It's that time of year again...National Novel Writing Month, more fondly known as NaNoWriMo. Yes, I signed up again. No, I don't expect to finish since (God willing) I'll be getting that pesky heart surgery scheduled by the end of November.
In the meantime, BICHOK, folks. (Butt in chair, hands on keyboard.)
Monday, November 02, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
For Those of You Not on Facebook...
Here's a couple choice photos of moi from last Saturday night. Go, Octomom! I won a ribbon and a Starbucks gift card for "most original." I think it was the cooler of frozen embryos (chocolate covered ice cream treats) that really propelled me to the win. Or maybe it was the introductory phrase, "Hi, I'm Octomom. As you can see" (gesturing toward crotchal area) "I've got babies coming out the wazoo." And yes, that's a test tube I used for a wine glass.
Ah, Halloween. What a nice distraction from heart valves and surgical procedures!
Monday, October 26, 2009
In Case I Decide on a Pig Valve...
...I'm taking applications for donors...here are two that I received Saturday night.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Moo? Oink? Click?
Them's my choices, folks.
Okay, I lied about the pig. That one wasn't offered. And the preponderance of guilt lies with the clicker.
Click click click.
And while it's clicking away, let me just run and get my protime numbers tested for all that Coumadin I'll have to take for the rest of my life.
Not an appealing option.
Speaking of unappealing options, how about that traditional surgery whereby the doc rips my sternum down the middle?
Yep, that's the recommendation.
Methinks it's time to entertain serious alternatives. I mean, they exist. Why can't I have them??
Okay, I lied about the pig. That one wasn't offered. And the preponderance of guilt lies with the clicker.
Click click click.
And while it's clicking away, let me just run and get my protime numbers tested for all that Coumadin I'll have to take for the rest of my life.
Not an appealing option.
Speaking of unappealing options, how about that traditional surgery whereby the doc rips my sternum down the middle?
Yep, that's the recommendation.
Methinks it's time to entertain serious alternatives. I mean, they exist. Why can't I have them??
Friday, October 16, 2009
A Mutant In the Family
That's what I feel like today. I mean, think about it. I'm the FIRST Bruskrud EVER to come out of an angiogram with a report of NO BLOCKED ARTERIES.
Yeah, I'm still fanning myself.
Don't get me wrong--I'm still headed for heart surgery, but with only one item on the menu. AND (keeping ALL fingers crossed) there's a chance I'll be able to have a less invasive technique--y'know, one that doesn't include ripping my sternum in half.
Sigh. BONUS.
Anyway, so I broke my cherry yesterday, hospitalwise. My first "johnnie," my first, admission bracelet, and yes...my first bedpan. Guess it all had to happen sooner or later, huh?
Mostly I was BORED having to lie in bed for 5 hours. (Thanks, balloon boy, for providing the entertainment!) So, naturally, I took the opportunity to snap a pic.
This is what a woman with clear arteries looks like!
Yeah, I'm still fanning myself.
Don't get me wrong--I'm still headed for heart surgery, but with only one item on the menu. AND (keeping ALL fingers crossed) there's a chance I'll be able to have a less invasive technique--y'know, one that doesn't include ripping my sternum in half.
Sigh. BONUS.
Anyway, so I broke my cherry yesterday, hospitalwise. My first "johnnie," my first, admission bracelet, and yes...my first bedpan. Guess it all had to happen sooner or later, huh?
Mostly I was BORED having to lie in bed for 5 hours. (Thanks, balloon boy, for providing the entertainment!) So, naturally, I took the opportunity to snap a pic.
This is what a woman with clear arteries looks like!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Who's In Charge?
Facing surgery and its concomitant hospital stay brings home the indisputable fact that I lack a bunch of familial branches to the tree. Namely, something called a husband. Or even a significant other. Let's not even mention the absence of children or (gulp)--since I'm chronologically old enough--grandchildren.
Oh, I've got parents, but geez. I'm currently taking care of them.
And there's my sister-in-law, but she's had enough experience with antiseptic-smelling waiting rooms to last a life time.
Hence, I'm kinda winging it. Here a friend, there a friend, everywhere a friend, friend. Ha.
I mean, doesn't someone have to be in charge of me once I enter those double doors?
And what about when I get out? Thursday is just the angiogram--an outpatient procedure--and I've had to make lists and schedules as though I were taking off on a three-week cruise.
Let the fun begin....
Oh, I've got parents, but geez. I'm currently taking care of them.
And there's my sister-in-law, but she's had enough experience with antiseptic-smelling waiting rooms to last a life time.
Hence, I'm kinda winging it. Here a friend, there a friend, everywhere a friend, friend. Ha.
I mean, doesn't someone have to be in charge of me once I enter those double doors?
And what about when I get out? Thursday is just the angiogram--an outpatient procedure--and I've had to make lists and schedules as though I were taking off on a three-week cruise.
Let the fun begin....
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Huge Sigh....
My cousin (second? third? two or three times removed??) posted this on Facebook yesterday. It's where she friggin' LIVES.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Update
Just as I thought this whole mess might turn out to be a figment of my imagination, I got the call from Ashley at my doctor's office. Report in at 5:30a.m. next Thursday, she says. (Eeek. Let's all appreciate the ungodliness of that hour for a moment, shall we?) Anyway, yada yada. Angio at 7:30. Don't eat, don't drink, have someone available to drive you home and....
DON'T DRIVE FOR FIVE FRIGGIN DAYS.
Uh, hello? What the hell?
Turns out they put some sorta plug in your groin (there's a pretty thought) after the procedure, and the motion of stepping on and off between the brake and the gas might disturb the little sucker.
Okay, this news means I'm gonna have to do some fine-tuning of, y'know, my LIFE.
DON'T DRIVE FOR FIVE FRIGGIN DAYS.
Uh, hello? What the hell?
Turns out they put some sorta plug in your groin (there's a pretty thought) after the procedure, and the motion of stepping on and off between the brake and the gas might disturb the little sucker.
Okay, this news means I'm gonna have to do some fine-tuning of, y'know, my LIFE.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
A Tip For Us Seniors
People? When you hit the big 5-0 (and maybe even the lesser known 4-0), I've got four words for ya:
BUY THE TRIP INSURANCE.
Let's recap, shall we?
April - Puerto Vallarta for five days. Swine flu swept in and took my $1200 with it. (Let the record show, I wouldn't have allowed the little cooties to screw up my vacation, but since the bars were closed...)
