wants to meet Mr. Nick. I think he was invited to this thing. I have mentioned this to him, but I am not sure if he remembers or realises this is a bit of a big deal. Usually I have a month or two or three of dating someone before I panic a little and face some fears. I still have this fear of being bored. Ponderings for another day...

[Number 99's boring girlfriend just gave me a link of her swollen foot with no warning...why? I have no idea.] 

So, the weekend!

Friday night was Mr. Nick's ridiculously boring work party. It made me appreciate how my old company kept speeches to a minimum. It'd be the CEO welcoming everything and thanking everyone.

His party had a couple of presentations. There was hundreds of attendees, which was why I thought it was lame to single out just a few people from the company during the presentations. I'd probably feel differently if I worked there. I call his company a cult. It's great that people who work there are proud to be there, but to an outsider, it just seems clique-y and eye-roll worthy. It's amazing how dedicated their employees are. As much as I like to do my job well, I leave my work at work. I'd never think to just log in to see what's going on on the weekend.

Sunday morning I went for dim sum with my mom, and then we saw Beauty and the Beast. I kept doing the head bobbing thing, but the show was quite entertaining. It was a little noisy with all the little kids though. My Christmas shopping for my mom is done! She knows exactly what she's getting though. Oh well. Last week I bought a lot of stuff for myself, but I'm going to return most of it. *sigh* Good bye, $200 cashmere cardigan!

Last night, Mr. Nick and I went to the aquarium to see the new display. His company sponsored a classroom so the employees to go enjoy the facilities first. It was neat, and I still love the jellyfish. I think I could watch them all day long.

I can't wait to go home. My home will be dirty, and it will stay that way for a while. I need some serious vegging time! 

I bought the book many years ago, but never finished it.

But I saw the movie last night. It was lame. I didn't know what to expect, and was probably hoping for something more like a documentary.

I was amused by some of the cast's appearances...Bruce Willis (loved him!), Ethan Hawke, Avril Lavigne (does she have a speech impediment?), and Ashley Johnson (I used to watch her on Growing Pains!!).

I just realised I've had headphones on for like an hour, but I haven't been listening to anything! *L*  

I have no patience for people who constantly complain to me about their love lives when they know they aren't helping themselves.

So my cousin...she's been dating this guy. She doesn't trust him and he sounds like a bit of a player and can be quite the attention whore. I just don't think there is any long-term potential for the two of them, and that is what she wants...something long -term.

That's just some background.

What annoys me is when I say something she doesn't like hearing, and she will turn it around and ask me, "well, how would you feel??" It's not about me!

Her guy travels, and she doesn't like it. She seems to think that if he didn't travel so much, they'd be together, the sun would always be shining, and the birds would be singing. I know my POV on LD relationships. I told her I wouldn't have dated him in the first place. "Well?? Is it because of the traveling??" 

It definitely pissed me off when I was pointing out that her bf keeps his options open. He gave her access to his e-mail (why? I don't know...), so she reads it regularly. And she reads the exchanges between him and all his exes (and the women that still want him). "Oh, all guys are like that. I bet Mr. Nick does it too." I don't think most guys are like that, especially if they are into the woman they're dating. While they've been dating, he's said things like "still thinking about the hot sex we had" to his ex/fling, and if there is no mention of my cousin (except for the mention of some hot 26 year old that was helping him to pass the time). He's 40 but I don't think he is ready to settle down, at least not with my cousin. He's tried breaking up with her a couple of times.

I don't really want to go with the "not my job" mentality...but I was asked to what I felt was a receptionist duty!

We don't have a receptionist here. I don't think I am the first person visible when someone comes into our office. But I was singled out by our sales guy...

"Rosie [I thought I was going to get in trouble!], remember that guy that came in a few weeks ago? [no] He is coming in soon. When he gets here, could you show him to my office, please?"

I obliged, but really...why me? 

Maximum number of employees in the office : Number of bathrooms in the office

I was thinking today...would anyone notice or even care if I put a box of tampons in the medicine cabinet in the office bathroom?

The bathroom is like one you'd find in a home. There is the medicine cabinet, the toilet, and a shower stall. 

I know we're all human and we all have hair. But I still get a little EWed out when I see pubes, especially long ones, on the toilet. I don't want to think about whose they might belong to, but I end up doing it. And then imagining my co-workers naked is definitely something I do *not* want to do!

If people can leave their pubes in the bathroom, I don't think a box of tampons would be that bad. 

