I noticed something about myself today. This past year, I tend to duck in and hide whenever there's a big SF hoo-ha going on. During Bay to Breakers, I holed up at home to study for the GMATs. (Unsuccessfully, as it turns out... 'twas the day of the infamous Fernando-Beeramid fiasco.) This weekend, I'm avoiding Halloween festivities in favor of finishing my Berkeley essays.
Gawd, I'm getting old.
But seriously, I've done the drunken reveling in the Castro. I've done the drunken reveling in the clubs. I've done the drunken reveling at the house parties. And I just don't feel like being drunk anymore. Beyond the fact that I'm still completely hungover from way too many Sweet Georgias last night at Fly Bar.
So here I am, on a Saturday night, the weekend of Halloween, with my phone off, buying music from the iTunes Store. Which, btw, is a frickin' amazing thing... $9.99 for a whole album, and it just downloads! Beats shopping on Amazon. I'm (legally) loading up on some music that I've been meaning to get for ages, and rediscovering my appreciation for Fiona Apple.
\m/
On a completely different note, my cousin just got back from volunteering in Nola - which I never knew stood for New Orleans. Somehow, we've become a family of do-gooders. Or at least our generation has. I'm so proud of him! *Hug*
10.29.2005
10.27.2005
"It's no use reminding yourself daily that you are mortal:
it will be brought home to you soon enough."
~ Albert Camus
There are times when you realize that all the things you worry about on a day-to-day basis, all the anger or frustration you feel in relationships and insecurities, and all the stresses that seem so huge, really mean very little.
In the past few weeks, I've experienced 3 crises of mortality that illustrates just how little these things matter when it comes to your loved ones. First, my yearly thyroid checkup came out as negative. For those of you who don't know, I have an enlarged thyroid, and had a serious cancer scare about 4 years ago. I had to go in for an x-ray, a cat scan (or MRI? I always get those two confused), and then finally a biopsy. In those three days, the tests kept telling me that it might be a malignant tumor. In the end, it turned out to be benign, and something to watch. And every year since then, I've gone in, gotten my scan, and been sent on my way.
A couple of weeks ago, I went in, and they called me that afternoon. "You need to come back the next morning to do some more tests," they said. "Your results were irregular." I was flooded with the fear that I experienced years before. It turned out ok, but I had to wait a weekend before I was cleared.
More recently, my mother became the target of a life-threatening attack. I won't go into details because its very, very personal, but suffice to say that her and my stepdad's lives were deliberately threatened by someone very close to me. I think this scared me more than the prospect of having cancer. My mother is close to 60, and despite my very large stepfamily, really the only person I have left in this world. Its always been me, her and grandma, and since grandma passed in 1999, we've been each other's best friends. I had to choose between that someone that threatened her, and her - and there was no question. I cried over the threat, I cried over the potential loss of my mother, and I cried because I had to take steps to make sure that it would never happen again. I hurt that someone important to me very much, but what could I do? I already feel all alone in this world sometimes - shunning intimate relationships as I do - I can't bear to lose the one person that I love more than anyone else in the world.
Then, today, I heard that someone that I've been on not-so-good terms with recently was in an accident. It didn't seem to be serious, but we still haven't heard from him. And worry has been gnawing away at my insides. Suddenly, it seems that all the reasons that I hated him for hurting me seemed so inconsequential. Yes, I still feel deeply hurt and betrayed. But what's more important is that he's ok. How I will react when we hear from him, whether I will express my relief, I don't know. If he never knows that I care, it doesn't matter. But if I had a choice, if I could make the choice to erase the last few weeks of anger and frustration between us, I would.
Every day, we live in little boxes built from fears and insecurities. Those emotions overwhelm us and obsess us, but in the end, what do they really matter? As Camus said, when we are faced with ours and our loved ones' mortality, it is brought scathingly, searingly home. And now that it has been, I am abandoning those little boxes as best I can, and choosing to appreciate the love and life that God has given me.
10.22.2005
myth's fabulousness no myth
Karen and I, the ultimate foodie-gluttons, have come up with a new standard for restaurants. If we *crave* going back there, with all the hundreds of amazing restaurants in the Bay Area, then it is beyond fabulous.
Myth just made the top of that list, toppling A16 by stretches.
Friday was a frantic day at work. Issues, emergencies, 2 new projects, and trying to squeeze all the meetings from the past week into one day. I'm pretty sure that I didn't even go to the bathroom until around 5 - which is saying something, considering that I have the world's smallest bladder. So I was brain dead and ready to relax when we headed to our 6:00 reservation at Myth, which was recently named the Best New Restaurant by Zagats.
After eating there, there is NO doubt as to why.