June - Portland, Oregon. Canceled weekend visit with relatives when Daddy went into the hospital. Monetary loss: about $150. I think I have another $150 toward a trip sometime in the next year.
July - Washington, D.C. for the annual writer's conference I attend. Had to cancel when...well...all that crap hit the fan. Monetary loss: $450 for the conference and then (get this) I had to pay $150 to recoup the frequent flyer miles I'd used for the $5 airline ticket.
September - The Corque Hotel in Santa Ynez. Canceled after the deadline when I discovered my ticker could explode at any moment. $150.
More advice? Don't book any future trips with me.
BUY THE TRIP INSURANCE.
Let's recap, shall we?
April - Puerto Vallarta for five days. Swine flu swept in and took my $1200 with it. (Let the record show, I wouldn't have allowed the little cooties to screw up my vacation, but since the bars were closed...)
June - Portland, Oregon. Canceled weekend visit with relatives when Daddy went into the hospital. Monetary loss: about $150. I think I have another $150 toward a trip sometime in the next year.
July - Washington, D.C. for the annual writer's conference I attend. Had to cancel when...well...all that crap hit the fan. Monetary loss: $450 for the conference and then (get this) I had to pay $150 to recoup the frequent flyer miles I'd used for the $5 airline ticket.
September - The Corque Hotel in Santa Ynez. Canceled after the deadline when I discovered my ticker could explode at any moment. $150.
More advice? Don't book any future trips with me.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Writing progress....
In writing news, hey--did I ever get around to posting about the contest I won? Hm. Maybe not. Guess I could scroll down my site to check, but I'm too lazy. Anyway, back before life skidded to halt, flipped over, and rolled a couple times (figuratively speaking, of course), Jessica Faust and Kim Leonetti at Bookends Literary, held a pitch contest on their twitter pages. Perfect right? Pitch your idea in the miserably few number of characters Twitter allows? So I did. I pitched my current WIP...and I won a 3-chapter critique from Jessica! How utterly cool is that?
Then the shit hit the fan, and I became (cough) otherwise engaged. Shot off an email to Ms. Faust, begging for time and she graciously gave me until October first. Next thing I knew, three months had flown by so I sent in the three chapters this past Wednesday night.
I have to say, hitting "send" nearly made me feel like I was back in the writing game.
Then the shit hit the fan, and I became (cough) otherwise engaged. Shot off an email to Ms. Faust, begging for time and she graciously gave me until October first. Next thing I knew, three months had flown by so I sent in the three chapters this past Wednesday night.
I have to say, hitting "send" nearly made me feel like I was back in the writing game.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Time To Start Blogging Again?
Hm. Dunno. Anyone still out there? Huh? Bueller?
For those of you out of the loop, I'm currently looking at heart surgery. Am thinking, should I blog this episode of my life? Do I have the energy? At least I could use ye here blog as a repository for info, I guess.
To wit, here's the update of the day:
Just to keep you updated, I did the treadmill test today. I was scared to death!! Especially when they tell you stuff like, "well, the reason you couldn't eat for six hours before the test is because in case you have to go straight to surgery, you need to be on an empty stomach." Yikes! By the time I finally stood up (after waiting and waiting on the table) to take the treadmill, I was a bit dizzy just from nerves. Then they give you all these instructions about 'tell us if you have pain here or pain there or you're dizzy or you're short of breath etc. etc'--I was afraid I wouldn't remember them all! So, of course, I'm doing as instructed--staring straight ahead--at this picture (kind of Monet-esque) of trees with all these leaves, and I swear to God, the LEAVES were making me dizzy! I almost told them to stop the test; I truly thought I was having the reaction that would send me to surgery. And then I got it together, focused on my own reflection in the glass, and was fine. It wasn't one of those tests where they just keep ratcheting up the incline and speed (whew, thank God), they had a target rate programmed in. That comforted me. I only had to walk for six minutes and I made it to the end. (Yay)
She said my "capacity for exercise" was slightly diminished, and I thought...only slightly?? Well, hey! Bring on the margaritas!
Okay, but bottom line, she DID say, yeah...I have to have this valve replacement but it's not a matter of TOMORROW; more like within the next couple of months and, to tell you the truth, this was the best news I could have heard.
There's still the issue of the other arteries--she basically said they're probably screwed cuz it all goes hand-in-hand, but oh well. So I'll do the one-stop shopping thing. I gather that the reasoning is, why do stents when you're gonna have the heart available for bypass? (Ugh. Did I just type BYPASS?)
Anyway...I guess I must have done a good SELL to my parents over the phone cuz they practically high-fived me when I got there. (Not sure if they misunderstood something, but oh well!)
After the appointment, I picked up some fancy new lipsticks, had lunch on the patio of my favorite restaurant with one of my best friends, and well...life is GOOD at the moment!!
For those of you out of the loop, I'm currently looking at heart surgery. Am thinking, should I blog this episode of my life? Do I have the energy? At least I could use ye here blog as a repository for info, I guess.
To wit, here's the update of the day:
Just to keep you updated, I did the treadmill test today. I was scared to death!! Especially when they tell you stuff like, "well, the reason you couldn't eat for six hours before the test is because in case you have to go straight to surgery, you need to be on an empty stomach." Yikes! By the time I finally stood up (after waiting and waiting on the table) to take the treadmill, I was a bit dizzy just from nerves. Then they give you all these instructions about 'tell us if you have pain here or pain there or you're dizzy or you're short of breath etc. etc'--I was afraid I wouldn't remember them all! So, of course, I'm doing as instructed--staring straight ahead--at this picture (kind of Monet-esque) of trees with all these leaves, and I swear to God, the LEAVES were making me dizzy! I almost told them to stop the test; I truly thought I was having the reaction that would send me to surgery. And then I got it together, focused on my own reflection in the glass, and was fine. It wasn't one of those tests where they just keep ratcheting up the incline and speed (whew, thank God), they had a target rate programmed in. That comforted me. I only had to walk for six minutes and I made it to the end. (Yay)
She said my "capacity for exercise" was slightly diminished, and I thought...only slightly?? Well, hey! Bring on the margaritas!
Okay, but bottom line, she DID say, yeah...I have to have this valve replacement but it's not a matter of TOMORROW; more like within the next couple of months and, to tell you the truth, this was the best news I could have heard.
