Sunday 29 April 2007
There are a number of things I've noticed recently, the biggest one probably being that I'm saving much more money because I don't drive anymore. Think of it- not only am I saving on the normal expenses like car payment, gas and insurance, I'm saving on the little things too. Like groceries. Instead of taking a shopping cart around the store, filling it with crap to stuff in my car, now I'm taking a basket and filling it with essentials only. I can only buy what I can walk home with.
I've also been working really hard lately, which means not a lot of time leftover for spending money on mindless crap like movies and random shopping. This month, I've managed to save $400usd! Which will help greatly when it comes to paying for Germany in June, and whatever I decide to do for Memorial Day weekend in May (currently taking suggestions).
Another thing I've noticed is social interactions. I've already had way more interaction with people at work here in England than I did in the States, but I find myself not being satisfied. I want more, and I want to meet more people. I'm still not about to go to a nightclub or a bar by myself, but... I also find that I'm not happy with myself when I fall into old patterns like worrying about people/things that aren't my responsibility, trying to fix things that aren't my problem, and feeling that little twinge of jealousy when people I know have been spending more time talking to each other than they have been talking to me. I remind myself that a) it was never my job to *fix* things in the first place, and b) i'm in England, some of these people are not. Some of these people also have more immediate problems. Me- not so many problems, when it comes down to it. So my goal is to not fall into my usual habits of "why arent' people talking to me" and trying to help when nobody wants it.
Some interesting notes on grocery stores here: there is no macaroni and cheese to be found. Yesterday, I really wanted my blue box of mac & cheese with the orange powder packet inside, but it's not to be found in Northampton. I will have to stock up on a trip to the States. The second thing I noticed- Spam fillets dipped in batter. Who the hell eats spam in the first place, and for battered fillets?!... Then there was the half an aisle devoted solely to baked beans. Weird... only four kinds of toothpaste in the supermarket, but half an aisle of baked beans. And then there's the hot dog thing. Tons of sausages, but no hot dogs. Unless you count canned, nearly full-size, hot dogs. But at least there's good ol' Heinz 57 ketchup in the glass bottle to put on them :-)
It looks gross and nasty outside (though not raining). I'm trying to convince myself that it would be a good thing for me to get dressed and actually do something today instead of sitting around... we shall see. I'll let you know what happens next time :-)
Sunday, 29 April 2007
Sunday, 22 April 2007
Thursday 12 April 2007
Today was the day that I was always dreading before leaving the States- the first day where nothing seemed to go right. I was up with the sun this morning (on my day off) and couldn’t go back to sleep. Then I went to work to check my email because I still don’t have internet access here (story there too), and someone tells me that the kid whose mother died last week might not come back at all… then I go furniture shopping and get really discouraged because everything is so damned expensive- a side table for £ 199, or a simple ottoman for £ 120, or a regular size coffee table for at least £ 349.… and it was like that everywhere I went. While the secondhand stores are cheaper, they didn’t have anything I was even remotely interested in. looks like it’s going to have to be Ikea online (because it’s inaccessible by public transport), and hope that they can deliver when *I* want them to.
Then I come back to my flat to check that my phone service was turned on. I plug in the phone I just bought, and I have no dial tone. I try it in all three jacks, and nothing works. The telephone company (I called on my mobile) was telling me to find the main jack for the apartment, unscrew the plate, and try plugging in the telephone on the “test” jack that they have in there. So I undo all three jacks, because I don’t know which one is the main one, and there’s no test jack for me. Shit. I leave it alone and decide I’ll call them tomorrow.
Shortly thereafter, I get a phone call from work, asking if I can come in tomorrow (my other day off this week) for a meeting with the finance team. Great….. Tessitura *can’t* do some things Finance and the auditors want, but I’m not sure how we can really deal with that.
I decide to go shopping again, but can’t find anything I’m looking for. The jeans I have are too big, but can’t find anything that fits me, I can’t find a bathroom storage unit; I’m just not having any luck at all. In the midst of my wanderings, I get a text message- it’s work, again. One of my advisors just handed in their notice, so now I’m down two full-timers, and if fully staffed, we’re supposed to be at five or six. Right now it appears I’m at four. Lovely.
Come home, put down my stuff, and decide I have to go pee. I pull on the cord that turns on the light (for some reason, it’s not a switch), and something shorts, and now the bathroom lights aren’t working. I tried swapping fuses with a socket that I’ll never use, and it doesn’t work. So I go to put some things away in my bedroom, and the bedroom light doesn’t work either. Nor does the hall light, or the light in the kitchen, or the living room. Fuck. All of the wall sockets work, but none of the overhead lights work, and I don’t have a lamp that plugs into the wall. So I’m sitting on my floor right now as darkness descends, and the only light I have is that from the computer screen. Yes, I have two candles, but I’ll need them so I can see to shower tomorrow morning.