One thing about Myth is they do a terrific job with portions. Some might consider the portions to be too small, but as Karen and I love trying different things, the sizes are just right. We were able to try several dishes without becoming overly full.
We started out with a Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Poached Pears and Duck Confit. The duck was absolutely divine, and the soup just sweet enough. We were then brought the star of the night - a 1/2 portion of Garganelli Pasta with Foie Gras Cream, Maitake Mushrooms and Marsala. OHHHHHHH. To die for. Simply the most amazing thing I'd ever had. It was like the foie gras from Piperade in flavor, but not as greasy or heavy. The mousse was light, and complimented the pasta perfectly, and the mushrooms added just the right touch.
I wasn't sure that anything could top the pasta, but we were very impressed with the pizza. We got a split pie of Grilled Prawn Cocktail Pizza and the Prosciutto di Parma, because Karen and I couldn't agree. Thank God we did both! The Prawn Cocktail sounded very odd to me, but was surprisingly succulent. However, it could not compare with the Prosciutto, which was accented with figs and carmelized onions. Superb!
We also ordered the Butterfish with Salsa Verde. It was tender and flavorful, but the best thing about it was the pea shoots. Still hungry, and not ready to stop tasting, we ordered a 1/2 portion of the Risotto with White Truffle Oil. Again, portion was perfect, taste was exquisite, and it ended the evening just right.
Of course, we still ordered dessert - but it was lighter than our usual chocolate-laden fare. It was a Chilled Poached Pear with Mexican Chocolate Soup and Creme Fraiche. Yummy and refreshing all at the same time!
And I haven't even started talking about the wine. After trying a couple of things, we settled on a McManis Petite Sirah that was juicy and very, very nice. Suprising, especially since it was really young - only a 2004.
There's no question that I'm going back to Myth. And it helps that its only 3 blocks from work :-)
Myth just made the top of that list, toppling A16 by stretches.
Friday was a frantic day at work. Issues, emergencies, 2 new projects, and trying to squeeze all the meetings from the past week into one day. I'm pretty sure that I didn't even go to the bathroom until around 5 - which is saying something, considering that I have the world's smallest bladder. So I was brain dead and ready to relax when we headed to our 6:00 reservation at Myth, which was recently named the Best New Restaurant by Zagats.
After eating there, there is NO doubt as to why.
One thing about Myth is they do a terrific job with portions. Some might consider the portions to be too small, but as Karen and I love trying different things, the sizes are just right. We were able to try several dishes without becoming overly full.
We started out with a Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Poached Pears and Duck Confit. The duck was absolutely divine, and the soup just sweet enough. We were then brought the star of the night - a 1/2 portion of Garganelli Pasta with Foie Gras Cream, Maitake Mushrooms and Marsala. OHHHHHHH. To die for. Simply the most amazing thing I'd ever had. It was like the foie gras from Piperade in flavor, but not as greasy or heavy. The mousse was light, and complimented the pasta perfectly, and the mushrooms added just the right touch.
I wasn't sure that anything could top the pasta, but we were very impressed with the pizza. We got a split pie of Grilled Prawn Cocktail Pizza and the Prosciutto di Parma, because Karen and I couldn't agree. Thank God we did both! The Prawn Cocktail sounded very odd to me, but was surprisingly succulent. However, it could not compare with the Prosciutto, which was accented with figs and carmelized onions. Superb!
We also ordered the Butterfish with Salsa Verde. It was tender and flavorful, but the best thing about it was the pea shoots. Still hungry, and not ready to stop tasting, we ordered a 1/2 portion of the Risotto with White Truffle Oil. Again, portion was perfect, taste was exquisite, and it ended the evening just right.
Of course, we still ordered dessert - but it was lighter than our usual chocolate-laden fare. It was a Chilled Poached Pear with Mexican Chocolate Soup and Creme Fraiche. Yummy and refreshing all at the same time!
And I haven't even started talking about the wine. After trying a couple of things, we settled on a McManis Petite Sirah that was juicy and very, very nice. Suprising, especially since it was really young - only a 2004.
There's no question that I'm going back to Myth. And it helps that its only 3 blocks from work :-)
10.21.2005
chopping down the (plum) tree
Its official - my company, Plumtree Software, has been officially acquired by BEA Systems. The deal closed yesterday. We're now BEAns instead of Plumtreevians.
This week has been chock full of activity to say farewell to our dear old independence. On Monday, the PMO and PM teams had its offsite in Larkspur, when everyone got into canoes and paddled along for the races. I, of course, didn't got - seasick and non-swimmer that I am - but I did join the group for drinks and really fried foods at Marin Brewing Company. On the way back, Kim, Shaari, and Matias piled into my Mini, where they gobbled down Mini Milanos, quizzed Matias on GMAT questions, and broke my passenger seat.
