5-Day Weekend

germane \jer-MAYN\ • adjective : being at once relevant and appropriate : fitting

This was day 6 on my new job.  Today begins my 5 day Fourth of July holiday with my new temporary employer.  I think they like me a lot.  I know my boss is just too cool for school.  So are the other two people who I work closely with.  Jewel, is a simply that.  Hilary is Hogan & Hartson breakaway lawyer, and Donna, she's too bourgie!  But you'd never know it by her physiognomy.  I think it happen just like at PWC, I went in on a temporary contract basisi and ended up staying 12 years.  After just 5 days there I got a job offer and they told me if I wanted to stay at PWC, just to go to HR and let them know what my salary would be.  I can stay if I want.  No matter what the cost.

I expect offers from HK, and DA.   Possibly another one from an NGO.  I was told I was the leading candidate in all three.  So that'll come soon probably.  If AM asks me to stay and the salary and title are right, I will.  These people are great.  My office is beautiful. My schedule is great and my boss himself told me to work hard, but not harder than I have too.  So....

Today I'm Grateful for:  FOR THIS JOB.

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June 29 - Surprise Surprise

apposite \AP-uh-zit\ • adjective : highly pertinent or appropriate : apt

This is day 5 of my new job.    WOW!  Guess what!  You know PWC was my favorite job of all.  I loved working with all those true experts.  Some of the worlds most recognized economists, lawyers, and tax and financial experts.  I'm really loving my new job too. 

Surprise. Surprise.  Today I learned 3 of my former coworkers at PWC are at AM.  All three of them were some of my best colleagues at PWC.  They were all so happily surprised to see me again.  Evenmore so to have the opportunity to work with me again.  In a way, I feel like I'm home again.  I have been somewhat homesick for PWC eversince I left there in 2001.  I know I just don't have it in me to return there and go at it like I used too.

Today I'm Grateful for:  My new job.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

June 28 - A Thanalogic Epiphany!

Thanatology \than-uh-TAH-luh-jee\ • noun : the description or study of the phenomena of death and of psychological mechanisms for coping with them

Death:  An ominous reminder of our own mortality, it challenges us to celebrate life, to experience the present as though we were taking our last breath.

This is day 4 at my new job.  Today, Cheryl messaged me.  She's so spirited and happy. I never knew she was family.  Until she indirectly disclosed it to me.  She such a beautiful woman.  Inside and out.  She referred to me in an endearing manner in her email message to me today.  I'm impressed with her strength.  I can relate to her in many ways.  Especially events of my last 6 months of 2005.

I emailed her today's word.  For as much as I have studied the topic, I never knew of the term Thanatology.  I sure have a new perspective on it since October 20, 1998. 

Cheryl's somewhat my cheerleader at work.

Today I'm Grateful for:  For my new job.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

June 27 A Monday Morning Panick Attack

 

imbricate \IM-bruh-kayt\ • verb : overlap; especially : to overlap like roof tiles

Today is day 3 of my new job.  Since my job is so close by, I've been walking or takign the subway.  I rarely take the subway because of my Panic Disorder.  This morning, I had a Panic Attack on the Subway and just as I was on my way out of the Gallery Place station, Jeff calls and just throws 1 million gallons of fuel on the fire.  OMG, it wasn't a nice thing. I arrived at the office freaking and trying to be cool.  I was wringing wet with sweat and rain.

Today I'm Grateful for:  My new job.</>

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Sunday, June 26, 2005 "The Crying Game"

monger \MUNG-gur\ • noun 1 : broker, dealer—usually used in combination
*2 : a person who attempts to stir up or spread something that is usually petty or discreditable—usually used in combination

The Crying Game

 

I know all there is to know about the crying game
I’ve had my share of the crying game

First there are kisses, then there are sighs
And then before you know where you are
You’re sayin’ goodbye

One day soon I’m gonna tell the moon about the crying game
And if he knows maybe he’ll explain

Why there are heartaches, why there are tears
And what to do to stop feeling blue
When love disappears

I know all there is to know about the crying game
I’ve had my share of the crying game

First there are kisses, then there are sighs
And then before you know where you are
You’re sayin’ goodbye

Don’t want no more of the crying game
Don’t want no more of the crying game
Don’t want no more of the crying game
Don’t want no more of the crying game

Today I'm Grateful for:  My new job.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERYIMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Bristol, VA/TN A Tale of Two Cities!

Pyrric  \PEER-ik\ • adjective : achieved at excessive cost; also : costly to the point of negating or outweighing expected benefits

Bristol, VA/TN.   A city sitting directly on the border of two states.  Tennessee and Virginia.  This place is my close by to my hometown, Mendota, VA.  When I was a kid and we "went to town", it was either to Bristol or Abingdon, VA.  We were poor in terms of money.  But rich in values, ethics, and spirit.

When I left Bristol nearly 25 years ago. I never looked back.  I was in a sense running from what is was my past and towards what is now my future.  Had anyone ever said to me at that time, or even 5 years ago that Bristol would be part of my future, I'd have probably laughed and shrugged it off as nonsense.