Oh, I forgot to mention that out of all the keys I have for my apartment, none of them seem to unlock the door where we’re supposed to put all our trash. I talked to the estate agent, and they’ll try to get ahold of someone and get me the right key, but… as of now (I haven’t checked my email this afternoon), I still don’t have a contact number for the super, so I’m not even sure who to call about all the ceiling lights being out!
I’m hungry, so I’m going to eat my pizza in the dark now. Actually, I think the situation calls for a dvd- and it’s going to be dodge ball (wish I had The Ringer- “where‘s my fucking ice cream?”), because I need some dumbasses to make me laugh. (note: this is not a rant about England sucking. This could’ve happened anywhere! I still really like England)
Friday 13 April 2007
In a way, it shames me to admit how agitated I got that things haven’t gone perfectly the past two days. Yes, I still don’t have a key for the trash bins, and no, I haven’t been able to get my phone line to work, and I haven’t figured out where the fuse box is so I can flip it and make my lights work yet (keep in mind that I‘m not totally without electricity- all the wall sockets work, remember), but… these are all trivial things, when it comes down to it. I was sitting in my hallway (how nice it is to have graduated to a real-sized apartment) putting together a wire shelving unit (which just barely fits into a nook in the bathroom- it’s crowded in that corner, but I was tired of having all of my body washes, shampoos and box of tampons on the floor!)- sorry, got off track for a second. What I was about to say is that sitting in the hall, putting the unit together, I thought to myself, “well, this is my Nepal.” I mean that in the sense of, ‘this is my adventure, my chance to prove that *things* really don’t mean that much to me.’ Am I more self-sufficient than I was before? I don’t know. I’m not sure if before I was self-sufficient, or just blocking everyone out and wallowing in my own personal tragedies/dramas, magnified out of proportion… yes, I was an island, but of what, I cannot say :-P
Anyway, time for me to peel some potatoes. I did the smart thing while reading while there was light enough (it’s quarter past 8pm now), and now comes the cooking- I usually don’t eat until late to begin with, and miracle of miracles, the light over the stove works. That means I’ll be able to peel and chop without peeling and chopping my fingers along with my food!
Monday 16 April 2007
I’m finding my estate agency most unhelpful. They were supposed to get back to me on Friday with progress on finding me a key that works for the garbage area. I haven’t heard anything yet, and tomorrow is Tuesday. I’ve followed up, and I’m waiting for their response. I don’t have real lights yet, either. They told me to go buy a light bulb and then flick the fuse switch. Um, I’ve already *tried* changing the bulb, and while all of the wall sockets have flip switches on them, they didn’t affect anything when I flipped them and then tried to turn on the ceiling lights. So I’ve asked where the fuse box is. I played dumb and said “I might be looking for the wrong thing- you know, a box in a closet somewhere that has a whole bunch of switches in it, all controlling different areas of the building/apartment.” But damn, I’m frustrated. I’d like to take a shower in something more than candle light.
I sent a formal email enquiry to BT (British Telephone) about my phone line, too. Today, I got something in the mail that was basically a recap of the service I’d agreed to/ordered by my mobile phone last week. The part that disturbed me is that there was a note saying that my new phone number was provisionally assigned, and a confirmation would be forthcoming. Perhaps this means they haven’t really turned on my service after all? So I had to check on that, too. These things are making me feel like a noodge, a nagger, and a pest. But I don’t really know what else to do? I feel helpless asking “where’s the fuse box?” and “you said my phone is working, but it’s really not.” Grargh!
On the work front- the newest rumour has it that the Supervisor Who Turned Psycho *is* coming back. Today was supposed to be the last day of her 2nd two weeks’ worth of leave. The HR manager who spoke to the Supervisor Who Turned Psycho said she had a doctor appointment in the morning, and would call from there. So I have no idea if she’s really coming back or not. I still had to re-do six weeks’ worth of Management Schedule to fit her on it, just in case. It’s going to be pretty awkward if she comes back…
A brighter note- the advisor whose mother died is coming back! He’s supposed to be in tomorrow afternoon. I’m glad about that, because he’s a good kid, but quiet. We’ll see what happens.
I’ve bitched and moaned a lot the past few days about things not going right, what do I do now that life is “normal” and that sort of thing… I feel much better now. Sometimes just writing is enough to make it better. And hearing from old friends, even if it’s just email, also helps a lot… Like I’ve said, I want to share with those who know my past.