On Tuesday, we pretended to do work for a little while, and then had an all PDO meeting where some sad farewells were announced. As it turns out, Eric Zocher *did* leave, so I guess I owe an apology to my anonymous rumor-spreading friend, even though he still spread a rumor :-)
Wednesday was our Farewell Picnic. At 9:30, we gathered in Cafe Plum to get instructions on our Scavenger Hunt. I was on a team of the most Type A personalities you can imagine - myself included - which included 3 Program Managers, 2 VPs, our corporate counsel and 2 Product Managers. We all thought we were doing so well, until we got to the finish line and realized we came in 7th! Well, it was my fault with the final clue in any case, so I guess I shouldn't complain.
This week has been chock full of activity to say farewell to our dear old independence. On Monday, the PMO and PM teams had its offsite in Larkspur, when everyone got into canoes and paddled along for the races. I, of course, didn't got - seasick and non-swimmer that I am - but I did join the group for drinks and really fried foods at Marin Brewing Company. On the way back, Kim, Shaari, and Matias piled into my Mini, where they gobbled down Mini Milanos, quizzed Matias on GMAT questions, and broke my passenger seat.
On Tuesday, we pretended to do work for a little while, and then had an all PDO meeting where some sad farewells were announced. As it turns out, Eric Zocher *did* leave, so I guess I owe an apology to my anonymous rumor-spreading friend, even though he still spread a rumor :-)
Wednesday was our Farewell Picnic. At 9:30, we gathered in Cafe Plum to get instructions on our Scavenger Hunt. I was on a team of the most Type A personalities you can imagine - myself included - which included 3 Program Managers, 2 VPs, our corporate counsel and 2 Product Managers. We all thought we were doing so well, until we got to the finish line and realized we came in 7th! Well, it was my fault with the final clue in any case, so I guess I shouldn't complain.
(Pictures courtesy of Andrei and his Flickr.com page, as my camera crapped out on me.)
A scavenger hunt team looks for clues
Adrian justifies our spectacular 7th place finish
Sadia just laughs at us
Afterwards, we took a shuttle bus over to Fort Mason for our picnic. Jay Simon broke the bus door with his anxiety to get on first, and we almost locked the bus driver in! To make matters worse, Matias grabbed the mike and started, er, something. He got the dirtiest look I'd ever seen, and the mike taken away from him.
Volleyball in the back yard of the Officer's Club
The Picnic was suprisingly fun, helped greatly by the abundant beer and good food from Asquew Grill. I joined the "We're No. WAN" trivia team, which was comprised of all Asian ppl and Mark H, and we actually won the trivia! Whoo! Unfortunately, we got jipped... all we got for our hard work were golf balls. Three of my co-workers won Plasma large-screen TV's, and the winning scavenger hunt team ("Cheaters!") at least got a bottle of champagne.
Kim and Shaari laughing over beer
ChexMix won - CHEATERS
Traunza hedges her bets with 200 raffle tickets - and wins 4 prizes!
Christine won a 6 mega-pixel camera from Nikon. We heard her screaming from miles away.
The laboriously built mini golf course
Don tests his putting skills
Dean points accusatory axes at Ross
Afterwards, a much smaller group of us headed to Bus Stop, some random bar in the Marina, and proceeded to drink way too much PBR and Bud Lite. I think I learned how to play pool, but I'm pretty sure that I was just being humored because I was drunk and short.
Thursday was harsh. Made even harsher by our "BEA Welcome Party" that consisted of being herded into BEA's cafeteria and meeting no one.
Today, we finally had to get back to business. It was not easy, considering that all of my projects are in a critical time, and we essentially wasted an entire week. Ah well. It was a well-deserved celebration. Even though I barely knew Plumtree, I'm sad that its gone. *Sniffle* But most of the great people are staying... and that's what matters.
At least my ex doesn't still work for BEA...
10.16.2005
ANNOYED!
It took me so damn long today to (a) book my plane ticket for Thanksgiving, (b) make a PTO request and (c) figure out next week's schedule - both personal and work - due to all the BEA activity that's going on. Grrr. I *hate* wasting time on things that should have taken a grand total of an hour. Grrr. Especially since I have only 2 weeks to finish my Berkeley app! Grrr.
I did manage to find a fabulous dress for the wedding in mid-November. I had to order it online because none of the SF stores seem to carry this particular color, but I did try on the black version in the store. The small is just a smidge too tight for me... BUT I ordered it in both small and medium. I'm being optimistic that I'll look hot in the small in 4 weeks.
That is, if I can sneak a workout next week with all those offsites, farewell parties, welcome parties, and the like.