There's still the issue of the other arteries--she basically said they're probably screwed cuz it all goes hand-in-hand, but oh well. So I'll do the one-stop shopping thing. I gather that the reasoning is, why do stents when you're gonna have the heart available for bypass? (Ugh. Did I just type BYPASS?)
Anyway...I guess I must have done a good SELL to my parents over the phone cuz they practically high-fived me when I got there. (Not sure if they misunderstood something, but oh well!)
After the appointment, I picked up some fancy new lipsticks, had lunch on the patio of my favorite restaurant with one of my best friends, and well...life is GOOD at the moment!!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
Ah, The Good Life
Sometimes ya gotta pretend like things don't suck, and boating on a Sunday afternoon is one of the ways to do that.
Tony and Sue--our Captain and his first mate.
Tony and Sue--our Captain and his first mate.
Friday, July 31, 2009
So Wrong
Last night, exactly one month after my previous post, I re-read what I'd written on June 30th.
The good news is that both are going to get better.
I was wrong. So tragically wrong.
After improving for six days, things went to hell and my brother died a week later. Meanwhile, my father is undergoing treatment for a tumor on his spine. Not sure a remedy exists to cure his breaking heart--nor how much "better" he'll ever be.
Life has taken a huge u-turn, but I'm coping.
And, at this point, I'm finished blogging about it.
The good news is that both are going to get better.
I was wrong. So tragically wrong.
After improving for six days, things went to hell and my brother died a week later. Meanwhile, my father is undergoing treatment for a tumor on his spine. Not sure a remedy exists to cure his breaking heart--nor how much "better" he'll ever be.
Life has taken a huge u-turn, but I'm coping.
And, at this point, I'm finished blogging about it.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Lifus Interruptus =
Bloggus Interuptus.
Taking a brief hiatus while the current crisis works its way out. Long story short, both my dad and my brother are in the hospital in totally unrelated incidents. The good news is that both are going to get better.
More when I'm able to breathe.....
Taking a brief hiatus while the current crisis works its way out. Long story short, both my dad and my brother are in the hospital in totally unrelated incidents. The good news is that both are going to get better.
More when I'm able to breathe.....
Monday, June 22, 2009
Bette!
Excuse the heads. Hey, I had to, so why not you?
Ha.
Yep. Took in a midweek viewing of Bette Midler's Vegas act last week...and...well...um...hate to say it, but can we spell g-e-r-i-a-t-r-i-c? I mean, I just KNOW Busby Berkeley is turning over in his grave every time Bette and her cast of dancing girls do their production number in gaily decorated motorized scooters. (Yeah, the running gag about Bette and her fans being ancient was a real scream.)
On a positive note, the woman can sure run from stage left to stage right (and back again) without losing her breath. Not sure if, given the opportunity, I could equal the feat.
Anyway, so yeah...wind beneath my wings...the rose...yada yada.
Let's be honest--she ain't no Donny and Marie (who have their own elder-magnet gig across the street).
So here's my current conclusion about Vegas: it's for the very young (Beyonce's comin' to town) or the very old and/or tragically unhip (hey, isn't Barry Manilow still at the Hilton?).
I'm pretty sure I fall into the 'none of the above' category.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Twitter Redux
Awhile back, I imported the twitter gadget into my blog, but then I got rid of it cuz I didn't like the way it looked and I wasn't "tweeting" very often so it kinda felt like why bother. So then I succumbed to the daily barrage of emails demanding to know why aren't you on Facebook, and finally set up yet another way to waste my time on the Internet. (Oh yes, come be my friend, won't you?) Anyway, then I started tweeting more often--after all, I'm a woman of few words so it's perfect for me--and discovered I could work it so that my tweets automatically went to my Facebook page.
Oh, glory!
Hence the reappearance of Twitter on my blog (see? Over there on the right?) because now, in truth, I'm killing THREE birds with one stone. Plus, I can tweet from my cell...y'know, to keep y'all TOTALLY appraised of the exciting haps in real time. (Hey, if it's good enough for Iranian protesters, well...)
Happy tweet reading, everyone. I'll try to be pithy and memorable.
Oh, glory!
Hence the reappearance of Twitter on my blog (see? Over there on the right?) because now, in truth, I'm killing THREE birds with one stone. Plus, I can tweet from my cell...y'know, to keep y'all TOTALLY appraised of the exciting haps in real time. (Hey, if it's good enough for Iranian protesters, well...)
Happy tweet reading, everyone. I'll try to be pithy and memorable.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Number 26
And yes, dammit, I'm counting. We who labor long and fruitless in our endeavors to become published novelists do that sort of thing.
Ah, but don't get me started on the definition of "published." Or the fact that in the eyes of RWA (Romance Writers of America), I am a published author. Big debate on that subject today, which bodes for an interesting national conference in D.C.
Spears anyone? Knives?
Oh, P.S...yes, 26 DOES refer to my 26th sale to True Romance. Yay, me.
Ah, but don't get me started on the definition of "published." Or the fact that in the eyes of RWA (Romance Writers of America), I am a published author. Big debate on that subject today, which bodes for an interesting national conference in D.C.
Spears anyone? Knives?
Oh, P.S...yes, 26 DOES refer to my 26th sale to True Romance. Yay, me.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Let's All Chip In...
Hey, folks. Wanna be roommates for the summer? At $100,000 a month, this place is a downright steal!
Click here for a tour of our seaside pad!
I've got a call into the moving van...
Click here for a tour of our seaside pad!
I've got a call into the moving van...
Monday, June 08, 2009
Dear Rite-Aid
I'm communicating with you today because I feel strongly that you should re-consider the system by which you refill prescriptions.
Just sayin'.
Now,don't get me wrong--the part where you automatically send me an email when it's time for a refill--LOVE it! And the on-line thingy where I only hafta fill in the blanks--that's pretty cool, too!
But, um...the part where you let someone else walk off with my meds? Not liking that part so much.
Case in point: Last week you notified me via email that my prescription for Vytorin was due to be refilled, so I clicked through, completed the on-line form, and received my confirmation.
So keen.
Then I stopped by on Saturday morning to pick it up..and, guess what?
Your pharmacist couldn't find the little baggy with my name on it. He searched and searched, but no luck.
So then he checked his computer, and guess what? He said, "Ah, yes. Here it is. We filled it on June 4th, and you picked it up already. Will there be anything else?"