Wednesday 18 April 2007 (in the morning)
Today is a day off, and I’m sitting here waiting for British Telephone to arrive so they can take a look at my phone stuff. I really hope it’s BT’s fault that things aren’t working, because I don’t want to have to pay for the visit. But if it isn’t BT’s fault, and it’s not something to do with my actual handsets, I feel like I shouldn’t have to be out the money, because it wasn’t working when I took the apartment. But I highly doubt I’d get the money back from the real estate agency, because they still haven’t managed to get me my garbage key or tell me how to get my lights back on…
More about the Supervisor Who Turned Psycho- you know how I said she had a doctor’s appointment early in the morning yesterday? Well, the stupid doctor signed her off for another whole MONTH. HR and I were talking, and I think what happens now is either we make Supervisor come in for a chat, or we go visit her for a chat, to figure out if she’ll ever be able to come back. In the meantime, we’re elevating a regular Sales Advisor to a temporary supervisor… I don’t think it will ever be easy! But I really like where I am, and what I’m doing.
I know I’ve promised you all lots of pictures, and I’m sorry I haven’t posted any yet. Once I get broadband installed, I’ll be putting things up, and updating on a more regular basis. It’s easier than lugging my laptop to work and sitting in the café at lunch, where I’ll just get interrupted (well-meaning) by people who stop to say hello.
Thursday 19 April 2007
Today was full of unexpected surprises. The telephone company guy came exactly when he said he would, and I don’t think it will cost me anything, because the fault was outside. Then I got a free lunch from Simon because he invited me to a working lunch with the Tessitura specialist who was here training Development (and it was just the three of us). Then I got my paystub, and there was an extra £ 200 in it due to the pay rise (I’m wondering if they made a mistake on mine!…). Life would be really really good if only I had a key so I could throw away my trash, and if I had ceiling lights. I’m not happy about having to go into the estate agent’s office, but… I haven’t gotten a response from them! I know, I’ll get dressed up in a suit, maybe they’ll take me a little more seriously then.
Broadband will be available tomorrow, if I’m here when Royal Mail tries to deliver the package I have to sign for. Otherwise, it’ll be Saturday or Monday. Then I’ll have Skype! Though I’m too fixated on talking to some of you… and it’s probably better for me (in the short term, at least) if I keep pretending I’m an ostrich :-P
Today was the day that I was always dreading before leaving the States- the first day where nothing seemed to go right. I was up with the sun this morning (on my day off) and couldn’t go back to sleep. Then I went to work to check my email because I still don’t have internet access here (story there too), and someone tells me that the kid whose mother died last week might not come back at all… then I go furniture shopping and get really discouraged because everything is so damned expensive- a side table for £ 199, or a simple ottoman for £ 120, or a regular size coffee table for at least £ 349.… and it was like that everywhere I went. While the secondhand stores are cheaper, they didn’t have anything I was even remotely interested in. looks like it’s going to have to be Ikea online (because it’s inaccessible by public transport), and hope that they can deliver when *I* want them to.
Then I come back to my flat to check that my phone service was turned on. I plug in the phone I just bought, and I have no dial tone. I try it in all three jacks, and nothing works. The telephone company (I called on my mobile) was telling me to find the main jack for the apartment, unscrew the plate, and try plugging in the telephone on the “test” jack that they have in there. So I undo all three jacks, because I don’t know which one is the main one, and there’s no test jack for me. Shit. I leave it alone and decide I’ll call them tomorrow.
Shortly thereafter, I get a phone call from work, asking if I can come in tomorrow (my other day off this week) for a meeting with the finance team. Great….. Tessitura *can’t* do some things Finance and the auditors want, but I’m not sure how we can really deal with that.
I decide to go shopping again, but can’t find anything I’m looking for. The jeans I have are too big, but can’t find anything that fits me, I can’t find a bathroom storage unit; I’m just not having any luck at all. In the midst of my wanderings, I get a text message- it’s work, again. One of my advisors just handed in their notice, so now I’m down two full-timers, and if fully staffed, we’re supposed to be at five or six. Right now it appears I’m at four. Lovely.
Come home, put down my stuff, and decide I have to go pee. I pull on the cord that turns on the light (for some reason, it’s not a switch), and something shorts, and now the bathroom lights aren’t working. I tried swapping fuses with a socket that I’ll never use, and it doesn’t work. So I go to put some things away in my bedroom, and the bedroom light doesn’t work either. Nor does the hall light, or the light in the kitchen, or the living room. Fuck. All of the wall sockets work, but none of the overhead lights work, and I don’t have a lamp that plugs into the wall. So I’m sitting on my floor right now as darkness descends, and the only light I have is that from the computer screen. Yes, I have two candles, but I’ll need them so I can see to shower tomorrow morning.
Oh, I forgot to mention that out of all the keys I have for my apartment, none of them seem to unlock the door where we’re supposed to put all our trash. I talked to the estate agent, and they’ll try to get ahold of someone and get me the right key, but… as of now (I haven’t checked my email this afternoon), I still don’t have a contact number for the super, so I’m not even sure who to call about all the ceiling lights being out!