In the last few years a spark; an undying ember, has revived itself in my soul and now I own a home there, which I purchased without it being something in the family.  I love my home there and one day soon, I hope to set up my new business there and operate it out of my home.  That business would be a 501(c)(3) organization focusing on the plight of rural poor and the obstacles they face from childhood, adulthood, and as families.  I hope to be able to make a contribution to make this socio-economic sitiuation better for underpriviledged folks in the future.  I hope I can make it happen.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

June 24 Friday

cocooning  \kuh-KOON-ing\ • noun : the practice of spending leisure time at home in preference to going out

Today is Day 2 on my new job.   ext

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

June 23 Thursday DAY 1 at AM

advertent  \ad-VER-tunt\ • adjective : giving attention : heedful

Today is the first day of my new job.  I'm nervous and not too confident based on what all I've been through lately in terms of work.  I hope it works out for what it is.  I'm going in with a positive attitude, outlook, and mindset.  I'm going to work hard and give my best.  Like with PWC, if my best isn't good enough, then I can't say I failed. 

Today I'm Grateful for:  This new temporary job.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Dirt Roads

NOTE:  This post is actually taking place on September 29, 2005.  This information is current as of this date.  This page was an empty page and its contents are "fill" for this particular vacant page. 

I recall growing up in Appalachia; Southwest Virginia.  Specifically Mendota, VA located in WashingtonCounty.  I read this article that appeared today on the online version of The Bristol Herald Courier; the major local newspaper.  This article speaks of the dislike and lack of safety dirt roads affect.  I recall just simply hating those damn dirt roads.  You could never keep your car clean even in a drought.  Oh My God, when it rained, your car had just taken a mud bath.  Add to that the loose gravel that would be thrown around.  You could have a new car and in sight of 3 months, its paint would be chipped making it look 10 years old or older.

Here’s the copy and paste of the newspaper article to today’s Bristol Herald Courier:

Unpaved Roads

Bill Christian

News Channel 11

Sep 28 7:13PM EDT

There are several unpaved roads in the Tri-Cities area. In Washington County Virginia, homeowners living along  Whitaker Hollow Road are concerned for their safety.  "There is going to be a accident. It's going to be a loss of life." Said Wendy Harman, Washington County VAHomeowner.  Whitaker Hollow road is very narrow and dusty. It's one of several roads on a six-year plan by Washington County Virginia Commissioners scheduled to be paved.    "This road was added to the six year plan in 2004 and it has a position on the plan." Said Christy Parker, Assistant Washington County Virginia Administrator.  Money from the Virginia Department of Transportation is being used to make this road tolerable for the people who live here. It was recently graded and smoothed out, but Wendy Harman and others here say more must be done to make their road safer.  "This time we are not going to stop, we can't. It may be our life, our children's lives, it may be our friends." Said Evelyn Goodson, =Washington County Virginia Homeowner.

 

County officials say they are aware of the concerns by citizens, but will not move one road ahead of another on the six year plan. They say each road has been carefully examined to determine which ones are in the worst shape.  It's expected to be several years before construction would begin on  Whitaker Hollow Road. County officials say there are many roads in the County that are not on the six year repair plan because a lack of funding.

 

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text .

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularly to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

 

Monday

word \definition

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

An Easter At RJ's

This particular Easter, was in 2003, I believe.  My friend, RJ Pugh invited me, Sandy, and several other friends over for Easter dinner.  There I met Mike and some of RJ's other friends.  We had a wonderful dinner and enjoyed each other's company and freindship.

Winters In Washington

Wintertime in Washington can be, well usually is, two things.  One being BEAUTIFUL, and the other being BITE ASS COLD.  Especially January 1-March 31.  The pics in this posting are of my house and my street.

 

Toonie (L), Me (Center), and Holly (R)

I Begin Work!

brobdingnagian \brob-ding-NAG-ee-un\  adjective : marked by tremendous size

Next Tuesday June 21 I have another interview with HK.  I look so forward to it.  Then next Thursday, June 23, I begin work at AG Pharma, one of the world's largest and most profitable pharmaceutical companies.  NO, I WONT BE A PHARMACOLOGICAL ENGINEER, but I will be the Special Assistant to the CEO.  Its rather uncanny how this position has come before me.  I've wanted to apply to the pharmaceutical companies in Bristol for a long time as they are the only companies there which will pay my standard of salary. So if I had a position at one of those companies, then I'd be able to fully move to Bristol and live my good life easily.  NOW, to this position at AG Pharma.  It is a 1 year temporary assisgnment.  This allows me to gain some industry jargon and knowledge on a first hand basis and gives me professional experience in that particular industry directly.  The pay rate is just shy of what I would ask if I were a regular full-time employee.  The brobdingnagian offices, OMG, they are the epitime of bourgie!  I will accept this position and both the employer and I have agreed that it is acceptable for me to continue to interview since this position is classified as "temporary".  However, it can be "permanent" provided......  While I perform the duties of this job, I'll continue to look, and in the meantime, if I dont find something sooner, then later will be just fine too.  Im delighted to have been offered this position given recent hard times.  It so peculiar how it seemed during the interview processes, to fit both parties mutually well from all angles. 

