Time for my NBA Finals pick....(or the annual "who does David Stern love?" award)
Miami vs. Dallas: I hate Miami, if they win then everything I believe about sports becomes crapped on, and I don't own boots deep enough to walk around the bandwagon dookie that could come if LeDouche wins a title. My heart wants the Mavericks in the worst way, my brain says Miami. So who wins?: Have we not met? I always lead with my heart, for better or worse. Dallas in 6.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Kids ask the darndest questions
Last weekend my friends 11 yr old daughter asked me, kinda out of left field, if I believed in global warming. I told her I don't.
Go figure, this smart young lady had the thought to start researching this online, and wanted to know why there could be so much varying information. I asked if she got to the part where it was found out that information and statistics had been made up or manipulated to get a certain answer.
"People do that?"
My only reply was 'welcome to the world of adults, where grown-ups feel the need to justify their existence, no matter the cost. Scientists, the people that sign up to find out the information, are now tweaking data to politcize their answer'.
While I think I may have thrown a pebble into the pure hope of this girls mind, I had an even better point, and here it is:
I find it hilarious that we as humans think we matter that much. We honestly believe we can change the chemistry of this planet. C'mon now!! Every time someone starts yacking away about Global Warming, the environment or the ozone layer, we get a reminder of how frail and insignificant we are. Don't believe me? How'd that earthquake in Japan turn out? The tornado in Joplin, Missouri? I don't care which you believe in, God, Mother Nature, The Tides, or a sun fart, we don't count. All the architectural design in the world won't stop devastation.
Not now, not never, not ever. We humans are a spec of sand in the hourglass of time that is this planet. The sooner you get that thru your heads the better off we'll all be. Yes, do your part to recycle, to use hand towels instead of paper ones, that's all fine and dandy. But enough of the 'save the planet', save your damn self first.
Go figure, this smart young lady had the thought to start researching this online, and wanted to know why there could be so much varying information. I asked if she got to the part where it was found out that information and statistics had been made up or manipulated to get a certain answer.
"People do that?"
My only reply was 'welcome to the world of adults, where grown-ups feel the need to justify their existence, no matter the cost. Scientists, the people that sign up to find out the information, are now tweaking data to politcize their answer'.
While I think I may have thrown a pebble into the pure hope of this girls mind, I had an even better point, and here it is:
I find it hilarious that we as humans think we matter that much. We honestly believe we can change the chemistry of this planet. C'mon now!! Every time someone starts yacking away about Global Warming, the environment or the ozone layer, we get a reminder of how frail and insignificant we are. Don't believe me? How'd that earthquake in Japan turn out? The tornado in Joplin, Missouri? I don't care which you believe in, God, Mother Nature, The Tides, or a sun fart, we don't count. All the architectural design in the world won't stop devastation.
Not now, not never, not ever. We humans are a spec of sand in the hourglass of time that is this planet. The sooner you get that thru your heads the better off we'll all be. Yes, do your part to recycle, to use hand towels instead of paper ones, that's all fine and dandy. But enough of the 'save the planet', save your damn self first.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Couple of notes
Here's hoping Dolphins owner Stephen Ross doesn't teach an economics class or 'how to make friends and influence people'. Yeeouch.
Ever meet anyone who thinks that their online friends or followers mean something tangible? Great, then have one of their 578 facebook friends take 'em to the airport the next time they even mention it.
If you had a company to run, would you really hire a 22 yr old brat or talk to your 14 yr old nephew? I'd go with nephew, he'd be more honest and wouldn't try to dazzle me with bullshit.
I can't shop at Urban Outfitters because they don't make things for chubby folks, but here's a damn fine reason why YOU shouldn't shop there, either. Jerks.
I knew it wasn't a myth, that whole 'companies aren't hiring the unemployed', but now I will make it more of a concerted effort to help any friend of mine or friend of friend looking for a job.
Ever meet anyone who thinks that their online friends or followers mean something tangible? Great, then have one of their 578 facebook friends take 'em to the airport the next time they even mention it.
If you had a company to run, would you really hire a 22 yr old brat or talk to your 14 yr old nephew? I'd go with nephew, he'd be more honest and wouldn't try to dazzle me with bullshit.
I can't shop at Urban Outfitters because they don't make things for chubby folks, but here's a damn fine reason why YOU shouldn't shop there, either. Jerks.
I knew it wasn't a myth, that whole 'companies aren't hiring the unemployed', but now I will make it more of a concerted effort to help any friend of mine or friend of friend looking for a job.
Awesome weight loss program!
Nothing like food poisoning to question your relationship with the food chain, God, major toilet paper brands and paperback books.
Hot damn you should see my ab. Oh, you think that should read 'abs'? Look, while I may continue to lose weight/workout/eat better-the only 6-pack will be in my fridge. I prefer to count myself amongst the athletically chubby looking. My pants are still loose, so I like that. But not due to food poisoning.
Anyone else ever had the joy of dealing with this? They should do this at Gitmo instead of waterboarding. After not being able to eat for like 3 days I'd be willing to tell anyone anything they wanted to hear, so long as they made the bubbleguts stop.
