Adapting Well

Sported a Breck Girl do today. Two days in a row actually. Tawny's husband Jeff commented yesterday that my hair was wild (compared to my straight and conservative look). I don't wear behaved curls, I guess. Do you mind if we briefly visit Shallowville? The reason why for the curl was I had almost three inches cut off my hair last week and it doesn't behave like how I need it yet. Something had to be done. Received compliments -- it's all good.

Today my noise canceling headphones featured Lenny Kravitz and Prince. It's like a naughty secret hearing these guys really jam their music in your ears because you're the only one who hears them. I have two screens in front of me featuring my work e-mail, work applications to answer e-mail and my IM screens that are more personal. Even with this tunnel of concentration, I get to giggle occasionally with silly IM messages from the most demented people I know, my friends.

The Superbowl is on Sunday and I have been invited to a party. I decided today that I would bring a rum cake to it. The hosts are going to have pulled pork and venison chili. A little reticent about the game taste of venison, but I will try it since I have never had it. Should be loud, fun and a later evening.

Bridget and I decided to go out for pseudo Chinese at the foodcourt as I had a craving for some. That mental and energy break from the building is so satisfying. I may start leaving the building more -- more so at the new building next month. Speaking of... I have a small AGOL fanclub over there already. One member was apologizing for her boss' behavior. He's more moodier than any guy or gal I know.

AND THEN...In the middle of our conversation in which I was telling my fan about where I would be sitting and the rest of my team, my cube theme plans, etc., she arrested my attention with this question, So when's the housewarming party? Huh? What? OMG. Why didn't I think of that?! Brilliant. What a great way to introduce our group to Dullsville!

My group is very outgoing and we will be the new cool kids on the block. Not sure what all the bean counters will say, but they will need to relax their sphincters when my dream team gets there. My cube office will be decorated like a Luau Lounge permanently complete with dashboard hula doll/s. (Right now my current one is the AGOL Love Zone.) Don't worry, my lovelies, I will post before/after pics or video.

Bridget has decided we are getting remote control helicopters to fly around and pass notes because our cube walls are very high. My boss loves this idea and that's why we love him, too! The housewarming party is just another Rum Cake opportunity. It won't be wasted. Maybe it will be a lunch-y thing. Hmm. My notebook must be here somewhere to jot notes...


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My Pretty Boy Dog wanted to share this link featuring one of his distant Collie cousins: Whiplash Rodeo Monkey
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Adapting Well

Headphones for a Jewess

I decided to shut the world out to get more work done. With my noise canceling headphones piping in my new John Legend CD, I was able to just concentrate on answering e-mails and be in my own little world. Bit of heaven? That maybe overstating it.

For some reason with a resolve such as this, the world still begs and pleads like a spoiled child for attention. I couldn't shut people out. Listened to people's problems both personal and work related. My boss interrupted with questions he could have instant messaged me, but he's used to getting up and asking me things all day. Sigh. I was faring better than Tawny and Bridget who were having a really bad day. Poor girlies.

During my lunch hour, I had the rare treat to talk to my fellow gypsy-hearted friend. She is Jewish and we had a nice discussion on the Jewish culture. Judaism would be a religion I could easily and formally convert to. God knows I have the perfect last name for it at the moment. With my birth name (different from current adopted name), I believe that my German American side would reveal some Jewish connections as well. German-Filipino...I won't start -- there is just too much material in that to cover today. Ha!

[Did I mention I received a Waterford Crystal dreidel for Christmas this year? Someone always buys me a dreidel every year. It's kinda like a "we have faith that you're part Jewish and didn't want that side to be slighted so we got you something". Cracks me up.]

Anyhoo...I was sharing with her that one of my instructors in high school mentioned that Jews would choose jobs they could take anywhere. If you're a doctor, you can be a doctor anywhere. If you're an attorney, you can be that anywhere. The Jews would also be encouraged to keep money in the form of diamonds and gold because they were portable. You may have heard that Jews have been forced to move around unexpectedly during history...?

My friend said that her father gave her jewelry when she was much younger and told her that she would have money if she needed it. She didn't realize the implications until she was very much an adult. My words to her were interesting. She'd heard them before, but not from a non-Jewish perspective. Of course, we talked about the wine. I love a little Morgan David...Okay, a lot....a coupla bottles. Haven't been to temple in a very long time. Perhaps I am due.
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Headphones for a Jewess

Good/Bad Vibes

It's been a tough start to work this week with the influx of e-mails I've been trying to answer from the company announcement resent to 1800 employees. Luckily, only about 200+ have responded with updates. Launching a new company-wide program is always tricky and this was mine. Even with all this work, I had been feeling good vibes which carried outwardly with smiles and teasing until my boss dropped the bomb that had been looming and held at bay for months. My group is now set to move to the other corporate tower about a mile up the road mid-February (still next to the gorgeous mall behind us). Aargh.

Our SVP wants most of the accounting/finance department in one building. The vibe of this building is flat and draining. You feel like slitting your wrists just to avoid parking in the convoluted parking garage servicing two corporate towers next to each other. Both are newer buildings than mine, but still. What's worse? The sucky network connectivity and the people working in the building. I consider these people work family since we are in the same department, but we are by no means kissing cousins. Yuk. I am going to be away from my own work entourage. Can an AGOL survive without her own work entourage? Who knows... Most of these friends are friends out of work, too; I doubt we will miss each other with the activities we participate in.

My poor boss drove us over to pick out our much bigger and more private cubicles. He was trying to put a positive spin on the visit by having us visit the gym downstairs to see their offerings, walk around our floor for small things like break room, restroom, etc. All I know is that some serious feng shui will have to be done. Sketching the plan out now.

When I arrived back at my current desk, I was really down....and that only after less than an hour's visit! The new AGOL catnip, Vanilla Lime, couldn't cheer me. Oh -- did I mention my temp picked the cube next to mine instead of Bridget's? Just as well. She'll live longer. Bridget has lost patience.