Now, everyone NO MORE CROSSING FINGERS, they'll only bring me bad luck.  I sure can't let this one get jinxed.  I don't want a repeat Fontheim.

Thanks everyone for each and every bit of support, kindness, love, and guidance that each of you provided to me recently.  No matter how large or small, it all receives equal heartfelt, endearing, and appreciative gratefulness without prejudice of any kind.  

It is my friends, whom I truly LOVE.  BLESS EACH OF YOU!

Today I'm Grateful for:  My friends who have stood by me during the past several months and helped me cope.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

The Carter Fold

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www.carterfamilyfold.org   Click that link and you can have some insight into my music background.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

 

Wednesday

 

word \definition

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

FINIS

word \definition

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

FREEDOM! What Does Michael Jackson Feel As It Relates To Freedom?

sycophant \ slanderer, swindler, from Greek sykophantEs slanderer, from sykon fig + phainein to show. : a servile self-seeking flatterer

Today, I was reading an article in The Washington Post about Mike Tyson.  The article was about him and the mercurial life he has.  It also spoke of his sycophants.  I wasn't familiar with that word, so I looked it up and used it as my word of the day today.

The jury reached their verdict in the case of "The People of The State of California v. Michael Joe Jackson.  The verdict is: 

Count 1 - Conspiracy NOT GUILTY

Count 2 - Lewd act upon a minor, NOT GUILTY.

Count 3 -Lewd act upon a minor, NOT GUILTY.

Count 4 -Lewd act upon a minor, NOT GUILTY.

Count 5 -Lewd act upon a minor, NOT GUILTY.

Count 6 - Attempting to commit a lewd act upon a minor.  NOT GUILTY.

Count 7 - Administering an intoxicating agent to assist in a felony.  NOT GUILTY.

Count 7Lesser - Administering an intoxicating agent to assist in a felony.  NOT GUILTY.

Count 8 - Administering an intoxicating agent to assist in a felony.  NOT GUILTY.

Count 8 Lesser -Administering an intoxicating agent to assist in a felony.  NOT GUILTY.

Count 9 - Administering an intoxicating agent to assist in a felony.  NOT GUILTY.

Count 9 Lesser - Administering an intoxicating agent to assist in a felony.  NOT GUILTY.

Count 10 - Administering an intoxicating agent to assist in a felony.  NOT GUILTY.

Count 10 Lesser - Administering an intoxicating agent to assist in a felony.  NOT GUILTY.

I have an interview tomorrow afternoon at EM.  Its temporary to perm.  I also have to return to HK on the 21st for second interview.  I look forward to it.  Perhaps I'll have a temporary assignment for 2 weeks beginning tomorrow as well.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

DC Pride 2005: Sunday, Day 3

word \definition

Text

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

DC Pride 2005 - Saturday, Day 2

scion \SYE-un\ • noun  1 : a detached living portion of a plant (as a bud or shoot) joined to a stock in grafting and usually supplying solely aerial parts to a graft  *2 : descendant, child; especially : a descendant of a wealthy, aristocratic, or influential family  3 : heir

When I read today's word, the immediate thought that comes to mind is SNOWP, under meaning 2.  Specifically, her proclaimation that she's from an aristocratic German family.  BULLSHIT!  She's a scion alright.  A scion of P.W.T.

I wonder what lies she told for day 2 of DC Pride?  I rested, slept, and depression did its thing. 

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Pride Weekend: Friday, Day 1

epigram \ \EP-ih-gram\ • noun 1 : a concise poem dealing pointedly and often satirically with a single thought or event and often ending with an ingenious turn of thought  *2 : a terse, sage, or witty and often paradoxical saying  3 : epigrammatic expression

Today begins the weekend of DC Pride 2005.  I'd like to go to the events but, the crowds will be so large that I'm afraid that I'll have panic attacks in public.  That'd NOT be good.  Additionally, I don't have resources to go and wholly enjoy it either.  Therefore I'm going to stay at home or maybe I'll go to The Love Shack.

I went to The Love Shack, and it was quite busy, but I wasn't able to engage since I'm extraordinarily depressed.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Thanks, But No Mars Bar For Me

emigrate  \EM-uh-grayt\ • verb : to leave one's place of residence or country to live elsewhere

I just returned from the first interview.  The position which I went there for was a 4-6 month assignment to back-fill the CEO's Special Assistant while she is on an extended leave.  Based upon the interview AND the headhunter's accounts of the position and the company and the CEO, it may be a perfect fit and will accommodate my job search while I'm earning a pretty hefty salary.  The headhunter also wants to present me as a candidate to Jessica for her Special Assistant.  While this position would be a 6-figure position, I don't believe its a good idea for me to be considered for it for a number of reasons; one of which is my health, the stress factor, and the "go all over the place on a 2 minute notice" requirements.  I have to pursue positions which are lower stress, conducive to my health and quality of life, while providing a decent living.   This is why my career emigrated from PW to RF to WR.   I don't need 6-figures to live on.  My monthly debt including mortgages is only $1410.00.  I sure have to earn more than that in order to save like I need too.  I also have to keep up my style and image with Mark Nason shoes, Kenneth Cole shirts, and coolpants.

