Saturday, April 23, 2011
Knowledge at Noon
I went to a lunch and learn seminar at the Faculty of Extension, and the presentation was called "The Humanity of it All: Exposing Love, Life, Work and Stupidity". I wasn't sure what to expect from it, but I was interested to see what it was all about.
Later on, I came to the realization (well, actually someone helped me realize), that I got exactly what I needed out of it. Although I didn't really find the presentation "enlightening", I came to realize that I'm in a different space right now. If this presentation happened months ago, I may have had an "a-ha moment", but because of where I am right now, the presentation just validated stuff I already knew.
Later on, I came to the realization (well, actually someone helped me realize), that I got exactly what I needed out of it. Although I didn't really find the presentation "enlightening", I came to realize that I'm in a different space right now. If this presentation happened months ago, I may have had an "a-ha moment", but because of where I am right now, the presentation just validated stuff I already knew.
Doctors, doctors, and more doctors
This past week consisted of doctors appointments. On Monday, I took Teagan to the pediatrician because her cold was getting worse and I suspected she had pink eye. Sure enough, she had pink eye but at least she only had a head cold and it didn't go into her chest. Later that day, we had an appointment with the audiologist to get her new mold for her hearing aid. It fit much better than the original one, so hopefully it'll be more comfortable for Teagan.
On Tuesday, I went to the doctor because my throat was sore, and my glands were a bit swollen. I figured I had strep throat (because it felt the same way the last time I had it), so my doctor gave me some antibiotics.
Then on Thursday, Teagan had a dentist appointment to assess how her teeth were coming in. Apparently she has enough space, so they didn't have to pull out 3 more teeth. Whew!
Now, I may have to go to the doctor next week to get something for this rash I developed. Earlier this week, I got hairspray on my neck. I didn't think anything of it, but later that day, my co-worker noticed that my neck was red. It's been irritated and itchy ever since, so I went to the drug store to get some hydrocortisone cream. I don't think it's working because it's still itchy, and I'm trying really hard to scratch it. Hopefully it clears up soon...
On Tuesday, I went to the doctor because my throat was sore, and my glands were a bit swollen. I figured I had strep throat (because it felt the same way the last time I had it), so my doctor gave me some antibiotics.
Then on Thursday, Teagan had a dentist appointment to assess how her teeth were coming in. Apparently she has enough space, so they didn't have to pull out 3 more teeth. Whew!
Now, I may have to go to the doctor next week to get something for this rash I developed. Earlier this week, I got hairspray on my neck. I didn't think anything of it, but later that day, my co-worker noticed that my neck was red. It's been irritated and itchy ever since, so I went to the drug store to get some hydrocortisone cream. I don't think it's working because it's still itchy, and I'm trying really hard to scratch it. Hopefully it clears up soon...
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Enlightened and awakened
I went to a self-development workshop today and was surprised about what I learned about myself.
First off, we all have the power of choice. We are constantly making choices, but most often those choices are a force of habit. When you wake up in the morning, are you consciously aware that you want to open your eyes? Or do you just open them? Do you choose to brush your teeth with your right hand or your left hand? Or do you automatically go through your routine without realizing that your body is already making the choice for you? Are you consciously aware of the choices you are making throughout the day, or are you just making decisions for the sake of making them? After listening to all this, I realized that my body is on "autopilot" and just goes through the routine. I'm not present in the choices that I make. I'm either following what my body has been "trained" to do, or I'm ahead of myself in my decisions. Seldom am I actually in the moment, making a conscious decision to eat with my left hand or put my left shoe on first.
Looking back to earlier in the morning, I almost convinced myself not to go to the session because I was having intense menstrual cramps. But I chose to tough it out and go. And I'm so glad I went.
I also learned that we have certain aspects about ourselves that are problematic - "aspectics". It could be not believing in yourself; thinking that you are not worthy enough; or being afraid of doing something. So how do we change that? We did an exercise to help us discover what that "aspectic" is truly telling us. It's not telling us you can't do something, it's telling us that you actually can. It's just a matter of turning the negative into something positive. What is the aspects' next higher goal for me?