Grrrr.
I did manage to find a fabulous dress for the wedding in mid-November. I had to order it online because none of the SF stores seem to carry this particular color, but I did try on the black version in the store. The small is just a smidge too tight for me... BUT I ordered it in both small and medium. I'm being optimistic that I'll look hot in the small in 4 weeks.
That is, if I can sneak a workout next week with all those offsites, farewell parties, welcome parties, and the like.
Grrrr.
training diary, week 9: baby, i'm back
I'm not only back on track, but on a f****ing roll! Since everyone's been gone at Odyssey this week, I've managed to work out every day at lunch, except for Wednesday. Plus I'm pretty sure my metabolism is going up, because I've become this non-stop eating machine.
*~*~*~*
Training Diary, Week 8
Weight: 127.5 lb
Body Fat: 30% - Yeah, haven't been measured
Fitness Level: "I'm the king of the world!"
Me and Caro at Koh Samui, 10/13
Workout Record:
*~*~*~*
Training Diary, Week 8
Weight: 127.5 lb
Body Fat: 30% - Yeah, haven't been measured
Fitness Level: "I'm the king of the world!"
Me and Caro at Koh Samui, 10/13
Workout Record:
- Sunday, Elliptical @ Home, 30 mins
- Monday, Elliptical @ Home, 30 mins; Weight Training, 60 mins
- Tuesday, Elliptical @ Gym, 30 mins
- Thursday, Elliptical @ Gym, 24 mins; Weight Training on BOSU, 45 mins
- Friday, Personal Training with Mark, 60 mins
- Saturday, Elliptical @ Home, 30 mins
*~*~*~*
I feel good. I'm once again back to my endorphin junkie addiction state - on Friday, I was meeting Mark at 4:00, but by noon, I desperately wanted to work out, because I was so used to going at lunch!
The one thing I definitely noticed is that it takes a few weeks for the affects to show on your body. For example, my McDonalds-junk food rampage a few weeks ago showed up last week (yuck!) and inspired me to start pushing the limits. So I'm not terribly worried that I don't see immediate results.
The best part of my renewed (real) love for fitness is that I feel like myself again. I remember that for years, I was the active one who loved moving, who was in great shape, who was stronger than you would expect a 5'2 chick to be, and who was a total endorphin junkie. These past couple of years with the nasty fatness and lethargy have just been horrid... Its like the sensation you feel when you take cold medicine and your head is in a bubble. You know its temporary, but you don't feel quite yourself. Except that my body was in a bubble (of fat!). I don't care what anyone says - I can accept that I'm not going to be a size 0 again, but I refuse to accept that I will be out of shape just because of my age.
In other fitness-related news, I talked to my mommy yesterday, and she weighs less than me! She still claims to be a size 12 - which I think is bullsh!t because I'm sure she hasn't gone and tried on new clothes - but she weights 125 now. I'm so proud of her! She lost 20 lbs. PLUS, her doctor gave her adjusted medicine for her cholestrol and diabetes because she made so much improvement.
Mommy and me are the dynamic duo this week :-) Ok, I'm going to work out now...
10.14.2005
gratuitous puppet sex (a.k.a. caro's bday)
Last night, we celebrated darling Carolyn's 28th bday (such a young pup!) by dining at Koh Samui and the Monkey, and then heading out for some 80's fun at the Cat Club.
Dinner started at 8, but of course, most of us were late. It was Carolyn, myself, Caro's friends Jessica, Vicky, and Sarah, and the two Erics. Clydo was at rehersal with SoulForce for the upcoming SF Hip Hop Dance Fest, and was missed! We finally got around to ordering food and wine after the waitress came back three times... *stress!*
For dinner, we had some lovely traditional Thai dishes - yellow curry chicken, prawns with asparagus, corn fritters, and pad thai - as well as some of Koh Samui's specialties, including an amazing soft shell crap accompanied by cucumber vinagrette. Our wine - a Cote du Rhone - was not quite so amazing, but then again, it only cost $22 for the bottle, so we weren't expecting that much.
Caro plays Emo
... but can't help but crack up.
"Hide me from these freaks!" laments Eric H (aka "Horse")
"I serve you corn fritters, my lady."
Hey, its the girl's birthday
We caught Vicky with a pic, despite her hiding all night
However, the desserts were wonderful; I especially liked the mango with sticky rice, but the fried banana with ice cream was great as well. Jessica also brought Caro a mini-cake - a white chocolate mousse that was very mild, yet still delicious.
"I'm turning one!"
I'm Chinese, I eat everything with chopsticks
"May I have some moose?"
