I have an interview coming up on Tuesday. The office is far from my home. And it has only 50 people. I don't know if that is enough for me.

I also got an e-mail in response to another job posting I applied for. I am to do an online logic test. It's supposed to take around an hour and a half. I just quickly did a short online logic quiz and got everything wrong. The only logic I've been exposed to is a few questions on those IQ tests!!

And I might be writing a review on a sex toy. I'll be more sure when I actually get it. The last time I was supposed to write a review for this person, he gave the opportunity away to someone else after saying I could do it! 

I was reading a brief article about deaths and our Skytrain (kind of like a subway but above ground) here. The article said, "There have been [b]about two deaths[/b] per year on the Skytrain line since it opened 20 years ago."

...about two deaths. Isn't death final? Either you die or don't die. Or maybe there was one? Or three? Guess it's hard to keep count. BWAHAHHAA

Oh, and I thought I saw Daniel Radcliffe in the buff, but it was just a fake. Geez! 

Ugh! I clicked on a link and lost most of my post! What was I thinking? I also lost a couple of other things. While I was peeling a (cooked) yam over the garbage, I said to Mr. Nick, "if I drop this in the garbage, I will cry!" Sure enough, the yam broke in half and fell into the garbage (but I didn't cry. BWAHHAAA). And then tonight, I had a bunch of bottles on the counter. I thought to myself, "I hope none of these fall in the toilet." Sure enough, my lotion went flying in. It was almost all out I guess. *sigh*

So I talked to the recruiter. He was lame. He was hungry. He kept trying to "offer me an alternate point of view" about doing contract work. That's just putting it lightly. He was actually VERY pushy. It almost worked until I thought about it. I am needing him to help me look for a *permanent* position. I have one already. Why would I put myself out there as a contractor? He cannot guarantee me full-time work, and I don't have the tools to be a contractor right now. He said he needed to contact 3 of my references first, but before we even ended our 20 minute phone conversation, he was already trying to sell me on a 2-3 month contract that was to start asap. I am meeting with him on Monday anyway.

Right now, my biggest stress is not being able to work out. I either get in 5 workouts a week or ZERO. This week and it's already starting next week -- I have all this stuff going on RIGHT after work, and it requires me leaving early, too.

Tomorrow I have a spa appointment. I had wanted it around 6, but 4:15 was the latest they had.

Thursday it's my strata's AGM. Even though lots of people skip these meetings, I'd like to keep abreast on what's going on in my building.

Friday I am leaving town.

Next Monday I am meeting the recruiter.

Next Tuesday I was supposed to meet an ex-colleague for dinner but now it looks like a possible job interview.

I am supposed to get together with the bride at some point too.

STRESS! It's been so difficult just to clean the home. 

I just want my workouts. Without them, it's hard for me to sleep. I feel too awake and energized. Too bad our bodies do not work on a 24-hour clock. And I have yet to adjust my meals for days I don't work out. I think I end up eating too much. I definitely don't feel as hungry.

It's time to eat!

I don't have access to the microwave right now, though. Our CEO is in our only meeting/lunch room for the next hour.

And I need to be energized for a phone call I'm going to make in 50 minutes. In fact, *I* was going to use that room. Even if he comes out on time, I wouldn't feel right about using it.

I have no idea how long my phone call will be, but I'm calling back this recruiter. a got me in touch with this dude who's a tech recruiter. I sent him my resume yesterday. YEEEEAH!

I hope he is the kind of recruiter who will help me find job! 

What a pain it's been for this Canadian.

My (American) cousin has a gift registry set up Macy's. Why the Web site doesn't make it easy if you want to buy them a gift card kills me! I think if I just ordered a gift from their list, I'd have no problems, but there are no gift cards linked to the registry.

If you want to buy them a gift card, you need to know their mailing address. I actually have that. First potential road block passed.

You go through the process of placing the order and then entering their address. Now when it comes to billing, you *have* to have an American billing address. (You do not need an American billing address if you are ordering something off the gift registry.)

So at this point, I called Macy's. I could barely understand the CSR, Jeff. He was sounding really muffled. Anyway, I told him what I was trying to do, and he asked me if I was using an International credit card. What does that mean? International is non-American? My credit card works everywhere! He said that they would order my process but then it would be canceled because of my credit card. (Then why do they take Canadian addresses if you are buying something off a registry that's not a gift card?!)

He was so unhelpful. It would have been nice if he sounded more pleasant or if he offered me some solutions or given me a direct answer.

I think it's more of a convenience thing for Macy's. Anyway, they actually have another wedding gift registry phone number, which I will call later. If all else fails, I guess I will take my business elsewhere.

GEEZ!

I'd rather get them a gift card because they would prefer cash (I'd feel weird giving cash, so a gift card would be the closest thing.) Even though they have stuff on their registry, I feel like they just picked a bunch of stuff because they're expected to. They pretty much have everything they need already. I don't know how long they've lived together...several years, I think.

But I was going to get them the gift card that came with luggage tags :) Too bad they don't come in the denomination I would prefer to give. I'm giving a gift that's from 2 people. My family would probably not like it if Mr. Nick didn't give a gift, but I don't feel that he should not have to give a big of a gift that I would since he's not bound to the family yet. (And believe me, my aunt keeps track of these things. She has some backup wedding guests in case they need table filler. They weren't invited in the first place because she thinks they're cheap, won't bring a nice gift, or drink a lot of booze.)