Today I'm Grateful for:  For all the calls I get to come in for interviews.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation foryour comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Wednesday

talisman \ TAL-iss-mun\ noun   *1 : an object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune  2 : something producing apparently magical or miraculous effects

I have two interviews tomorrow.  I sure hope that Indian Talisman that Billy lent me a while back is still working..

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation foryour comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Welcome To The Love Shack

homonym \HAH-muh-nim\ • noun 1 : homophone  2 : homograph  *3 : one of two or more words spelled and pronounced alike but different in meaning (as the noun "quail" and the verb "quail") 

The Love Shack is my new screen name online.  Its also the new name of my little getaway, renamed by all my buddies.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation foryour comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

A Lead

paragon \PAIR-uh-gahn\ • noun : a model of excellence or perfection

I just learned through Sandra, that HK considers me the leading candidate in the interview I had several days ago.  I sure hope this works out, but I'm prepared in case it doesn't.  I know Beth wanted to contact my former employer whom she knows personally from her years as a Senior Advisor in the Clinton/Gore White House. This is the same employer who I prevailed over in civil litigation for terminating my employment for my refusal to convene an "all-staff" meeting to disclose my HIV status as well as details surrounding my health situation while comcominently performing my work duties in the same paragon fashion as always. My refusal was and is, protected by HIPPA and various other statutes and precedence.  My non-compliance, (while knowing the law as it relates to the issue),  was based on my personal values that 1. the request was unreasonable,  2.  I worked in a job classification in which there was no general, or reasonable risk to others regarding my health, 3.  the request was "none of their concern" and 4. the request was inherently wrong, demeaning, and without merit.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation foryour comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Have You Ever Visited A Vampire Cave?

Pandemonium • \pan-duh-MOH-nee-um\• noun 1 : the capital of Hell in Milton's Paradise Lost  2 : the infernal regions : hell  *3 not capitalized : a wild proar : tumult 

If you're familiar with The Vampire Cave that sits way back in the field past the Love Shack; you'll bust over my "special recipe Vampire garlic!  If you ever visit the Vampire cave, inquire with the tour guide from the Love Shack about that "special garlic" and "A Light At The End of The Tunnel".  ***

***  Disclaimer:  Caution:  Making the aforementioned inquiry requires a signed release of liability and a formal understanding that the contents of the answer under no circumstances implies, infers, or represents any malfeasence, wrong-doing, or otherwise, but does represent jocosity between good humored equal minded friends, acquaintences, and sybaritically hedonistic extempore fuck-buddies.  Those who know of the vampire garlic, have had bellylaughs that are so intense and lenghty individuals report to medical professionals a somewhat euphoric pandemonium.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Just Blanche!

incisive  \in-SYE-sive\• adjective : impressively direct and decisive (as in manner or presentation)

Today, I gave "Blanche" a ride to Dupont Circle.  I've recently met her and I need some of her spirit to rub off on me.  He's bound and determined that nothing is going to get him down.  He keeps a positive mindset, eyesight, etc even when his times are most trying. 

Today I'm Grateful for:  Giving Blanche that ride to Dupont Circle.  It gave me some insight as to what I'm doing, or not doing in my life recently.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Range Rover

cats-paw \KATS-PAW\ • noun 1 : light air that ruffles the surface of the water in irregular patches during a calm  *2 : one used by another as a tool : dupe  3 : a hitch knot formed with two eyes for attaching a line to a hook

Text

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Heard From DAI

ne plus ultra \ \nay-plus-UL-truh\• noun *1 : the highest point capable of being attained : acme  2 : the most profound degree of a quality or state

I heard back from DA today.  They want me to provide them with a resume of my work history past 1993.  I'll do that and submit it later tonight.  I don't really understand what this will provide to them that I haven't already discussed.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

I Thought I'd Heard It All.....

tog \TAHG\ • verb : to dress especially in fine clothing

But, just when you think thats the case, you're proven wrong.  I heard back today from AP regarding the two interviews.  They think in "too polished" for their CEO.  She also said that their CEO was a simple type guy, a "good 'ol guy".  What does that supposed to mean?  Was being togged in a $1,700 Valentino suit it?  CAN ANYONE SHED SOME LIGHT ON THIS FOR ME?

I've always been under the impression that in an interview, you're to put your best foot forward; to do everything in your power to represent a paragon of your profession.  I believe I did just that. I believe most would concur.  I didnt sensationalize, exaggerate, lie, deceive, nor engage in any trumpery.  I was me, 100% me and nothing more or less. 

Someone mentioned that perhaps they are saying "I'm too gay"!  Could this really be what it means?  If so, then I'm better off not to be working with that CEO. 