Three good things have come from this:
1. I finished a book in record time. I'm not a fast reader, and since I'm not a huge fan of it, I take my sweet damn time. Well, since a lot of time was spent in the WC, a lot of reading got done. Not a tough read, but damn it, something got accomplished.
2. I got a ton of sleep. I haven't been sleeping much the last couple of weeks, not sure why, don't really care why, just wanted to rest. Well, this has taught me that trying to survive on 5 1/2 hrs of sleep a night is dumb. Your body's defenses are immensely weakened with a lack of sleep and rest. You'd think someone that lounges as much as I do would know this. But this counts for the brain, too. Every once in awhile you must shut that thing down.
3. I'm an idiot, but you already knew that. Honestly, when this thing started on Tuesday with the dull aches and the inability to keep warm, I thought I had the flu. Let's keep this straight, too-if I'm cold and can't get warm, I'm in big big trouble. By Wednesday I had started to feel better and thought eating would be a fine idea-it was not. I ate nothing yesterday, except for a few sips of ginger ale, and it got worse. I thought in the beginning this was my body telling me to quit worrying about stupid stuff and slow down. And while this still may be the message, long-term, it still remains a valid and more upfront point to pay attention to what you're eating.
I have a very good idea when and what I ate that made me this violently ill, but I will just remind myself to pay attention.
On the bright side, my pants are so loose that when I go back east next weekend maybe I won't come back with super-snug pants, just only slightly snug.
It's all about the positive, people.
Hot damn you should see my ab. Oh, you think that should read 'abs'? Look, while I may continue to lose weight/workout/eat better-the only 6-pack will be in my fridge. I prefer to count myself amongst the athletically chubby looking. My pants are still loose, so I like that. But not due to food poisoning.
Anyone else ever had the joy of dealing with this? They should do this at Gitmo instead of waterboarding. After not being able to eat for like 3 days I'd be willing to tell anyone anything they wanted to hear, so long as they made the bubbleguts stop.
Three good things have come from this:
1. I finished a book in record time. I'm not a fast reader, and since I'm not a huge fan of it, I take my sweet damn time. Well, since a lot of time was spent in the WC, a lot of reading got done. Not a tough read, but damn it, something got accomplished.
2. I got a ton of sleep. I haven't been sleeping much the last couple of weeks, not sure why, don't really care why, just wanted to rest. Well, this has taught me that trying to survive on 5 1/2 hrs of sleep a night is dumb. Your body's defenses are immensely weakened with a lack of sleep and rest. You'd think someone that lounges as much as I do would know this. But this counts for the brain, too. Every once in awhile you must shut that thing down.
3. I'm an idiot, but you already knew that. Honestly, when this thing started on Tuesday with the dull aches and the inability to keep warm, I thought I had the flu. Let's keep this straight, too-if I'm cold and can't get warm, I'm in big big trouble. By Wednesday I had started to feel better and thought eating would be a fine idea-it was not. I ate nothing yesterday, except for a few sips of ginger ale, and it got worse. I thought in the beginning this was my body telling me to quit worrying about stupid stuff and slow down. And while this still may be the message, long-term, it still remains a valid and more upfront point to pay attention to what you're eating.
I have a very good idea when and what I ate that made me this violently ill, but I will just remind myself to pay attention.
On the bright side, my pants are so loose that when I go back east next weekend maybe I won't come back with super-snug pants, just only slightly snug.
It's all about the positive, people.
Monday, May 23, 2011
This scenario about wraps it up....
So this past Friday night I went to see my niece, all 3 yrs old of her, in her first dance recital. She was adorable as she was wearing her little costume and sailor hat singing 'Row Row Row Your Boat', running around. Too cute for words.
Being the guy that I am, I brought a bouquet of flowers for the lil' munchkin. After her dancing was over, I brought the flowers to her, she was very happy, and then turned around and walked 10 feet to her dance instructor and gave her those same flowers.
Yup, even when I attempt to give my niece flowers, she gives 'em to someone else.
Story of my life.....(you better be laughing, because it's funny).
She got the flowers back, and the best part of this whole thing? Before the recital, I told my buddy DanO what I was going to do, and he told me, "A-Ron, somewhere out there some girl is missing out, you're a gentleman." Made my whole head blush. He may be right, but I'm starting to wonder.
Being the guy that I am, I brought a bouquet of flowers for the lil' munchkin. After her dancing was over, I brought the flowers to her, she was very happy, and then turned around and walked 10 feet to her dance instructor and gave her those same flowers.
Yup, even when I attempt to give my niece flowers, she gives 'em to someone else.
Story of my life.....(you better be laughing, because it's funny).
She got the flowers back, and the best part of this whole thing? Before the recital, I told my buddy DanO what I was going to do, and he told me, "A-Ron, somewhere out there some girl is missing out, you're a gentleman." Made my whole head blush. He may be right, but I'm starting to wonder.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Cleanup, aisle 24
Alright, time for me to clean up some of the links I've had hanging out on my Mozilla tabs for what seems like an eternity...