Update:

So I called their Wedding registry line, and my experience was extremely pleasant. The CSR was pleasant, and I was able to place my order with success! DONE! 

I've never experienced actually *not* wanting to go to work. I guess there is a first time for everything.

And I parked in the wrong place today. It's $3 for 3 hours instead of the whole day. I don't have other change. *sigh* But I will still have to move my car somewhere else. I hope there ends up being something in the free lot.

Last night was bridesmaid dress shopping. I actually enjoyed the experience. It was me and another bridesmaid and the bride. We tried on so many different styles, and picked out 5 that we liked collectively. I'm just surprised I can pull of strapless. Most of the dresses were strapless. I had my measurements taken too. I have always wondered what the proper way of measuring the chest is (for women). How can you be sure it's right??

One of the other bridesmaids is totally not wanting to take part in anything. It's going to be interesting to see when she will try on the dresses. And I am still hoping that the bride will pay for at least some of the dresses. She is taking note of the cost, but she hasn't said about who's paying. I asked the other bridesmaid last night, and she thinks we'll be paying for our own.

At this rate, with all the stuff they want to do before and for the wedding, I'll be spending like $1000 on someone else's wedding. :-/ I didn't even spend that much on my best friend's wedding!

Dress: $250+
Accessories: who knows ($150?? shoes and shawl)
Stagette to Vegas: $600 (airfare, hotel, food, and entertainment)
Bridal Shower: who knows ($100?? gift and party)
Wedding gift: $100ish

When they talked about going to Vegas, I said that it'd be nice to go but I can't afford it, and they said, "well, it's only about $400 for flight and hotel. There are always lots of deals." And then their backup plan is go away for a weekend somewhere local, which would still be a couple of hundred bucks, I think. 

*eyes roll*

Today I thought I'd see if I could still kneel on an exercise ball, and I can still do it! Woo! 

I guess seeing Mr. Nick last night actually helped *L* I was still running around after work last night and was still doing laundry and dishes when he came over. I felt bad I couldn't totally focus on him. But I am in a better mood today.

I also saw my dad last night to pick up my red pocket. He also gave me a box of re-gifted candy that expired yesterday. Our conversation was pretty short. He commented that I looked like I lost weight and then he said, "ai-ya! It all went to your belly!"

*eyes roll*

Oh, I guess I should note that it is common and pretty much acceptable (although still a little impolite) in Chinese culture to comment on people's body shapes right to their face -- even if you don't know the person very well. Comments on weight gain and weight loss happen regularly.

I don't see the point of making such comments, but oh well.

I had a good workout this morning, too. Maybe it was a little on the easy side, but my abs are still sore from Tuesday. It always takes me a while to recover. I gained a pound and a half after drinking <1 L of water and eating a banana post-workout. This was what I did today:

1a. Squats on BOSU
  b. Pushups on BOSU
  c. Dynamic rows

2. Abs - Knee lifts with hands on ball

3a. Lunges with front foot on BOSU
  b. Lat raises standing on BOSU
  c. Lat pressdowns

4. Abs - Crunches sitting on BOSU with arms out

5a. 3-level bridging
  b. Hammer curl with twist
  c. French press

6. Abs - Leg extension lying on side

I hate it.

It's like pulling teeth to get any help from him, and everything I do doesn't seem important.

"This isn't a documentation issue."
"I'll talk to so-and-so about this and I will get back to you."
"I'm swamped right now. Talk to bossman about prioritizing my time."

Not only will he not acknowledge anything I send him electronically, but his form of communication to me is through our boss. He has no problem speaking his mind about anything to anyone else, but he seems to have an issue around me??

Grow up.

There was an issue that I raised in our bug tracking program about a graphic we were using. Apparently, there was a discussion between him and the development manager. Why I wasn't included in this discussion is beyond me. Anyhow, my boss told me to ask this developer to update the graphic.

This developer didn't reply to my e-mail, but the graphic was updated. Apparently, his design expertise overrides mine. And they wanted the graphic to look that way. Lame.

I can't wait to get out of this place. I feel like during the interview, I was misled into thinking this would have been an okay company to work for. They really sold themselves and the work I would be doing. Anyway, during the interview, I made sure to ask about the development process because I didn't want to experience the same (bad) things as my last job. I wanted to make sure things were different.

I know my complaints are common amongst tech writers, but I know there are some companies out there that respect documentation. In my resume, my objective clearly states "To further a career as a technical communicator for a company that values quality documentation..."

During one of the pep talks, our CEO said we were all hired because we were the best. Maybe there should be some faith in my work and feedback, then. 

Maybe I should take up boxing. 

Yesterday, I saw my co-worker's used maxi pad in the garbage can. And then today she rested her boobs on my hand when she leaned over to use my mouse.

I'm not grossed out or anything, but I'm definitely not turned on.

And in this week's PostSecret, there was one postcard in particular that caught my attention:

"I found this [the paper that she sent her secret on and that was presumably folded into an envelope] in a safety lock box under my boyfriend's bed. It contains the pubic hair of his ex-girlfriend. He's kept it for 8 years. Now it's yours, & now he's my ex-boyfriend."