I’m hungry, so I’m going to eat my pizza in the dark now. Actually, I think the situation calls for a dvd- and it’s going to be dodge ball (wish I had The Ringer- “where‘s my fucking ice cream?”), because I need some dumbasses to make me laugh. (note: this is not a rant about England sucking. This could’ve happened anywhere! I still really like England)
Friday 13 April 2007
In a way, it shames me to admit how agitated I got that things haven’t gone perfectly the past two days. Yes, I still don’t have a key for the trash bins, and no, I haven’t been able to get my phone line to work, and I haven’t figured out where the fuse box is so I can flip it and make my lights work yet (keep in mind that I‘m not totally without electricity- all the wall sockets work, remember), but… these are all trivial things, when it comes down to it. I was sitting in my hallway (how nice it is to have graduated to a real-sized apartment) putting together a wire shelving unit (which just barely fits into a nook in the bathroom- it’s crowded in that corner, but I was tired of having all of my body washes, shampoos and box of tampons on the floor!)- sorry, got off track for a second. What I was about to say is that sitting in the hall, putting the unit together, I thought to myself, “well, this is my Nepal.” I mean that in the sense of, ‘this is my adventure, my chance to prove that *things* really don’t mean that much to me.’ Am I more self-sufficient than I was before? I don’t know. I’m not sure if before I was self-sufficient, or just blocking everyone out and wallowing in my own personal tragedies/dramas, magnified out of proportion… yes, I was an island, but of what, I cannot say :-P
Anyway, time for me to peel some potatoes. I did the smart thing while reading while there was light enough (it’s quarter past 8pm now), and now comes the cooking- I usually don’t eat until late to begin with, and miracle of miracles, the light over the stove works. That means I’ll be able to peel and chop without peeling and chopping my fingers along with my food!
Monday 16 April 2007
I’m finding my estate agency most unhelpful. They were supposed to get back to me on Friday with progress on finding me a key that works for the garbage area. I haven’t heard anything yet, and tomorrow is Tuesday. I’ve followed up, and I’m waiting for their response. I don’t have real lights yet, either. They told me to go buy a light bulb and then flick the fuse switch. Um, I’ve already *tried* changing the bulb, and while all of the wall sockets have flip switches on them, they didn’t affect anything when I flipped them and then tried to turn on the ceiling lights. So I’ve asked where the fuse box is. I played dumb and said “I might be looking for the wrong thing- you know, a box in a closet somewhere that has a whole bunch of switches in it, all controlling different areas of the building/apartment.” But damn, I’m frustrated. I’d like to take a shower in something more than candle light.
I sent a formal email enquiry to BT (British Telephone) about my phone line, too. Today, I got something in the mail that was basically a recap of the service I’d agreed to/ordered by my mobile phone last week. The part that disturbed me is that there was a note saying that my new phone number was provisionally assigned, and a confirmation would be forthcoming. Perhaps this means they haven’t really turned on my service after all? So I had to check on that, too. These things are making me feel like a noodge, a nagger, and a pest. But I don’t really know what else to do? I feel helpless asking “where’s the fuse box?” and “you said my phone is working, but it’s really not.” Grargh!
On the work front- the newest rumour has it that the Supervisor Who Turned Psycho *is* coming back. Today was supposed to be the last day of her 2nd two weeks’ worth of leave. The HR manager who spoke to the Supervisor Who Turned Psycho said she had a doctor appointment in the morning, and would call from there. So I have no idea if she’s really coming back or not. I still had to re-do six weeks’ worth of Management Schedule to fit her on it, just in case. It’s going to be pretty awkward if she comes back…
A brighter note- the advisor whose mother died is coming back! He’s supposed to be in tomorrow afternoon. I’m glad about that, because he’s a good kid, but quiet. We’ll see what happens.
I’ve bitched and moaned a lot the past few days about things not going right, what do I do now that life is “normal” and that sort of thing… I feel much better now. Sometimes just writing is enough to make it better. And hearing from old friends, even if it’s just email, also helps a lot… Like I’ve said, I want to share with those who know my past.
Wednesday 18 April 2007 (in the morning)
Today is a day off, and I’m sitting here waiting for British Telephone to arrive so they can take a look at my phone stuff. I really hope it’s BT’s fault that things aren’t working, because I don’t want to have to pay for the visit. But if it isn’t BT’s fault, and it’s not something to do with my actual handsets, I feel like I shouldn’t have to be out the money, because it wasn’t working when I took the apartment. But I highly doubt I’d get the money back from the real estate agency, because they still haven’t managed to get me my garbage key or tell me how to get my lights back on…
More about the Supervisor Who Turned Psycho- you know how I said she had a doctor’s appointment early in the morning yesterday? Well, the stupid doctor signed her off for another whole MONTH. HR and I were talking, and I think what happens now is either we make Supervisor come in for a chat, or we go visit her for a chat, to figure out if she’ll ever be able to come back. In the meantime, we’re elevating a regular Sales Advisor to a temporary supervisor… I don’t think it will ever be easy! But I really like where I am, and what I’m doing.