Afterwards, we had to get our lollipops and take group pictures, of course. (OK, I instigated that, since I'm the camera whore.)
At that point I was ready to head home since I'm a weenie and obsessed with my bschool applications right now. But ePop (now also known as "Robopop") threatened to carry me to the Cat Club ("You grab one butt cheek, I'll grab the other"), so I ended up tagging along for about an hour.
"Leave my buttcheeks alone!"
"Eh?"
Some of Caro's co-workers were waiting for us there, and we ran into ePop's ex-gf from four years ago. Ironically enough, she used to live at 20th & Irving as well - on the other side of Irving. We toasted to Eric having had sex on both sides of the street and busted a move.
Eric makes a new friend
Jessica busts out the 80s hair
Jessica, Sarah and Eric Pop
The reunited Robusteam - minus Clyde, but with our newest member
Serena and the Two Erics - a girl band, only missing dog collars
Serena: "Why do you always look away from the camera?"
Eric: "So I don't get red eyes."
Camera + the Robusteam and alcohol = some weird-ass picture taking. It all started with Caro touching Eric Pop's boob...
"Yuck, your boob makes me want to puke!"
"Oh my..."
... and ended in a contest about which Eric could get the most women molesting him.
Um.
Eric H gets jealous and ups the ante with three girls!
All in all, another fantastic night with my favorite people. Happy bday, luv!
Quotes of the Night:
Dinner started at 8, but of course, most of us were late. It was Carolyn, myself, Caro's friends Jessica, Vicky, and Sarah, and the two Erics. Clydo was at rehersal with SoulForce for the upcoming SF Hip Hop Dance Fest, and was missed! We finally got around to ordering food and wine after the waitress came back three times... *stress!*
For dinner, we had some lovely traditional Thai dishes - yellow curry chicken, prawns with asparagus, corn fritters, and pad thai - as well as some of Koh Samui's specialties, including an amazing soft shell crap accompanied by cucumber vinagrette. Our wine - a Cote du Rhone - was not quite so amazing, but then again, it only cost $22 for the bottle, so we weren't expecting that much.
Caro plays Emo
... but can't help but crack up.
"Hide me from these freaks!" laments Eric H (aka "Horse")
"I serve you corn fritters, my lady."
Hey, its the girl's birthday
We caught Vicky with a pic, despite her hiding all night
However, the desserts were wonderful; I especially liked the mango with sticky rice, but the fried banana with ice cream was great as well. Jessica also brought Caro a mini-cake - a white chocolate mousse that was very mild, yet still delicious.
"I'm turning one!"
I'm Chinese, I eat everything with chopsticks
"May I have some moose?"
Afterwards, we had to get our lollipops and take group pictures, of course. (OK, I instigated that, since I'm the camera whore.)
At that point I was ready to head home since I'm a weenie and obsessed with my bschool applications right now. But ePop (now also known as "Robopop") threatened to carry me to the Cat Club ("You grab one butt cheek, I'll grab the other"), so I ended up tagging along for about an hour.
"Leave my buttcheeks alone!"
"Eh?"
Some of Caro's co-workers were waiting for us there, and we ran into ePop's ex-gf from four years ago. Ironically enough, she used to live at 20th & Irving as well - on the other side of Irving. We toasted to Eric having had sex on both sides of the street and busted a move.
Eric makes a new friend
Jessica busts out the 80s hair
Jessica, Sarah and Eric Pop
The reunited Robusteam - minus Clyde, but with our newest member
Serena and the Two Erics - a girl band, only missing dog collars
Serena: "Why do you always look away from the camera?"
Eric: "So I don't get red eyes."
Camera + the Robusteam and alcohol = some weird-ass picture taking. It all started with Caro touching Eric Pop's boob...
"Yuck, your boob makes me want to puke!"
"Oh my..."
... and ended in a contest about which Eric could get the most women molesting him.
Um.
Eric H gets jealous and ups the ante with three girls!
All in all, another fantastic night with my favorite people. Happy bday, luv!
Quotes of the Night:
I dislike gratuitous puppet sex. ~ Carolyn
Excuse me sir, do you have nuts? ~ Eric Pop
10.11.2005
hellooooooooo stress!
Today, I started my bschool apps in earnest. The planning was the easy part. Now that I've seen what's before me, I'm ready to put a hole in my head.
And I'm still only on the recommendation package.
I nearly had a nervous breakdown today when I realized that I had completely forgotten about my joint-degree applications! Well, that's an exaggeration, but I did stop breathing for over a minute. Luckily, when I logged in to the Kennedy School of Government's app site, I realized that I can reuse 90% of the materials, including the essays and the rec's. I just need to get an additional essay from a college professor.