I have things of my high school sweetheart's locked away in a box. I never even open the box, and I am definitely not pining. Perhaps it's time to throw the stuff away. I am a pack rat. I thought these things might come in handy one day. I actually do have some pube clippings of his. And I also have some Polaroids that would come in handy if he ever became famous (not that I would actually exploit him.) I've never told anyone about the pubes. 

The type of blog entry I just posted...I hate them.

I hate having such feelings and going on and on about them. I just knew what has been triggering my feelings and what I can do to feel better.

Maybe I just need to do something for me, guilt-free. I feel like I am working around everyone else. 

I feel like I haven't seen my mom in ages. In the fall, we hung out every Sunday. It was really stressful for me since I had to plan around these Sundays. We'd get together in the morning, do some shopping, have lunch, and then do more shopping. That would leave me with a couple of hours before I had to get together with her again for dinner. And then I'd have just a short amount of time before going to bed.

And then during the winter, she got really busy with work. She didn't have enough employees, so she had to make up for the missing manpower. And I didn't see her very much, and Mr. Nick took her place on Sundays.

But now, my mom has hired some full-time help, and she has her free time back. So it's "when are you free to get together for dinner? Do you want to go shopping Sunday?" It's a challenge working around the schedules. Since my dance class is in the middle of the afternoon on Saturdays, I don't have time to see her before or after class. And Mr. Nick is out of town.

Last night when I spoke to her, I figured I could have dinner with her Friday night in case I leave Sunday night open for Mr. Nick. So the plan was to have dinner Friday night.

But Poo asked me today if I could help her move Friday night. I was hoping it would be a bit later, but it'd right at dinner time :( I know she needs the help, so I said I would help. And now I have to tell my mom that I can't do dinner. She was excited for it, too. *sigh*

I feel like this weekend I just want to be alone to recharge my batteries, but at the same time, I think I need the human contact. This whole week it's been one thing after another. Last night was helping Poo pack. Tonight I'm supposed to see Mr. Nick. Thursday it's bridesmaid dress shopping. Friday it's moving. Saturday is dance class. Sunday is seeing my mom. My home is a mess. I will have to get food ready for the next week. I could really use a long weekend.

And fartknockers, I have to see my dad, too. Actually, I don't need to...I just have to make arrangements to do a drive by, so he can give me my red pocket. My mom asks me why he never invites me up to his place. I don't know. I always just park the car, and he comes down to the foyer with whatever he has to give me. She says I should invite myself up.

I don't know why I am feeling so overwhelmed and where there seems to be so much pressure...pressure to be a good friend...pressure to be a good daughter...pressure to take care of things I can do now to make the rest of my week easier...pressure to have a good relationship with Mr. Nick. And on top of all this, I still want to change jobs and get out of debt.

One thing I am glad about though -- my work has gone back to using Charmin toilet paper. And I can listen to the radio station I like that plays Golden Oldies online!!

After being on pins and needles for like 2 days...I heard back from the company I was interviewed for from last Friday.

I had a feeling they might have been battling an issue since I hadn't heard by yesterday. I was thinking they were having troubles deciding who to pick to invite back.

Anyhow, they said they'd like to get to know me better.

YEEEAH!

On the other hand, they have decided that now is not the right time to hire a tech writer.

BOOOOO. 

BWAHAHHAA

They just told me to keep my eyes peeled for future tech writer postings, and that they'd love to see me apply again.

So I am happy but disappointed they are not hiring now. (I had totally prepared myself mentally for rejection, so I am happy that I would have made it to the next round. :-) 

Yesterday a coworker brought in Chinese candies for Chinese New Year. They were made from nuts and other stuff. There was almond, peanut, sesame, cocoa, and NUT MEAT.

I couldn't stop laughing about it.

Nut meat candy!

Unfortunately, someone ate the last one, so I was unable to have it. I only wanted the packaging!

And someone "borrowed" my umbrella yesterday, too. *grr* I wouldn't be so unhappy about it if it was returned today!!!

The latest buzz (ahahaha...get it? buzz??) with Britney Spears is that she shaved her head. I was thinking it's time for me to do something as a cry for help. I think I am going to cut my nails -- like down to the pink. I usually leave some growth, about half a centimeter or until it gets annoying to type. I'm going to cut off all my nails!!

I finally got in some weight training today. It'd been about 2 weeks since I last did weights. The good thing about taking such a long break is that I find myself feeling strong. The bad thing is that I'm sure I've lost strength. I did a simple workout today to ease myself in.

1a. Single arm chest press on the ball and BOSU
  b. Single arm single legged row
  c. Lateral step-up

2. Abs: ball roll-away

3a. Single leg press
  b. Shoulder press on BOSU
  c.  Reverse fly on ball

4. Abs: crunches on ball

5a. Deadlifts
  b. Wide grip bicep curl
  c. Dips

6. Abs: Side thingees on ball

I hope working out will help me de-stress. I can't explain what's going on, but I feel like I need to unwind. I talked to my mom last night, and I asked her why she gave Mr. Nick such a generous red pocket. She said she didn't want to appear cheap (to my boyfriend). I told she didn't need to give that much. And then she pointed out he didn't eat anything at dinner.