I know I’ve promised you all lots of pictures, and I’m sorry I haven’t posted any yet. Once I get broadband installed, I’ll be putting things up, and updating on a more regular basis. It’s easier than lugging my laptop to work and sitting in the café at lunch, where I’ll just get interrupted (well-meaning) by people who stop to say hello.
Thursday 19 April 2007
Today was full of unexpected surprises. The telephone company guy came exactly when he said he would, and I don’t think it will cost me anything, because the fault was outside. Then I got a free lunch from Simon because he invited me to a working lunch with the Tessitura specialist who was here training Development (and it was just the three of us). Then I got my paystub, and there was an extra £ 200 in it due to the pay rise (I’m wondering if they made a mistake on mine!…). Life would be really really good if only I had a key so I could throw away my trash, and if I had ceiling lights. I’m not happy about having to go into the estate agent’s office, but… I haven’t gotten a response from them! I know, I’ll get dressed up in a suit, maybe they’ll take me a little more seriously then.
Broadband will be available tomorrow, if I’m here when Royal Mail tries to deliver the package I have to sign for. Otherwise, it’ll be Saturday or Monday. Then I’ll have Skype! Though I’m too fixated on talking to some of you… and it’s probably better for me (in the short term, at least) if I keep pretending I’m an ostrich :-P
Saturday 7 April 2007
Today was moving day…. Yet another day that was absolutely gorgeous- it must’ve been in the mid 60s. Anyway, I woke up, and picked up the keys to my flat, and checked off the inventory sheet (the only thing I didn’t do was get the electric meter reading- I have no idea where to get it from! I suppose I should call the electric company next). After I got my keys, I went shopping. I think the first thing I bought was actually my nice black faux-leather sofa. It was exactly what I was looking for (was debating between two-seater and three-seater the other day)- it’s a nice solid color, and sharp, clean lines- none of this overstuffed blob stuff. Yeah, it cost roughly 400 usd, but… it was actually cheap for here. And my vacation payout is double what I was expecting, so I don’t have to worry about what I spent today, and I can actually get a coffee table and a real bed now, instead of waiting until I got more money. It’s such a nice feeling to be able to just get what I need, and not have to worry about buying the cheapest/whatever’s on hand- I can actually pick what I like.
I have to take a moment here to mention how truly special the people I work with are. Originally, the group sales administrator was supposed to help me move, but then I had to emergency schedule her in. Then, one of the Sales Supervisors (actually, there’s only one of them at the moment, because psycho hose beast has taken another two weeks of ‘stress’, in order to stall for more time while she files a grievance) was going to help me once she was off work at 5:30, but then she texted me saying she swapped her shift and was on lates. What wound up happening was she, the group sales admin and her boyfriend all helped me on their lunch break!! And it only took one trip, even with the lift being broken and us having to schlepp stuff (including the gigantic scary black suitcase that I will never use again) up three flights of stairs. I owe them all a big debt. And, my deputy (who was on the 9-5 shift) told me to call her if I needed help unpacking or anything, and she’d come over after work…
It’s such a good feeling to finally be in my own place here. I’m going to love it. Yeah, it’s a little noisy tonight with the clubs and bars on my street (looking out my window, I can count 7 restaurants, all of a different ethnicity), but the apartment is perfect. There’s tons of sunlight, it’s in the middle of everything, and there’s a huge grocery store just down the street. And, it’s less than a five minute walk from work, but I don’t feel like I’m living right on top of the theatre.
As I was on one of my many shopping trips today, I couldn’t help but think that things were finally going my way. It just felt so right; I can’t describe it any other way. It’s like I was meant to come here, and live in this space, and do what I’m doing for a job…. I know I’ve remarked on this before, but it’s such a novel concept for me that I’m still not used to it. I don’t know if I’ll ever truly get used to it! It’s like everything finally combined- the right job, the right location, me being in the right frame of mind to finally accept it (whether it be good or bad)… ok, here’s a perfect example of how things are truly, definitely better for me. The other day I was in the grocery store picking up a salad for lunch (love the pasta with spinach, pine nuts, pesto and parmesan cheese), and I saw a pregnant woman further down the aisle. Six or eight months ago, that could’ve been enough to trigger a debilitating panic attack (don’t laugh, it’s actually happened), but this time I thought to myself “hey, that could be me someday!” Total about-face in my reaction, and it was a spontaneous reaction to boot. I think I’m more proud of that than the importance of the job I landed, or even the fact that I could just pick up and fly across an ocean to work.
