Heat Wave?

After the usual Feb cycle of snow/ice/rain etc, it may get above 45 degrees by the end of the weekend. The other day it was above 30 and it felt balmy! So ready for Spring.

The week is finally over and it was long. Meetings went well and now back to "normal" work. Did receive more than usual praise for how everything went, though soon they will be announcing my new role. Due to economy things are tightening of course. My firm should be ok, however my "new" boss will be splitting his time between old job and new project office, trying to limit adding staff. That could be good for me, or more irritating. Too soon to tell, plus he's probably a little afraid or threatened by me. (I'm very comfortable using multi-syllabic words.) Either way, I'm still looking. Next week taking a course in EQ for Women and the week following there is a mobility conference which is focused mostly on Columbus, though always good networking opportunities. Due to market developments merger/acquisition talk has slowed down, may not happen for some time. The current logic is "why buy something now when stock price could be $10 lower in six months", which frankly makes sense and one of the reasons why I like the firm. Looking for a deal that makes sense.

Starting to work on apartment and the purging of stuff. Also planning to look at apartments and the fab Mrs. A has agreed to help. I always like having another perspective of a space, plus she has very good taste. Such a good pal. Looking forward to chilling out this weekend, an overdue trip to Costco is probably going to be the highlight.

Not very exciting, frankly getting little bored of myself - what is going on with all of you who might be reading? What's up - send an email or you can always post here and not use google mail, or send me an email. If you need a topic, here's one that I borrowed from ETK:

What's your musical guilty pleasure lately? Mine is "Low" by Flo Rida featuring T-Pain, probably demeaning to women, however can't always resist a little hip-hop sometimes.

Max does the dishes

Mrs A's Max helps out in the kitchen:

Politics again

Getting really tired of the calls/ voice mails from Hilary and her pals. I like my quiet time. Not as annoying as Mr. Nader though, check out this flowchart of his decision process to run, too funny!

What's going on

So back from Cali and no planned travels yet. Miss K made some suggestions of things to do and thought I would expand on my response to her on what's going on for me at the moment. Plus what I'm planning.

So busy critical time at work, this week have meetings that only occur 2x a year with senior mgmt coming to town. It's takes a lot of work for me to prepare coordinating input from various areas. Monday night will be a dinner with some of the group which will be fun and casual. Plus it's BBQ again. I have to document my work objectives for the year and confirm with mgmt. Then it's regroup after meetings and get working on all the other stuff that's been left alone while focused on meetings.

This year will I intend to focus on career planning and what I need to do to progress in my development. My ambition is focused on doing interesting work and being challenged. This past week I had a meeting with an internal consulting group which was very good. Really learned more about what they did, it's definitely something I could see myself doing in future. Need to get some education before I can (they prefer people with background/experience with capacity planning and of course exposure to six sigma). The funny part was most of the people in the group have engineering backgrounds which clicked for me! Some of you probably know that Sister and our dad are engineers plus his grandfather was a natural engineer though never formally educated in it. Dad's father was a lawyer - extremely analytical. (I know lots of Type A, and I haven't even described Mom's side.) One of my pals at work responded one time to some analysis I made: "I know engineering is in your DNA, however not everyone here can follow logic.", which also says a lot about the area.

As for fun stuff, travels and such. Really want to do a better job of keeping in touch and being a better friend. Started strong with my earlier travels. Plan to return to DC area, maybe spring time, see CC, KB, SR & her crew, plus Aunt E & Uncle B in Maryland. Aunt E will turn 80 this summer, so will plan visit back for her party. (I could probably use their real names, they are so off the grid, don't use ATM machines and no computers.) Want to head east to Boston/ Rhode Island area to visit college pals. DG and his wife are expecting another baby this summer. Never been to to RI which is where ADL and her family including her parents now live (such fun people). Of course want to head south to for more time with Sister, and it's been ages since I've been to Atlanta and the Carolinas. Sister and I had discussed heading back to Texas to see Dad, his wife and stepsisters. Also discussed meeting Miss K in Chicago. Always want to go to Chicago, partially to shop and mostly if there is opportunity to hang with cousins Leo and the fabulous J.

So many places to go, also need to do a few things in Cbus. Need to decide on moving somewhere within in town by May. After time with Miss K, became addicted to show "Clean House" and want to do major decluttering. (Though will wait til temps stay above 40-50 degrees to make it easier.) My mother and her husband so need to be on that show, probably major drama which makes good tv, not great for family relationships. Probably downsize to one bedroom since rarely get visitors here, CC always stays with her 'rents.

So a lot, and not really mentionning working on eating better, going to gym and my extensive reading list.