In light of Sharon's recent resignation, I made myself believe that I didn't want her job because I didn't want the expectation that was behind it. I created this cloud, as if a storm were looming, that was swirling around my head and on my shoulders. But today I learned that it wasn't because of the expectation - it was because I was afraid. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to do that job. That fear was driven by thoughts of being overwhelmed, scared, and intimidated. So what were those aspects really trying to tell me? When I appreciated those feelings and were grateful for them, I discovered that I was overwhelmed because of the challenge that it would present. I was scared because I would have to rise to the occasion or step up my game. And I was intimidated because I would have to have perseverance. Now that I recognized that the actual goal involved being challenged, stepping up my game, and having perseverance; it wasn't a negative experience anymore. That was only one layer that my partner and I went through. As we delved deeper, it also became a cleansing process. I was crying because of the overwhelming emotion that came over me, but I felt so much better afterward.
At the end of the exercise, I realized - actually, I made a choice - that I have to talk to manager. I have to present my case to her in order to take advantage of the opportunity to advance my career. I want to be recognized as making a contribution and making a difference.
First off, we all have the power of choice. We are constantly making choices, but most often those choices are a force of habit. When you wake up in the morning, are you consciously aware that you want to open your eyes? Or do you just open them? Do you choose to brush your teeth with your right hand or your left hand? Or do you automatically go through your routine without realizing that your body is already making the choice for you? Are you consciously aware of the choices you are making throughout the day, or are you just making decisions for the sake of making them? After listening to all this, I realized that my body is on "autopilot" and just goes through the routine. I'm not present in the choices that I make. I'm either following what my body has been "trained" to do, or I'm ahead of myself in my decisions. Seldom am I actually in the moment, making a conscious decision to eat with my left hand or put my left shoe on first.
Looking back to earlier in the morning, I almost convinced myself not to go to the session because I was having intense menstrual cramps. But I chose to tough it out and go. And I'm so glad I went.
I also learned that we have certain aspects about ourselves that are problematic - "aspectics". It could be not believing in yourself; thinking that you are not worthy enough; or being afraid of doing something. So how do we change that? We did an exercise to help us discover what that "aspectic" is truly telling us. It's not telling us you can't do something, it's telling us that you actually can. It's just a matter of turning the negative into something positive. What is the aspects' next higher goal for me?
In light of Sharon's recent resignation, I made myself believe that I didn't want her job because I didn't want the expectation that was behind it. I created this cloud, as if a storm were looming, that was swirling around my head and on my shoulders. But today I learned that it wasn't because of the expectation - it was because I was afraid. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to do that job. That fear was driven by thoughts of being overwhelmed, scared, and intimidated. So what were those aspects really trying to tell me? When I appreciated those feelings and were grateful for them, I discovered that I was overwhelmed because of the challenge that it would present. I was scared because I would have to rise to the occasion or step up my game. And I was intimidated because I would have to have perseverance. Now that I recognized that the actual goal involved being challenged, stepping up my game, and having perseverance; it wasn't a negative experience anymore. That was only one layer that my partner and I went through. As we delved deeper, it also became a cleansing process. I was crying because of the overwhelming emotion that came over me, but I felt so much better afterward.
At the end of the exercise, I realized - actually, I made a choice - that I have to talk to manager. I have to present my case to her in order to take advantage of the opportunity to advance my career. I want to be recognized as making a contribution and making a difference.
Appreciation
- noun
--> assessment of the true worth or value of persons or things
Such a simple act, but yet a powerful statement when made.
--> assessment of the true worth or value of persons or things
Such a simple act, but yet a powerful statement when made.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Signs of growing up
I still find it hard to believe that Teagan is 6, and will be 7 in July. How does time fly so fast? It seems like it was only yesterday that I took her to Kindermusik. Then she went to playschool. And now she's in grade one. She's going through a lot of "big kid" stuff this year. Reading books by herself. Writing her name. Putting her hair in a ponytail or braid. Getting a new hearing aid. And today, she pulled out her first baby tooth! Her adult tooth has already come in behind it and we were just waiting for the baby tooth to fall out (I tried to pull it out, but I couldn't bring myself to do it!).
Even though she's so tiny, she's not a baby anymore, but a little girl.