While it might sound like I’ve gone off the deep end and am thinking everything is going to be sunshine and roses from now on… I still have a voice of reason in my head, cautioning me from time to time that things won’t always be this (perfect, for lack of a better term). And I *did* experience something less than perfect last week- I got homesick for all of you, and the instant internet access I used to have.
Tomorrow’s plan- since it’s supposed to be really nice out again, I’m going to explore the gigantic park that’s just down the street from me- I saw a little footbridge somewhere in it, which makes me think there’s water in the park somewhere. I love water.
First meal in the new apartment, you might ask? Well, while I went nuts in the regular grocery store today (was so excited to have my own kitchen, finally), I didn’t do any real cooking. I went to Marks & Spencer (Carol, you’d be so proud- it’s one of my favourite food stores, even if it does cost a little more) picked up a ready meal (chicken in ginger-coriander sauce and rice), chocolate cheesecake (it was less than 5 usd for a whole one!) and a bottle of white. I knew I wouldn’t have the energy to cook, so I thought I’d go the easy route. And tomorrow for Easter? Another ready meal of ham and potato with cheesy sauce, and then I bought some real cheese for nibbling. Cheese is waaaay better, and cheaper, here. I’m excited. The only thing missing (and it’s not missing at this instant, but will be once I settle in and get decorated), is that most of the people I knew before (yes, all of you reading this) won’t get to see me in my environment. Or, if you do get to come here, it won’t be for quite a while. Sharing via internet just isn’t the same, but it’ll have to do.
Cheers, and happy Easter to you all…
Wednesday 11 April 2007
Time spent at the pub after work is better than solitary exploring, yes? Had a lovely chat with the good Sales Supervisor, and realized we had some similar life instances (she spent a year or two in Spain at one point), and so she understood that though I’m settling in so well here, I’m still missing certain things. Anyway, we had a good talk, and have decided that whenever we’re on the same shift together, we’re going to have to go for a pint afterwards. But, you wonder, can I keep personal and professional life apart, and will others understand that? The answer appears to be yes. I am ever mindful of putting myself, or those who work with me, in an awkward position. I act the same way as my boss would act towards me if we were to go out for a drink after work. So yes, I’m aware of my position and how it could affect things down the road.
Tomorrow is another shopping day, though it will be less manic than the weekend binge I was on. I made a list of things that have to get done, and it’s a mile long, but a lot of it is little stuff like going to the bank and picking up my pin number, and finding a place where I can sign up for broadband service (phone line was just activated today). Tomorrow’s real quest is about a coffee table, area rug, blinds/curtains, a bed, and maybe (hopefully!) some bathroom storage solution. The unfortunate thing is that Ikea is inaccessible to someone without a car, but maybe I can do a bit of online shopping?…
(it’s amazing how obsessed I seem to be with Ikea. There are plenty of stores in Northampton that are accessible, and perfectly good for what I need!)
It’s another gorgeous sunset out… it’s 8:20pm here, and there is still pink in the sky, and not all of the streetlights are on yet. I know when it’s truly dark out when I see the only star that’s visible (because it’s brighter than the light pollution of town).
Today was moving day…. Yet another day that was absolutely gorgeous- it must’ve been in the mid 60s. Anyway, I woke up, and picked up the keys to my flat, and checked off the inventory sheet (the only thing I didn’t do was get the electric meter reading- I have no idea where to get it from! I suppose I should call the electric company next). After I got my keys, I went shopping. I think the first thing I bought was actually my nice black faux-leather sofa. It was exactly what I was looking for (was debating between two-seater and three-seater the other day)- it’s a nice solid color, and sharp, clean lines- none of this overstuffed blob stuff. Yeah, it cost roughly 400 usd, but… it was actually cheap for here. And my vacation payout is double what I was expecting, so I don’t have to worry about what I spent today, and I can actually get a coffee table and a real bed now, instead of waiting until I got more money. It’s such a nice feeling to be able to just get what I need, and not have to worry about buying the cheapest/whatever’s on hand- I can actually pick what I like.
I have to take a moment here to mention how truly special the people I work with are. Originally, the group sales administrator was supposed to help me move, but then I had to emergency schedule her in. Then, one of the Sales Supervisors (actually, there’s only one of them at the moment, because psycho hose beast has taken another two weeks of ‘stress’, in order to stall for more time while she files a grievance) was going to help me once she was off work at 5:30, but then she texted me saying she swapped her shift and was on lates. What wound up happening was she, the group sales admin and her boyfriend all helped me on their lunch break!! And it only took one trip, even with the lift being broken and us having to schlepp stuff (including the gigantic scary black suitcase that I will never use again) up three flights of stairs. I owe them all a big debt. And, my deputy (who was on the 9-5 shift) told me to call her if I needed help unpacking or anything, and she’d come over after work…
It’s such a good feeling to finally be in my own place here. I’m going to love it. Yeah, it’s a little noisy tonight with the clubs and bars on my street (looking out my window, I can count 7 restaurants, all of a different ethnicity), but the apartment is perfect. There’s tons of sunlight, it’s in the middle of everything, and there’s a huge grocery store just down the street. And, it’s less than a five minute walk from work, but I don’t feel like I’m living right on top of the theatre.
