All of us at work are trying to drop a few pounds, and we decided to harvest the power of peer pressure to accomplish the goal. So we formed a little "club," each put in $20, and weigh in on Monday mornings for 8 weeks. At the end of the period, whoever lost the most (measured in percent of body weight lost) will receive the collective dinero.
The original idea was that you would use the money for new clothes, but I'm thinking that better motivation will be the guilt factor. If I can remember those who don't have enough to eat each time I'm thinking of going too far with the chips and dip, I will put them down. And I can donate the money that I win to a hunger related charity of my choice...if I can be firm enough with myself to win.
Just when I was thinking this was the greatest idea for me, one of our group members mentioned a better motivator. If I lose, I have to write a check in the amount I would have won to Rush Limbaugh. Oh man, that's some serious motivation, or anti-motivation...however you want to look at it.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Saturday, March 14, 2009
It's Just a Juicy Kind of Day
Spring. I can definitely feel it today. Everything seems joyful. I started today at Selby Gardens for "Walk and Roll," a collaborative event they shared with Senior Friendship Centers. As always, the lush greenness juxtaposed with the water of the bay was invigorating and calming. It reminds me of how lucky I am to live here, where many pay their hard earned bucks to vacation. I've got to remember not to take it for granted.After picking up some flowers from a heavy accented Irish boy at the downtown Farmer's Market, I headed home to find my backyard filled with sound. An entire flock of Gold Finches was hanging out in the trees near the bird feeder. They're stocking up for the long flight to their northern summer grounds. And I must consider it a compliment they are choosing our yard for the extra calories.
It's pretty amazing when you think about these tiny boys and girls flying so far, and knowing just where they're going. Always gives me the chills.
The wind is sporting that easy breeze today, the kind that just makes you feel like everything is alright in the world. Hope you're out and about enjoying life.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Words
What is it with me some days, finding the most mundane things funny or amusing? I ask this question and love the answer: any day I can laugh or be amused, it's a good thing. So here's what's making me snicker today: it's a few words.
Someone used the word "boilerplate" today and it made me laugh. Isn't that a disgusting word? Of course it makes me think of "boils," those horrible giant infected-looking lumps.
At an IT conference in the fall, everyone kept using the word "robust." Over and over again I heard this word. It was crazy. And it was all to describe boring software applications...and occasionally hardware. I was about to crack up.
Here's a word a friend used last week: "extemporaneous." It reminded me of the Steve Martin movie Roxanne (you know, the one where the usually big-nosed fireman falls in love with Darrell Hannah and convinces her that another fireman is writing her poetry). He would use big words that the jock fireman didn't understand, and one of those words was "extemporaneous," which formed a hilarious scene in which he referred to the night as "extemporaneous." Oh yes, it's all coming back to you now, right?
What words do you love, hate or laugh at? I know you have some.
Someone used the word "boilerplate" today and it made me laugh. Isn't that a disgusting word? Of course it makes me think of "boils," those horrible giant infected-looking lumps.
At an IT conference in the fall, everyone kept using the word "robust." Over and over again I heard this word. It was crazy. And it was all to describe boring software applications...and occasionally hardware. I was about to crack up.
Here's a word a friend used last week: "extemporaneous." It reminded me of the Steve Martin movie Roxanne (you know, the one where the usually big-nosed fireman falls in love with Darrell Hannah and convinces her that another fireman is writing her poetry). He would use big words that the jock fireman didn't understand, and one of those words was "extemporaneous," which formed a hilarious scene in which he referred to the night as "extemporaneous." Oh yes, it's all coming back to you now, right?
What words do you love, hate or laugh at? I know you have some.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Well, it's been one of those days...
Ever have someone tell you how to do your job when they have no clue what they're talking about? Obstruct progress because they're hard headed and pathetic? Make a big fat mistake and refuse to correct it, all the while calling you the time-wasting perpetrator?
It's been one of those days. And really, identifying myself as a victim is something I refuse to do. We all have bad days, and that's exactly what they are. Nothing more. But humor me and allow me to bitch on the safety of your screen. It really helps.
