I was really happy today 'cause I got to catch up on my favorite blogs and simultaneously laugh my a$$ off.

The last time I fell behind I came across Something Positive and Nerdrotica over at Thunder and Roses. I had forgotten all about these links until now because it's hard for me to believe that this could possibly be true. If it were, I would not be able to continue having lunch with some of the IT guys and keep a straight face.

Well, today after starting my day with a bit of rocket fuel I came across a link to an article that talks about A Japanese android called Cyberminx. It's a really long article, some I've pasted the relevant parts below:

"Repliee Q1Expo or Cyberminx, is an animated, lifelike representation of a human female...that boasts silicon skin, 42 compressed air-controlled actuators and is controlled by a computer which enables the robonymphette to mimic the movements of a real human - right down to fluttering her eyelids and breathing."

"It's creator, Professor Hiroshi Ishiguro of Osaka University, admits it's a pretty poor substitute for the real thing, as he explained to the BBC: "[It] can interact ... [and] respond to people touching it. It's very satisfying, although we obviously have a long way to go yet.... [but in certain] situations, [people don't realize it's an android for] perhaps 10 minutes, he conceded."

The author of the article believes that "Repliee Q1Expo [or Cyberminx] was in fact a fully-functioning sex droid programmed to seek out and extract low-grade male sperm suitable for the propagation of submissive drones. As we have previously noted, this puts online gamers and Linux programmers at particular risk from attack, especially since few, if any, have ever seen a real woman in the flesh. Accordingly, the robostrumpet does not have to be a particularly convincing physical representation of the human female form."

Posted by: Michele at 01:23 AM | Comments (5) | Add Comment
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1 If my plans to work for the Weekly World News fail for some reason, The Register is definitely Ideal Employer #2. I made that decision after a recent article about Saturn. The title of the article referred to Saturn's rings as "mighty weird". Ummm...okay. Still, the article leaves out some key points. Namely, do Cyberminxes dream of Electric Geeks?

Posted by: zonker at September 19, 2005 08:10 AM (/y7q3)

2 I think I've met her before.....

Posted by: _Jon at September 19, 2005 10:56 AM (R6yie)

3 Sometimes I think that there ought to be male-bots programmed to say "yes dear" and take out the trash for my satisfaction, but if these lonely types want a robo-girl to satisfy them, well then, who am I to judge! Hehehehehehehehe!

Posted by: Oddybobo at September 19, 2005 12:41 PM (6Gm0j)

4 LOL! Some how this line: does not have to be a particularly convincing physical representation makes me think they don't know geeks well enough... have you seen the boobs on most of the cyber babes?

Posted by: vw bug at September 19, 2005 04:35 PM (J3xJ9)

5 mmmm... robostrumpet... :-)

Posted by: Harvey at September 19, 2005 10:22 PM (ubhj8)

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Thank you for the kind and supportive emails I received over the weekend. It made a sad time go bye a little easier. Words canÂ’t encapsulate my loss and thereÂ’s very little anyone can say to lighten that burden so I chose to turn off comments and decided not to read emails as a result.

Still, your kind, empathetic words touched me and were a nice place to retreat to, and a great reminder for me to remain reflective about my present life and focused on living it.

Again, THANKS!

Posted by: Michele at 11:45 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Dear Paul:

Below you will find most of what you need to help you get back on your feet.

The normal place to start in any disaster is with the American Red Cross. Red Cross volunteers at Disaster Relief Centers normally come equiped with xeroxed sheets of local/state contact numbers and victims or their family members can call to apply for services, temporary relief (in the form of shelter, food and clothing) and long term recovery programs (for government aid from agencies such as FEMA).

One thing to keep in mind as you deal with each agency is that each one is set up differently and have different time frames in which they will provide support for a victim. For instance, the American Red Cross is an agency geared to provide immediate and short term disaster relief. Short term can be 24 to 48 hrs for a small disaster (such as a fire or local flood/rain or snow storm) to up to several months as we will see in this case. FEMA on the other hand, is geared to provide initial support to communities and government entities and later to individuals.