Zoomed home to take care of my doggie and change into comfy clothes before heading over to Tawny and Jeff's for dinner with their boys. I had urged her to start without me since worked kept me a bit. My drink glass was already filled when I arrived and Tawny remembered to add a straw. That tickled me. What followed was an evening of no holds barred conversation of the most vile nature. I'm surprised the neighbors didn't knock on the door and tell us to keep it down. Much needed belly laughter that's for sure. Good vibes restored.
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Good/Bad Vibes

Sexy Vanilla Lime

Met Kristey for breakfast closer to her side of the universe. She's always good about e-mailing me at my work address, but it is not always easy for me to write back with too many distractions. Too bad she cannot do instant messaging at work; nevertheless, we always have a great time talking for a couple of hours. Lucky duck will be celebrating her 20th Wedding Anniversary in Hawaii and flying first class next month.

Drove across town and was slightly delayed by the pre-Gasparilla parade activities, a Tampa tradition celebrating a pirate invasion. Arrived at the shoe store and I looked around first to see what choices were available for me before I grabbed several boxes and began trying on shoes. I called Lisa to see how far she was away and she reminded me that I was supposed to call her and let her know that I was on my way. Whoops. She came later which gave me an hour to pick shoes out. Lisa paid for part of it as part of birthday present. Now I have new walking shoes to compliment my future running shoes.

I drove us across the road to the mall and lunched at Asian Bistro before walking around the mall a bit. We stopped at Yankee Candle where I got to smell new fragrances. The one that stood out the most was Vanilla Lime.

Oh....my...God...!!

It reminded me of pre-Sex for some reason and told Lisa as much. One whiff and she agreed. Now that we were both jonesing on this friggin scent, I quickly bought it in a car freshener and was opened immediately after getting inside my car. Lisa waved the plastic wrapper in front of the A/C vents while I found a spot for the actual freshener. She was meeting a guy she met online for drinks so I dropped her back at her car, but not before I took the plastic wrapper from her. I told her she didn't need it. With an incredulous look she asked, What? Am I not to have your good luck sex vibes? Nope. In retrospect, I should have let her have the plastic wrapper that held the strong pre-Sex scent. Her date turned out to be a drip. Ugh.

I stopped at Play It Again Sports to see if they had a used spin bike. They had one but it was $500! Might as well buy a new one. Sheesh. Not giving up. I will have to scour the classifieds and craigslist. On my way to my car, I noticed a screw lodged on my front right tire and immediately drove to my tire shop to have it removed and let them repair the tire if need be. Mind you the car was permeated with this pre-Sex scent. The guys checked it out and found that the screw was only about 1/2 inch if that. When it came for them to tell me about this screw, it took two guys to tell me. One had a smile. When the first guy got in the car, he would've had a whiff of the intoxicating scent...

Caught up in my blog and later mentioned to someone of the male persuasion that he reminded me of Vanilla Lime. He thought that was cute. Yeah, it will be cute alright. I don't think he fully understood what this AGOL was trying to tell him. Well...um...maybe he does since he is now thinking wicked bad thoughts....as he should.
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Sexy Vanilla Lime

Blessed Friday

Blessed Friday. I went around saying TGIF! Thank God I'm Filipino (as opposed to Thank God It's Friday.) It brought a lot of laughs. Some laughing was delayed due to the shock on hearing the Filipino part. Why be boring? Honestly, so many people have that covered.

Our boss was out today for a family emergency. No worries for him. Bridget and I were buried in work. We each had a program still launching from last week to this week. My boss was stunned at the amount of e-mails he had to address while I was off on Wednesday. I was stunned at the dozens of e-mails I had to address yesterday. Sometimes this is why I dislike taking days off. The work that gets backlogged is a pain in the butt, but I just grin and bear it because I deserve to take time off and I have enough days waiting to be taken.

On a whim, I asked Bridget if she'd like to go out to lunch just to get out and have a mental break from work. She said yes and before I knew it, she had driven us to International Mall behind our building where we dined at Gallery Bistro. Bridget had never been there and appreciated the ambiance and the gorgeous delicious food. We started out with calamari. Her entree was Coconut Curried Chicken and I had Grouper Florentine. We topped it with our favorite drink at Starbucks. The rest of the afternoon flew.

Rob came by my desk before he left for the day. I had already given him the lowdown on what I had eaten for lunch and other program updates. Bridget lamented to him that she didn't know how many calories her own lunch was. (Rob had showed her the site www.dietpower.com as a way to track her caloric intake.) He said it was probably 1100 calories. I called him a bastard and he started laughing. Rob knew that Bridget was trying to keep her caloric intake to about 1500 calories (this low for now). He decided to be a ghoul and needle her.

I left work later than usual, but was able to catch up with Kathy on my way home while she was on her way to a party...Remembered that my Saturday would start earlier than normal. Meeting Kristey for breakfast and Lisa for shopping and lunch each across the city from each other. I'd better make sure I have my printed map with me. This is embarrassing to admit, but I get lost in a paper bag. God forbid you start giving me compass directions using North, South, East and West...
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Blessed Friday

LQ: Between Love and Garbage

"Young people everywhere have been allowed to choose between love and a garbage disposal unit. Everywhere they have chosen the garbage disposal unit".

-- Guy Debord

...I can see where they would choose the garbage disposal unit. Maybe in order to get love, they have to choose garbage first? Maybe on the surface they look the same and they accidentally chose garbage? Maybe they've learned it from home or all the cool kids are doing it? I've personally never chosen garbage -- previously enjoyed or owned, but never garbage. Get green, recycle -- spread love.
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LQ: Between Love and Garbage

Mental Health Day

Took the day off ...Sometimes you need a mental health day. Do you know what always cheers up, Sarah Sprinkles? A trip to Shallowville! I had my hair cut and colored in the afternoon. Alex Haley was writing another sequel about my hair. The request was for three inches to be cut off, but Michelle countered with two and a half. Go figure.