LZ Granderson, a guy I've read on espn.com a number of times and who always brings something to the table, also writes for CNN. I think I'm going to like reading this guy, even if I won't always agree with him. In this installment-something I've always said, but I'm going to add to it-"don't name your daughter after a car, a brand, a spice, a jewel or a season." Thanks and drive thru.
Quick tip on some mistakes for anyone trying to maintain getting in shape. I've been riding the sitdown bike for a couple of days in the last two weeks, and all it's made me is hungry. Damnitalltohell, why are carbs so delicious??
I realize that Mother's Day was about a week and a half ago, but that doesn't mean this article doesn't stick right out there. I know a couple of single Moms who read this, and this ain't you. It's the same idiot males who think they can be their kids' friend, it ain't gonna work. Having kids is a responsibility (see, I make a mature point on occasion), get used to it. Want a friend? Buy a dog-they're loyal and are always happy to see you.
Just in case you didn't know how to choose a hat. But no side-tilt, douchebag.
Really? Now Donovan McNabb isn't 'black enough'??? What the hell does this mean? As a white male in his mid-30's, I can only tell my white friends 'guy, be whiter', 'you know you're white, right?', and the always enjoyable 'crackers are in aisle 7, just sayin'. Is anyone ever 'White enough'? Can someone tell Bernard Hopkins to shut up, already? Other than taking a punch and giving some in return, all Bernard knows is crime and prison lovin'. Is he 'too black' or too damn stupid? You make the call.
RIP, Harmon Killebrew. Your play was beyond great, you handled yourself with grace on the diamond and your decision to quit cancer treatment must not have been easy. Godspeed, sir.
Notes for you to use/chuck:
The latest album by Adele, 21, is great. Buy it, download it, listen to it-it's good.
If you're a hiphophead, The Procussions. Thank me later.
I'm looking at getting my MBA...the guy that graduated college by barely reading is strongly thinking about this? I need more career opportunities, and since I'm single, might as well do something valuable with my time. I'll keep y'all posted on what transpires.
Boston-bound: I'll be flying out of Denver on 6/3 and returning late on 6/6. Pops golf tourney, hug Ma Dukes, headlock my Broham, tickle my Godson and remind myself why I don't miss humidity. Can't wait to see my peoples.
LZ Granderson, a guy I've read on espn.com a number of times and who always brings something to the table, also writes for CNN. I think I'm going to like reading this guy, even if I won't always agree with him. In this installment-something I've always said, but I'm going to add to it-"don't name your daughter after a car, a brand, a spice, a jewel or a season." Thanks and drive thru.
Quick tip on some mistakes for anyone trying to maintain getting in shape. I've been riding the sitdown bike for a couple of days in the last two weeks, and all it's made me is hungry. Damnitalltohell, why are carbs so delicious??
I realize that Mother's Day was about a week and a half ago, but that doesn't mean this article doesn't stick right out there. I know a couple of single Moms who read this, and this ain't you. It's the same idiot males who think they can be their kids' friend, it ain't gonna work. Having kids is a responsibility (see, I make a mature point on occasion), get used to it. Want a friend? Buy a dog-they're loyal and are always happy to see you.
Just in case you didn't know how to choose a hat. But no side-tilt, douchebag.
Really? Now Donovan McNabb isn't 'black enough'??? What the hell does this mean? As a white male in his mid-30's, I can only tell my white friends 'guy, be whiter', 'you know you're white, right?', and the always enjoyable 'crackers are in aisle 7, just sayin'. Is anyone ever 'White enough'? Can someone tell Bernard Hopkins to shut up, already? Other than taking a punch and giving some in return, all Bernard knows is crime and prison lovin'. Is he 'too black' or too damn stupid? You make the call.
RIP, Harmon Killebrew. Your play was beyond great, you handled yourself with grace on the diamond and your decision to quit cancer treatment must not have been easy. Godspeed, sir.
Notes for you to use/chuck:
The latest album by Adele, 21, is great. Buy it, download it, listen to it-it's good.
If you're a hiphophead, The Procussions. Thank me later.
I'm looking at getting my MBA...the guy that graduated college by barely reading is strongly thinking about this? I need more career opportunities, and since I'm single, might as well do something valuable with my time. I'll keep y'all posted on what transpires.
Boston-bound: I'll be flying out of Denver on 6/3 and returning late on 6/6. Pops golf tourney, hug Ma Dukes, headlock my Broham, tickle my Godson and remind myself why I don't miss humidity. Can't wait to see my peoples.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Cleanup, Sports Dept. (and NBA picks)
Just a few things that we all need to know....
How screwed up at life do you have to be for John Lucas to give up on you? That is the question I would like to ask 2007 1st overall pick JaMarcus Russell. John Lucas has been helping young men gain control of their lives again for around 20 years, and never has a story been written where he's given up on someone, at least not to my memory. JaMarcus, quit drinking the sizzzurp and get your ass to the gym, pronto, if you ever want to redeem yourself as a man. Guy is only like 25 years old-anyone else scared they're about to read about him in the paper doing something that has the word 'felony' in it?