*Phew*
Also, I'm making my life (somewhat) simply by consolidating my joint-degree apps. Since KSG has agreements with Sloan and Stanford GSB, I'm not even going to bother applying to those MIA programs. I will need to do a separate for Columbia's SIPA, but Berkeley strictly forbids me from applying to another graduate program while applying to Haas. There *is* a God.
And I'm still only on the recommendation package.
I nearly had a nervous breakdown today when I realized that I had completely forgotten about my joint-degree applications! Well, that's an exaggeration, but I did stop breathing for over a minute. Luckily, when I logged in to the Kennedy School of Government's app site, I realized that I can reuse 90% of the materials, including the essays and the rec's. I just need to get an additional essay from a college professor.
*Phew*
Also, I'm making my life (somewhat) simply by consolidating my joint-degree apps. Since KSG has agreements with Sloan and Stanford GSB, I'm not even going to bother applying to those MIA programs. I will need to do a separate for Columbia's SIPA, but Berkeley strictly forbids me from applying to another graduate program while applying to Haas. There *is* a God.
do you fondue, baaaaaby?
Last Friday, Topher and Kimmy hosted a fabulous fondue party. And I don't mean stand-around-one-pot-o-cheese fondue party - there were 4 pots, 2 different kind of cheese dips, veggies, spicy and not spicy sausage, and a chocolate sauce that almost sent me into heart palpitations.
Plus, we had great wine and fantastic company. So lactose-intolerance aside (sorry guys! *blush*), the answer is a resounding YES.
Yet another great party brought to you by the folks at Sweet Valley High.
I think we can all be very glad that that last picture is blurry ;-)
Plus, we had great wine and fantastic company. So lactose-intolerance aside (sorry guys! *blush*), the answer is a resounding YES.
Yet another great party brought to you by the folks at Sweet Valley High.
I think we can all be very glad that that last picture is blurry ;-)
starting rumors
A fellow co-worker called me today and said, "Hey, did you know that Eric Zocher is no longer with Plumtree?!?" For those of you who have no idea what that means, Eric is the EVP of Product Development, and a kick-ass one at that. My eyes got about as big as they ever will, as I exclaimed, "What?! WHAT?!?!"
Then, after a moment of thought, I asked, "Wait. How did you hear that?"
My co-worker, who shall remain nameless, replied, "Well, I went out to lunch with some ex-Plumtree people, and they mentioned it. So I looked him up in the directory, and he's not there."
Pause. "Wait, let me check again."
Pause. "Oh, never mind. I spelled his name wrong! I spelled it with a 'k' instead of an 'h'."
"[Name]!" I exclaimed. "You almost started a rumor that would set off widespread panic!!"
"I know, I know," [Name] sighed. "Don't tell anyone - I feel like such an asshole."
"Duh, well, its going on the blog," I said. "But I'll keep your name off, to protect your stupidity."
Lesson of the Day: Check your spelling before you start calling people. This is how rumors get started.
By the way, can you tell that I have much more free time on my hands this week? Its mostly because ppl at work are at Odyssey, Plumtree's famous customer and developer conference, so its super quiet here in the office.
Then, after a moment of thought, I asked, "Wait. How did you hear that?"
My co-worker, who shall remain nameless, replied, "Well, I went out to lunch with some ex-Plumtree people, and they mentioned it. So I looked him up in the directory, and he's not there."
Pause. "Wait, let me check again."
Pause. "Oh, never mind. I spelled his name wrong! I spelled it with a 'k' instead of an 'h'."
"[Name]!" I exclaimed. "You almost started a rumor that would set off widespread panic!!"
"I know, I know," [Name] sighed. "Don't tell anyone - I feel like such an asshole."
"Duh, well, its going on the blog," I said. "But I'll keep your name off, to protect your stupidity."
Lesson of the Day: Check your spelling before you start calling people. This is how rumors get started.
By the way, can you tell that I have much more free time on my hands this week? Its mostly because ppl at work are at Odyssey, Plumtree's famous customer and developer conference, so its super quiet here in the office.
training diary, week 8: bloat!
*Sigh* No matter how good I am, how much I excercise, or how well I eat, I cannot fight against nature and NOT BLOAT.
Grrr.
Not that I've been even remotely good with the eating this past week. There was a little bit of emotional upheaval, combined with laziness from having finished the GMATs (don't ask how they are remotely related!). I confess, I went to McDonald's. And KFC. And had pizza. And lasagne. Twice. And some fabulous pastries from Cafe Madeline. Oh, and Kim came back from vacation and brought some chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, so of course, I had to eat those.