I think all my rushing around on Saturdays to get everything done for the week so I can free up my Sundays for Mr. Nick is getting to me. And I think it gets to me more if the Sunday is not a great day. It's like "I busted my ass for this??" I feel a little bad for thinking that way, but I already know how important it is for me to have time for myself, and I just haven't gotten it lately.

My mom is free on Sundays again, and we used to spend our Sundays together. When she got busy, I spent my Sundays with Mr. Nick. (Besides, he is still gone Fridays and Saturdays for skiing.) So...if I do what I want with my time the way I want to spend it, there'd be no seeing Mr. Nick on the weekends.

Or maybe I am choked with the quality of our time together. On the weekends, he is either gone or just tired from skiing. I don't know why it bothers me so much when he is tired. I know he can't help it, but I end up feeling like he is not 100% there.
 

Cute Butt Boy once told me I looked like a superhero because I have the v-taper going on.

Anyhow, this v-taper has always put a damper on fitted clothes shopping. Often clothes are too tight for me around my chest and under the armpits. If it fits right in the chest, it's too big everywhere else. And if I go up a size, it will fit in the chest, but be too big for me everywhere else.

Yesterday, Air called to say she found a dress she liked for her bridesmaids. She asked me what my size was. Anyway, I ended up going to another branch of the store to try it on. The dress was kind of a bad fit for me, sizewise. The cut was okay.  I think she is going for a spaghetti strapped look. With my broad shoulders, I really should use a wider strap :-/ And I hate strapless.

Mr. Nick and I went snowshoeing yesterday. It was good! But I was sad I missed out on the Chinese New Year festivities. I couldn't say no to him. :'( And then we went to my mom's for Chinese New Year dinner.

I'm not sure how I can make the experience of Chinese gatherings for Mr. Nick a little more pleasant. Because I understand the language, and I am participating in conversations, it slips my mind that Mr. Nick has no idea what everyone else is saying. I think that is something he will have to get used to?? I have (white) male friends who experience the same thing, and I always remember my (white) uncle's look of confusion during family dinners.

It wasn't that Mr. Nick was ignored; everyone still tried to include him in the conversation where possible. But he still didn't feel quite comfortable when everyone else was talking and laughing. I can sort of relate but not quite. Often I'm the only Chinese person somewhere.

And the whole eating thing. A lot of whities I've encountered are fearful of trying (new) Chinese foods. I'm usually disappointed when they don't even want to try something, and they're just like "ew, gross". Or they're uncomfortable following culturally-universal eating habits.

Same goes for the reverse though. One night when I was out for dinner with Mr. Nick and I couldn't help but notice how this (Chinese) girl was eating her fettucine. Instead of using a fork and spoon, she took the noodles with her fork and bit them, letting the noodles fall out of mouth back onto her plate. I don't even feel comfortable doing that in a Chinese noodle house. I guess that's why my relatives say I eat really politely. *L* And I guess these things are typical when people aren't aware of regular etiquette.

One day my coworker asked me if I chewed with my mouth open and asked me if it was cultural. Not that I chew with my open or try to talk with my mouth full, but it is common and accepted to chew with your mouth open or talk with your mouth full in Chinese culture. I don't find it gross to see people talk and chew though.

When I go to a job interview, I *know* when I've done well. Unfortunately, I didn't quite get that feeling today.

The process was draining...2 hours to discuss 7 questions among 6 interviewees and 2 interviewers. The interviewers really put us as ease, and these are the questions they asked:

1. What is your most current experience with the field of technical writing?

2. What do you like to do outside of work?

3. What recent accomplishment are you most proud (work-wise)?

4. Tell me how you would ... (everyone got a different question. They wanted us to describe a procedure. I have done that as an interviewer. Mine is usually: "Give a set of instructions for making toast.") Mine ended up being making a cup of coffee. The kicker? I don't drink coffee and have never used a coffee machine.

5. Describe the perfect system. (It could be any kind of system.)

6. Pretend you are interviewing a SME (subject matter expert) about the company. What is the one question you would ask? (Everyone got a different area. I was to ask something corporate.) 

7. Why do you want to work for this company?

Even though I felt like I didn't give a lot of perfect answers...I know I rocked #6 :-) Their jaws dropped, and then they told me that was a great question. Looking back, I would have changed it a little. Anyway, my question was "where does the company see itself in 1, 5, and 10 years, and how does it plan to achieve its goals?" I think 1, 3, and 5 years would have been better.

As for the other candidates...one was a mumbler (she was currently at a company I recently applied at), one didn't seem to have experienced much of the tech writing culture, one (older) woman wore knee high boots and an above-the-knee length denim skirt that had a slit up to her ass and who rambled on, one really cool chick, and one really cool chick who gave lots of great answers to the questions. I'm thinking she will get to round 2, but I hope I will too.

At this point, I'm expecting the worst but hoping for the best. I also got bored during the interview. It did give me a bit of motivation to do some work at work. I've been doing nothing but surfing the 'net. I am ready to do some documentation again.

I don't know what i did, but I didn't tape Grey's Anatomy successfully!! Had I known I screwed up with the digital box, I would have been able to catch last night's episode!! Someone, please fill me in on ALL the details! This is the second time I have missed a 2nd parter of a major cliffhanger!!