Anyone think the NHL will smarten up on hits to the head? Howard Bryant thinks so. How about now that Sidney Crosby hasn't played since January, and didn't suit up for the world champions? Are there whispers of Eric Lindros whirling around, and that's why the Penguins are being so cautious? What are the odds that once the season is over that Matt Cooke is gone? What if this had something to do with concussions? Here's hoping it didn't. My condolences to Derek Boogaard's family and friends.
That's it????? 5 games??? David Stern, you're a pussy. Andrew Bynum should have gotten 25 games, minimum. When Magic Johnson, Jerry West and James Worthy all call what he did a classless move and a smear on the Lakers franchise, take note. Way to take a stand. Me and the rest of the conspiracy theorists will have a field day with this one.
You stay classy, ESPN.
And add this to that 'classy' list while you're at it. Funny, you report this right off the bat, and it may be nothing, as I have no clue what constitutes any of Barnaby's alledged charges, but Jalen Rose got busted for DUI and you waited a month (couldn't have had anything to do with that controversial Fab Five '30 for 30' documentary Rose produced, could it? Nahhhh).
Things are about to get ugly in New York-the media is not going to let this story just go away like a fart after a stay at the chinese buffet. As much as I don't like the NYY, y'all know this, I think one of their own should be treated better than an interview during a game against your heated rivals. Yes, I'm staring at you, Brian Cashman.
NBA Conference Finals picks
Eastern Conference
Miami vs. Chicago: The first game of this series is on right now as I type this. Here is Jason Whitlock's take, and I love it. The Bulls have the biggest advantage over Miami-at the Point. The Celtics would have exposed it had D-Wade not pulled down Rajon Rondo and assisted with a dislocation of the elbow (this, by the way, is not up for discussion). D-Wade tries any of this stuff with Rose and he will be dealt with properly. Yes, I'm upset that the C's didn't handle Wade or that crybaby LeDouche early and often-it cost them the series. To see LeBron James cry like Jordan was pathetic. Jordan had lost his father. All LeBron did was move on to another round of the playoffs-he ain't won shit yet. Oh, and then after telling us that the Celtics are a good team, he finally apologized to Cleveland. What an ass. Do you think he would have apologized had the Heat lost the series to the Celtics? Me, neither. So watch in wonderment the new kid on the block, Derrick Rose. I'm rooting for anyone not wearing a Heat jersey (it'll be bad for sport if they win anything this year). Who wins? Chicago in 6 (please, Sports Gods?)
Western Conference
Oklahoma City vs. Dallas: Yes, Dallas will have some rust after having 9 days off. But they are too deep. Enjoy watching Durant and Nowitzki, it's going to be fun. The battle on the boards will be huge, but does OKC have enough firepower? Only if James Harden comes off the bench in every game scoring 15-20. Who wins? Dallas in 6.
Enjoy your week!
How screwed up at life do you have to be for John Lucas to give up on you? That is the question I would like to ask 2007 1st overall pick JaMarcus Russell. John Lucas has been helping young men gain control of their lives again for around 20 years, and never has a story been written where he's given up on someone, at least not to my memory. JaMarcus, quit drinking the sizzzurp and get your ass to the gym, pronto, if you ever want to redeem yourself as a man. Guy is only like 25 years old-anyone else scared they're about to read about him in the paper doing something that has the word 'felony' in it?
Anyone think the NHL will smarten up on hits to the head? Howard Bryant thinks so. How about now that Sidney Crosby hasn't played since January, and didn't suit up for the world champions? Are there whispers of Eric Lindros whirling around, and that's why the Penguins are being so cautious? What are the odds that once the season is over that Matt Cooke is gone? What if this had something to do with concussions? Here's hoping it didn't. My condolences to Derek Boogaard's family and friends.
That's it????? 5 games??? David Stern, you're a pussy. Andrew Bynum should have gotten 25 games, minimum. When Magic Johnson, Jerry West and James Worthy all call what he did a classless move and a smear on the Lakers franchise, take note. Way to take a stand. Me and the rest of the conspiracy theorists will have a field day with this one.
You stay classy, ESPN.
And add this to that 'classy' list while you're at it. Funny, you report this right off the bat, and it may be nothing, as I have no clue what constitutes any of Barnaby's alledged charges, but Jalen Rose got busted for DUI and you waited a month (couldn't have had anything to do with that controversial Fab Five '30 for 30' documentary Rose produced, could it? Nahhhh).
Things are about to get ugly in New York-the media is not going to let this story just go away like a fart after a stay at the chinese buffet. As much as I don't like the NYY, y'all know this, I think one of their own should be treated better than an interview during a game against your heated rivals. Yes, I'm staring at you, Brian Cashman.
NBA Conference Finals picks
Eastern Conference
Miami vs. Chicago: The first game of this series is on right now as I type this. Here is Jason Whitlock's take, and I love it. The Bulls have the biggest advantage over Miami-at the Point. The Celtics would have exposed it had D-Wade not pulled down Rajon Rondo and assisted with a dislocation of the elbow (this, by the way, is not up for discussion). D-Wade tries any of this stuff with Rose and he will be dealt with properly. Yes, I'm upset that the C's didn't handle Wade or that crybaby LeDouche early and often-it cost them the series. To see LeBron James cry like Jordan was pathetic. Jordan had lost his father. All LeBron did was move on to another round of the playoffs-he ain't won shit yet. Oh, and then after telling us that the Celtics are a good team, he finally apologized to Cleveland. What an ass. Do you think he would have apologized had the Heat lost the series to the Celtics? Me, neither. So watch in wonderment the new kid on the block, Derrick Rose. I'm rooting for anyone not wearing a Heat jersey (it'll be bad for sport if they win anything this year). Who wins? Chicago in 6 (please, Sports Gods?)