Somehow we got to talking about Cinderella. I told her that I grew up poor and hadn't been able to afford Cinderella so we had to make do with Hookerella instead. She almost died. Mind you, I do wait to tell her the funniest jokes or tease her before or after she's cut my hair, never during. No joke is worth a botched haircut. Well, Michelle kept yelling Hookerella! with her Korean accent which makes her pronunciation hard on the letter 'r'. We giggled like rotten school children.

Oh! The result? Fabulous hair. We don't do ugly.*

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*Shit, not for that price. Michelle must have lost her marbles over the new year. She had casually mentioned raising prices because of her own rising cost of doing business. Okay - whatever, I thought. This wouldn't have rubbed me the wrong way except she was gushing about a new handbag she was getting. It was showcased in a ladies magazine which she showed me: Prada...! Grrr. I asked, Oh, for $2000? Michelle replied, No for $2200. Maybe it wasn't me who needed the mental health day...
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Mental Health Day

LQ: A Great Deal More About 'And'

We used to think that if we knew one we knew two because one and one are two. We are finding that we must learn a great deal more about 'and'.

- Sir Arthur Stanley Eddington

...he was an astrophysicist. Surely he had a better clue. What is between two people: their hopes/wishes/dreams, experiences, fears, loves, perceptions...for a start. So many factors go into joining two separate people.

I had an IM discussion with Rob today (other than about exercise) which spanned a couple of hours in between actual work. We were discussing relationship personalities and relationship dynamics. He's lived a little and is on his second marriage. Mind you, he is in IT and he tends express himself in mathematical terms. I condensed just his answers:

in any pairing.. there is a cumulative score...this score is based on a ton of factors...genetic compatibility..basic compatibility.. (in the case of a male.. ability to provide = $$)...all sorts of metrics go into this…now.. for hypothetical sense...woman A..man B...WA meets MB...WA subconsciously sizes up MB... score=7..MB subconsciously sizes up WA.. score=7...seems like they are on equal playing field, right?..however there is a whole other set of dynamics that are happening..MB believes (again subconsciously) that hey is a score 5 & WA believes she is a score 8…now while they make actually sit at 7s..they have a disparity of perceived equivalence...so WA thinks she is slightly dating down.. 8>7 and MB think he is dating up 5<7..here is where things get interesting.. and I have built this model over several years and a multitude on my own and others relationships...if there is a subtle difference in the perceived "value" things are ok...in general perceived is the only thing that matters at this layer…if there is a large difference in the Perceived Value... problems begin...in this example.. WA would expect that MB should be pretty motivated to treat WA well.. he is on the short end of the stick...but what happens is the opposite...because MB perceives a great delta (5<7) he goes from treating her well.. to treating her very poorly..his behavior is driven to reduce her over all confidence and self esteem.. in an effort to reduce that perceived delta...make sense? there are a number of different combinations..[[Sarah says: bringing her down to his level.]]..exactly..wife beater 101

Rob referenced another conversation we had recently:
strong men.. like strong women…strong men and women tend to have a better perception of what there "value" is...

Sir Eddington had a point. Damn that 'and'.

LQ: A Great Deal More About 'And'

Herby Healthy...?

Walked in the cool full moonshine with my Pretty Boy Dog at 5:30am. It was a bit nippy this morning with the wind going everywhere like a wayward child...

Today was a day of introspection, mostly about my journey back to health. I bought this Canadian product called Vega which can be used as a meal replacement (240 cal, 9g fiber and 24g of protein) or as a supplement. The creator is a triathlete who follows a mostly raw diet. I special ordered the chocolate flavor from a local health food store. The taste? Well....it is a rather herby with a dark chocolate nuance. It costs $70 a container of 15 servings so I will be drinking it all. I will use the big boba straws to suck this stuff down. Next time I am buying the berry flavor. I also bought five of their meal bars for snacks. (An idea of making my own bars to eventually market them came to mind. I have a unique idea so we will see how motivated I get at testing recipes.)

Why would I buy this stuff? I want to be able to take it before I leave the office. I can feel good about going home and taking care of the dog and immediately go to the gym after without eating an elaborate dinner I may have to make (vs. powder mixed with water) and have the food churning in my tummy during the workout. This stuff isn't loaded with fillers like other bars found at the grocery store; it was created with nutrition in mind. I can always have a post workout snack if I get hungry. So far, so good.

Received a notice last week to come and get my free sample of bliss naked body butter from Sephora as my birthday gift for being a member. The kind I received was unscented. Omigosh!! I want to buy a vat of it. It is one of the best lotions I have ever put on my skin. (Origin's Ginger Souffle is the first because of the fragrance.) It is perfect for men, too! Try it and tell me don't want a vat of it!

I worked out tonight on what is apparently everyone's favorite treadmill because there were some disappointed faces staring at me. My earbuds were on piping in some music while I walked a brisk pace for a longer amount of time. I was sweating well and wondered if anyone had moved the thermostat to hot. What I was most proud of was that I didn't have to hold onto the bars from the start; I kept my form and balance. Hooray! Small victories are sweet.

Today is my dad's 66th birthday, but he wasn't home when I called Chicagoland. He was out for the Knights of Columbus of which he is an officer. This man is busier now that he is retired! I chatted with my stepmother instead who bemoaned the fact that his and her schedules are busy. There will be no official celebrating until the weekend, but I think she mentioned something about going to a black tie event.

I tried to quiet my mind and think about the things I want to personally/physically accomplish this year like skydiving, indoor rock climbing, kayaking and baby triathlons. The idea of pushing myself in some extreme sports is very appealing. Not only will it broaden my scope of experience and mentally test me, but I will get to meet new people. The more I read about these athletes, the more I am fascinated by their individual journeys...
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Herby Healthy...?

Next Big IKEA

Tawny and Jeff picked me up at 9am to drive into Orlando for the long-awaited IKEA trip. Truth be told, I just wanted to get as far away as I could from Tampa and this was as good idea as the next. Its good to be in different places for a change.

I've received gifts purchased from IKEA and I've received the catalogue for years. Today was my first foray into the big box store. It is an imposing two story building with thousands and thousands of square feet of showroom, cafeteria and open stock shelves. Unprepared, the visual assault can cause a headache. I knew what to expect so I had a great time.