Imagine my dismay.
No, wait. My growing concern.
Not for my OWN mental health, dammit. For his.
Because I'm QUITE CERTAIN I didn't make a trip to Rite Aid that I've forgotten. And, as I informed the pharmacist, since I'm single and have no children, no one in my family did EITHER.
Which leaves only one conclusion.
They gave my prescription to the wrong person.
Not good, huh?
(Hence, dear Rite-Aid, you're probably gettin' my drift on why I'm recommending you check into your system.)
Anyway, the pharmacist screwed around on the computer for awhile longer, trying to conjure up a facsimile of the signature in the transaction...but he couldn't make it work, and geez...the customers were stacking up...so could I move to the side while he took care of them...?
Now, if it were me (and MY JOB) I might have been a bit concerned about the implications of the situation. For instance, even though, sure--my cholesterol medication isn't gonna put anyone six feet under, we don't know what that person was SUPPOSED to be getting instead.
And here it was, two days after they'd picked it up--not to mention PAID FOR IT--and they hadn't called the pharmacy...?
Just sayin'.
Now,don't get me wrong--the part where you automatically send me an email when it's time for a refill--LOVE it! And the on-line thingy where I only hafta fill in the blanks--that's pretty cool, too!
But, um...the part where you let someone else walk off with my meds? Not liking that part so much.
Case in point: Last week you notified me via email that my prescription for Vytorin was due to be refilled, so I clicked through, completed the on-line form, and received my confirmation.
So keen.
Then I stopped by on Saturday morning to pick it up..and, guess what?
Your pharmacist couldn't find the little baggy with my name on it. He searched and searched, but no luck.
So then he checked his computer, and guess what? He said, "Ah, yes. Here it is. We filled it on June 4th, and you picked it up already. Will there be anything else?"
Imagine my dismay.
No, wait. My growing concern.
Not for my OWN mental health, dammit. For his.
Because I'm QUITE CERTAIN I didn't make a trip to Rite Aid that I've forgotten. And, as I informed the pharmacist, since I'm single and have no children, no one in my family did EITHER.
Which leaves only one conclusion.
They gave my prescription to the wrong person.
Not good, huh?
(Hence, dear Rite-Aid, you're probably gettin' my drift on why I'm recommending you check into your system.)
Anyway, the pharmacist screwed around on the computer for awhile longer, trying to conjure up a facsimile of the signature in the transaction...but he couldn't make it work, and geez...the customers were stacking up...so could I move to the side while he took care of them...?
Now, if it were me (and MY JOB) I might have been a bit concerned about the implications of the situation. For instance, even though, sure--my cholesterol medication isn't gonna put anyone six feet under, we don't know what that person was SUPPOSED to be getting instead.
And here it was, two days after they'd picked it up--not to mention PAID FOR IT--and they hadn't called the pharmacy...?
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Brace Yourself, Kids
Well, I mean, those of you who live in my neck of the woods. Yes, the forecast today isn't for sunshine...and it ain't for rain...no, it's for...
EARTHQUAKE.
Check it out.
I don't know about you, but when he got to the part about a shaker for Calabasas today, I donned my most fashionable hardhat and started checking supplies.
P.S. Thanks to nephew Brian for the heads-up!
EARTHQUAKE.
Check it out.
I don't know about you, but when he got to the part about a shaker for Calabasas today, I donned my most fashionable hardhat and started checking supplies.
P.S. Thanks to nephew Brian for the heads-up!
Monday, June 01, 2009
Good News For Romance Writers
Click here to read the article on how romance is faring in this economy.
Oops. My bad. The link is fixed.
Oops. My bad. The link is fixed.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
In A Funk
Man. I suppose you've been tuning into the old blog and thinking, what the funk? Where's Randy?
I know. Me, too.
Can't figure it out. Is it summertime, or something? Maybe the rising mercury zaps language processing abilities. God knows, I've got topics to spew on. Last weekend's trip to Harrah's Rincon (btw, I think I'm over gambling)...but then, no. Nothing really special to report there (apologies to my travel partners, but seriously. Can you think of a memorable moment?)
A fascinating internet contact...but maybe too personal to go into now. Will save for later, when I'm more certain the contactee won't mind her story splashed around the globe.
We're kinda in between reality shows, so nothing to vent about on that score (except, wowser--that cougar on the New Jersey housewives--simply amazing).
Deaths. Oh, yeah. A few of those to comment on, but not-so-entertaining, y'know?
Finally, what about my so-called writing career? Yeah baby, now there's a short post!
Don't get me wrong. Sometimes having nothing going on worth blogging suits me just fine.
I know. Me, too.
Can't figure it out. Is it summertime, or something? Maybe the rising mercury zaps language processing abilities. God knows, I've got topics to spew on. Last weekend's trip to Harrah's Rincon (btw, I think I'm over gambling)...but then, no. Nothing really special to report there (apologies to my travel partners, but seriously. Can you think of a memorable moment?)
A fascinating internet contact...but maybe too personal to go into now. Will save for later, when I'm more certain the contactee won't mind her story splashed around the globe.
We're kinda in between reality shows, so nothing to vent about on that score (except, wowser--that cougar on the New Jersey housewives--simply amazing).
Deaths. Oh, yeah. A few of those to comment on, but not-so-entertaining, y'know?
Finally, what about my so-called writing career? Yeah baby, now there's a short post!
Don't get me wrong. Sometimes having nothing going on worth blogging suits me just fine.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Two R's and a Y
Two, count 'em, TWO rejections from Women's World in one weeklong-stretch. Sigh. But on a happier note, a contract from True Romance for a story tentatively titled, "Three Strikes And You're In." Yep, a baseball theme--suitable for August, no?
Friday, May 22, 2009
What's In Randy's In-box?
I don't know about you guys, but I have way too many email addresses, starting with the day job where I monitor eight of the little suckers. When I hit send/receive first thing in the morning, the computer audibly groans.
Over time, it seems, all good email addresses morph into spam-filled monsters riddled with useless incoming crap. That's when you abandon them for fresh new.