As I was on one of my many shopping trips today, I couldn’t help but think that things were finally going my way. It just felt so right; I can’t describe it any other way. It’s like I was meant to come here, and live in this space, and do what I’m doing for a job…. I know I’ve remarked on this before, but it’s such a novel concept for me that I’m still not used to it. I don’t know if I’ll ever truly get used to it! It’s like everything finally combined- the right job, the right location, me being in the right frame of mind to finally accept it (whether it be good or bad)… ok, here’s a perfect example of how things are truly, definitely better for me. The other day I was in the grocery store picking up a salad for lunch (love the pasta with spinach, pine nuts, pesto and parmesan cheese), and I saw a pregnant woman further down the aisle. Six or eight months ago, that could’ve been enough to trigger a debilitating panic attack (don’t laugh, it’s actually happened), but this time I thought to myself “hey, that could be me someday!” Total about-face in my reaction, and it was a spontaneous reaction to boot. I think I’m more proud of that than the importance of the job I landed, or even the fact that I could just pick up and fly across an ocean to work.
While it might sound like I’ve gone off the deep end and am thinking everything is going to be sunshine and roses from now on… I still have a voice of reason in my head, cautioning me from time to time that things won’t always be this (perfect, for lack of a better term). And I *did* experience something less than perfect last week- I got homesick for all of you, and the instant internet access I used to have.
Tomorrow’s plan- since it’s supposed to be really nice out again, I’m going to explore the gigantic park that’s just down the street from me- I saw a little footbridge somewhere in it, which makes me think there’s water in the park somewhere. I love water.
First meal in the new apartment, you might ask? Well, while I went nuts in the regular grocery store today (was so excited to have my own kitchen, finally), I didn’t do any real cooking. I went to Marks & Spencer (Carol, you’d be so proud- it’s one of my favourite food stores, even if it does cost a little more) picked up a ready meal (chicken in ginger-coriander sauce and rice), chocolate cheesecake (it was less than 5 usd for a whole one!) and a bottle of white. I knew I wouldn’t have the energy to cook, so I thought I’d go the easy route. And tomorrow for Easter? Another ready meal of ham and potato with cheesy sauce, and then I bought some real cheese for nibbling. Cheese is waaaay better, and cheaper, here. I’m excited. The only thing missing (and it’s not missing at this instant, but will be once I settle in and get decorated), is that most of the people I knew before (yes, all of you reading this) won’t get to see me in my environment. Or, if you do get to come here, it won’t be for quite a while. Sharing via internet just isn’t the same, but it’ll have to do.
Cheers, and happy Easter to you all…
Wednesday 11 April 2007
Time spent at the pub after work is better than solitary exploring, yes? Had a lovely chat with the good Sales Supervisor, and realized we had some similar life instances (she spent a year or two in Spain at one point), and so she understood that though I’m settling in so well here, I’m still missing certain things. Anyway, we had a good talk, and have decided that whenever we’re on the same shift together, we’re going to have to go for a pint afterwards. But, you wonder, can I keep personal and professional life apart, and will others understand that? The answer appears to be yes. I am ever mindful of putting myself, or those who work with me, in an awkward position. I act the same way as my boss would act towards me if we were to go out for a drink after work. So yes, I’m aware of my position and how it could affect things down the road.
Tomorrow is another shopping day, though it will be less manic than the weekend binge I was on. I made a list of things that have to get done, and it’s a mile long, but a lot of it is little stuff like going to the bank and picking up my pin number, and finding a place where I can sign up for broadband service (phone line was just activated today). Tomorrow’s real quest is about a coffee table, area rug, blinds/curtains, a bed, and maybe (hopefully!) some bathroom storage solution. The unfortunate thing is that Ikea is inaccessible to someone without a car, but maybe I can do a bit of online shopping?…
(it’s amazing how obsessed I seem to be with Ikea. There are plenty of stores in Northampton that are accessible, and perfectly good for what I need!)
It’s another gorgeous sunset out… it’s 8:20pm here, and there is still pink in the sky, and not all of the streetlights are on yet. I know when it’s truly dark out when I see the only star that’s visible (because it’s brighter than the light pollution of town).