I just found out that the free accounts on Flickr allow only 3 sets of photos! I am already there! I am not ready to pay for a pro account just yet. I just got my hydro bill, and it's 15% *more* than I've been budgeting for (not that I am really sticking to my budget 100% but I am trying to work with what I'm expecting to pay every month or 2!)

Anyway, here's a photo of the cake I made. And the dishes I did that night when I was baking. If I don't do my dishes every day, my sink runs out of space. Why can't I ever have an empty, dish-less sink?? 

I wear gloves when I do the dishes, but I seem to melt my gloves a lot. BWAHAHAA With my faucet, there is no warm water. It's either hot or lukewarm or cold.

I have been doing so much research on the company I'm getting interviewed with tomorrow.

I found out the name of my other interviewer. Interestingly, he worked for a company that I *really* wanted to work for years ago when I fresh out of school. I found out a lot about their group interview process, too.

And *that* makes me nervous. I am really going to have to stand out. But if I don't, it probably means I'm not a fit for the company, anyway. They ask general questions to see how you interact in a group and to see what kind of leadership skills you have.

The general questions I will be okay with, but I am pretty sure they will ask everyone in the group who they feel is the best candidate for the job we're all competing for. And I think the interviewers will put a lot of weight on this answer. *sigh*

Anyway, Valentine's Day was okay. My (low) expectations were met, but I guess I was a little disappointed in a way...but not totally because of Valentine's Day. Maybe if I got that stick out of my butt, I'd be a lot more cheerful. The Valentine's Day festivities were fine.

I was disappointed because I didn't get to keep Mr. Nick's keys. My head says I don't need them, and they're not mine to use anyway. But my heart thinks it would have been nice. Anyhow, I am getting over it. The last time a guy offered me his keys, I freaked out. *L*

I think sometimes Mr. Nick wants to read this blog. I am okay with that, but I am not sure he'd really want to read some of this stuff -- especially when I dredge up the past (that he wasn't part of). And I had a bad experience with an ex reading my blog (even though he and Mr. Nick are nothing alike).

He took all my writing as gospel and apparently my written words took precedence over things I said to him. I read one of his latest blog entries and it's about how his company can't seem to fill this one particular position. I think the reason why is that he is doing the interviewing. He wants someone just like him for the job. However, he would also feel extremely threatened by hiring someone that could be better than him. He was an extremely insecure guy, and that's my opinion on why they can't hire someone for the job. I mean come on...it's been 2 years.

I love it!

The "gl" has been replaced with a chocolate dipped strawberry and there's some chocolate splatters on one of the Os. That strawberry looks just like the ones I will be getting from my favourite chocolate store. The whole strawberry is dipped with milk chocolate, and there is a touch of white chocolate, too.

I'm not sure I like Valentine's Day. It was better when I was single. Feb. 14 was hardly a blip on my radar. I think in the last 5 years, there have been 2 or 3 occasions where I was dating someone. 

I don't even know what I expect from the person I am seeing...maybe just something thoughtful to show that they were thinking of me. But the thing is...the boy is usually thinking of me on other non-Valentine's days. So why can't I see the big picture on this?

With my last real ex, he gave me a promise ring. But we broke up that same summer (after 3 and a half years of being together). Then the following year, I was scrambling the day before Valentine's Day to get a gift together. This guy was relatively new, and I wasn't even sure I was going to see him on the day. But we did end up getting together (I think his sister was in town, too).

And then the year after that, I wasn't even sure if the guy and I were dating. But I scrambled to get a gift together. (Do you know how slim the pickings are for cards on Feb. 14th??). And he had gotten me a rose and some liqueur-filled chocolates. I was kind of pissed off. I broke things off with him the next day. I was using Valentine's Day as a test. Looking back now, the chocolates were funny. I don't drink, and I don't care for liqueurs.

I think I was a little bummed last year. I was into Cute Butt Boy, and he took a day trip to get out of town. And of course there was no mention of V-Day. I actually need to call him. He worked at the company I am going to get my interview with.

And my interview has been rescheduled for Friday. I wish it was today since my boss is not in the office. 

I have a group job interview tomorrow.

How the heck do those work?! Do I get to size up my competition right then and there?? 

I would love to work for this company, provided the pay is decent, and the environment is good for tech writers. I am ready to move on from this job I've had for not even 5 months.

Now...would it a good or bad thing for me to point out a typo in the company's downloadable fact sheet? And if it was a good thing, when would be an appropriate time?? (After I get hired?!)

I got a Bamix a while back, and I was thrilled I could make whipped "cream" with skim milk. However, I want to make some real whipped cream with whipping cream. Will the Bamix do the trick????? Google is not providing me the answer. I may have to discover this on my own.

I guess I am going to make a strawberry shortcake, after all.  (Thanks Marina!) But all these recipes call for whipped cream!!! I haven't whipped cream since I was 14. And I guess I won't be whipping any cream until I'm at Mr. Nick's. That means he has to take my tools with him so he can keep them chilled. Gaah!