The details aren't important. But know that every egotistical punk in the world is on my doodie list at this moment in time. Okay, that's a lie. There are two in particular I'm thinking of. And I would do something enjoyable, like imagine them in a very compromising situation but there's nothing more pathetic than the state they're in right now. Losers.
It sounds bad, I know. But that's the harmless part of my therapy. It stays here on the screen. So tell me about your bad days...have any lately?
It's been one of those days. And really, identifying myself as a victim is something I refuse to do. We all have bad days, and that's exactly what they are. Nothing more. But humor me and allow me to bitch on the safety of your screen. It really helps.
The details aren't important. But know that every egotistical punk in the world is on my doodie list at this moment in time. Okay, that's a lie. There are two in particular I'm thinking of. And I would do something enjoyable, like imagine them in a very compromising situation but there's nothing more pathetic than the state they're in right now. Losers.
It sounds bad, I know. But that's the harmless part of my therapy. It stays here on the screen. So tell me about your bad days...have any lately?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
I'm so out of here...
Vacation? Is it anywhere in the near future?
It's this time of year when the heavy day dreaming begins for me. That's right, it's time to plan our summer vacation. And I have to say, even having a concrete skeleton of a plan is helpful in getting through the muck of this time of year. It's beautiful outside, and I'm in an office....It's an office I enjoy, doing work I like, and yes, I am happy just to have a job.
But the f word, "freedom," is a good thing too. This year, I'm dreaming of the keys. I've been in Florida for 17 years and haven't been there. Probably won't end up in Key West, but Islamorada is a good possibility. Here's me: in comfy beach chair, reading, thinking about nothing, soaking in the quietude of the private beach. Or birding. Or kayaking. Or seeing key deer. Long walks. Few people.
...And maybe one crazy day trip to Key West. Any pointers on where to stay? We're thinking about this place.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
The 7-eleven Skirmish
So hubbie has been rather sick over the last few days and finally was able to get up and work yesterday. He was tired, grumpy and not in the mood for a wise ass punk manning the cashier's counter when he went in 7-eleven for a soda. Evidently, the young smarty pants was making comments about each customer in the long line.When husband's turn came up, the initial hasty debit card swipe revealed "insufficient funds" for the $3 something purchase. The kid says, "Oh yeah, try it again in a few seconds and I'm sure you'll have money magically appear that wasn't there before."
Good thing husband knew he was right about it being a bunk swipe, because he completely freaked out. "Ring up my f@#*! drink and keep your f@#*! mouth shut about the people in line. How the f@#! would you feel if I really didn't have funds to cover $3? Close your punk ass mouth and do your job!!!!!"
Reportedly, the entire line fell silent. As the second (and successful) card swipe occurred, the cashier formed a silent "o" shape with his mouth, speechless for the first time on duty that day.
Now under normal circumstances, I would think "HELLO, bit of an over reaction--not the high road here." But this kid deserved it and husband could have saved his life. There are some crazy folks out there, and you never know when you can set someone off. Take the hit kid, and wise up to your cheekiness. In the meantime, I know that 7-eleven will always offer excitement and the unknown...a sure source for one of a kind people.
She's One Hell of A Deal: Hello World
Oh my, has it really been one week since I've talked to you? The world is spinning too fast these days. Like you, I'm consumed with bad news between layoffs, way too expensive bail outs and the usual assortment of scary things broadcast at 6 pm.
Yesterday I got the news that a great friend in Charlotte NC (and Gropius reader) was laid off. She's an amazing writer, PR person, marketer, etc. etc. Instead of falling into a whirlwind of depression, this is what she sent out to the world. I know it's long, but read it all & then put on your thinking cap. There's cake involved.... And she's one hell of a deal.
Friends, Family, Former Colleagues and Clients:
Today I joined the ranks of those that have lost their jobs. Yes, it’s disappointing. But it comes with little surprise. Financially, things weren't going well at my former company and I've been expecting it. Anyway, the reason I am writing this letter is to let you know that there's another darn good creative on the streets.