More wooden hangers. I now have more to replace the nice plastic garment hangers still lingering in my closet. Ooh - the kitchen utensils. I bought almost a dozen from tongs to corers to various spatulas. My favorite item was my new lazy susan. It can whirl around on of top my dining table. Woo hoo.

Jeff commented on the behavior of people there. It could have easily had a mob mentality with the amount of people in attendance; however, everyone was pleasant and civil. There were some tight squeezes in some areas where someone could have easily been rude when the flow wasn't moving fast enough. No rudeness. Hardly any kids were in the store and I don't blame the parents for not taking them. For the most part, a certain income level shop here even though the Swedish style is a steal. The shopping experience was very fun and must be repeated again soon.

We made it home in the late afternoon for Tawny and Jeff to get ready for their football game and for me to drive back to Brandon and visit my favorite wholesaler Costco. Part of my assignment from Rob is getting a Brita water filter system so I can refill my liter bottles of water. Bought a few more items and then made my way home to stop at one more store before calling it a day.

I almost forgot that tomorrow was Monday. The weekend has zipped by so quickly. I feel drained - it must've been being around the large swarm at IKEA. Scurried like a bunny around the apartment to put things away and to start the dishwasher. Large blue digital numbers projected onto the ceiling read 11:33pm when I made it into bed. Early.
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Next Big IKEA

Missing in AGOL Land -- Part Two

Where I am going...

(As I type, I am listening to John Legend's new Live from Philadelphia CD. The man can really sing! One of the few male voices I enjoy listening to lately.)

Drove home in the rain tonight after spending time with my family in Brandon celebrating my birthday. Food and the whole brood were a good combo as were the presents and cake. As much as I was trying to avoid more celebrations, I did enjoy myself. Why am I such a curmudgeon?

If you've been following me, you know that I am training for sprints/partial triathlons. Yesterday, Rob (the Trainer) mentioned that he could see me doing a different event in April. That is only three months away...I dunno. My words to him were: You have so much confidence when I am here on the floor trying to find crumbs of what you see. Rob sees our teamwork of my motivation and his direction working successfully together. Luckily for me there are several events around Florida I can go for if that one doesn't pan out.

Serendipity always hits me...Last Saturday, I tried watching a certain show but my reception sucked that afternoon. (I choose not to have cable because I don't want to invest in that kind of time in front of the TV.) My next channel selection was just in time for the XTERRA in Nevada which is an extreme triathlon in a cold lake, mountain biking and mountain/wooded area running. My eyes were glued to the show for the next hour. My God. These people were insane! I felt excitement. At the end they showed the different age groups and a spectrum of ages up to 60+ were participating.

Rob brought me his copy of Triathlete which is featuring a Beginner's Edition to add to my slow growing mountain of things to study. I am finding that it is necessary to really get into this training by devouring related information. It just helps to put you in the zone.

One thing I dislike is any man telling me what to do. The only exception is my boss because he is my boss. Maybe it is a backlash against my military upbringing? It is a love/hate kind of thing. I like it when a man is in control but I don't like it when he tries to exert certain kind control over me. He's in for a verbal emasculation that eunuchs would cringe at hearing. Men never expect it from the seemingly gentle and soft spoken AGOL.

I enjoy making a man feel like a man as I enjoy being a woman. When we encounter a snag in communication because I don't speak You Tarzan, Me Jane, it is always a surprise for them. For the first time in a long time, I am letting a man tell* me what to do. Here's an IM conversation with Rob on Friday:

Rob the Trainer says (3:53 PM):
saturday... get 45 minutes mixed machines or walking..
Sarah says (3:53 PM):
k
Rob the Trainer says (3:53 PM):
and I mean.. sweat.. none of that easy bs
Sarah says (3:53 PM):
yes, m
Rob the Trainer says (3:54 PM):
then we will put a week plan together on Monday.
Rob the Trainer says (3:54 PM):
make sure you are drinking 2 litres water every day
Sarah says (3:54 PM):
jeezus
Rob the Trainer says (3:54 PM):
I know...
Sarah says (3:54 PM):
okay, i will do
Rob the Trainer says (3:54 PM):
you'll want to start ramping up...
Rob the Trainer says (3:55 PM):
go to grocery store.. buy 2 or 4 bottles (I like the Smartwater 1 liter bottles)
Sarah says (3:55 PM):
k
Sarah says (3:55 PM):
smart water?
Sarah says (3:55 PM):
what does it look like?
Rob the Trainer says (3:55 PM):
you can refill them as long as you have a filter (I expect you have a britta)
Sarah says (3:55 PM):
no, i can get one. i have the faucet thingy but it is working my nerve
Rob the Trainer says (3:56 PM):
http://www.aquamaestro.com/innerview.asp?catid=39
Sarah says (3:56 PM):
i c
Rob the Trainer says (3:56 PM):
and you will want to (1 a week) put a capful of bleach in a 1/4 cup water and pour in.. shake.. pour to next bottle.. let sit 5 minutes.. then rinse well
Rob the Trainer says (3:57 PM):
grocery store has them I like the size...
Rob the Trainer says (3:57 PM):
1 liter
Sarah says (3:57 PM):
k i will get
Sarah says (3:57 PM):
and pee like a mofo
Sarah says (3:57 PM):
may have to start marking my territory like my dog does around the complex
Rob the Trainer says (3:57 PM):
yup.. thats what we want..
Rob the Trainer says (3:58 PM):
we need to get you a little over hydrated..
Rob the Trainer says (3:58 PM):
because we are gonna tax you..

Hmmm. My geeky side is enjoying the clear and concise instructions, but is afraid of the last line in that slice of conversation. I didn't add his instructions for my running shoes. He wants me to get properly fitted at a certain store. Did I mention Rob had a stint in the military? He delivers things in a very familiar (and oddly comforting) tone. It makes me want to respond like this: Yes, Sir. Right away, Sir. How high, Sir and would you like some fries with that, Sir? All said with a smile, too.