Western Conference
Oklahoma City vs. Dallas: Yes, Dallas will have some rust after having 9 days off. But they are too deep. Enjoy watching Durant and Nowitzki, it's going to be fun. The battle on the boards will be huge, but does OKC have enough firepower? Only if James Harden comes off the bench in every game scoring 15-20. Who wins? Dallas in 6.
Enjoy your week!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
To get to the Cup...
I know, I have a ton to write. But it ain't happenin' right now. I have to go pick up my new glasses in a few minutes, but wanted to make sure I got my picks in for the Conference Finals in the NHL.
Here we go:
Eastern Conference
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins.: I could make this easy by making my pick, but I'm going to delve slightly into the snow on this one. First is the power play-Tampa Bay's is awesome, the Bruins' is meek. Getting better, yes, but still meek. Goaltending-while Lightning G Dwayne Roloson owned the Capitlals, I'm not certain of his ownership of the black & gold. B's G Tim Thomas has been stellar. Yes, the B's will be without C Patrice Bergeron for some or all of this series, but we finally get to see if the kid, Tyler Seguin, can play. I think he makes a difference if he plays his position. Tampa Bay will score, but I'm not sure they can stop enough pucks. Who wins? B's in 7.
Western Conference
Vancouver vs. San Jose: Does anyone want to win this series? The question needs to be asked because neither team has been great at closing out their opponents in these playoffs. Can Joe Thornton close? Can Roberto Luongo win the big one? Who knows? So look down the roster at the talent. And if you count overall talent, only offensively because neither plays much defense, it goes to the Green Men. Who wins? Vancouver in 6.
More tomorrow!
Here we go:
Eastern Conference
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins.: I could make this easy by making my pick, but I'm going to delve slightly into the snow on this one. First is the power play-Tampa Bay's is awesome, the Bruins' is meek. Getting better, yes, but still meek. Goaltending-while Lightning G Dwayne Roloson owned the Capitlals, I'm not certain of his ownership of the black & gold. B's G Tim Thomas has been stellar. Yes, the B's will be without C Patrice Bergeron for some or all of this series, but we finally get to see if the kid, Tyler Seguin, can play. I think he makes a difference if he plays his position. Tampa Bay will score, but I'm not sure they can stop enough pucks. Who wins? B's in 7.
Western Conference
Vancouver vs. San Jose: Does anyone want to win this series? The question needs to be asked because neither team has been great at closing out their opponents in these playoffs. Can Joe Thornton close? Can Roberto Luongo win the big one? Who knows? So look down the roster at the talent. And if you count overall talent, only offensively because neither plays much defense, it goes to the Green Men. Who wins? Vancouver in 6.
More tomorrow!
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Motivational skills are quite lacking
Ever work for people that just don't get it? Not in a horrible, yelling all the time kind of way. But more of the 'really, was that necessary?' type....that's what I'm working with here.
Boiling it down:
A couple of weeks ago I was in 2 weeks worth of training that could have been done in 4 days, tops. I'd spoken to this trainer before about training philosophies and what her predecessor had neglected to do. Please keep in mind, I didn't 'hate on' the prior trainer like many (most) of my incoming class did. For real, they hated on that poor girl like she stole something. My feedback was all business, even had a few tips in there (for example, the woman said 'Ummm' a lot. Solution? Dell Carnegie classes, Toastmasters, etc.). Not one of my tips did this new trainer bring to her own training, and it sucked.
After 2 weeks of this training I and all of my teammates were given new accounts to work. The sheer volume is daunting. I've had two women I work with cry because they are feeling overwhelmed. Me? I'm more pissed, for the following reasons:
1. I got these accounts last Monday, but was not able to view them or talk to the previous account management team, until this past Thursday.
2. I was involved in a major accounts con-call on Tuesday. Yup, a whopping 3 business days to gather up info on quadruple the work. I'm not kidding about that. If I had 1X 2 weeks ago, I now have 5 x. And that's fine, but since it took me about a month to figure out 1x, with an awesome previous account mgmt team that wanted to help me, what fucked up math are ya doing to think that 5x with no help gets consumed in 3 days time? C'mon man!!!
3. I got the biggest account. By quite a bit. I love a challenge, but if no one will talk to me, and no one will give me any info, how in the world am I supposed to be able to update my upper mgmt.
4. What creased me? Being told that I needed to 'know my level'. In context, where I work I need to go thru 2-3 levels of mgmt to get to another side of my internal business. Meanwhile, I'm expected to be in contact with external C-level type folks. Title dictates behavior? Eff you it does. And to think, I got answers before I got my hand slapped. I'm sure that there is a perfectly good explanation for it, but I refuse to kiss the ring of someone just because they have a bigger title. Don't expect me to call on a CFO at a client of mine if I can't talk to a director level person here. It's beyond dumb. And the little hand-slap that I got? Set me off the deep end.