Today I'm Grateful for:  Last Spring and my insightfulness and incivness in shaking loose those who I mischaracterized as friends.  Now would not be a good time to have those people around.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Wasn't Linda Lovelace, DeepThroat?

marplot    \MAHR-plaht\ • noun: one who frustrates or ruins a plan or undertaking by meddling.

I'm up at 6:30am and preparing for this interview today.  I sure hope it goes well and works out.  I'll be in touch with Sandra today to find out how I scored in the 2nd interview on Friday.  I also heard from Elana regarding my interview with HK.  She hadn't heard anything from them at all.  This is what she said when I responded that it was odd for her not to hear something.  " It's not that odd, clients sometimes ignore me for weeks and then call to make offers - what's frustrating is that by the time they get around to doing so, often the candidate is off the market".   I'll just have to wait and see how it all plays out.  For certain, once I accept a position, there'll be a multitude of interest coming out of the woodwork.  

3:00pm - I just returned home from my interview at DA.  It began at 10:00am.  I met with only 3 of the 5 people scheduled.  The remaining two were called to crisis management and I'll have to meet them on another day, probably later this week.  As far as the three I did meet, including the CEO, the interviews went very smoothly and I walked away feeling good about how I presented myself and the interaction between all us.  What basically the CEO is most concerned about is having a common link between his direct reports and himself.  It seemed his least concern that I could fulfill representation of him on delegated tasks.  During the interview, my phone vibed in my pocket.  Upon leaving, I checked the message and it was an SP recruiter who found my resume online and was calling about a similar position in NW.  I will return his call later today.

I've been invited over for dinner by Sir John, Garry and their son, Ashton.  I accepted.

Does anyone remember the 70's porn star Linda Lovelace?  Remember the film she starred in as "Deep Throat"?  Now today, we come to find that W. Mark Felt was Deep Throat too, I wonder what the connection is, if any between the nickname "Deep Throat", The Nixon administration, W. Mark Felt, Watergate, and the porn industry of the Nixon era?  I once watched a PBS documentary on Linda Lovelace, Deep Throat (the porn film), and its societal impact, implications, and inferences.  They were seemingly as complex, complicated, and intricate as was Watergate.  Oh the scandal of the 70s.  The fashions of the time were so appropriate...everything BIG so as to match "Bigger than Life"; Big Bell Bottoms, Big Marplots (as Richard M. Nixon would have characterized Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein of the Washington Post), Big Edith Head, Karl Lagerfeld, & Christian Dior Eyewear, Big Bouffants & Pompadours, Big Dicks to Deep Throat!

Today I'm Grateful for:  The instant message Jaime sent to me this morning expressing his support and confidence in me during my interview today.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Memorial Day 2005

Hoise   \HOYZ\ • verb : lift, raise; especially : to raise into position by or as if by means of tackle.

This sure is a beautiful Memorial Day Holiday.   Tomorrow I have the interview at DA.  It sure will be an interesting one.  It is scheduled to last from 10:00am until 2:30pm.  This is the first interview too.  I wonder what it will include that will take so long?  Anyhooo......I'll just have to make it through it as I need a job, last month.

My weekend has been OK, nothing exciting, nothing memorial to this point.  I did run into Ryan yesterday.  It was nice to see him.  He's got 2 new tattoos and they're cool.  He has a very very intricate one over most of his back.  I find men with tattoos, piercings, and avant-garde features to be exciting, interesting, and rather eye-catching.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Sir John, his friendship and what they both mean to me.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Homesick For Bristol

Quote: Let people talk about you because you tried and failed, not because you failed to try!

trumpery  \TRUM-puh-ree\ • noun  1 : worthless nonsense  *2 : trivial or useless articles : junk.

("Trumpery" derives from the Middle English "trompery" and ultimately from the Middle French "tromper," meaning "to deceive." (You can see the meaning of this root reflected in the French phrase "trompe l'oeil"—literally, "deceives the eye"—which in English refers to a style of painting with photographically realistic detail.) "Trumpery" first appeared in English in the mid-15th century with the meanings "deceit or fraud" (a sense that is now obsolete) and "worthless nonsense." Less than 100 years later, it was being applied to cluttering material objects of little or no value. The verb phrase "trump up" means "to concoct with the intent to deceive," but there is most likely no etymological connection between this phrase and "trumpery.") 

I miss being at my home in Bristol.  I'm homesick for it I suppose.  I'm amazed at myself for making such a statement.  I miss H.R.M Queen Halena Slopoflopolopolous.  I love her so much.  I miss her immensely.  I can't be away from her much longer.  I can't let her down.  She'll soon go to be with mother and Toonie.  It is only a matter of time. I want to make the most of her remaining time with me.  I owe her all my love.  Its a debt I'll never be able to pay in full.  She's my world.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Jeff, and his medical need requiring H.R.M. Queen H. Slopoflopolopolous' companionship.  She's in good hands with him, but yet they're not mine!

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Ethnicity

saturnine   \SAT-uhr-nyn\, adjective:  1. Born under or being under the astrological influence of the planet Saturn.  2. Gloomy or sullen in disposition.  3. Having a sardonic or bitter aspect.