BUT... I have been exercising :-)
*~*~*~*
Training Diary, Week 8
Weight: 128.5 lbs
Body Fat:
Fitness Level: Actually, pretty good - have been going to the gym during work
Diana and I at the Symphony, 10/8
Workout Record:
Not great, as I didn't incorporate any weights into my training, but really, its better than I have been the last few weeks before the GMATs. And I find that I rather like going to the gym during lunch time, even though it makes me jittery for a little bit afterwards.
Beyond all the junk food listed above, I had two culinary events that were far more interesting - although not necessarily less fattening. On Wed, Eric H and I went to Coco500 for dinner. I know Karen and Agnes raved about it, but neither of us found it particularly outstanding. The Squash Blossom Flatbread was pretty tasty, and everything was good, but I think it was just slightly too rich. There wasn't enough balance in the food, although I did try a very nice wine, a red Priorat from Spain.
On Friday evening, Kimmy and Topher hosted a fondue night. If and when I ever get those pictures (*ahem*), I'll put up a separate posting, but suffice to say, it was yummy and very, very cheesey. There was quite a bit of nice wine going around there too - I actually discovered a Cote du Rhone at Andronico's that went well with dinner, and Michael brought a Portuguese table wine that surprised me.
But seeing how I looked in that dress on Sat, and realizing that I couldn't even remotely fit into my sari anymore... *sigh*. I'm rededicated to my fitness. I know, I know, I always say that, but this time, I'm serious. I even pulled out my planner and marked when I can eat out so that I wouldn't be such a glutton! Besides, now I have pressure on my side: my best friend from high school's wedding is coming up in mid-Nov, and I have to look fab for it. Not only will my high school sweetheart be there, but Yvonne and I have always been super competitive since the time we were 8. There's no way I'm showing up looking like a fattie.
Grrr.
Not that I've been even remotely good with the eating this past week. There was a little bit of emotional upheaval, combined with laziness from having finished the GMATs (don't ask how they are remotely related!). I confess, I went to McDonald's. And KFC. And had pizza. And lasagne. Twice. And some fabulous pastries from Cafe Madeline. Oh, and Kim came back from vacation and brought some chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, so of course, I had to eat those.
BUT... I have been exercising :-)
*~*~*~*
Training Diary, Week 8
Weight: 128.5 lbs
Body Fat:
Fitness Level: Actually, pretty good - have been going to the gym during work
Diana and I at the Symphony, 10/8
Workout Record:
- Sun, 10/2 - Nice long walk through the sunset. Ok, we got ice cream on the way, but it was a REALLY long walk.
- Thurs, 10/6 - Elliptical trainer, 30 mins
- Sat, 10/8 - Elliptical trainer, 30 mins
Not great, as I didn't incorporate any weights into my training, but really, its better than I have been the last few weeks before the GMATs. And I find that I rather like going to the gym during lunch time, even though it makes me jittery for a little bit afterwards.
Beyond all the junk food listed above, I had two culinary events that were far more interesting - although not necessarily less fattening. On Wed, Eric H and I went to Coco500 for dinner. I know Karen and Agnes raved about it, but neither of us found it particularly outstanding. The Squash Blossom Flatbread was pretty tasty, and everything was good, but I think it was just slightly too rich. There wasn't enough balance in the food, although I did try a very nice wine, a red Priorat from Spain.
On Friday evening, Kimmy and Topher hosted a fondue night. If and when I ever get those pictures (*ahem*), I'll put up a separate posting, but suffice to say, it was yummy and very, very cheesey. There was quite a bit of nice wine going around there too - I actually discovered a Cote du Rhone at Andronico's that went well with dinner, and Michael brought a Portuguese table wine that surprised me.
But seeing how I looked in that dress on Sat, and realizing that I couldn't even remotely fit into my sari anymore... *sigh*. I'm rededicated to my fitness. I know, I know, I always say that, but this time, I'm serious. I even pulled out my planner and marked when I can eat out so that I wouldn't be such a glutton! Besides, now I have pressure on my side: my best friend from high school's wedding is coming up in mid-Nov, and I have to look fab for it. Not only will my high school sweetheart be there, but Yvonne and I have always been super competitive since the time we were 8. There's no way I'm showing up looking like a fattie.
beethoven symphony no. 5
On Sat evening, Diana, Karen, Alex and I attended the San Francisco Symphony, and saw a spectacular performance of Beethoven's Symphony No. 5.
I'd never been to the symphony in SF, and Davies Hall was an impressive sight. Even though we had nosebleed seats ("We prefer 2nd tier orchestra, as the accoustics are better up here"), the view was amazing. The hall itself is beautifully constructed - an epic edifice that makes one feel both overwhelmed and at home. We were dead center, so we had a nice view of the orchestra. Karen even brought binoculars - "in case there's a really hot violinist."