I was so excited to be using dryer balls. They're supposed to cut down on the drying time, prevent static, and pretty much do the job of dryer sheets without leaving that film on your clothes. Well, the balls definitely have not cut down my drying time. They usually get caught in the towels or the sheets anyway. But last night...one of them bounced away!! And fell into the skinny gap between my machine and the wall. GRR!

My washer/dryer is pretty much in a closet. I have room to stick a couple of brooms in there. And the ball fell down the side where the door opens. I was trying to get it out, but then I realised how much noise I was probably making late at night, so I left it. I really want to get that frickin ball out.

I can either take the door off or try to use some super ninja powers to extract the ball out by finding something to lift it out. I need to do laundry this weekend! I have no time to deal with dryer ball emergencies.

It's all go, go, go for the next week. And I haven't been getting more than about 5 hours of sleep every night for the last couple of weeks. I know it's getting bad because I'm really irritable and dropping things right now.

I really want to see Fast Food Nation before it leaves the theatres. I wish I knew when it's last day was. Right now, I am choosing between something I really want to do and something I need to do...like sleep. My head hurts, I can't hear, and I can't concentrate! And just thinking about the things I have to do and not forget is stressing me out.

I really need a break. But as soon as I get one, I fill up the time with something I need to do...*sigh* And my home needs cleaning. I can't relax in a dirty home! I also want to get in my workouts.

Okay, so after the reactions I got about Mr. Nick's original Christmas gift, I started to have doubts. Mind you, I would have loved to receive what I got him!! The reaction was usually "you're getting him that? Did he ask for one?" And then I'd get some generic suggestions...how about clothes?

You know, I usually hate buying clothes for guys. I'd rather they pick their clothes themselves. And I haven't known Mr. Nick long enough to know what kind of winter attire he likes. Anyhow, I picked up some generic type gifts last night, and I might just give him the original gift for his birthday. My original birthday gift would have been appreciated, but I have already gone over budget!

On the budget front, it looks like I won't be accumulating much savings (or any) since I have more gifts to give. My Christmas shopping is almost done...I just have to pick up the last of Mr. Nick's stuff today. But I have 2 more January birthdays to contend with. @#$@! 

My work chair squeaks every time I move.

It makes me feel like my ass is twice as wide as it really is.

And I keep wanting to eat Rice Krispie treats!! I have half a batch with me today!!!!!

I'm such a planner.

This morning, I came up with my schedule for Thursday - Sunday. I also came up with my packing list and my food shopping list.

I was all happy because I could fit in a trip to the mall during the week instead of the crack of dawn on  Saturday. But ugh! My Sunday dance class has been canceled! I had a choice of going to the Tuesday or Thursday one. I would so rather go to the Tuesday one because I prefer the instructor. But I've already missed yesterday's class, and I wouldn't be able to make next Tuesday's class either.

So much for going to the mall on Thursday :( It's a mall that's out of my way. Otherwise, I wouldn't be complaining about going to the mall! I could make a trip after dinner tonight, I guess, but that would mean skipping a workout. I am trying hard to avoid going to the mall on Saturday...when the crowds will be out in full force. I'd go after work, but I have to hurry home to change the tape in my VCR. BWAHAHA

When I get my new computer in the new year, I am going to turn my current one into a PVR. YEEEEAH!  

I guess it is not so bad if I skip my workout today because I will be getting in a dance class tomorrow! Actually, this works out well for my exercise.

I picked up part of Mr. Nick's Christmas present yesterday, and now I am thinking it's going to be lame.

I tend to go for practical stuff, so there is not much sentiment to it.

I know he chooses to not read this blog, but I still won't say what it is anyway. 

But there is time to get him something else. Anybody have any generic ideas??

I am dead tired today. That sleep deficit is still in full force. Maybe I should skip the gym today and get some rest. Yesterday's workout was tough. I just wasn't into it. I can barely think straight, and I need my brain for planning my next few days. It takes coordination when I don't stay at home.

I guess it would help if I didn't have to plan my meals! 

I went out for Chinese with *a* last night, and we ordered 3 dishes. That was a lot of food. Usually when I go with my mom, we order 2, and pretty much bring home half the stuff for leftovers. Last night we had enough leftovers for a small meal for me. BWAHAHA I think he could have finished off the rest but he wanted to prove me wrong. I had predicted he'd be able to eat it all.