Not me, though. I can't bear to give up old email addresses cuz I'm afraid of missing a customer. Instead, I hop on over to webmail, peruse the sender and subject list, then do a mass delete of nearly 99% of what's there before it ever hits my inbox. Otherwise, I'd be wading through the following:
TechSay
Shape the Future of Technology with TechSay
Test & Measurement World
TMW Featured White Paper: Limited Access Testing on the Agilent i3070
Defense Daily Job Center
Join Today for FREE
SpeedNews
STW #502: Commanding the Atlantic
Chris Ascolese
GPS Tools for Measuring, Estimating and Delivery on Property, gives Services an Edge with Go iLawn.com
The Eastwood Company
Clearance - Save Up to 65%!
FDAnews Management Reports
Spreadsheet Validation: New Compliance Methods in 2009
Design News
Sign up for eNewsletters
Procurement Technology Bulletin
Includes: How to Drive Contract Labor Cost Savings - Free Webinar
newport-news.com
4 More Days of "Extra 30% off EVERYTHING" + The Control Suit that doesn't LOOK like a Control Suit
Victoria's Secret
Ends Monday! Up to 65% Off Swim, 150+ Styles. Plus, Free Shipping Offer. Details Inside.
KMWorld NewsLinks
KM Bulletin: Enhance SharePoint People Search
Jarrod N. McKee
Canadian Rx Medications No Doc Needed
Aviation Today
Weekly Poll- Complete and enter for a chance to win an Amazon gift card
KMWorld NewsLinks
KM Bulletin: Enhance SharePoint People Search
Priority Club News
Stay any 2 Nights, then get 1 Free. Register now.
Purchasing Information Alert
Exclusive steel-bar report on prices and demand
FDAnews Webinar
Patent Up Your Biologics to Protect Yourself From Generic Competition
Boston Proper
Summer Dresses! Fun, Sexy & Easy to Wear.
spamblocker@earthlink.net
spam Summary 05/22/2009
SME Daily Executive Briefing
May 22: Philadelphia-Area Manufacturing Contraction Slows
NAGC Publications
How-To Guides for Government Contractors
Joinus-Offer
MSC Service to USA
Joinus-Offer
MSC Service to USA
Staples
Sunday Special
Buy.com Sale
Memorial Day Sale Starts Now: Netbook w/ Windows XP $199.99, Plasma Ball $9.99, 4GB microSDHC Card $6.99,..
Brooks Reports
European Airports
Brooks Reports
European Airports
Drug Daily Bulletin
Court Documents Reveal AstraZeneca's Marketing Techniques for Seroquel
Device Daily Bulletin
FDA Submits Reporting Data on Emergency Devices
InformationWeek Daily
YouTube Launches U.S. Government Portal
Frederick's of Hollywood
Low prices. Free shipping. It’s Superstar Sale.
Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa
Poolside Island Music This Weekend
newport-news.com
Tunics & Leggings are from $10 + extra 30% off EVERYTHING + buy flips flops, get a pair FREE!
Brittney@abl.org
San Gabriel Valley Tech CEO Round Table on 6/5
Live Nation
Southern California Concert Update
Design News Golden Mousetrap
LAST CHANCE: Best Product Contest
T&MW's Test Industry News
USB 3.0 Demonstration; IEEE Call to Help Earthquake Victims; May Challenge; More
Design News Materials & Fastening
Johns Hopkins Issues Warning about PVC Medical Systems
newport-news.com
Hurry! VIP Dress Event SALE ends at midnight + extra 30% OFF EVERYTHING!
The ECN Daily
Sony Slashes Suppliers
Profiles International
Last Chance To Download New Study: 5 Escapable Warning Signals of Manager Derailment
Profiles International
Last Chance To Download New Study: 5 Escapable Warning Signals of Manager Derailment
Avionics and Military & Aerospace Electronics Forum Conference & Expo
Last Week to Pre-Register for FREE Expo Pass to the Biggest Event Ever
Laboratory Equipment
Toxic Cocktails for Marine Brains; Junk DNA Finds Meaning; Eco-Friendly Wood Pulping; New Products
Purchasing Magazine
The Smart Sourcing Summit: Managing Risk in Uncertain Times
FDAnews Clinical Trials
Adverse Event at Your Clinical Trial? Get the Latest Facts Here
Albertsons
4:15: Dinner for 4. Under$15.
Duncan Aviation
1995 Falcon 900B-151 Major Price Reduction
Caesars Windsor
Oops! A Clarification About Your 4X Multiplier on May 23
jing.li@cummins.com
info needed
L-com
Please Update Your Information
Aviation Today
Just Posted Jobs from GE, NASA, FAA and More
Avionics Intelligence
E-newsletter: Cockpit Displays
R&D Magazine
Transistor theory flaw; 5-D discs to store terabytes and more; Imaging clouds with CT
Test & Measurement World
Subscription Opportunity
Test & Measurement World
Subscription Opportunity
FDAnews Webinar
Analysis of the FDA's China Office's Recent Enforcement Actions
The Editors of Blue Tops
Blue Tops Daily Email
GlobalMarket Product Alert
Auto Parts and Accessories - Product Alert from Globalmarket
GlobalMarket Product Alert
Auto Parts and Accessories - Product Alert from Globalmarket
EDN Webcast Round-up
Upcoming and Available Now Webcasts from EDN
EDN Webcast Round-up
Upcoming and Available Now Webcasts from EDN
Transparent Language
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FDAnews
Compliance Boot Camp: FDA Insiders Train You
Top5@mail.adforum.net
AdForum's Top 5 Ads This Week
World Aerospace Dat
Yep, and that's just this morning's mail. Can you spot the ONE I didn't delete?
Over time, it seems, all good email addresses morph into spam-filled monsters riddled with useless incoming crap. That's when you abandon them for fresh new.
Not me, though. I can't bear to give up old email addresses cuz I'm afraid of missing a customer. Instead, I hop on over to webmail, peruse the sender and subject list, then do a mass delete of nearly 99% of what's there before it ever hits my inbox. Otherwise, I'd be wading through the following:
TechSay
Shape the Future of Technology with TechSay
Test & Measurement World
TMW Featured White Paper: Limited Access Testing on the Agilent i3070
Defense Daily Job Center
Join Today for FREE
SpeedNews
STW #502: Commanding the Atlantic
Chris Ascolese
GPS Tools for Measuring, Estimating and Delivery on Property, gives Services an Edge with Go iLawn.com
The Eastwood Company
Clearance - Save Up to 65%!