My choices are to try:

1. Bamixing some whipped cream with skim milk.

2. Bamixing some whipped cream with whipping cream.

3. Using a regular mixer to whip some whipped cream with whipping cream. 

I don't have much time tonight! Heroes is on, and 24 is TWO hours long tonight!  This could be another stressful night of cooking ;)

I've felt a little leaner over the last couple of days. I don't know if it's from not eating or working out more, but I've lost a couple of pounds. So yay!

Last night I went with Mr. Nick to his parents' for dinner, and his mom had homemade brownies for dessert. They were delicious! And now I have to (quickly) find something else to make for Mr. Nick for Valentine's Day. I was going to bake him a heart-shaped pan of brownies!!!

He likes his chocolate, but i will have to find some replacement dessert!! 

Okay, so the lapdancing workshop I went to wasn't one of their typical ones. It was specially put on because the news wanted to do a segment. It was a modified version of their workshop. I picked up a few moves but I definitely didn't gather a routine! The workshop has made me want to get even more lingerie though. BWAHAHAHA

Anyway, I guess there is a good chance I am going to be on the evening news since I was also interviewed. Thinking back, I said some really ... silly things. And I think some of the stuff I *did* say won't make it to the news because...well...it's the 6 pm news and it's considered family programming.

One interesting thing that happened...I met Mr. Nick's ex-girlfriend at the workshop. She was an ex from way before. When he and I started dating, he mentioned one day that some really old ex sent out an e-mail saying she was going to be performing (like a recital after the "Getting Ready for the Stage" class...I had done the same thing a couple of summers ago), and the she and some friends had also started up a business. He didn't really think anything of it. But then we went to the Sex Show, and she was there with a booth with her business, and he didn't want to stop. In fact, he didn't want to be seen and we scurried past. (I had wanted to stop and chat with her!)

Anyway, his ex and I got to talking. It was more about pole dancing at first. My favourite instructor has been trying to talk me into taking another Getting Ready for the Stage class, and his ex and I were just kind of talking about pole dancing. She and a couple of other girls just go around with their portable pole putting on shows (for free, at this point). Anyway, she was really nice, and I did ask her about Mr. Nick. Not quite sure why things didn't work out for them (during their fairly brief stint of dating), but she said he was a total sweetheart and that he was a catch. 

I don't think I will say anything about this rendez-vous to Mr. Nick...maybe I will if I ever end up dancing with her. She seems to be on the lookout for more dancers. She was also interviewed on the news. I think I will just not remind him of the news segment. I mentioned the words "my boyfriend" on the news a few times.

Anyway, the workshop...or maybe it was just the instructor...has inspired me to keep going with the dancing. I was going to stop for a while to save money. But my favourite instructor is teaching my next set of classes, so I would definitely pay for that.  Unfortunately, I will have to miss 2 out of the 6 classes. The last class is during my cousin's wedding ceremony...F@$!

I was the first one in the office today. I figured I'd come in to work straight away instead of going to the gym since I have a lapdance workshop tonight. Anyway, I wonder how safe it really is to be here alone. We have no security measures. I guess the likelihood of someone coming in here with violent intentions is pretty slim, but still...

I tried on my cop costume this morning, too. I figured I might as well since I was trying on the nurse costume (lap dancing workshop...). My cop costume is a little too small right now *sigh* It's a one-piece thing. I haven't worn it in a year and a half. It looks good from the waist up, but the costume is a little too short in the crotch at the moment. *sigh* Give me 5 pounds, and it will probably fit well again.

Oh! Mr. Nick got an invite to the wedding. I brought it up to my dad who called my aunt who then in turn called me. I hope I don't regret this. It didn't occur to me how some people would treat me bringing him as a really big deal. I hope nothing embarrassing, i.e., questions about when he and I are getting hitched, comes up.

Maybe I should stop talking to Mr. Nick like a girl...I've always relayed relatives' questions to him. I am talking about marriage questions. I mean I talk to him like how I'd talk to girl friends. He has never reacted very well when I tell him about family asking me when I'm getting married. He didn't react well when I told him my mom joked about us moving in together. In fact, he tends to sound kind of angry. "Do they *know* how long we've been together?" (Never mind that they're not really asking when he and I are getting married...just me...)

I should probably not bring these things up to him, but he should be warned what the fam is saying. I don't want him caught by surprise if anyone else says something to him.  I think I am also going to have to remind him that these questions and comments aren't coming from me. I'm definitely not pressuring for marriage. And it doesn't matter if these relatives are asking and hinting. His anger makes me a little angry. Like chill, really. I don't take them seriously. It's the same as hearing them say, "it's a little cold out today. Put on an extra sweater."

When I talked to my aunt last night, I could have ripped her face off. Okay, not really. But she doesn't have the same kind of common sense I have.  She told me it was time to be married now, especially since I have a boyfriend. I would never, ever marry someone just to be married or to avoid being alone. EVER. I don't understand the point of being married unless you actually love the person you're with and want to make a commitment to him/her. Thank goodness I'm not her daughter.

I wonder if she ever pressured my cousin...he and his fiancee have been together for like 10 years. He proposed a month and a half ago. I think something about immigration pushed him to hurry things up a little.

My cold is gone, but now it's the cough that's here. My throat is so itchy! I knew I should have avoided the sugar. But I really wanted that chocolate...