For SR

Since she's commenting now, reminded me when I featured Mrs. A's boys, forgot about her cutie 4 legged child. (Probably her husband's favorite of all the kids - the other 3 only have 2 legs.) Need to send her some pictures from my visit past fall. Here is the adorable Merlin, one of the best dogs ever taking a break. Would make you run to a rescue right away if there was a guarante that you would get a dog this good.

Love And Peace Or Else

The title of a U2 song from their last album, and just saw an amazing performance of it in the film U2 3D. Went for dinner with my pal Wendy (who is thisclose to being a Bono stalker) then saw the movie. The film is from their last tour and in 3D, very cool. I saw them in Cleveland over a year ago with Wendy, it was incredible. Not a cheap concert, however worth it in my opinion and I plan to see them on their next tour.

For the foodies (Leo!) , it was a great dinner at Brio, starting with a Tanqueray 10 martini and some lobster bisque w/ shrimp. Entree was grilled bistecca rosmarino (sliced beef tenderloin w/rosemary and olive oil), dessert was a little cup filled with chocolate caramel cake which I split with Wendy. I'm not always a big beef eater, however it was perfect. I had been missing martinis, it had been a while and good way to end the week. A little stressful week since next week is big meetings and we've had major weather issues here. Snow/ice hasn't melted and we had at least 2 days of additional rain/snow. Today was a nice freezing rain slush, beautiful rush hour. I have to do some work this weekend to prepare for the meetings.

Other news, in case you've been living in a cave, the Ohio primary is less than 2 weeks away. The calls and commercials started a few weeks ago and supposedly there was a successful voting test this week (however it is Ohio....). Hilary has left me a voice mail, as well as one of her local politican pals. Tonight the mayor of Cbus left a message reminding me about the date plus information that the board of elections is open tomorrow if I want to vote early, and he recommends Obama. Ohio was originally thought to go strong for Hilary since the governor and most of the state dem machine were supporting her, however there is momentum. The mayor is african american and until 2006 the highest ranking Dem in the state. Examining my caller id, I suspect others have been calling just don't leave a message. Looking forward to this being over, Ohio is getting a little too puffed up about these elections. My father is enjoying the Texas primary since it's rare for them to get visit from politicians since most assume it will go Republican. He's into Obama and my stepmother likes Hilary, sometimes the stereotypes are accurate. I'm leaning towards Obama, still have time to decide. I'm tempted to vote as Republican for Huckabee, however it wouldn't stop McCain.

Wish You Were Here

So here is some highlights from my trip to Oakland this past weekend.:
Below is a picture of part of friday night dinner at Kirala with Miss K, CC, Chris & Helen. We stuffed ourselves, should have taken picture of the eel entree that we shared. Yummy!



Saturday - went with CC to Farmers Market at the Ferry Building at the Port of San Francisco. Had great breakfast of fresh bacon and eggs. Snacked on the samples of fresh fruit and cheese (mostly organic of course). Great day to walk around and stopped at CC's pal for tea before heading back to Oakland, view from her pal's apartment featuring the Ferry Building:





Then chilled out at Miss K's before heading to a Chinese New Year party which took place at a loft over a noodle factory. Tons of great food and an entertaining play using the theme of the year of the rat.

Took it easy on Sunday, did enjoy great brunch at T-Rex BBQ which included Maple Sugar Beignets with Espresso Custard. Miss K had a smoked salmon omelette with goat cheese. I had the baby back ribs and CC had this:

After a trip to Whole Foods we prepared to host a gathering at Miss K's loft. Several of her pals and a few of CC's came over for eats, games, poker and a little karaoke. It was great fun and all good people. Then rested and took it easy the next morning before heading to the airport after a stop and In & Out Burger which was tasty.

Overall, a good time and very relaxing. As you can tell, lots of eating. Though being in the Bay Area, lots of organic and fresh things. CC did a great job hosting and driving Miss K around since her foot was still in a cast. I helped when I could. Miss K was able to fit in 5 parties overall this weekend!

Long flight home landing on a snowy runway and driving on an ice rink of a highway. Just trying to figure out my next expedition!

Back from Cali

Just back from the weekend in Oakland which was a great time. Will post some pics tomorrow. Of course landed on a snowy runway and slippery drive home. Sister reminded me that everytime I leave town, it snows in Cbus. Of course travelling in Dec/Jan/Feb that's likely.