FDAnews Management Reports
Spreadsheet Validation: New Compliance Methods in 2009
Design News
Sign up for eNewsletters
Procurement Technology Bulletin
Includes: How to Drive Contract Labor Cost Savings - Free Webinar
newport-news.com
4 More Days of "Extra 30% off EVERYTHING" + The Control Suit that doesn't LOOK like a Control Suit
Victoria's Secret
Ends Monday! Up to 65% Off Swim, 150+ Styles. Plus, Free Shipping Offer. Details Inside.
KMWorld NewsLinks
KM Bulletin: Enhance SharePoint People Search
Jarrod N. McKee
Canadian Rx Medications No Doc Needed
Aviation Today
Weekly Poll- Complete and enter for a chance to win an Amazon gift card
KMWorld NewsLinks
KM Bulletin: Enhance SharePoint People Search
Priority Club News
Stay any 2 Nights, then get 1 Free. Register now.
Purchasing Information Alert
Exclusive steel-bar report on prices and demand
FDAnews Webinar
Patent Up Your Biologics to Protect Yourself From Generic Competition
Boston Proper
Summer Dresses! Fun, Sexy & Easy to Wear.
spamblocker@earthlink.net
spam Summary 05/22/2009
SME Daily Executive Briefing
May 22: Philadelphia-Area Manufacturing Contraction Slows
NAGC Publications
How-To Guides for Government Contractors
Joinus-Offer
MSC Service to USA
Joinus-Offer
MSC Service to USA
Staples
Sunday Special
Buy.com Sale
Memorial Day Sale Starts Now: Netbook w/ Windows XP $199.99, Plasma Ball $9.99, 4GB microSDHC Card $6.99,..
Brooks Reports
European Airports
Brooks Reports
European Airports
Drug Daily Bulletin
Court Documents Reveal AstraZeneca's Marketing Techniques for Seroquel
Device Daily Bulletin
FDA Submits Reporting Data on Emergency Devices
InformationWeek Daily
YouTube Launches U.S. Government Portal
Frederick's of Hollywood
Low prices. Free shipping. It’s Superstar Sale.
Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa
Poolside Island Music This Weekend
newport-news.com
Tunics & Leggings are from $10 + extra 30% off EVERYTHING + buy flips flops, get a pair FREE!
Brittney@abl.org
San Gabriel Valley Tech CEO Round Table on 6/5
Live Nation
Southern California Concert Update
Design News Golden Mousetrap
LAST CHANCE: Best Product Contest
T&MW's Test Industry News
USB 3.0 Demonstration; IEEE Call to Help Earthquake Victims; May Challenge; More
Design News Materials & Fastening
Johns Hopkins Issues Warning about PVC Medical Systems
newport-news.com
Hurry! VIP Dress Event SALE ends at midnight + extra 30% OFF EVERYTHING!
The ECN Daily
Sony Slashes Suppliers
Profiles International
Last Chance To Download New Study: 5 Escapable Warning Signals of Manager Derailment
Profiles International
Last Chance To Download New Study: 5 Escapable Warning Signals of Manager Derailment
Avionics and Military & Aerospace Electronics Forum Conference & Expo
Last Week to Pre-Register for FREE Expo Pass to the Biggest Event Ever
Laboratory Equipment
Toxic Cocktails for Marine Brains; Junk DNA Finds Meaning; Eco-Friendly Wood Pulping; New Products
Purchasing Magazine
The Smart Sourcing Summit: Managing Risk in Uncertain Times
FDAnews Clinical Trials
Adverse Event at Your Clinical Trial? Get the Latest Facts Here
Albertsons
4:15: Dinner for 4. Under$15.
Duncan Aviation
1995 Falcon 900B-151 Major Price Reduction
Caesars Windsor
Oops! A Clarification About Your 4X Multiplier on May 23
jing.li@cummins.com
info needed
L-com
Please Update Your Information
Aviation Today
Just Posted Jobs from GE, NASA, FAA and More
Avionics Intelligence
E-newsletter: Cockpit Displays
R&D Magazine
Transistor theory flaw; 5-D discs to store terabytes and more; Imaging clouds with CT
Test & Measurement World
Subscription Opportunity
Test & Measurement World
Subscription Opportunity
FDAnews Webinar
Analysis of the FDA's China Office's Recent Enforcement Actions
The Editors of Blue Tops
Blue Tops Daily Email
GlobalMarket Product Alert
Auto Parts and Accessories - Product Alert from Globalmarket
GlobalMarket Product Alert
Auto Parts and Accessories - Product Alert from Globalmarket
EDN Webcast Round-up
Upcoming and Available Now Webcasts from EDN
EDN Webcast Round-up
Upcoming and Available Now Webcasts from EDN
Transparent Language
Learn language on the go with Everywhere Audio, just $24.95 (50% off)!
FDAnews
Compliance Boot Camp: FDA Insiders Train You
Top5@mail.adforum.net
AdForum's Top 5 Ads This Week
World Aerospace Dat
Yep, and that's just this morning's mail. Can you spot the ONE I didn't delete?
Saturday, May 16, 2009
And This, My Friends, Is The Way It Works
...or doesn't.
November 2007 (yes, that 2007): Send electronic query letter on Project C to Agent A.
December 2007: Receive request for partial.
December 2007: Mail requested material.
August 2008: Receive request for full manuscript.
August 2008: Mail requested material.
May 2009: Receive rejection.
Like clockwork, huh?
November 2007 (yes, that 2007): Send electronic query letter on Project C to Agent A.
December 2007: Receive request for partial.
December 2007: Mail requested material.
August 2008: Receive request for full manuscript.
August 2008: Mail requested material.
May 2009: Receive rejection.
Like clockwork, huh?
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Hubba Hubba Hubbell
Don't they look like jewels of the universe? These are images photographed from that indefatigable workhorse, the Hubbell Space Telescope. (Go, astronauts! Fix the little guy all up, will ya?)
(*Collage of images shamelessly ripped off The Drudge Report--no clue where he got it himself.)
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
A Tough Nut To Crack
Yesterday's mail brought my 3rd (4th? 5th?) rejection from Women's World. (Sorry, it's so easy to lose track of submissions. Guess I could check my handy dandy spreadsheet, but who really cares anyway?)