Even though she's so tiny, she's not a baby anymore, but a little girl.
What a week!
It was my first week back, after being on holidays for 2 weeks.
Monday was fine. I did what I had to do and I actually felt like I accomplished something. Although part of the reason was because I was checking my email from home. I know I shouldn't have done that, but I wanted to be mentally prepared for when I got back, and I didn't want to waste my entire day going through emails that did necessarily pertain to me.
Tuesday was payroll day. I went to yoga at lunch, and felt much better afterward.
Wednesday was a rollercoaster of emotions. We had a quick meeting to talk about some housekeeping stuff, and before I sat down, another one was called. My co-worker, Sharon, is resigning. Talk about a shock to the system! I was sad, upset, and a little pissed off. Sad because she's leaving; upset because she's leaving me; and pissed off because she's leaving me and I felt like she should've warned me beforehand. I went back to my desk, somewhat dumbfounded, to collect my thoughts. My first thought was WTF! But then I got myself together and processed what just happened. Sharon had been unhappy and frustrated for the longest time. And we always talked about that if one left, the other one would follow. So is this my cue? Where would I go?
I didn't talk to her until lunch, which was when I got the whole story. I was honest with her and told her how I felt, but supported her decision. She actually wasn't looking, but her boyfriend noticed it in the paper and suggested she applied. She even waited until the closing date of the posting to apply. Then she got a phone call for an interview, had a second interview, and got the job. She wanted to tell me before she announced it to everyone else, but because of the timing, she couldn't because everything happened so fast. I know this is a good move for her, and she'll do well in it. It's just disappointing to see someone so dedicated in their job leave, because it didn't seem like her opinions were really valued.
I told Jason all about it, and he suggested I apply for her job. I told him I didn't want it because a) she does way too much - a lot of stuff gets dumped on her; and b) I don't have enough experience under my belt to be a payroll supervisor. Then he said to at least put my name down, so that it shows that I'm interested in growing with the company. And that's when the wheels started turning (he has a way of doing that to me!). Do I put my name out there? And if I do, how I do that and make sure I don't get "dumped" on?
I talked to Sharon about it the next day, and asked her if she thought I'd be able to "fit" in that role. Perhaps not as a supervisor right away, but eventually. She said I could definitely be in a "senior" role, but told me to be careful not to get "dumped" on. And also not to take on a lot of her tasks, being in the position that I'm in (ie. make sure I get compensated for taking on more responsibility). I know a couple of her tasks will be given to me, which is fine, because they're just monthly things. As for the other stuff - that's another story. I'm already being copied on emails because they're assuming I know everything Sharon did because we worked on that project together. Uh, not really. I know some parts of it, but everything. And they shouldn't expect that I know everything Sharon knows.
So the next 3 weeks will be interesting. It'll be a lot of learning, but that's OK.
Thursday was a bit of a write-off. I didn't accomplish a lot, went to yoga, and had a meeting. We had a really good yoga class. And I was quite proud of myself for being able to do a toe stand, even if it was for only a few seconds. The meeting we had seemed pointless. No one seemed to want to say anything, but yet they complain about their frustrations all the time. This was their opportunity to voice their frustrations, but nothing. I even tried to get people to talk, but it seemed like no one was really interested.
And today (Friday), was a day off for me. I took a lieu day because I worked on the Saturday before I went on holidays. I didn't do too much because I think I'm coming down with something. My throat is a bit sore, and my glands are a bit swollen. I'm hoping it's not strep throat, but rather some kind of ear or throat infection or something. I did go for lunch with Larry and Myer, so it was good to catch up with them.
Monday was fine. I did what I had to do and I actually felt like I accomplished something. Although part of the reason was because I was checking my email from home. I know I shouldn't have done that, but I wanted to be mentally prepared for when I got back, and I didn't want to waste my entire day going through emails that did necessarily pertain to me.
Tuesday was payroll day. I went to yoga at lunch, and felt much better afterward.