Oftentimes I ask people about their ethnicity.  I'm an over curious person about peoples roots and heritage.  I find it a very interesting element of a person. I've always been someone who is all about exotic people.  I can remember back to when I was just a boy and seeing my first Asian person, a little girl.  I seen her while I was with my mother at the DMV in Bristol, VA.  I remember saying to my mother, she sure was pretty, how is her skin and eyes different.  Mother replied; "its because she's from another part of the world where people look like her and not like us".  I remember it like it was yesterday.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Text.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Pleaseclick the link below to post them here.

My Washington, DC Flat; 2/3 Isn't Bad But, 3/3 Is BEST!

sylph  \SILF\ noun 1 : an elemental being in the theory of Paracelsus that inhabits air.  2 : a slender graceful woman or girl. 

I had the interview this morning at 11.  Sandra asked me to call her at 5pm to see what feedback she had from Michelle whom I interviewed with .  It was my misunderstanding today's interview was to meet the CEO, that'll actually happen on the next interview.  Today's interview was to narrow the field down to three candidates to forward to the CEO.  Sandra thinks I'll be one of the three.

Arzin called me this morning before the interview to let me know that Mike's company is postponing my temp assignment for 1 week and is to begin the week of June 6.  This doesn't do much to help me bring in a little bit of money for a week, but does facilitate the interview on Tuesday with DA.  I didn't want to tell Mike I'd not be able to begin until Wednesday.  But it worked itself out, I suppose.  On the other hand, Arzin said she'd have me a temp assignment for Tuesday, but theres NONE and now she calls and tells me to call her on Tuesday, meaning nothing until Wednesday.

As Paracelsus changed the world of medicine, I wish he'd be able to change my luck.  I feel as though I'm a lone sylph undecipherable as to being, image, existence, or idea.

Today I'm Grateful for:  To be alive.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Pleaseclick the link below to post them here.

Walk Like An Egyptian, Dress Like A Republican!

vanward \VAN-werd\ • adjective: located in the vanguard : advanced

Tomorrow, for the interview, I'll have to pass myself off as a Republican in order to seal this interview.  So today, I've spent as much effort as I can putting together from my closet, a Republican costume!  It consists of a navy blue Valentino double-breasted pin-striped couture suit from Saks Fifth Avenue, a solid white shirt from Banana Republic (1 of only 2 white shirts I own), and finally, the ubiquitious red tie, from a street vendor costing all of $3.  I must add, the tie dons some rather cool diagonal stripes of light gray; the same color of the pin-stripes.  Now for all you who know me, I'll be wearing my hair parted and combed.  SCANDAL!!   Especially since I usually wear my hair in some spiked version.  No, sorry, I've decided NOT TO COMB-OVER --- I'M A GAY MAN.  THAT JUST DOESN'T HAPPEN IN THE GAY CULTURE.  Our culture has more style and class than to grow a pony tail on the side of our head just to twirl it around our head as if it were some coming of age passage right.  Leave it to a gay man to go to Neiman Marcus and buy some flawless hat, or go to Fresh Fields (Whole Foods) and get that beautiful fruit from the produce area and make himself a Chiquita Banana headdress.

My typical outfit consists of modern progressive self-expressing styles, patterns, and vanward designs so as to accentuate traits, elements, and aspects of my personality and individuality.  A typical casual outfit would be a bold Kenneth Cole shirt, Diesel or Von Dutch Jeans, Mark Nason Shoes, and some way too cool for school belt.  My dress attire consists mostly of Giorgio Armani.

Today I'm Grateful for:  The interview with AP tomorrow morning.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Pleaseclick the link below to post them here.

Live Like I Were Dying! Another Interview

Today's Word

sophomoric  \sahf-MOR-ik\ • adjective *1 : conceited and overconfident of knowledge but poorly informed and immature  2 : of, relating to, or characteristic of a sophomore

Today while driving I was listening to WMZQ and heard Tim McGraw's "Live Like You Were Dying"; I can't count the number of times I've heard that song and immediately switched stations.  For some odd reason today, I listened to the song.  Amazingly, that song describes my approach to living life.  I just do it!  I enjoy!  While on this side, if there's something we want to do, that will improve the quality of our lives, then just do it.  Don't spend time dreaming, talking, or developing courage.  Just do it.  Live like you were dying!   You"ll be happy you did.

Death:  An ominous reminder of our own mortality, it challenges us to celebrate life, to experience the present as though we were taking our last breath.

Next Tuesday, May 31, I have an interview with DA.  Damn, this interview is expected to last for 4-5 hours.  I'll be DEAD by the end of that one.  Its interesting that SnowPea used to work for this company.  She used to claim that I treated her sophmorically.  I proffer she doesn't even know the meaning of the word.  If providing her in excess of $200,000.00 in monetary and opportunity instruments, then I'm sure she didn't TRULY object to any sophmoric manners I may or may NOT have.  

Today I'm Grateful for:  _________________

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

I Feel Honored!