For those not in the know, Women's World can be found at your local grocery store's checkout stand. It's a weekly magazine loaded with pieces on health, beauty, family...yada, yada, yada...and two items of fiction: an 800-word romance and a 500 (?)-word mystery. I don't know about the mysteries, but the pay for romance is $800. (Up until recently, they required 1,000 words for--yep!--$1,000. One thousand words translates to about 4 manuscript pages, so the moola is nothing at which to achoo.)
Anyway, so yeah. I've been trying my hand, but so far, no luck. Yesterday, for the first time, the form rejection included writer guidelines. (Ha. I'm thinking they said: "Geesh. Get a clue. Here, study up.") After reading them, the light bulb went on. Y'see, I've been writing these sweet little stories with nice 'ahas!' at the end, but...um...no 'relationship dilemma.' (Hm. Just re-read the story I posted below--it's not ENTIRELY devoid of relationship dilemma. Oh, well.)
What the hell...enjoy. (And excuse the funky formatting.)
My family meant well when they surprised me with a two-month old cocker spaniel for my birthday, but I had reservations. “Who’s gonna take care of this little guy all day?”
For those not in the know, Women's World can be found at your local grocery store's checkout stand. It's a weekly magazine loaded with pieces on health, beauty, family...yada, yada, yada...and two items of fiction: an 800-word romance and a 500 (?)-word mystery. I don't know about the mysteries, but the pay for romance is $800. (Up until recently, they required 1,000 words for--yep!--$1,000. One thousand words translates to about 4 manuscript pages, so the moola is nothing at which to achoo.)
Anyway, so yeah. I've been trying my hand, but so far, no luck. Yesterday, for the first time, the form rejection included writer guidelines. (Ha. I'm thinking they said: "Geesh. Get a clue. Here, study up.") After reading them, the light bulb went on. Y'see, I've been writing these sweet little stories with nice 'ahas!' at the end, but...um...no 'relationship dilemma.' (Hm. Just re-read the story I posted below--it's not ENTIRELY devoid of relationship dilemma. Oh, well.)
What the hell...enjoy. (And excuse the funky formatting.)
My family meant well when they surprised me with a two-month old cocker spaniel for my birthday, but I had reservations. “Who’s gonna take care of this little guy all day?”
“You’ve got a safe backyard,” my mother pointed out, “and a nice park up the street where you can walk in him the evenings after work.” She patted my arm. “The exercise will do you good.”
I groaned, but the fluffy ball of fur with the lopsided ears enchanted me. Without warning, he jumped into my lap, his forlorn eyes begging for approval. Beside me, my sister Molly laughed. “See? A match made in heaven, Ellie.”
I knew what they were up to. Mom longed for another grandchild and Molly yearned to become an aunt. Since I’d squelched their schemes to find me a man, they’d resorted to man’s best friend. Peering into soft velvet puppy eyes, I could hardly fault their reasoning.
Two days later, Max made his official debut at the local doggie park. At first, I stood on the sidelines as a handful of fellow owners performed an assortment of tasks with their pets. One woman jogged around the track, her sleek black lab preceding her with a stately gait. In the center of the park, a teenage boy tossed a Frisbee while his black-and-white mutt repeatedly lunged after it.
Suddenly, Max growled.
“What is it, boy?”
From seemingly nowhere, a dog off its leash−and no owner in sight−bounded toward us, teeth bared. With my heart in my throat, I scrambled to grab Max.
“Brutus!” A man emerged from behind a hedge, cradling his own small dog. “Brutus, stay,” he warned.
“He’s yours?” I asked, my voice quivering.
“No, but I’m familiar with the way his owner flaunts the rules. This isn’t the first time I’ve seen his dog off-lead.”
The menacing animal sniffed at the air, then trotted away, presumably in search of more interesting prey. I breathed a sigh of relief. “Thanks for the rescue.”
“No problem. The name’s Michael, by the way. And this is Buster.”
“Hi. I’m Ellie, and this wriggly mass of fear is Max.”
He tousled Max’s right ear, chuckling. “Cocker spaniel?”
“Yes, and yours?”
“Same,” he said, beaming. “I see we have something in common.”
As we discovered over the next couple of weeks, Max and Buster’s breed wasn’t the only thing Michael and I shared in common. Foreign movies, popcorn with real butter, and roaring logs in the fireplace made the list as well. One day I suggested we get together for all three, but he instantly stiffened, yanking unnecessarily on Buster’s leash. “Maybe,” he said. “I’ll have to let you know.”
The vague response set off mental alarm bells. “Michael, are you married?”
His eyes widened. “No, of course not.” We continued walking in silence, then he paused. “I was married,” he said, his jaw twitching. “Sally and I divorced five years ago.”
Instinctively, I touched his sleeve. “I’m sorry. Any kids involved?”
“No. My ex didn’t want children.”
My heart ached for Michael. Especially since I could tell by the way he handled Buster, he’d make a fabulous father.
He smiled wistfully. “Sometimes you have to accept what Fate has in store for you. Becoming a parent wasn’t in the cards.”
“Nonsense. You’re young. You’ll fall in love again.”
The next afternoon, Michael and Buster didn’t show up for our daily walk. Sadly, Max and I trudged through our usual routine, but our hearts weren’t in it. “Sorry boy,” I told my canine companion, “guess I scared him off.”
An entire week passed, then suddenly there they were−waiting for us as though no time had elapsed. Michael wore a wide grin and even Buster seemed to harbor a secret. I didn’t hold back. “We missed you,” I said as the two dogs exchanged slurpy greetings.
“Same here,” Michael said. “A lot.”
I lifted my chin. “I guess you were busy?”
“Uh-huh. With obedience school. I should have told you but it slipped my mind.” A twinkle rose to his eye. “You’ll never guess who we ran into.”
Clueless, I shrugged.
“A dog breeder by the name of Bob Turner.”
“Sorry. I don’t think I know him.”
“No, but your mother does. When I mentioned you and Max, Bob remembered selling a puppy from Buster’s litter to a woman for her daughter’s birthday.”
I blinked. “You mean...?”
Michael nodded, his smile stretching from ear to ear. “Buster and Max are brothers. Which makes you Mom...”
“...and you Dad,” I finished, matching his grin. “We’re parents.”
“Must be Fate,” he said.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Has It Already Been A Year??
Long-time blog readers are painfully familiar with my take on pitch appointments at RWA's national conference. Been there, done that--got the damaged heart tissue to prove it. (Kidding. At least, so far as I know.)