Work Update part 2

So, finally they came up with a new "job description" for me. They are creating a project office and certain aspects of the position look interesting. Possibly if it were in another business I might "pursue" it. Now it's reporting to a manager that has been there for years and even though he's only 6 years older than me, he's counting days til retirement. Sort of stereotype of the civil service worker. I actually have more exposure and training in formal project management methods than he does. Also this particular group is "new" to using a methodology and it's long overdue. I've had opportunities to work with other groups and found my group very frustrating because they had no direction in this. (To the credit of the new COO he's trying to address this). The new manager is not a bad guy and when you need him to do something he will and can surprise you at times. Possibly just needs more expected of him, though even with that he will never be first rate at developing people. He reports to the head of the Operations team (who reports to COO). The head of Ops is decent guy, however not sure of his people management skills. Also in the hierarchical (and 85% white male with stay at home wives) culture of this group, this will probably look like a demotion for me. I know it's not intended that way and I understand why the new COO positioned the group where he did (though don't agree with it).

So I told new COO, I'll do what you need for now though in the next 6-9 months I'll be looking around other areas of the firm, probably time for me and business to part ways. Want to do it on good terms and take pride in my work, so want to leave things settled. He knows I'm not happy with reporting line and wants me to be candid. (Though I know he doesn't want to hear "why would you put that person in charge of that?") He thinks there will be opportunities to grow even reporting to those other 2 guys. I told him we'll discuss it in March (partly cause of other deadlines we both have this month). Also if there is an acquisition - that could bring significant change and opportunities for me. I'm viewed as critical in that event. Which is nice - though I also view it as there might be more opportunities for me elsewhere too.

Unfortunately for him, I'm too familiar with the other guys and their management style, Frankly if it were another business or other people I may not mind the "demotion" view. And if I were at a different stage of my career I could probably suffer through those types of manager or even a new business. All they can offer me is more training and knowledge in the group's specific industry. Frankly, I'm smarter than one and more informed than the other and I know that can be a problem. (I know I can be a sarcastic smart ass - trying to curb it at work.) It's a very niche product and not a large community outside the Firm. I tend to be more of a generalist anyway - not a specialist.

I've been much more candid with my transition boss about this and she gets it though she thinks that things will change sooner than expected. Although we haven't discussed it, technically they've eliminated my position and I could ask for a severance package. I'm not going to force this, partly cause of the economy right now, and partly because it would be hostile since I asked them to redefine things. I did tell them my first reaction to job posting was that maybe they should work on laying me off. (The COO's reaction face to that was priceless.) Also this job (for now) requires me to be in Columbus and they know I'm actively considering moving.

So that's where things are right now. They know they have to sell me on staying around longer. Plus transitioning to new role will take some time since others have to finally take on some additional work.

I would welcome any comments - if you're still reading - I know this is long!

Work Update

ETK has asked and some of you have been curious. Had some critical meetings this week where things were confirmed. This might be long since I'm giving a little background - apologize for that.

I work for a small business that is part of very ginourmous publicly traded firm (which is why I don't say the name or industry). Most of you know or can easily figure it out. My particular business is interesting cause it's very specialized, and I've been there for 12 years and have progressed a lot more than others have. Also I've grown up with the people there and it does have a family feel (Which can be bad also). Looking back, I stayed too long during bad times, however the last 3 years new management has been involved and it has created a lot more opportunities for me. I like the larger firm and could see myself having a long career there - it's US based however there are international opportunities (I periodically participate in meetings with people from UK, India, Asia, other parts of Europe.) Also management and top leader of the larger firm is good, sound judgement and wanting to do the right thing. It's avoided a lot of the problems that competition has, so generally has a good reputation which is deserved. As I may have said earlier, I could see myself staying with larger firm, however possibly relocating to another city. Also there is general speculation that the firm will acquire a smaller firm this year which could also open up opportunities and more locations.

So, nearly three years ago as part of a reorganization a job was created for me reporting to the COO of the business. I had my doubts at the time, however he was a great guy and it did give me some new challenges and visibility to other areas. I started enjoying working with people in other parts of the firm more than my own group. My title was project manager (still is), the role had some of that, however my main role was to address the smaller stuff that the COO didn't have time for and represent the business for certain issues within the larger group. Now the COO was promoted last year to another group and relocated. Just before he left, I had approached him about redefining my role and also address workload that I've kept through the years, that others should probably have taken on. Obviously he had no time for that and I had a new boss and we started the transition period of 8 months til now. My transition boss was great and she really did a lot to help me on development and has set a much higher standard for what type of manager I would work for or hope to be. However she's about ready to deliver triplets and will be on leave for some time.

They finally hired a New COO this past fall. He's not bad, and a known quantity to the business. He's starting to make some long overdue changes. (Demoting some really bad managers, etc). For sometime I've been very honest with all concerned that it may be time for me to leave the group. He's been very vocal that he wants me to stay that there is more I can do. It may sound arrogant, they would be in major hurt if I left now and he knows it. My transition boss has been very supportive - admitting they would be, however they also want what's best for me. This is end of part 1.