Now come the pep-talk type emails, after my team gets its collective dick kicked in the dirt. We recoup as a group, talk about things, laugh about how we think we're getting set up to fail, etc. Hell, there's almost a lull when I walk in today, like people are ready to roll up their sleeves and attack the work.
And then it happens....
The email from hell that lets us know that we're behind as a group, things are bleak, the sky is falling, but please note that we're there for you, blahblahblahblah. Awesome management techniques.
Look, I have no gripes with my mgmt folks, as people. They're more than fine. They are mostly understanding. But how does this type of email motivate folks?
I've led teams before, I know what folks have been up against, and this type of stuff sucks. Mostly because they have lost the ability to gauge the group. I've got 4 teammates 'out sick' today, and not for one second do I believe they're all ill. I'll bet 2 are fed up, one is wondering what the hell they signed up for and one is sick.
For now, I laugh slyly at this. Tonight? I start my job hunt again. I'm thinking it's time for me to run some things-I've got the brain and the skillset for it. And I know damn well enough when to leave it alone, when to push and when to pull the ol' "We're all in this together" mantra.
Today, we giggle in silence.
Boiling it down:
A couple of weeks ago I was in 2 weeks worth of training that could have been done in 4 days, tops. I'd spoken to this trainer before about training philosophies and what her predecessor had neglected to do. Please keep in mind, I didn't 'hate on' the prior trainer like many (most) of my incoming class did. For real, they hated on that poor girl like she stole something. My feedback was all business, even had a few tips in there (for example, the woman said 'Ummm' a lot. Solution? Dell Carnegie classes, Toastmasters, etc.). Not one of my tips did this new trainer bring to her own training, and it sucked.
After 2 weeks of this training I and all of my teammates were given new accounts to work. The sheer volume is daunting. I've had two women I work with cry because they are feeling overwhelmed. Me? I'm more pissed, for the following reasons:
1. I got these accounts last Monday, but was not able to view them or talk to the previous account management team, until this past Thursday.
2. I was involved in a major accounts con-call on Tuesday. Yup, a whopping 3 business days to gather up info on quadruple the work. I'm not kidding about that. If I had 1X 2 weeks ago, I now have 5 x. And that's fine, but since it took me about a month to figure out 1x, with an awesome previous account mgmt team that wanted to help me, what fucked up math are ya doing to think that 5x with no help gets consumed in 3 days time? C'mon man!!!
3. I got the biggest account. By quite a bit. I love a challenge, but if no one will talk to me, and no one will give me any info, how in the world am I supposed to be able to update my upper mgmt.
4. What creased me? Being told that I needed to 'know my level'. In context, where I work I need to go thru 2-3 levels of mgmt to get to another side of my internal business. Meanwhile, I'm expected to be in contact with external C-level type folks. Title dictates behavior? Eff you it does. And to think, I got answers before I got my hand slapped. I'm sure that there is a perfectly good explanation for it, but I refuse to kiss the ring of someone just because they have a bigger title. Don't expect me to call on a CFO at a client of mine if I can't talk to a director level person here. It's beyond dumb. And the little hand-slap that I got? Set me off the deep end.
Now come the pep-talk type emails, after my team gets its collective dick kicked in the dirt. We recoup as a group, talk about things, laugh about how we think we're getting set up to fail, etc. Hell, there's almost a lull when I walk in today, like people are ready to roll up their sleeves and attack the work.
And then it happens....
The email from hell that lets us know that we're behind as a group, things are bleak, the sky is falling, but please note that we're there for you, blahblahblahblah. Awesome management techniques.
Look, I have no gripes with my mgmt folks, as people. They're more than fine. They are mostly understanding. But how does this type of email motivate folks?
I've led teams before, I know what folks have been up against, and this type of stuff sucks. Mostly because they have lost the ability to gauge the group. I've got 4 teammates 'out sick' today, and not for one second do I believe they're all ill. I'll bet 2 are fed up, one is wondering what the hell they signed up for and one is sick.
For now, I laugh slyly at this. Tonight? I start my job hunt again. I'm thinking it's time for me to run some things-I've got the brain and the skillset for it. And I know damn well enough when to leave it alone, when to push and when to pull the ol' "We're all in this together" mantra.
Today, we giggle in silence.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Wasn't yesterday Mother's Day???
Doesn't anyone have a Mom (or Dad, Grandparent, Auntie, cousin) that taught them any damn manners in a confined space?
I'm sitting at my desk and all I hear is 'clip, clip, clip...clip, clip...clip, clip, clip, clip'...really, clipping your fingernails at your desk?
I don't know about you, but I was told at an early age NEVER to do that. When I asked where I ought to do such a thing, I was told in the bathroom or the privacy of your own home.
People are gross....
I'm sitting at my desk and all I hear is 'clip, clip, clip...clip, clip...clip, clip, clip, clip'...really, clipping your fingernails at your desk?