Wednesday was a rollercoaster of emotions. We had a quick meeting to talk about some housekeeping stuff, and before I sat down, another one was called. My co-worker, Sharon, is resigning. Talk about a shock to the system! I was sad, upset, and a little pissed off. Sad because she's leaving; upset because she's leaving me; and pissed off because she's leaving me and I felt like she should've warned me beforehand. I went back to my desk, somewhat dumbfounded, to collect my thoughts. My first thought was WTF! But then I got myself together and processed what just happened. Sharon had been unhappy and frustrated for the longest time. And we always talked about that if one left, the other one would follow. So is this my cue? Where would I go?
I didn't talk to her until lunch, which was when I got the whole story. I was honest with her and told her how I felt, but supported her decision. She actually wasn't looking, but her boyfriend noticed it in the paper and suggested she applied. She even waited until the closing date of the posting to apply. Then she got a phone call for an interview, had a second interview, and got the job. She wanted to tell me before she announced it to everyone else, but because of the timing, she couldn't because everything happened so fast. I know this is a good move for her, and she'll do well in it. It's just disappointing to see someone so dedicated in their job leave, because it didn't seem like her opinions were really valued.
I told Jason all about it, and he suggested I apply for her job. I told him I didn't want it because a) she does way too much - a lot of stuff gets dumped on her; and b) I don't have enough experience under my belt to be a payroll supervisor. Then he said to at least put my name down, so that it shows that I'm interested in growing with the company. And that's when the wheels started turning (he has a way of doing that to me!). Do I put my name out there? And if I do, how I do that and make sure I don't get "dumped" on?
I talked to Sharon about it the next day, and asked her if she thought I'd be able to "fit" in that role. Perhaps not as a supervisor right away, but eventually. She said I could definitely be in a "senior" role, but told me to be careful not to get "dumped" on. And also not to take on a lot of her tasks, being in the position that I'm in (ie. make sure I get compensated for taking on more responsibility). I know a couple of her tasks will be given to me, which is fine, because they're just monthly things. As for the other stuff - that's another story. I'm already being copied on emails because they're assuming I know everything Sharon did because we worked on that project together. Uh, not really. I know some parts of it, but everything. And they shouldn't expect that I know everything Sharon knows.
So the next 3 weeks will be interesting. It'll be a lot of learning, but that's OK.
Thursday was a bit of a write-off. I didn't accomplish a lot, went to yoga, and had a meeting. We had a really good yoga class. And I was quite proud of myself for being able to do a toe stand, even if it was for only a few seconds. The meeting we had seemed pointless. No one seemed to want to say anything, but yet they complain about their frustrations all the time. This was their opportunity to voice their frustrations, but nothing. I even tried to get people to talk, but it seemed like no one was really interested.
And today (Friday), was a day off for me. I took a lieu day because I worked on the Saturday before I went on holidays. I didn't do too much because I think I'm coming down with something. My throat is a bit sore, and my glands are a bit swollen. I'm hoping it's not strep throat, but rather some kind of ear or throat infection or something. I did go for lunch with Larry and Myer, so it was good to catch up with them.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
SWEEP...SWEEP...HURRY!
Even though I'm still on vacation, I went to our Curling Funspiel yesterday (am I dedicated or what?!). This is only my second time curling, but it was a lot of fun - mainly because the majority of the people have never curled before, and everyone was in costume. Our team, the Rockin' HULA-gans, had a Hawaiian theme so we were wearing leis, grass skirts, and had flowers in our hair. On one of my tosses, I lost balance and "dove" into the ice. It was quite funny because I slid a bit, as if I was following the rock. Anyway, we didn't win, nor did we come in last place (actually we were second last). Our team captain (one of the few who has curled before), said we actually played really well considering most of us haven't curled before. And the only reason we lost was because of the weird ruling they had where the opponents could steal your points.
One thing they did mention was that we would "feel it" the next day. And I am definitely feeling it today! I figured my arm would be sore from tossing the rock. But when I woke up this morning, my back was sore especially between my shoulder blades, because of all that sweeping. I need a massage...
One thing they did mention was that we would "feel it" the next day. And I am definitely feeling it today! I figured my arm would be sore from tossing the rock. But when I woke up this morning, my back was sore especially between my shoulder blades, because of all that sweeping. I need a massage...