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*Telling me what to do vs. suggesting something are two different things. The former exerts the person's will while the latter is merely expressing opinions based on the person's will. A set menu vs a buffet? I don't mind if a man gives me choices, but to tell me what to do from the get go is not attractive. Although in a certain scenario behind closed doors, that could be attractive. You have to be the right person for that. I apologize if the whole thing does not make sense. It is 2:12am when I have added this footnote.
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Missing in AGOL Land -- Part Two

Missing in AGOL Land -- Part One

Where I have been...

Yes, I am still here. I've been so busy (mostly with my birthday) that I had to let one thing in my life go for a week. Believe me, it wasn't easy. Posting on my blog has been a part of my life and is a cheap form of therapy for me.

I spent last weekend just taking it easy, but working out. Sunday was Tawny's birthday (42!) and football day at her apartment. Someone was sweet enough to include my name on her cake. Oh and my lovelies -- someone brought MARGARITA PIE. Holy Mother of Margarita! I will post recipe when I get it (no baking hence potent tequila action). It was naughtily delicious.

Then I became a workout slacker for the rest of the week. On my birthday (Monday the 14th - AGOL turned 37!) unfolded a day of unending e-mails, text messages, phone calls and singing from all over the world. It was overwhelming. Having your birthday on a Monday is a bit of a cramp. I elected to stay home and boy was I thankful! The rest of the week was birthday lunches and dinners. My dance card was full and so it will be this weekend, too.

My good buddy and trainer was great about not asking how my workout was NOT going all week until today. Hee. Oh -- I had to complete my self-appraisal for my performance evaluation. Like I e-mailed one friend: Can I get away with saying, "I AM FUCKING I MEAN REALLY FUCKING FABULOUS" ??? Yeah, you're right. Probably not. Doesn't sound convincing enough. Just as well because I wasn't behaving well when my stuff kept disappearing from the online page after I saved it. The bloody program kept timing out. A line from Dilbert kept coming into mind, "Must control fists of death".

H.R., we have a problem in The Love cubicle...
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Missing in AGOL Land -- Part One

Sprinkles Volunteers

April? That is just around the corner and definitely not enough time for me to get in shape for any kind of triathlon. That was my initial thought when Rob forwarded me an announcement for it. Before I could let my mind wander even further, he IM'ed to reminded me that I could volunteer at triathlon for water stops, mark bodies with numbers or participate in the sign-in stuff while he competed.

Oh, um...yeah. That is a better idea. Duh, dorkgirl!

I left a voicemail for the triathlon's contact to get back with me on volunteering. The longer I wait, the more likely I would get a less than desirable duty. Granted, I may be a little early in calling. Rob said that I could be in the environment and learn what the process was all about. Basically, he was managing my expectations. He said he was stressed at his first triathlon. Later in the IM, he asked about my access to a swimming pool. We have two in my complex, but not sure it is heated. I doubt it and it is a little to chilly to swim during the evening especially. I am also to need about 25m length to practice swimming, but a decent length will do. Research for tomorrow after my workout then.

Now I have two DVDs from Rob. One is Swimming Techniques for more efficient swimming and the other is full of Yoga Routine which will complement my other yoga DVDs. He's been very generous so I'd better get with it. I am benefiting from his own research and experience. He is frighteningly informed.

Not to let me off the hook right away, he added: well try to start working on the swim technique even if you just watch he video a few times...lay on the floor and practice some of the drills...not going to help you to learn balance in the water.. but at least you can learn the drills..

Talked to Kathy on the way home. She will be my swimming buddy (when it gets warmer) for the drills that require one. Been missing her, too. Haven't seen her in almost three weeks!

Eyes are too tired right now. I have to work out early so I can check out the pool and go back home to start doing some chores around the apartment. It's just Excitementville over here. I am not too bothered. Putting the pieces of the puzzle to this prep stuff is another part of the magic happening. I can't believe how very different this year is already becoming...and it is exciting!
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Sprinkles Volunteers

Magic Possession

"what is this MAGIC thing that has possessed you????"

The question above was inbox response I read about an hour an a half ago. I laughed out loud for a good while and called Tawny to share. Talk about a great line if it were in a movie! If I have to explain the magic that has possessed the AGOL, a book will indeed have to manifest to catalogue all instances...

Didn't feel all that great this morning, but remembered I had to look extra sharp as clients were visiting our facility today. I wore a long sleeve red shirt (over black slacks) that I got for Christmas from my aunt and uncle. It is a nice blue red. Wore my new red cuff bracelet that Tawny's mother-in-law gave me and a cute red pin that Tawny gave me last year. I was hoping the red color would lift my energy up...and it did.

I usually don't let strange conversations take over my lunch hour, but that's what happened. A friend on facebook decided to explain something by sketching it out, scanning the image and sending it to my e-mail address...so we could discuss it playing message ping-pong on facebook. OMG. Finally, I begged to go on instant messaging to speed up the story. I nearly spewed the tea I was drinking from laughing so hard. The trouble it took to get a story explained with the visuals provided was well worth the punchline, but good golly! three -- count them three -- modes of communication had to be tapped before I could enjoy some butternut squash soup.

Attended a two-hour conference call meeting in the afternoon that made me want to poke my eyes out and that was only because I was sitting next to Tawny. Just kidding! We contributed quite a bit during the call, but really the eye poking thing was imminent.

Worked late and stopped at the store to get Cabal some treats and dinner fixins' for me. I knew I would not be working out tonight and decided to relax instead. I needed some more magic to possess me.
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Magic Possession

Motivation: Feed the Warrior

Boredom threatened the AGOL today until Rob sent me this video link in an IM for Motivation.



Wasn't that great?!