Today's Word

bloviate \BLOH-vee-ayt\ • verb : to speak or write verbosely and windily.

Mike made me feel honored today.  His very nice gesture of providing a material lead for some temporary work until I find a regular, full-time professional position.   This man went more than out of his way for me.  This man barely knows me and he went to bat for me.  I'm honored.  I believe that as he gets to know me more, he'll probably reflect back on this and say he was honored as well because I don't use words loosely or proffer insincere compliments.  He'll see the genuine man I proclaim to be is just that; genuine in every respect of the word.  For all the pompous, egotistical, self-absorbed people nowadays, Mike is an example that there is proof that rare finds still exist.  We just recently met!  It was my first impression, he's much smarter, wiser, substantive, and knowledgable of life than one would assess his stunningly beautiful 26 youthful years could hold.  Now my impression is being supported by his actions.  I usually don't misread first impressions.

I'll attempt to avoid bloviating, but I believe I'm beginning to discover the meaning underlying recent events of my life.  Last night, while doing my shift at this temporary job, it occurred to me - maybe, just maybe I was spoiled during my years at PriceWaterhouseCoopers with all the tangible and intangible luxuries my employment there provided.  I do admit that I'm definately knowledgable of the overabundance of undesirable employers out there.  I've been lucky, or NOT to have run into the multitude of them in the past 24 months. Underneath it all, I now understand just how priviledged I was, and still am.  Events occurred are merely change, a metamorphisis required to move forward to the next stage or phase of life. Experience and education in preparation for the next challenge, issue, or event.  I've always held the philosophy to embrace everything coming my way, good, bad, and indifferent with openarms as these things are the basic necessity to make a man be more of a man than before.  I welcome that, I look forward to it, but I will admit, its scary at times.  Reflecting back nearly 25 years ago,  I was on that Greyhound bus from Bristol, VA headed to Washington, facing my new frontier -A NEW LIFE, one very DIFFERENT from the way I knew it before boarding.  It was then I set aside my fear and proceded full speed ahead.  It served me well then; and will still do that, provided I still believe it.  I still do. JFK, was correct in saying "all we have to fear is fear itself".  But one thing that will never change in life is the fact that Everything Changes"  I just have to change (metamorphasize) as well to the extent I keep in place my ethics, values, mores, canons, and beliefs.

A book I recently read is:

First Impressions, What You Don't Know About How Others See You by Ann Demarais, Ph.D. and Valerie White, Ph.D.

Today I'm Grateful for:  My ability to understand the underlying meaning of recent life events.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

A New Day, Week, .... & A 2nd Interview from AP!

Today's Word

aperçu \ap-er-SOO\ • noun   1 : a brief survey or sketch : outline  *2 : an immediate impression; especially : insight .

I tried to relax this weekend, but I just couldn't, no matter how hard I tried or didn't.  I just won't be able to relax until I take that deep breath until after I've secured full-time, regular career oriented employment.  The point at which its complete, finalized, and a done deal.  The "done deal" aspect will in my mind be afterwards completion of any potential probationary period.  At 3:00PM today I begin my first week of a temporary work assignment unless that somehow changes between now (9:00AM) and then.

It would be reasonable to expect some dialogue between the two companies I interviewed with last week.  I'm sure AP wants me to return to meet the CEO, since I'll be his shadow Special Assistant provided I'm offered the job, and I accept.  Given the apercu from the headhunter and people I interviewed with at AP, I believe I'm the candidate of choice. 

Last Friday, I sent Besty my references for the position at HK.

The signed Retention/Engagement letter was sent back to Jeff and Sabrina, the attorneys in my wrongful termination civil action with RSM.

WOW, this sure comes as pleasant news.  I was invited back to AP for that 2nd interview to meet the CEO.  I wonder how it will turn out?  Any thoughts?  This would be a $95K position.

On my way to this temporary assignment this afternoon, I just got off the phone with Sandra letting me know of the next interview with AP.  My phone rings and since I didn't recognize the number, I assume its a job call and let it go to voice mail.  (Just something I do so that I'll have the opportunity to find the job ad to know what I'm speaking to the person about).  The voice mail was a caller from DA wanting to speak with me regarding an interview.

Today I'm Grateful for:  Miss Sandy, the wonder from down under! 

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Sunday

Today's Word

presage  \PRES-ij\, noun:   1. An indication or warning of a future event; an omen.   2. A feeling or intuition of what the future holds.   3. Prophetic significance.   4. [Archaic] A prediction; a prognostication.

\PRES-ij; prih-SAYJ\ transitive verb:   1. To indicate or warn of beforehand; to foreshadow.   2. To have a presentiment of.   3. To predict; to foretell.

\PRES-ij; prih-SAYJ\ intransitive verb:   To make or utter a prediction.