Thursday, 5 April 2007
Thursday 5 April 2007
Hi everyone,
I apologize for how long it's taken me to do another post... but honestly, I haven't had that much to say. Life goes on, you know? I've been doing a bit of traveling within England, I'm continuing to deal with the staffing mess at work (yes, it got worse), I'm dealing with bitchy promoters from LiveNation (yes, I hate them just as much here as I did in the States)... so things have been just rolling along for the past few weeks. But yesterday or the day before when I had a moment to think, I realized I was homesick, finally. Not for family, but more for friends, and the life I had before (as miserable as parts of it were). I've been having a great time here, and it was absolutely the right thing for me to do, but... all of a sudden, I missed the familiarity of what I had before. I missed how I talked to some of my friends (and for how long at a stretch I got to do it)- other than last weekend in London, I don't think I've actually talked to any of them 'real-time'- it's been piddly little emails. I think maybe part of it has to do with moving into my flat this weekend. While I'm hugely excited, I see it as a sense of finality, as much as it is the opening of doors. I'm not 'temporary' anymore. Another part of it has to do with my need to share. I'm happy, finally (and yes, I think i've finally reached that status that's higher than contentment), and I want all the people who saw me at my unhappiest to see me in this environment. Knowing that it will be months or even years before that happens... Makes me wish I could do something about the impossible...
Went to Birmingham the other weekend, which was nice. It was really easy for me to get around, and there was lots of shopping, and a few nice museums- one had a real mummy in it, along with a cat and an ibis! Plus, it was a free museum, like most museums in this country. And this weekend just past, I went to London. If I had to choose which city it was more like, I'd choose Boston over New York. Yes, there were new, modern buildings, but the feel was 'old,' if that makes any sense. I went to the Tower of London, which was a lot of fun, even if it was bloody expensive (nearly $35usd). Took a lot of pictures of the Bridge, and got to see the Crown Jewels. Couldn't take pictures of them, though. But they looked fake!- all of these crowns and scepters had so many gems on them that it was nearly incomprehensible. They could've been paste jewels for all I knew. My favorite piece in the exhibit was the Punchbowl. I'm walking through a room with all of these plates and goblets (all behind glass, of course), when I see a bowl that's probably big enough for someone to sit in, and I say "is that a bathtub?" It was immense. And pure gold. The rest of London that I saw that day was lovely, and I know I'll be going back someday soon, because I didn't get to go to the British Museum or the Tate, or the Portrait Gallery... lots of fun things to think about.
And now I'm off to go look for the best place to buy all the stuff one needs to set up in an unfurnished apartment (hooray for shopping, not hooray for all the money I'll have to spend) :-)
Hi everyone,
I apologize for how long it's taken me to do another post... but honestly, I haven't had that much to say. Life goes on, you know? I've been doing a bit of traveling within England, I'm continuing to deal with the staffing mess at work (yes, it got worse), I'm dealing with bitchy promoters from LiveNation (yes, I hate them just as much here as I did in the States)... so things have been just rolling along for the past few weeks. But yesterday or the day before when I had a moment to think, I realized I was homesick, finally. Not for family, but more for friends, and the life I had before (as miserable as parts of it were). I've been having a great time here, and it was absolutely the right thing for me to do, but... all of a sudden, I missed the familiarity of what I had before. I missed how I talked to some of my friends (and for how long at a stretch I got to do it)- other than last weekend in London, I don't think I've actually talked to any of them 'real-time'- it's been piddly little emails. I think maybe part of it has to do with moving into my flat this weekend. While I'm hugely excited, I see it as a sense of finality, as much as it is the opening of doors. I'm not 'temporary' anymore. Another part of it has to do with my need to share. I'm happy, finally (and yes, I think i've finally reached that status that's higher than contentment), and I want all the people who saw me at my unhappiest to see me in this environment. Knowing that it will be months or even years before that happens... Makes me wish I could do something about the impossible...
Went to Birmingham the other weekend, which was nice. It was really easy for me to get around, and there was lots of shopping, and a few nice museums- one had a real mummy in it, along with a cat and an ibis! Plus, it was a free museum, like most museums in this country. And this weekend just past, I went to London. If I had to choose which city it was more like, I'd choose Boston over New York. Yes, there were new, modern buildings, but the feel was 'old,' if that makes any sense. I went to the Tower of London, which was a lot of fun, even if it was bloody expensive (nearly $35usd). Took a lot of pictures of the Bridge, and got to see the Crown Jewels. Couldn't take pictures of them, though. But they looked fake!- all of these crowns and scepters had so many gems on them that it was nearly incomprehensible. They could've been paste jewels for all I knew. My favorite piece in the exhibit was the Punchbowl. I'm walking through a room with all of these plates and goblets (all behind glass, of course), when I see a bowl that's probably big enough for someone to sit in, and I say "is that a bathtub?" It was immense. And pure gold. The rest of London that I saw that day was lovely, and I know I'll be going back someday soon, because I didn't get to go to the British Museum or the Tate, or the Portrait Gallery... lots of fun things to think about.
And now I'm off to go look for the best place to buy all the stuff one needs to set up in an unfurnished apartment (hooray for shopping, not hooray for all the money I'll have to spend) :-)
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