Worked out tonight at 8:30pm in my pigtails and disco kit. I am trying to change my workout time earlier so that I am not doing the hamster thing on the treadmill at 10:00pm. Gosh, with this Hollywood writers strike, there are no new episodes on TV to magnetize my butt to the couch... I managed to multi-task during the treadmill worship. I walked briskly on the treadmill, watched TV and spoke to Tawny and Kathy on my cell phone. Kathy (another Fitness Fanatic) mentioned that she enjoyed hearing me huff and puff over the phone. Ha! Just wait until Rob gets back with my new workout schedule...
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Motivation: Feed the Warrior

Life in Sweatville

Fitness and dieting are the current subjects in my life which are mirrored at work and at home. Rob the Trainer is out of town for work and me not working out regularly (lately) was making me feel guilty all day. I bet his hotel has a gym good enough for His Fitness Freakishness…

Ant stopped by to ask when we would go to Schnitzelhaus again for some German grub. Are you on crack? We’re on diets! You will be messing with our program. Bridget proudly mentioned she was following the South Beach Diet which works for her to which Ant replied that he was following the Clearwater Beach Diet of Hooters Buffalo Wings and Beer. Great... Bridget said we would have to have a cheat day. Great… This goes along with Dan asking me when we’re going out for drinks. I told him two weeks and he said he could be really thirsty by then. Great...weirdo.

Shared with Lisa that I want to try more excursions like kayaking or indoor rock climbing. There were more on the list of outdoor stuff. My conflict: how do I keep my albino/geisha white skin? More rice powder all over? Michael Jackson get-up? SPF 400 at least to keep my albino look? Photo aging is not attractive.

Talked to Tawny tonight before I headed for the gym. She was watching a show on the Travel Channel about the original McDonald’s. Huh? One was a diner. The original McDonald’s was in a diner? No, Sarah, it is original as in unique. Ohhhh… Tawny said, Damn homonyms. We laughed a good while.

I was minutes from heading to Sweatville when Lisa called to give me choices for my upcoming birthday. Both involved helping me towards achieving my new fitness goals. I told her I didn’t want anything for my birthday, but she wouldn’t listen. We agreed on something before I begged off to workout. Gawd. Who woulda thunk it?

As I approached the gym, I could see through the French doors that someone was on my favorite treadmill and he was jogging like a sonofagun. Okay…I adjusted (figuratively speaking) my big girl panties and tried out the recumbent bike. My legs were too long on the current setting which made me pedal like a porcine grasshopper. Aargh. Took a couple of minutes to find the lever to adjust to my trunk legs and pedaled for 10 minutes. This was clearly not my favorite machine. I secretly glared at Fitness Man who was STILL jogging.

Adjusted (figuratively again) my big girl panties, and got on the elliptical machine. Ooh…AGOL likee this machine, but legs were already tired from strange stationary bike. Hung in there for a bit before switching to MY treadmill that was recently vacated by man working out on the bench. Happy again. Oh good God. Now I really had to adjust my big girl panties thanks to my shorts riding up and if Rob called to check if I was working out, I was going to tell him that I was trying to start a fire from my thighs rubbing together...

A Chinese man came in and had to fiddle with the bike. (Snicker) His legs didn’t quite reach the pedals so while I was huffing and puffing on the treadmill, I gave him instructions on how to adjust it. Then he asked how to turn it on. I said he had to pedal first then press Start. Listen my lovelies…this man has been in here before to use MY treadmill. He had to put his big girl panties on, too, and pick a different machine. He was much more fit than me and I was the one giving instructions on how to operate a machine. Oh, the irony.

I made it home in tact and wrote in my portable journal the shame that was my workout in Sweatville. Maybe eating a weird dinner an hour before didn’t help. Hee.
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Life in Sweatville

Healthy Hoe-Down

The Healthy Hoe-Down at work is underway. Tawny is taking more vitamins, eating tangerines for breakfast and may hop on her treadmill at home. Lisa is exercising at lunch. Bridget started eating better and will resume her rollerskating with the derby girls as soon as her doctor clears her. Our boss stocked his office fridge with healthy food, snacks and vitamin water to combat his recent high cholesterol report. I am trying to get it in gear; the real kicking will begin in two weeks. We're monitoring each other and giving encouragement which will help motivation.

Rob asked me if I got on (any kind of) machine yesterday and I may have said no a bit defiantly. He replied, Okay. I guess we will have to draw out a schedule for you. Did I detect both disappointment and the merest hint of sadistic glee? Hmmm... He later asked me if I was getting scared. Scared? Was he f'g kidding me? Uh...um...no. I told you it was going to get more undignified.

Of course...Yours truly was trying to be a bad-ass by showing off some research. I asked him if I should get a comfort bike or a hybrid kind and that I didn't want to spend more than $500 to start. He said I could get an affordable comfort bike. I searched on a popular sporting goods store online; I couldn't find what he recommended: Women's Trek 7.2 FX WSD so I asked where I would be getting it. I was told, No, you're getting it at Oliver's. His favorite bike shop is a few miles up the road from me. They can give me the right size frame and fit the bike to me. Can you believe it? If I want to start playing with the big boys (in this sport - ha!) I have to get properly geared out. Jeezus. Pretty soon, I will be wearing my own disco kit*.


*Rob's term for flashy overdressed/geared cyclists on the road. FYI - Lance Armstrong has not worn a disco kit. AGOL might wear one though. Why be boring?
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Healthy Hoe-Down

Flytech Dragonfly

The CBS Sunday Morning Show included a preview of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas today. The tech portion showcased a new product called Flytech Dragonfly, a flying toy that doesn't use a propeller but the flying motion of its plastic wings! Here is a Full Description and you can Watch Flytech Dragonfly. I just love it! You know me and my dragonflies...

Spent a quiet Sunday which helped me intellectualize in not starting the new year making a bad decision. I can only hope my resolve holds. Damn...
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Flytech Dragonfly

Recycling Projects

Sarah and Tawny's next project: recycling and more recycling. What? We can listen to music, dance and recycle. Spreading love, joy and beauty. That's what it is all about, isn't it?
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Recycling Projects

Perfect Shade of Lipstick

Should I alert the media that this AGOL is in Search for the Perfect Shade of Lipstick? This can be both an exciting and a traumatizing experience depending on how my luck holds. My favorite lip shade has been discontinued and my last tube is almost gone bringing on an ACM (AGOL Crisis Moment). Welcome to the booming town of Shallowville, my lovelies.