I don't know about you, but I was told at an early age NEVER to do that. When I asked where I ought to do such a thing, I was told in the bathroom or the privacy of your own home.
People are gross....
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Happy Mother's Day
To all the Moms out there, especially mine-Happy Mother's Day!!!
Ma Dukes already got her flowers on Friday morning (so she could enjoy them) and the card yesterday....No better feeling than being prepared and early, tricks of the trade she taught me.
Miss you Ma, and I'll see you in a couple of weeks!
Ma Dukes already got her flowers on Friday morning (so she could enjoy them) and the card yesterday....No better feeling than being prepared and early, tricks of the trade she taught me.
Miss you Ma, and I'll see you in a couple of weeks!
Monday, May 2, 2011
a fine howdoyado....
Good Morning my little cherubs....
nothing like coming into work, firing up your email and seeing a nastygram from someone who sent it on a Sunday morning. Why? Because they know they'd be first in line to try and piss you off and try and light a fire under your ass.
Since I can't retort as I'd like to via work email to the whole "this has dragged on a long time", here it comes:
"Dear Cuntrag,
Thank you for your attention on my account. I find it awesome that you care so much about this account being cleaned up that when I asked for more information 6 weeks ago you said absolutely nothing, yet have the gall to ask for things to be expedited now. Go fuck yourself with a rake.
Sincerely,
The only one who can do anything in this joint"
Whew, I feel better.
Happy Monday-now go out there and kick some ass.
nothing like coming into work, firing up your email and seeing a nastygram from someone who sent it on a Sunday morning. Why? Because they know they'd be first in line to try and piss you off and try and light a fire under your ass.
Since I can't retort as I'd like to via work email to the whole "this has dragged on a long time", here it comes:
"Dear Cuntrag,
Thank you for your attention on my account. I find it awesome that you care so much about this account being cleaned up that when I asked for more information 6 weeks ago you said absolutely nothing, yet have the gall to ask for things to be expedited now. Go fuck yourself with a rake.
Sincerely,
The only one who can do anything in this joint"
Whew, I feel better.
Happy Monday-now go out there and kick some ass.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Fashionably late
Yup, I'm a little late to the party for my 2nd round predictions for the NHL and NBA playoffs, but better late than never....
NHL
Well, I got 6 out of 8 correct in my 1st round predictions, and I'll take it!! Now, on to Round 2:
Eastern Conference
Tampa Bay vs. Washington-rumor has it that TB Goalie Dwayne Roloson owns Washington, and I've seen nothing to dispute that so far. Yes, the Caps can score, but can they stop anyone from scoring? Add to it that there are a ton of injuries in this series, and we could see more of the same in this series. Who wins? Washington, but it goes 7.
Boston vs. Philadelphia-It's redemption time. Or payback. Or maybe it's time for a little Bluto-"not on my watch!" Last year the B's were crushed, losing game 7 after being up 3 games to none on the Flyers. That ain't happening again. Philly will try and get chippy, and Bruins Chara and Lucic will stand up some folks real quick. So long as the Bruins keep the attack going and get to more pucks, the Flyers turnstile shuffle between the pipes will be their downfall. So long, suckas!! Who wins?-Bruins in 5.
Western Conference
Nashville vs. Vancouver-wicked late to this mixer, and I was thisclose to calling the Canuck choke job against Chicago, but they will not cough it up vs. Nashville. It won't be easy, either. The Predators are a feisty bunch, but not enough. Who wins? Vancouver, but this one is going to 7 games, too.
Detroit vs. San Jose-there's a two-sided coin to this series, heads is that Detroit may be getting long in tooth, tails is that San Jose isn't exactly known for closing things out. And y'all know my feelings regarding one Sharks Captain Joe Thornton. It's picking between the lesser of two evils. If the Red Wings were all healthy, they would be the easy pick. But they aren't. Who wins?-San Jose in 6.
NBA
Well, 5 out of 8 in the first round ain't great. It ain't bad, either. How was to know how old San Antonio would look? Or that Orlando would play the dumbest brand of ball ever? To Round 2:
Eastern Conference
Atlanta vs. Chicago-oh, poor Hawks fans. This series would be awesome had Atlanta picked Chris Paul or Deron Williams instead of Marvin Williams in the 2005 draft. Instead, they will have Jeff Teague be a matador against Derrick Rose. Now, if Rose is hurt, this series will be much different. Atlanta can hang on the boards with the Bulls, but Chicago is the best defensive team in the league-meaning Joe Johnson, Jamal Crawford and Josh Smith will likely get shut down. This will be a fun series. Who wins? Chicago in 6.
Boston vs. Miami-What gives any Heat fan hope? That Miami dispatched Philly in 5 games? That Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudamire could score, almost at will, against the Celtics? That the Heat beat the Celtics the last time they played? Heat fans, you can have all of those reasons. None will matter. Neither team has a low post presence to worry about. Boston needs to rebound as a team, and keep Miami off the break. So this series could come down to a key matchup-the Point Guards. Boston has a gigantic advantage, and Rajon Rondo looks ready to go. If Miami switches and puts Dwayne Wade or LeBron James on Rondo, that means Paul Pierce or Ray Allen are free to abuse whomever is guarding them. This series will be physical and overhyped....just like that team in Miami. Who wins? C's in 6.