However, I’m not just a creative. Over the years, I’ve done a lot more than write copy. Here’s a little insight into the Becca Bernstein you may think you know:
Sales Guru
In college, I worked part-time and made 36K a year selling everything from Betty Crocker Cookbooks to OSHA Manuals over the phone. After college, I moved to Boston and opened an in-house sales department for a pharmaceutical publishing company. There, I sold training materials to VPs, Executive Directors and Sales Managers. I exceeded every sales goal set before me. And I was involved in the biggest sale of the company, which doubled the revenue for the 1999 fiscal year. For the past eight years, I have used these skills to sell the most intangible product of all: ideas. Basically, I can sell anything.
Marketing Writer
From brochures to websites to banner ads to print ads to new business presentations, I’ve written for a wide array of voices and brands. I can write like a man, a tween, a mom, a member20of AARP, a CEO and I’ve even conquered the voice of a ham sandwich. (Yes, it had a lisp.)
Media
Placing, negotiating, accessing, evaluating—I’ve done it all. When I worked in the gaming industry, I was responsible for getting the word out through all media outlets. I was such a tough negotiator, one of my vendors called me a Bulldog. I’m still blushing from the compliment.
Public Relations
In the gaming industry, my job was to get as much exposure for my company as possible. In my tenure, I was able to secure over $300,000 worth of free press. Which was a big plus because my company w as new to the marketplace and needed all the attention it could get.
So, that’s a brief snapshot into the core capabilities of Becca Bernstein. As we all know, it’s rough out there and finding a job isn’t going to be easy. That’s why I’m asking for your help. Please keep me in mind for any full time, part time or freelance opportunities you come across. As you can see, I’m flexible. As an extra incentive, I am offering the lucky person that finds me a job, a delicious steak dinner at McIntosh’s. And if you aren’t local, I will bake you a cake of your choice.
References and resumes are available on request.
Thanks for all your well wishes and job leads,
Becca Bernstein
704.941.5318
Yesterday I got the news that a great friend in Charlotte NC (and Gropius reader) was laid off. She's an amazing writer, PR person, marketer, etc. etc. Instead of falling into a whirlwind of depression, this is what she sent out to the world. I know it's long, but read it all & then put on your thinking cap. There's cake involved.... And she's one hell of a deal.
Friends, Family, Former Colleagues and Clients:
Today I joined the ranks of those that have lost their jobs. Yes, it’s disappointing. But it comes with little surprise. Financially, things weren't going well at my former company and I've been expecting it. Anyway, the reason I am writing this letter is to let you know that there's another darn good creative on the streets.
However, I’m not just a creative. Over the years, I’ve done a lot more than write copy. Here’s a little insight into the Becca Bernstein you may think you know:
Sales Guru
In college, I worked part-time and made 36K a year selling everything from Betty Crocker Cookbooks to OSHA Manuals over the phone. After college, I moved to Boston and opened an in-house sales department for a pharmaceutical publishing company. There, I sold training materials to VPs, Executive Directors and Sales Managers. I exceeded every sales goal set before me. And I was involved in the biggest sale of the company, which doubled the revenue for the 1999 fiscal year. For the past eight years, I have used these skills to sell the most intangible product of all: ideas. Basically, I can sell anything.
Marketing Writer
From brochures to websites to banner ads to print ads to new business presentations, I’ve written for a wide array of voices and brands. I can write like a man, a tween, a mom, a member20of AARP, a CEO and I’ve even conquered the voice of a ham sandwich. (Yes, it had a lisp.)
Media
Placing, negotiating, accessing, evaluating—I’ve done it all. When I worked in the gaming industry, I was responsible for getting the word out through all media outlets. I was such a tough negotiator, one of my vendors called me a Bulldog. I’m still blushing from the compliment.
Public Relations
In the gaming industry, my job was to get as much exposure for my company as possible. In my tenure, I was able to secure over $300,000 worth of free press. Which was a big plus because my company w as new to the marketplace and needed all the attention it could get.
So, that’s a brief snapshot into the core capabilities of Becca Bernstein. As we all know, it’s rough out there and finding a job isn’t going to be easy. That’s why I’m asking for your help. Please keep me in mind for any full time, part time or freelance opportunities you come across. As you can see, I’m flexible. As an extra incentive, I am offering the lucky person that finds me a job, a delicious steak dinner at McIntosh’s. And if you aren’t local, I will bake you a cake of your choice.
References and resumes are available on request.
Thanks for all your well wishes and job leads,
Becca Bernstein
704.941.5318
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