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Stay-at-home-mom moment
Even though Teagan is back to school this week, I still have the week off. Between running around and doing errands, I had a moment..."so this is what it feels like to be a stay-at-home-mom". As much as I like having time off and being able to do all this personal stuff, I don't think I could ever be a stay-at-home mom. I would get bored fairly quickly because, really, there's only so many errands and chores one can do that there would have to be something else to occupy my time.
So, a working mom I stay...
Today's adventure
My mission today was to find a pair of white dress shoes for Teagan. So, I went to this children's store that I figured would have what I was looking for. As soon as I walked in, the saleslady asked if I was looking for anything in particular, so I told her. She was very helpful and showed me a few different pairs. In fact, she was so helpful that I walked out of the store with a shirt, a pair of pants, and a 3-in-1 rain suit for Teagan; AND a pair of my shoes for myself. Wait a minute - isn't this a children's store?!
Well, here's the scoop on that: I commented on one of the pairs of shoes she showed me and said "these are cute...it's too bad they don't have them in adult sizes..." And that's the mistake I made. She explained to me that a junior girls size 5 is equivalent to a woman's size 7 (I actually knew this from before, but didn't know they carried sizes that big). So, she gives me that sort of evil-eye look and asked if I wanted to try them on. And, of course I had to! And, of course they fit! So here I am with a pair of shoes for myself, and I haven't even gotten Teagan's yet. She got back on track, and got the pair of shoes that I picked for Teagan. [mental note: I may have found a new place to buy casual shoes if they carry my size - and they will be cheaper than buying them in an adult shoe store]
And then it snowballed from there. She pointed out that their rain gear just came in and asked if Teagan needed anything. I told her she had 2 pairs of rain boots, and before I could tell her that she already had a rain coat, she was showing me a couple of rain coats (with splash pants) that would go with the boots we already have. Next thing I know, she's bringing one of the rain suits to the front till. And then, she pointed out the sale rack which was an additional 50% off, and of course, I couldn't pass up the sale rack! That's where I found the shirt. While I was browsing, she was still "shopping" for me and showed me some really cute spring outfits, and I have to say they were really cute. But expensive. I told her that I would have to come back when I had more time (because I had to get to yoga), but she showed me one last thing and that was a pair of jeggings, which I also picked up.
So I spent WAY more than I wanted to. Dammit. I was only supposed to get a pair of shoes! I do have to give her credit because she was so helpful. You could tell she was "up selling", but she did it in a way that wasn't pushy. She somehow made you want to buy more, and not really feel bad about doing so (until you leave the store, that is, and realize what just happened!). If I ever have to go back to that store, which probably won't be for a very long time, I would like to deal specifically with her because she knew her stuff and didn't just show you all the expensive stuff. She was very particular on what she picked out.
Yoga at Work
My work is offering yoga classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the month of April. Today was the first class and it was OK. A little different than what I'm used to (there was more "flow"), but it was alright. I'm not sure if they'll be offering it again after April, but regardless, I'll probably go back to the yoga studio I was going to before, starting in May.
Taxes filed
Unlike last year when I waited until the last minute to file my taxes, I actually managed to do it yesterday and mailed them today. One less thing to worry about.
Purging Project 2
My turn to purge. I went through my closet and bins the other day and pulled out stuff I haven't worn and probably will not wear. I managed to get a small pile of clothes, but nothing like in previous years when I'd fill garbage bags. I guess I've been good in keeping up with purging?
So, a working mom I stay...
Today's adventure
My mission today was to find a pair of white dress shoes for Teagan. So, I went to this children's store that I figured would have what I was looking for. As soon as I walked in, the saleslady asked if I was looking for anything in particular, so I told her. She was very helpful and showed me a few different pairs. In fact, she was so helpful that I walked out of the store with a shirt, a pair of pants, and a 3-in-1 rain suit for Teagan; AND a pair of my shoes for myself. Wait a minute - isn't this a children's store?!