Western Conference
Dallas vs. LA Lakers-Once the Lakers realized that New Orleans had no one but Chris Paul to worry about, that series was over. Dallas got shook up by Portland, but realized they have Dirk and not a whole lot of people can cover him. Right now, it looks like Dallas is the only team that can out-shoot the Lakers. But the Lakers have Kobe. Who wins?-Lakers in 5.
Memphis vs. Oklahoma City-Memphis just shut down the mighty Spurs because they had more size up front. That will not be the case against Oklahoma City. I know that Memphis will cause some headaches, but who covers Westbrook? Or more importantly, is Tony Allen's deal with the devil up yet? If not, he'll be a handful for Kevin Durant. If it is, you'll watch someone go completely ballistic. Who wins?-Oklahoma City in 6.
There will be more later, but I have to go grocery shopping and get ready for Game 1 of the Celtics and Heat!
Oh, and can someone tell the Red Sox that it's May, stop dicking around and hit the ball, please?
NHL
Well, I got 6 out of 8 correct in my 1st round predictions, and I'll take it!! Now, on to Round 2:
Eastern Conference
Tampa Bay vs. Washington-rumor has it that TB Goalie Dwayne Roloson owns Washington, and I've seen nothing to dispute that so far. Yes, the Caps can score, but can they stop anyone from scoring? Add to it that there are a ton of injuries in this series, and we could see more of the same in this series. Who wins? Washington, but it goes 7.
Boston vs. Philadelphia-It's redemption time. Or payback. Or maybe it's time for a little Bluto-"not on my watch!" Last year the B's were crushed, losing game 7 after being up 3 games to none on the Flyers. That ain't happening again. Philly will try and get chippy, and Bruins Chara and Lucic will stand up some folks real quick. So long as the Bruins keep the attack going and get to more pucks, the Flyers turnstile shuffle between the pipes will be their downfall. So long, suckas!! Who wins?-Bruins in 5.
Western Conference
Nashville vs. Vancouver-wicked late to this mixer, and I was thisclose to calling the Canuck choke job against Chicago, but they will not cough it up vs. Nashville. It won't be easy, either. The Predators are a feisty bunch, but not enough. Who wins? Vancouver, but this one is going to 7 games, too.
Detroit vs. San Jose-there's a two-sided coin to this series, heads is that Detroit may be getting long in tooth, tails is that San Jose isn't exactly known for closing things out. And y'all know my feelings regarding one Sharks Captain Joe Thornton. It's picking between the lesser of two evils. If the Red Wings were all healthy, they would be the easy pick. But they aren't. Who wins?-San Jose in 6.
NBA
Well, 5 out of 8 in the first round ain't great. It ain't bad, either. How was to know how old San Antonio would look? Or that Orlando would play the dumbest brand of ball ever? To Round 2:
Eastern Conference
Atlanta vs. Chicago-oh, poor Hawks fans. This series would be awesome had Atlanta picked Chris Paul or Deron Williams instead of Marvin Williams in the 2005 draft. Instead, they will have Jeff Teague be a matador against Derrick Rose. Now, if Rose is hurt, this series will be much different. Atlanta can hang on the boards with the Bulls, but Chicago is the best defensive team in the league-meaning Joe Johnson, Jamal Crawford and Josh Smith will likely get shut down. This will be a fun series. Who wins? Chicago in 6.
Boston vs. Miami-What gives any Heat fan hope? That Miami dispatched Philly in 5 games? That Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudamire could score, almost at will, against the Celtics? That the Heat beat the Celtics the last time they played? Heat fans, you can have all of those reasons. None will matter. Neither team has a low post presence to worry about. Boston needs to rebound as a team, and keep Miami off the break. So this series could come down to a key matchup-the Point Guards. Boston has a gigantic advantage, and Rajon Rondo looks ready to go. If Miami switches and puts Dwayne Wade or LeBron James on Rondo, that means Paul Pierce or Ray Allen are free to abuse whomever is guarding them. This series will be physical and overhyped....just like that team in Miami. Who wins? C's in 6.
Western Conference
Dallas vs. LA Lakers-Once the Lakers realized that New Orleans had no one but Chris Paul to worry about, that series was over. Dallas got shook up by Portland, but realized they have Dirk and not a whole lot of people can cover him. Right now, it looks like Dallas is the only team that can out-shoot the Lakers. But the Lakers have Kobe. Who wins?-Lakers in 5.
Memphis vs. Oklahoma City-Memphis just shut down the mighty Spurs because they had more size up front. That will not be the case against Oklahoma City. I know that Memphis will cause some headaches, but who covers Westbrook? Or more importantly, is Tony Allen's deal with the devil up yet? If not, he'll be a handful for Kevin Durant. If it is, you'll watch someone go completely ballistic. Who wins?-Oklahoma City in 6.
There will be more later, but I have to go grocery shopping and get ready for Game 1 of the Celtics and Heat!
Oh, and can someone tell the Red Sox that it's May, stop dicking around and hit the ball, please?
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