Fate led me to finding this line on a new blog I read tonight: Besame Cosmetics. Besame Red and definitely Merlot seem to be good AGOL options. Gaze and admire their gold bullet case with their signature chrysanthemums (see pic below). I dig its retro feel. Click on the About section of their site and you will find this tidbit on the Besame name's origin. I have always loved this song and have associated it with my mother for some reason and (lately) an incident last spring*.

(Thank you Amazon.com for borrowing their pic.)


I am known for my perfect make-up application especially when it comes to lipstick/lip gloss. I get questions from friends and other women I encounter at shops or on the street. (Recently Bridget just bought the same kind of Sephora lip gloss and will be trying out liquid liner that she sees me in everyday.) Because I have oily skin and live in a tropical climate, I have chosen BareEscentuals by BareMinerals as my main make-up line. Minimum make-up for me is a few coats of mascara, a tinge of blush and a lip color on weekends unless there is a real life crisis. More bare than that? A lip color. Full make-up without lip color looks unfinished and leaving the house bare without a lip color is just plain lazy. There is something meditative about applying lip color...

You don't need make-up to outwardly affirm your femininity, but I deeply feel it is integral to inwardly affirm to yourself by this external expression. Huh? I know I am a woman, but I enjoy the accouterments that come with being one (fun make-up, funky jewelry, Imelda shoes and sexy lingerie). When WWII was going on, women traded things for make-up and they valued it like prized jewels because of the scarcity. Women have used make-up to attract others or just make themselves feel good. I use make-up for me. I like what I am saying to myself about how I value me enough to buy the items and take the time to apply them. Does that make sense?

My friend Dianne finally got it and mentioned it to me the last time we were together. It is easy to get lost in the day-to-day stuff because it takes over. She used to think it was a complete waste of time and she felt like she was doing it just to please her husband. I told her to not do it for him, but to do it for her. Imagine how much easier it is now for Dianne to include make-up as a part of getting ready in the morning. All it takes is a pivot in attitude (and a make-up lesson from Sprinkles).

You may not be a glam queen or aspiring pin-up model. Maybe you're just not into make-up because you're allergic, never had anyone show you or you have an impressive collection of Birkenstocks? Lez be friends, girls! You can still enjoy a smidgen of color by Burt's Bees from their lip shimmers and gloss line. The old matron ChapStick has their own line of naturals to help your lips from looking cracked and unhealthy. Ewww and Ouch! Besides that condition hurts like a mutha. Swoosh something on your lips, will ya? Do it for your inner goddess.

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*I can't quite decide if this is pathetic and/or sick to share: MEBFKAY and I did the Queen's Walk along the Thames last May. When we strolled under a bridge, we encountered a man with an accordion playing "Besame Mucho". We stopped and kissed. Very romantic moment. It was very Parisian like, I thought... Okay neither sick or pathetic. It is what is -- sweet. I guess enough time has passed where I can share with detachment.
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Perfect Shade of Lipstick

Friendly Friday

Rather enjoyed today. It was busy and my boss was kind of crazy, but I still had fun. Thanks to my extra layers of clothing, I was able to weather my area a little bit more with the cold.

Blessedly caught up with Tawny at lunch. With both our mad Christmas schedules, we've only been able to touch base. All is well again in AGOL/Tawny Land. I was feeling a disconnect. I wasn't worried or anything, just missing her.

Ohmigosh -- Tawny showed me the bling sticker she bought for Bridget's boot. Bridget hates this boot with a passion and can't wait to take it off in a couple of weeks when the doctor clears her recovery. She loved finding her gift when she came back from lunch and quickly applied it for me to take this crazy photo. We're all easily amused.

Bridget's Bling


Proudly told Rob about the Lance Armstrong book I bought. He then mentioned that I could read it while I was huffing and puffing on the treadmill or elliptical trainer tonight. What did he say to this AGOL? Is he allowed to make such a suggestion? Reading a book while exercising? The AGOL has (ahem!) many talents, but this could prove challenging. Never to back down from a challenge, I tried it for about 10 minutes. I was walking very briskly on the treadmill and the multi-tasking gave me a headache. I put the book down and watched the mindless show on the flat-panel on the wall instead while I was huffing and puffing around 9:30pm. How undignified. Somehow I know the journey from huff to buff is going to get more undignified.
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Friendly Friday

LQ: Real Love is a Pilgrimage

"Real love is a pilgrimage. It happens when there is no strategy, but it is very rare because most people are strategists."

-- Anita Brookner

...My AGOL star must have been repositioned for me to follow. I've been wandering the world for a long time. Perhaps it is a lifetime pilgrimage? One day in the sun setting desert, I will meet my love in an oasis. I will share in a toast to finding him...only to choke on the sand going down my throat as I realize the whole thing was a cruel mirage. Jeezus, I need to write a book soon.
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LQ: Real Love is a Pilgrimage

Serving Frozen AGOL

I cannot remember ever being so cold while working, not even when I worked in Wyoming or Chicago. Did they pay for heat on our side of the floor? I complained and cursed all day at my desk. I got a little testy on an IM because I couldn't concentrate from the pain in my toes and hands. Wore my coat all day. Bridget shared my woes.

Surprised to see my boss today. I thought he was coming back next week. He had spent most of the holidays in a cabin in North Carolina with his wife and kiddies. By noon, he was in full swing.

OMG...Rob is a complete workout freak. Ever heard of football widows? His wife must be a triathlon widow. He swam meters unknown this morning, ran about 5-6 miles at lunch in the cold wind and had plans to pedal on the stationary bike like a demon tonight. He is determined to become more lean and be prepped for some upcoming events. I can only hope to work up to a third of his determination the next couple of months. He mentioned something about being able to motivate me. With what -- a cattle prod? I told him what kind of DVD I worked out to last night. TeeHee. Same routine tonight. I need the stretch it provides after the workout.