Anyway, I left two pots on the stove too long yesterday. I dried out my meds TWICE, and then my ginger-lemon concoction all dried up as well. Thank goodness the pot was salvageable. I am not sure about the medicine pot, though. I can't tell if it's leaking or not! 

I am assuming Home Depot will carry cabinets for bathrooms. I told Mr. Nick I was not ready to buy a cabinet for him to use in "his" bathroom at my place. Now I feel guilty. After work later, I'm going to see what I can get, if anything.

Yesterday I spent a couple of hours updating my resume and putting together a couple of cover letters. Unfortunately, I haven't heard back :( I hope I do. 

Not that I've been camera-happy lately, but I think I will just use my Flickr account from now on for photo uploads.

I started off with Photoblog, which I still really like but don't want to pay for. Then I went to Photobucket, and there isn't much wrong with it. Flickr has a lot more features, that's all.

I should start photographing things again. I like looking at photos I've taken. These days, I am less inclined to do it when Mr. Nick's around because he pulls out his camera as much as I do. I guess I am just lame and am afraid to take photos while he's doing it.

*yawn*

I uploaded a photo of my fridge's contents. All the containers of food are for my lunches for the week, and I actually failed in preparing enough . However, since I've been sick at home, I might end up with too much food prepared!

My cousin (on my dad's side of the family) is getting married at the end of next month. He and his fiancee have been together a long time, and I hardly even know her. But then again, they've been living in California for the last ... I don't know...at least 5 years. They're coming back here for the wedding, though. It's going to be the typical Chinese wedding.

They'll have their ceremony in a church, and then there will be the usual Chinese wedding banquet. I *love* those banquets. Mmm...10 courses... I really wish I could bring Mr. Nick with me. I think it'd be good for him to see what Chinese wedding festivities are like ;-) But it's also a chance for him to meet some of my out-of-town family.

 I have been working on trying to get him an invite (the invitations came out this week), but it's difficult. I was hoping my mom would hint to my aunt, but my mom could care less (couldn't care less?) if Mr. Nick was there or not. I think she'd rather him not be there, but not because of him but because she thinks it would be too much trouble to make arrangements.

 
Most of my family do not know I've been dating him. My extended family doesn't live around here, and the aunt who *does* live here...I would rather her not know so she won't hound me about getting married.

 
I know Mr. Nick is a little miffed that he isn't going even if he says it's okay. (He's never met this cousin of mine. The only family he's met of mine are my parents.) He is probably thinking he would be one of the few white guys at the wedding. I don't know about that...it would depend how many white friends of my cousin are going :-p (my cousin had some cute ones!! Yum!)

 
I think at this point, officially, I am going as my mom's guest. Unfortunately, my cousin didn't reply to my e-mail when I asked him if I could bring a guest :-p I think there is space for Mr. Nick at the reception, but I can't really do much more about this, can I? With all these Chinese traditions...the parents get some say to who to invite. My aunt and uncle are inviting people only because they attended their kid's wedding.

 
To complicate matters, my mom said she is only going to the reception if she is not sitting at my dad's table. She told my uncle that she didn't even want to be in my dad's line of vision...unless he brought a date.

At this point in time, I'll be sitting at my dad's table with 2 pairs of aunts and uncles, 2 cousins, and 1 cousin-in-law to be. And my dad said he wasn't going to bring anyone...there is actually one empty chair. *sigh* I don't want to ask anyone organising the wedding if I can bring Mr. Nick because I think that would be just too rude. However, I will keep hinting to other relatives who can suggest it. (I think I am actually doing things the passive Chinese way right now).

Chinese New Year is coming up (can't wait!!), and like last year, I'm going to call all my relatives to wish them a happy new year. With the aunts who will be visiting, I'll make dinner plans and then mention that they will meet my boyfriend (provided Mr. Nick is up for it, of course). Being the gossips that they are, the news would probably travel to other relatives. And if they like Mr. Nick enough, maybe they'd help me out.

Sneezing while eating salad is not very fun.

Why do we sneeze when we have colds?? 

My day of relaxation turned out to be quite action-packed.

This was my planned day...wake up and make breakfast for me and Mr. Nick (eggs, toast, and bacon). And then he was going to go visit his grandparents. While he did that, I was going to prepare this week's lunches and start getting ready for dinner. After his visit, he was going to come back.

Instead, he changed his mind about going to his grandparents, so I had to jam in a lot of cooking prior to breakfast. Then we went out for a couple of hours, and as soon as we came back, I went on my cooking frenzy while he watched the Superbowl. I didn't sit down all day until *after* dinner. (Well, I took a 10 minute break).

So before breakfast, I cooked like 3 days' worth of vegetables and yams and made chocolate pudding from scratch, cooked 4 days' worth of egg whites, and made 4 days' worth of salads. Then I made scrambled eggs and toast while Mr. Nick prepared the bacon. After we ate, I loaded the dishwasher.

I hardly ever use my dishwasher because I don't like turning it on unless it's totally full. It's hard to fill up when it's just one person and so few dishes *L* 

Then I dropped all the pudding in the sink. 

Then we got ready and headed out to IKEA. I need a cabinet for my guest bathroom. Actually, I don't need one. I was just going to get one so Mr. Nick can keep some of his stuff at my place in the bathroom. At the same time, I am freaking out a little about getting one because I'm only getting it for him. If he wasn't around, I definitely wouldn't need it.