The view from the stars... no hot violinist in sight.
The first half started out with Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 12. Like all Mozart concertos, it was beautifully arranged and pleasant. We clapped politely when it ended. I thought the symphony did a fantastic job pulling the pieces together with feeling, but in general, I find Mozart rather bland. Then the next piece came on: Hindemith's Left Hand Concerto. Diana commented, "It was written in the 1920's, so its probably all experimental or something."
Experimental was a nice way to put it. I found it to be cacophonous - yes, that's an SAT vocab word, but its really the only way to describe it. It was all in minor keys, and the various parts of the orchestra seemed to be playing against each other. It was definitely meant to agitate. Karen liked it, but I guess I'm more traditional. As the Chinese people behind me complained (in Mandarin), "What is this crap?"
Moi, Karen et Diana on the steps of Davies Hall
"This place scares me..."
Diana makes me take the picture again with a real smile.
Karen showing off her fabulous new haircut.
After intermission, the Beethoven started, opened by the famous first lines. The performance was enthralling - it seemed like only minutes passed before the entire piece ended. I can't explain my passion for Beethoven, but I felt the music coursing through my veins. I wanted to sing, but there were no words; I wanted to dance, but there was no rhythm. I always feel like this when I listen to Beethoven live, but it was like I was part of something bigger, grander. As soon as the last note ended, the audience burst into wild applause.
Since we were all dressed up, we decided to head to Absinthe for drinks and a light meal, like all the other frou-frou theatre people. But first, I had to go to the ladies room to remove my bra. My dress kept falling down all night, and double-side taping it didn't help, so I was flashing everyone all night. If it was a nice bra, I wouldn't have minded, but it just looked dumb. Alex was paying so little attention that he wandered in with us, and didn't realize until we said, "Um, its the women's bathroom."
I'd never been to Absinthe either, but I'd heard a lot about it. Maybe I was just cranky that night - the cold medicine was starting to wear off - but I didn't enjoy the wine, and only found the food so-so. The frites were fabulous, however, and the one Kumamoto oyster I had was very yummy. I was ready to collapse by the time we got our check, so we all said our goodbyes, and headed home.
I'd never been to the symphony in SF, and Davies Hall was an impressive sight. Even though we had nosebleed seats ("We prefer 2nd tier orchestra, as the accoustics are better up here"), the view was amazing. The hall itself is beautifully constructed - an epic edifice that makes one feel both overwhelmed and at home. We were dead center, so we had a nice view of the orchestra. Karen even brought binoculars - "in case there's a really hot violinist."
The view from the stars... no hot violinist in sight.
The first half started out with Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 12. Like all Mozart concertos, it was beautifully arranged and pleasant. We clapped politely when it ended. I thought the symphony did a fantastic job pulling the pieces together with feeling, but in general, I find Mozart rather bland. Then the next piece came on: Hindemith's Left Hand Concerto. Diana commented, "It was written in the 1920's, so its probably all experimental or something."
Experimental was a nice way to put it. I found it to be cacophonous - yes, that's an SAT vocab word, but its really the only way to describe it. It was all in minor keys, and the various parts of the orchestra seemed to be playing against each other. It was definitely meant to agitate. Karen liked it, but I guess I'm more traditional. As the Chinese people behind me complained (in Mandarin), "What is this crap?"
Moi, Karen et Diana on the steps of Davies Hall
"This place scares me..."
Diana makes me take the picture again with a real smile.
Karen showing off her fabulous new haircut.
After intermission, the Beethoven started, opened by the famous first lines. The performance was enthralling - it seemed like only minutes passed before the entire piece ended. I can't explain my passion for Beethoven, but I felt the music coursing through my veins. I wanted to sing, but there were no words; I wanted to dance, but there was no rhythm. I always feel like this when I listen to Beethoven live, but it was like I was part of something bigger, grander. As soon as the last note ended, the audience burst into wild applause.
Since we were all dressed up, we decided to head to Absinthe for drinks and a light meal, like all the other frou-frou theatre people. But first, I had to go to the ladies room to remove my bra. My dress kept falling down all night, and double-side taping it didn't help, so I was flashing everyone all night. If it was a nice bra, I wouldn't have minded, but it just looked dumb. Alex was paying so little attention that he wandered in with us, and didn't realize until we said, "Um, its the women's bathroom."
I'd never been to Absinthe either, but I'd heard a lot about it. Maybe I was just cranky that night - the cold medicine was starting to wear off - but I didn't enjoy the wine, and only found the food so-so. The frites were fabulous, however, and the one Kumamoto oyster I had was very yummy. I was ready to collapse by the time we got our check, so we all said our goodbyes, and headed home.
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