This was great: Rob asked me about Lance Armstrong's book again because he is Type Double-A personality (or just a crack baby) and I told him I was getting it tonight after I had printed a couple of coupons. Normally, I don't bother, but it was offered by the book club and I remembered to print them out. Free money. The paperback cost $14.00. A 30% discount was applied first followed by $5 off leaving me a total (w/ tax) of $5.14. Holy cow! I am very pleased I waited an extra day.

This was (second) great: I had to buy dog food and some other foodstuffs for me. An elderly man did his best to strike a conversation with me in the frozen food section. A point was made that he was a bachelor and didn't know these things. These things meaning how to cook certain things I was picking up which he made me explain to him. His younger relative (a son?) wanted to die of embarrassment as he watched him makes his moves. Like a good AGOL, I was gracious, smiley and let the guy have his moments with me just to make it worth his while. Rock on, Daddio!

Now warm and cozy in my home. Crap. I still have to take the dog out. I will be warm and cozy (again) in a few minutes...
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Serving Frozen AGOL

Almost Back to the Grind

Brrr !! Yowza, it was cold today! About 40 degrees when Cabal and I walked? Overall, I felt burgeoning excitement at the prospect of starting the year anew as we walked around...even if it was cold welcome. We have freeze warnings for later in the evening/overnight. It wouldn't be so bad if it weren't for the wind...

Bridget had her own car problems today and didn't make it to work. We're taking turns apparently. You could hear the frustration in her voice. We still had a good laugh about it because there was nothing to be done but get it fixed.

Rob greeted me on Messenger after a two-week vacation with his family. I expressed my frustration at having been ill while he was gone and not being able to properly do anything in the gym during the holidays. He made me feel better by giving me permission (of sorts) that life happens and just to get back on track. Rob has a good sense of humor which helps me deal with frustration. He has recommended that I devour Lance Armstrong's book, It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life. Another trip to the bookstore this week? He doesn't really understand how much I love the bookstore. We just won't tell him. The good news is we (his hope/my will) are getting back on track.

Tawny came to visit me to have me choose between two beaded cuff bracelets her mother-in-law bought for us. She was letting us pick our own color. Confession: When Tawny first brought these over, I thought SHE had made them. In my mind, I was screaming: You fucking bitch. You made these without letting me know?! What a whore you are for showing me up with your talent. Harsh? Not one tad. You just don't understand our competitiveness. Don't feel sorry for Tawny -- she would say the exact same thing and has when I've brought her samples of my own creation.

I picked the Hookerella Red one. My precious.


Intermittent network connectivity made the day interesting. I couldn't wait to leave at 4:30pm to finish re-signing the lease for my apartment. My initials and signatures became shameful for me to look at on paper with each page. Sigh.

Is it me or has your own handwriting gone downhill when you type ALL day? My God. In 4th Grade, I was awarded the best penmanship for the whole grade and in 6th Grade (I skipped 5th!), I was awarded again best penmanship for the whole grade. Only one blemish with that one: I had to share the award with freckly-faced British boy named Miles Johnson. Good thing I liked the funny way he talked. Dammit -- I just remembered that he also beat me at our Spelling Bee. Aargh.

Had to turn the heat on for the first time thanks to temps in the low 30s tonight. Didn't make it to the gym; HOWEVER, I did do a fun exercise tape to keep my commitment to get back on track. Rob is going to howl when he finds out what KIND of DVD it is. No, no brass poles were involved. I blab enough here as it is so you'll just have to guess.
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Almost Back to the Grind

New Year's Day

Greeted the New Year under a tequila haze. Answered a call from Trish from San Francisco about 15 past midnight. She and Dave were waiting outside for a cab to arrive to take them to their New Year's Eve destination (a member's house from the Karaoke Mafia? -- I can't explain it either.) Trish made a mental note never to call me under a tequila influence...something about being extra chatty and giggly. Heh.

My dog decided to wake me up 30 minutes before I had set the alarm this morning. We went outside in the cool dark fog and he didn't even do anything. He just wanted some attention and God forbid his mistress was trying to get some friggin' sleep! Grrr... I couldn't get back to sleep at all. Mentally began to get myself ready for my annual New Year's pilgrimage to the bookstore.

Today's agenda would be slightly different. I set aside my routine and accepted a text message invite from Lisa (and her adorable daughter Anna) to take me out to lunch. Her husband had taken their son to a major college football game in town for the day...

I chose a family restaurant next to my bookstore for convenience's sake. My parking worries at both locations were for naught. As I approached the restaurant from parking at the bookstore, something made me look down and saw a penny. When I stooped down to pick it up for luck, there wasn't just one or two or three...six pennies* total! Lucky AGOL on New Year's Day. I thought the wait to be seated would be long, but it was only 10 minutes and a booth, too. Took out some note cards that had to be written while I waited for Lisa and Anna Banana.

Anna being silly while I tried to take her picture.


I loved this mother and daughter shot.


Gonna get you, girl!


Full from lunch, we made our way to Border's so we could all get something. I picked two hardcover books and a small magazine right away while Anna spent about 20 minutes picking out a Disney book until her mom put a stop to her vacillation from one thing to the next. The store wasn't too crowded, but busy enough. Soon the girlies left me to my normal New Year's Day agenda.

Bought a mocha coffee to sip while I sat in the cafe. As if by magic, a table next to a window (and electrical outlet) became available when I was ready. (Could this be the New Year's miracle?) I happily set up my laptop and newly purchased treasures. Spent time cleaning up the drafts of my blog entries before publishing, surfed the 'net and read bits of my new books. By 5pm, I was properly relaxed and felt really great. Left for home and a blessedly quiet evening. Hooray!


*Researched this six penny thing which later made me think of the term sixpence and the group named for the same thing Sixpence None the Richer. Saw this and laughed....and laughed...and laughed. Okay...laughed inwardly because that would've attracted attention at the bookstore.
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New Year's Day