I also dropped by the mall in hopes of finding some nice Swarovski earrings for my mom. Unfortunately, I found nothing and I will have to go the Swarovski store.  I hate going to the mall in December. Nobody walks fast enough! And the parking nightmare! Gaaaah! Luckily, I don't have many to buy for this year.

I've been trying to stick to a budget...but I don't know how well that is working. I"m not sure if this is a good month to start. BWAHAHAA For the last 5 years or so, I've been tracking every single of my expenses, but I've never looked at the data. Now I am actually paying attention to the numbers. I don't know how long I've been spending more than I make. I think it's my trips that totally kill me.  

I ran into Poola at the mall, and she asked me what I wanted for my birthday. I was kind of surprised. I e-mailed her a wish list this morning. I don't think I will be getting much or anything off that list! My friends and I have been giving each other Tiffany jewelry for our 30th birthdays.  The new Tiffany store here is going to be opening soon. It will probably be a while before I set foot in there. Maybe I'll go prior to a trip to Hong Kong.

That's what I did last time...found what I liked at the store downtown and bought the jewelry in HK. No sales tax, after all. 

I've never been much of a Bond fan, but I actually wanted to see this one.

Mmm...Daniel Craig in skimpy outfits...or nude...delicious!! Sometimes I thought his head looked disproportionately small for his body. But his upper body was looking mighty fine!!

I loved the sequence in the opening credits. I want that Chris Cornell song! Oooh, I just found the video on YouTube. His voice always gives me shivers! Now, if only I can find the MP3...I haven't downloaded a song in years.

Number 99's fiancee is sending me some JPG...why..? It's a photo of her freakin' fish. *eyes roll* I canceled the file transfer, but to be polite I asked about them. I have absolutely no interest in her fish, and I find her incredibly dull. I asked her when they were born, and she said "in the tank." *eyes roll*

I didn't get enough sleep this weekend...I am getting a sleep deficit from last week!! I haven't been sleeping well with Mr. Nick around either, and I find that worrisome. For me, it's a sign...I've always slept soundly with him. The only time I don't sleep well with guys is when something is not sitting well with me. Right now, I don't know what that could be...except for a decline in closeness and an increase in a sort of old-married-couple routine. I hope I am not getting bored.

And it hurts to sit. I can't remember feeling such a burn! I had a workout with my trainer on Saturday, and we did this kind of squat I'd never done before. Ow!! 

I got an email from my boss to request that I keep to my personal MSNing during lunch. Fair enough.

But if I get my work done, does it matter? Or am I using up too much work resources to MSN. Meanwhile, he and the developers go surfing at YouTube and other video sites and have good laughs about them.

*eyes roll* 

Tonight I'm starting off with a birthday celebration! We're celebrating a friend's 30th, but we're actually celebrating it late since she away on vacation on the actual day. Her fiance organised the dinner in his typical fashion of course...very last minute and not at a very special place. *eyes roll*

We're going to this noisy chain of restaurants, and the reservations are for 5:45 pm. "sorry, guys. I couldn't get a later time." Maybe you could have if you had planned in advance??! You've only known of your fiancee's birthday for 10 years now.

I didn't sleep very well last night for some reason...nor the last time Mr. Nick stayed over. That's very unusual for me. I hadn't planned on seeing him last night, but he text messaged while I was going to dance class to ask if he could stay over since he missed me. He is so sweet, and he's been sooo good about making sure I am okay with him off skiing. I am almost embarrassed. He asked me if I felt abandoned! (No.)

I showed him a few moves on the pole last night. It was my first time showing him anything. I guess I was a little pumped from class last night. I was finally starting to get one of the spins that I couldn't get for the life of me the last time I tried it. A fellow classmate totally helped me out! I want to make up a routine again.

I also cracked open my Lindt Advent calendar. My, my, those chocolates are tasty! However, I'm not counting down to Christmas. I'm counting down to my birthday. I need to do some catchup!

And things are finally picking up at work. I am being kept busy! But our deadline is just over a month. Things are going to be TIGHT! I'm glad I am getting some say in the interface.

One last thing...I give a big thumbs up to Shiseido's mascara base! It's awesome and not white and clumpy! I tried Lancome's first, and that was kind of sucky. I didn't like it, but I liked that it prevented my mascara from flaking. I decided to try L'oreal's Volume Shocking mascara to go a bit cheaper. (I was hoping I'd get the same results as using Lancome's mascara base and their Hypnose.) I didn't like the mascara comb, so I only used the base side. It was still a little white and clumpy. I threw it out this morning since Shiseido was so awesome! YEEEEAH!