Mrs A's Pretty Boys

Long overdue on posting pictures, however saved this one of Max and Sammy, 2 of the sweetest black labs.

For the foodies

Cousin Leo responded to my post about chocolate bread with the following comment:

"Chocolate Bread sounds great...Janice and I have recently discovered BACON WAFFLES. That's PURE genius. Bacon Chocolate is also genius. The person who invented that combination ought to get a medal of some sort!!!"

Bacon Waffles does sound genius - need the 411 people! Or do I have to come back to Chicago?

Frankly what we do without chocolate, bacon, cheese, bread, wine, etc....

3 Day Weekend? Make it 4 and Leave Town

So Miss K is home recovering from foot surgery in Oakland. After some back and forth, ends up that CC can make it out there next weekend, so early Friday morning I will be on SW heading there also. It will be great to hang out with both of them, Miss K came out to Ohio a year ago this past Turkey Day. (Interesting road trip - Amish Country and Cleveland, back to Cbus all in one day.) Been to SF, however not Oakland, so should be fun. Plus there will be sushi and sun!

Just can't make myself stay in Columbus anymore when there is an added day off work. Though now have to wait til May for next opportunity - though Memorial Day is such a pain for travel. Probably get away before then.

Plus would like to take a few days to purge my apartment. (Of course need good weather days) So much clothes and other things that need to go to goodwill. Seriously thinking about downsizing to one bedroom when I move. Can't stand the clutter anymore. Of course the propensity to obtain it is genetic, at least Sister and I are improving from previous generation's habits. We haven't had to rent storage units.

Still contemplating travel and vacations for this year. Cousins talked about meeting it in FLL which would be awesome. I'll probably go there at least one more time this year before holidays anyway to hang with Sister. Would like to visit east, DC/Balt/NoVa area of course. Possibly Rhode Island/ Mass area to see college buddies? Long overdue to visit ATL and Carolinas for family.

Babies, babies everywhere

2008 is starting out strong for the "breeders". Some of you might know that my boss is expecting triplets - by the end of this month! 2 other girls at work are now expecting. Dan (from GWU days) and his wife are now expecting their second baby this summer! Sister also has friends that are working on the baby thing, so hoping for good news for them also.

One of my fave pals from work just announced that she's expecting twins. It's not been easy for her and hubby so it's incredibly exciting. Bummer part for me, she was a great pal for going out for martinis and appetizers. At least she still eats and we can plan for post delivery celebrations. A mutual pal commented "Just cause you decided to procreate, we're not going to stop enjoying our gin!" At least she feels good enough for possible day trip to Chicago for shopping which should be fun - thank goodness for Southwest Airlines.

So I'm excited and last year seemed to have some turmoil - looks like things are looking up. According to Miss K, view of Chinese calendar - is that 8 is lucky number so should be lucky year.

Waking Up

I know I've been quiet - recovering from travels and sinus/cold thing. So will start adding a few things, heard from some of you that you are reading this. So please post comments! It's open to everyone - even if it's just a "yo", like to know you're out there.

Of course ETK is exempt from this request cause she comments already.

Back from travels

Chicago was great! On Monday had wonderful dinner with cousins, always a good time. Frankly there should be more places that do wine and cheese flights.

Work meetings were good, was able to put names with faces and always like the hotel. Also able to connect with folks that I enjoy working with or even just chatting. Just reinforces that it's time to plan for leaving my team in Cbus. The weather was nuts though, started out 40-50 degrees on Tuesday, by end of the day - artic chill, blowing winds with snow. Tuesday I had dinner with head guy from Cbus, who's a nice guy and wants to sort of be my boss. (That's how weird the work situation is right now) However I learned the hard way that I can't stay just cause of the particular boss. If they are talented, can't count on them staying around, plus it doesn't nullify working with some of the other nuts that can't or won't ever leave. Really like my current boss, however she's going on maternity leave soon, not sure what will happen then.

Some of you have asked about relocation plans. No real updates cause still talking about options at work. Relocating will be a consideration as I search other areas which will take a while. My firm is ginourmous so these things don't happen quickly.

Back Wed and then training all day on Thursday. Been resting, so I don't get sick. Everyone is and I'm starting to feel run down.

Need to give a shout out to Miss K - who's home recovering from foot surgery. She's a very active person so it's tough. Talked to CC about taking a trip to Oakland to visit. Haven't been to California in years, so overdue. Plus she actually voluntarily came to Ohio for Thanksgiving two years ago.