Well, here's the scoop on that: I commented on one of the pairs of shoes she showed me and said "these are cute...it's too bad they don't have them in adult sizes..." And that's the mistake I made. She explained to me that a junior girls size 5 is equivalent to a woman's size 7 (I actually knew this from before, but didn't know they carried sizes that big). So, she gives me that sort of evil-eye look and asked if I wanted to try them on. And, of course I had to! And, of course they fit! So here I am with a pair of shoes for myself, and I haven't even gotten Teagan's yet. She got back on track, and got the pair of shoes that I picked for Teagan. [mental note: I may have found a new place to buy casual shoes if they carry my size - and they will be cheaper than buying them in an adult shoe store]
And then it snowballed from there. She pointed out that their rain gear just came in and asked if Teagan needed anything. I told her she had 2 pairs of rain boots, and before I could tell her that she already had a rain coat, she was showing me a couple of rain coats (with splash pants) that would go with the boots we already have. Next thing I know, she's bringing one of the rain suits to the front till. And then, she pointed out the sale rack which was an additional 50% off, and of course, I couldn't pass up the sale rack! That's where I found the shirt. While I was browsing, she was still "shopping" for me and showed me some really cute spring outfits, and I have to say they were really cute. But expensive. I told her that I would have to come back when I had more time (because I had to get to yoga), but she showed me one last thing and that was a pair of jeggings, which I also picked up.
So I spent WAY more than I wanted to. Dammit. I was only supposed to get a pair of shoes! I do have to give her credit because she was so helpful. You could tell she was "up selling", but she did it in a way that wasn't pushy. She somehow made you want to buy more, and not really feel bad about doing so (until you leave the store, that is, and realize what just happened!). If I ever have to go back to that store, which probably won't be for a very long time, I would like to deal specifically with her because she knew her stuff and didn't just show you all the expensive stuff. She was very particular on what she picked out.
Yoga at Work
My work is offering yoga classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the month of April. Today was the first class and it was OK. A little different than what I'm used to (there was more "flow"), but it was alright. I'm not sure if they'll be offering it again after April, but regardless, I'll probably go back to the yoga studio I was going to before, starting in May.
Taxes filed
Unlike last year when I waited until the last minute to file my taxes, I actually managed to do it yesterday and mailed them today. One less thing to worry about.
Purging Project 2
My turn to purge. I went through my closet and bins the other day and pulled out stuff I haven't worn and probably will not wear. I managed to get a small pile of clothes, but nothing like in previous years when I'd fill garbage bags. I guess I've been good in keeping up with purging?
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Edmonton Rush
The BF and I went to our first ever lacrosse game on Friday night. Neither one of us had ever seen a game, and when I got the chance to get 2-for-1 tickets (they were pretty good seats), I figured it'd be something worth experiencing.
Even though I know of the game, I don't really know the rules behind it. From what we figured out, it is:
Anyway, it was a good game and really easy to get caught up in the excitement of it.
Even though I know of the game, I don't really know the rules behind it. From what we figured out, it is:
- similar to basketball in that there are 4 quarters, and there's a shot clock (you have 30 seconds to shoot the ball at the goalie, and it has to touch him in order for the clock to be reset; unless the opponent intercepts the ball);
- similar to hockey with some of the equipment they have - helmet and gloves. The stick they use has a net at the end to catch the ball. The players wear jerseys and shorts, and the goalie is the only one that's fully padded;
- similar to rugby in they way they face-off (well, that's the comparison I'm making).
Anyway, it was a good game and really easy to get caught up in the excitement of it.
Purging Project 1
The mission was to go through Teagan's old clothes and get rid of stuff that didn't fit. And since most of the stuff was already put into a giant bin, it was pretty easy. Just a bit time consuming. The real task was going through the giant bin and taking out stuff that was worn out, had stains, etc. From what was left, I divided it 3 ways, to go to 3 different people.
I'm so glad I finished that project because it was nagging at me.
However, being that I purged all this stuff, I had this need to go shopping. So I went shopping and bought her 6 tops, 2 pairs of jeans, and a new pair of runners for school. And yes, they were all on sale!
Really, this whole purging/purchasing thing is just a vicious cycle...
I'm so glad I finished that project because it was nagging at me.
However, being that I purged all this stuff, I had this need to go shopping. So I went shopping and bought her 6 tops, 2 pairs of jeans, and a new pair of runners for school. And yes, they were all on sale!
Really, this whole purging/purchasing thing is just a vicious cycle...
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