I've tried all weekend to call Sandy.  I missed her call this morning.  My freaking phone sometimes doesn't have reception here on Girard and therefore won't ring.  On top of that, sometimes I won't receive voice mail or text messages until hours, and on some occasions days after they were left.  I call Cingular, and they tell me they're taking down the towers and replacing them with new ones.  The way in which they are going about this to my best understanding is; taking down the old towers and then putting up the new ones.  Wouldn't it make better sense to erect the new towers, then test them to make sure they're working properly AND THEN bring down the OLD ones from AT&T Wireless?  In defense of AT&T Wireless, I must say this, they sure treated me like they appreciated my business.  According to Cingular in publicizing the Cingular/AT&T Wireless merger, "Service will be better"!  When? When I switch to another provider? ANNOYING! What a presage!

Today I'm Grateful for:  Flutie, and his being so nice to me.  He has this uncanny sense of awareness and understanding.  He went out of his way to try to help me relax this weekend.  He's a good man.  However I feel guilty that I didn't drive him home.  My head just couldn't let go to unwind.

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks and appreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post them here.

Not A Sermon, Just A Thought!

Today's Word

Abnegate  \AB-nih-gayt\, transitive verb:   1. To refuse or deny oneself; to reject; to renounce.   2.  To  give  up  (rights,  claims,  etc.);  to  surrender; to relinquish.

Juanita and Mel

Ok, I know the circumstances are not the best, but there is reason to believe.  Believe in truth.  I truly don't believe they know what road they're travelling down or where it could possibly take them in regards to their decision to sell the house.  I suspect only 1 notice was given and to only 1 person, me!  Per statute and DCMR14, four notices would be required.  Who is the listing agent?  Have required documents been filed with the proper authorities, regulators, and agencies, specifically DCRA?  I would think, not!  If not, then is this a scheme, ploy, or plot?  An illegal distraction, process, or procedure?  Possibly.  No matter which and under NO circumstance outside of a court ruling, am I WILLING to abnegate my stake.

Truth and Belief

The aforeposted topic brings to mind another idea on truth and belief.  An idea regarding truth and belief as it concerns The Bible.  Two post tabula-rasian qualities I believe we are born with are the capability to represent truth, and the ability to believe based on logic.  In black and white, The Bible is a collection of words organized to describe, demonstrate, and account for issues, ideas, events and experiences.  Real or perceived.  Therein the "real or perceived" lie the questions.  For all accounts, intents and purposes, The Bible is at its basis, an accounting of those events as passed along by translators since the beginning of time.  Even in today's modern world, if we were to convene a group of people and tell one of the members of that group a story whereas the others weren't privy to the conversation, by the time each member of the group independently heard the story, the last person's account is most likely to be different from how the story truly was told.  Therefore, why do we hold the propensity to believe the words in The Bible and furthermore why, and on what basis do we believe it is truth?  After all, like in the situation of the aforementioned story which is an example of how hearsay is distorted, The Bible could be so distorted by translation after translation further distored by hearsay, that maybe it could be considered garbly-gook!    Now, as in the situation with Mel & Juanita, why is it that when someone is being truthful, and has no history of being untruthful, why won't people believe truth?  We tend to believe the bible that has NO fact behind it.  We tend to believe it and it easily could have NO truth.  Isn't this the along the lines of the definition of hyprocracy? Just something to make one think!

Television

I used to watch very little television.  For a number of reasons ranging from non-interest, avoiding panic attacks, and its boring.  Nowadays, I bascially watch NONE.  I used to at least watch local and national news along with my brain-drain shows Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!  Ever since the news was flooded and overly saturated with the images of Mary Shiavo and The Pope. I couldn't deal with it.  The images of Mary Schiavo was very distressing for me to see.  The Pope wasn't a pretty sight either lying there on a board UNembalmed in the center of a piazza, his corpse ballooning and ballooning on public display while buzzards flocked overhead.  To me, I can think of more tastefully things to view.

Today I'm Grateful for:   This will probably be an unusual gratitude item.  But, here goes; I'm grateful for the necessity to work for a temporary agency at the present time.  The benefit was made crystal clear in yesterday's assignment.  That benefit ("opportunity cost") being the freedom to enter into a workplace and "test drive" the employer to see how you like it.  I point this out because of one of the guys who was perhaps a manager at the establishment I worked at yesterday.  He was in his early to mid-twenties.  Quite handsome but very green in life andclearly wet behind the ears...maybe even just had his ass slapped by the pediatrician.  By his demeanor alone you could see his hunger for power.  To me, I don't see anything wrong or bad with someone being power hungry.  I know several power-mongers and I'm able to put that aspect aside and interact with the rest of their attributes.  However, this little guy's problem is that while he's power hungry and that's OK, he ignorant to what power truly is, AND knowledgeable of power management and application  That would be quite clear to experienced power moguls.  Unfortunately for Todd, he niggardly demonstrates his being a buffoon.  Therefore, I'm grateful to have this temporary work so that I can go in, see these ignorant people for what they are and basically say "Thanks, but no thanks" with impunitive consequences. 

READERS:  Your thoughts are VERY VERY IMPORTANT TO ME otherwise I'd not open my life to you like I do, particularily to those of you who have been given the link directly.  I offer my sincere thanks andappreciation for your comments about this posting.  Please click the link below to post themhere.