When we got back, I did some laundry, re-made the pudding, and I got the yams ready. And the steaks. I toasted the foccacia and threw together some oil and vinegar. Then we ate it and I got going on the steaks.

I don't think I will eat filet mignon on purpose again. It's so tasteless. Usually, I get bored of my steak after about 4 oz. It's the same texture and taste, and it's just chew, chew, chew. I knew I should have stuck with the ribeye.

Anyway, I got all stressed out because my steaks were too thick for throwing in the pan, and my yams got all mushy instead of turning out like yam fries. Mr. Nick could see how stressed out (and unhappy) I was getting, so he reassured me everything was going to be alright. And then he offered to do the dishes.

So we ate dinner, and he enjoyed it. I enjoyed it too except for my meat. I don't think I am really a fan of beef anyway -- not in steak form, anyway. And he cleaned! He is so good at cleaning!!

Later on, we tried to eat the pudding. I don't know what I did wrong, but it came out totally gelatinous. Maybe I should have used something other than skim milk. We threw it out :(

At one point, he asked me if I'd mind if he went on my computer to watch some Superbowl commercials. I said no, but my face probably said something else. I think I would have been choked if he went. Even though we were together the whole day together, I was actually only with him when we went shopping and when we ate dinner. I felt like I hardly spent any time with him.

But we sat and watched some of my shows. He said I looked much happier, and I told him all I needed to do was sit. He said the next time I get all stressed out, he is going to force me to sit down.

Sometimes I get really overwhelmed when I try to do everything in advance so I can have it easier later on. Cooking for a week and trying to prepare a nice dinner definitely stressed me out!!

And now I am fighting a cold :-/ Or maybe it's already won. I think I picked up something at IKEA. I was a little congested by the time I left the store.

It's one of my co-worker's 5-year anniversary today, so he looked up on the Internet what the traditional 5-year gift was. And it's wood.

I couldn't stop laughing.

I would love to get some wood for my anniversary.

But I would much rather get some wood every night!! BWAHAHAHA 

Sometimes when I look at my clothes, I think I must be the Incredible Hulk. I have holes in the armpits. And then today I found holes in my shorts! The holes are along the inner thigh seams.

I guess I'm not really saying very flattering things about myself, and I'm just joking around.

I like wearing form fitting clothes, and I do have muscles. Although I wish my legs (along with my whole frame) was a bit smaller, I quite like their definition. YEEEEAH! So anyway, I guess my seams rip because I wear tight clothes.

This afternoon, we got pizza for lunch. I feel a little guilty for eating it since I am noticing a small difference in my body. For the last 2 weeks I've gone to the gym every weekday, and I feel great! I need new gym clothes, though. I hate not having a a trusted brand.  

Oh yeah! One other thing that stuck in my mind about my spa experience yesterday...

As part of the pedicure, I got a calf and foot scrub. The girl was like, "do you work out?" I said, "yes," and she said, "I can tell."

I'll take that as a compliment, I guess.

As much as I like compliments on my body, I really dislike when people are touching my body in a professional environment to also comment on it! It's happened with other massages, too. And one doctor. That was really creepy.

With these 5 day a week workouts, I need to do laundry more frequently. What I really need is more workout clothes and more towels!

I really need more bath towels. The ones I've been using at the gym are also the ones that Mr. Nick uses when he's at my place. For the life of me, I wish he had told me how AWFUL my towels are!!!! They feel like sandpaper!!! BWAHAHAHAHA I couldn't stop laughing when I asked him why he didn't tell me how sucky my towels were. And I'd been giving him the WORST one of all because I thought it was the best one. BWAHAHA

I am using towels that are over 10 years old. The ones he's been using are probably almost 10 years old. I am going to feel bad about throwing them out, but what else can I do with them? 

Is there a brand out there that is really good for the price you pay? There was a towel I liked from Linens 'n' Things, but it took soooo many washes for the lint to die down. I also like Nautica towels, but I would have to wait for a sale before buying those! Something soft and absorbent would be great.

BWAHAHAA

There is a spa near my work that recently opened up. I dropped by for a pedicure months back, and they had this deal going on. For $50, you could buy 4 packages of services. All the services were fully covered unless you wanted to upgrade. I thought it was a pretty good deal.

Anyway, maybe this spa still has some kinks to work out, but I prefer more professional environments. There is always someone not working there hanging around chit chatting with the staff.

The first pedicure I got there smudged right away :( But, they have these *great* massage chairs. I wish I had one at home.

I went there last week for a facial. The massage part was great! The facial wasn't so bad either. But I had to wait 15 minutes to get into my scheduled appointment.

Yesterday, I had the worst massage EVER! Even though I am fairly (okay, very) ticklish, I have done okay in the past. If I wasn't in pain, I was trying really hard not to laugh. And then I finally figured out that I wished this spa had more nail polish colours!! I also got a pedicure yesterday. I don't like the shape of the nail and I don't like the final colour either!!

I have a hair appointment with them booked in a couple of weeks, but I might cancel.

And oops, I forgot to sign my credit car slip yesterday. I wonder if I will get charged for my services even though I should. But I didn't sign the slip!