Seriously. As you'll recall, last year I concluded that nothing--certainly not my health, nor my happiness--is worth the agonizing torture of a ten-minute period wherein I'm to hawk my manuscript (and perhaps myself) to an industry professional such as an editor or agent. The looming event hovers over my entire conference experience like a huge shroud of doom.
So yeah, sayonara pitching.
But then an idea hatched. First, my reasoning was that if (IF, mind you) I were to entertain the notion (merely the NOTION, mind you), of signing up for an appointment, I'd go for an editor because, after all, the majority of editors are unapproachable in any other way without an agent. So, there. Perfect justification for choosing an editor appointment over an agent appointment (or for electing to make an appointment at all).
Next (ah, and here's the genius), I decided to sign up for a group appointment. Y'know, something about safety in numbers and all.
Once I decided to go after an appointment, I felt a small sense of elation. Hey, every little conference benny grabbed helps justify the big bucks I'm shelling out to attend.
Anyway, this is all MOOT because I couldn't even log-on to the RWA site this morning. Yes, as usual, the whole process apparently went haywire, and by the time I could view the list of participating editors still available, forget it. The ones seeking the stuff I write were already snapped up.
Okay, so maybe this was God's way of looking out for me....?
Seriously. As you'll recall, last year I concluded that nothing--certainly not my health, nor my happiness--is worth the agonizing torture of a ten-minute period wherein I'm to hawk my manuscript (and perhaps myself) to an industry professional such as an editor or agent. The looming event hovers over my entire conference experience like a huge shroud of doom.
So yeah, sayonara pitching.
But then an idea hatched. First, my reasoning was that if (IF, mind you) I were to entertain the notion (merely the NOTION, mind you), of signing up for an appointment, I'd go for an editor because, after all, the majority of editors are unapproachable in any other way without an agent. So, there. Perfect justification for choosing an editor appointment over an agent appointment (or for electing to make an appointment at all).
Next (ah, and here's the genius), I decided to sign up for a group appointment. Y'know, something about safety in numbers and all.
Once I decided to go after an appointment, I felt a small sense of elation. Hey, every little conference benny grabbed helps justify the big bucks I'm shelling out to attend.
Anyway, this is all MOOT because I couldn't even log-on to the RWA site this morning. Yes, as usual, the whole process apparently went haywire, and by the time I could view the list of participating editors still available, forget it. The ones seeking the stuff I write were already snapped up.
Okay, so maybe this was God's way of looking out for me....?
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Is That A Rat I Smell?
Oy.
You just KNEW the whole trip-to-Mexico-cancellation debacle was gonna turn into ongoing blog fodder, didn't you?
Ding ding ding. You get the gold star.
So, today I receive an email from Travelocity with a subject line saying: "How Did We Do?"
Well. (See, I'm figuring it's one of those automatically-generated messages--you know the kind--"Dear Randy, we hope you enjoyed your recent trip to blah, blah, blah..." Followed by: "We hope you'll turn to Travelocity for ALL your future travel needs, yada, yada." So, I'm rubbing my hands together in glee, ready to TELL THEM EXACTLY HOW IT WENT.)
Only one problem. Apparently, they had a different (more diabolical, I'm sure!) reason for dropping a note, cuz this is what the email said:
Dear Randy,
You were recently contacted by the ProCC team at Travelocity because of a swine flu update associated with your trip. We value your opinion and invite you to share your feedback by answering the following short survey that should take less than 3 minutes to complete.
Huh? Exactly WHEN I was contacted by the ProCC team (whatever THAT is), and by what means did they supposedly contact me? Inquiring minds wanna know. (Oh, you mean the email that was a RESPONSE to MY email? That one?) Funny, how reading the above doesn't imply what truly transpired, isn't it?
Even funnier--when I clicked on the so-called "survey"? Only one question! That's it! And here's what it said (paraphrasing):
"Do you remember receiving an email from Travelocity warning you about potential problems with your scheduled trip to Mexico?" (Like I say, this is from memory because the link to the survey no longer works.) Honestly, I clicked on "no" because I truly didn't believe I had...until I went back and re-reread THEIR RESPONSE to my QUESTION. Now I'm thinking they're gonna use that to protect themselves from something. Especially cuz, what an ODD question, huh--"do you remember...?" Maybe if I'd read their emails with an Indian accent...?
Anyway, interesting. All I know is that I spent hours and hours on the phone, trying to reschedule, and finally gave up.
THAT part is CRYSTAL CLEAR in my memory.
You just KNEW the whole trip-to-Mexico-cancellation debacle was gonna turn into ongoing blog fodder, didn't you?
Ding ding ding. You get the gold star.
So, today I receive an email from Travelocity with a subject line saying: "How Did We Do?"
Well. (See, I'm figuring it's one of those automatically-generated messages--you know the kind--"Dear Randy, we hope you enjoyed your recent trip to blah, blah, blah..." Followed by: "We hope you'll turn to Travelocity for ALL your future travel needs, yada, yada." So, I'm rubbing my hands together in glee, ready to TELL THEM EXACTLY HOW IT WENT.)
Only one problem. Apparently, they had a different (more diabolical, I'm sure!) reason for dropping a note, cuz this is what the email said:
Dear Randy,
You were recently contacted by the ProCC team at Travelocity because of a swine flu update associated with your trip. We value your opinion and invite you to share your feedback by answering the following short survey that should take less than 3 minutes to complete.
Huh? Exactly WHEN I was contacted by the ProCC team (whatever THAT is), and by what means did they supposedly contact me? Inquiring minds wanna know. (Oh, you mean the email that was a RESPONSE to MY email? That one?) Funny, how reading the above doesn't imply what truly transpired, isn't it?
Even funnier--when I clicked on the so-called "survey"? Only one question! That's it! And here's what it said (paraphrasing):
"Do you remember receiving an email from Travelocity warning you about potential problems with your scheduled trip to Mexico?" (Like I say, this is from memory because the link to the survey no longer works.) Honestly, I clicked on "no" because I truly didn't believe I had...until I went back and re-reread THEIR RESPONSE to my QUESTION. Now I'm thinking they're gonna use that to protect themselves from something. Especially cuz, what an ODD question, huh--"do you remember...?" Maybe if I'd read their emails with an Indian accent...?
Anyway, interesting. All I know is that I spent hours and hours on the phone, trying to reschedule, and finally gave up.
THAT part is CRYSTAL CLEAR in my memory.
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