Things you'll need
1) notebook & pen/pencil
2) plastic bag ziploc type large enough for notebook/pen
3) patience - you have to register with each agency which means giving the same info over and over again. Please keep your registration numbers in the notebook, you'll need to refer to your case as you follow up with each agency.

Please note, I am not an expert and have not worked in Disaster Recovery or as a Relief worker in almost 10 years. I am doing this to have informaiton handy for those who need it, like you and my best friend, Susan. She will need it when she finally gets to her 1st temporary destination: Dallas.

Where to start:
HereÂ’s a list of Domestic Disaster Relief Organizations that are legitimate, have a longstanding history of disaster relief services, and that IÂ’m familiar with. There's a brief description of what they do and some initial contact info that I was able to hurriedly put together. More info/links will appear as soon as I get a chance to get back here.

For those needing immediate shelter in Louisiana, please call 1-800-469-4828.

Additional Shelter Information:
Special Needs Shelter Information
Triage Phone Numbers:
Alexandria: 800-841-5778 Shreveport: 800-841-5776
Baton Rouge: 800-349-1372 Monroe: 866-280-7287
Houma/Thibodaux: 800-228-9409 Slidell/Hammond: 866-280-7724
Lafayette: 800-901-3210 Lake Charles: 866-280-2711

Equine Shelter/Evacuation Site Information
Locations for Animal Evacuation:
Alexandria - Large & Small 318-442-4222 (all vet clinics will accept)
Lamar Dixon - Gonzales - Large Animals
Shreveport - LSU-S (pets only, no livestock)
West Monroe - Ike Hamilton Coliseum

Louisiana Hotel Information 1-800-99-GUMBO

Emergency Shelter Information Points:
Tourist Welcome Center, US 65 & 84, 1401 Carter St. (US 84), Vidalia, LA
Tourist Welcome Center, TA Truck Stop, Tallulah Exit (Hwy 65 & I 20)
Paragon Casino, 711 Paragon Place, Marksville LA
Sammy's Truck Stop, I-49, Exit 53, 3601 LA 115W, Bunkie, LA
Med Express Office, 7525 US 71, Alexandria, LA
P.E. Gym, LSU- Shreveport, One University Place, Shreveport, LA
Pickering High School, 180 Lebleu Rd., Leesville, LA
Mowad Civic Center, 5th & 10th St., 1 Block off US 165, Oakdale, LA

Connecting with Loved Ones - SATERN - The Salvation Army's Team Emergency Radio Network has been activated. Click link to send a health and welfare request regarding family and friends you otherwise are unable to locate. Also contact the Red Cross with your loved ones info. as they cross reference missing info reports with their victims relief support database. There is also this site which I'm not familiar with, but it's free and uses today's technology to reunite families.

American Red Cross - 1(866)-GET-INFO (438-4636) This is the starting point for all information, from immediate relief, and local/state recovery efforts, to information about loved ones and long term aid efforts. Their emergency assistance includes fixed/mobile feeding stations, shelter, cleaning supplies, comfort kits, first aid, blood and blood products, food, clothing, emergency transportation, rent, home repairs, household items, and medical supplies. Additional assistance for long-term recovery may be provided when other relief assistance and/or personal resources are not adequate to meet disaster-caused needs. The American Red Cross provides referrals to the government and other agencies providing disaster assistance. You can apply for relief at any local Red Cross Office (see link).

Catholic Charities USA Disaster Response - 1(800) 919-9338 - provides
assistance to communities in addressing the crisis and recovery needs of local
families. Catholic Charities agencies emphasize ongoing and long-term recovery services for individuals and families, including temporary housing assistance for low income families, counseling programs for children and the elderly, and special counseling for disaster relief workers.

Christian Disaster Response (CDR) - provides disaster assessments, fixed/mobile feeding facilities, and in-kind disaster relief supplies. CDR also coordinates and stockpiles the collection of donated goods through their regional centers.

Church of the Brethren Disaster Response provides cleanup and debris
removal from damaged or destroyed homes and personal property. Volunteers
are trained through the Cooperative Disaster Child Care Program to establish
child-care centers following major disasters.

The Episcopal Church Presiding BishopÂ’s Fund for World Relief responds to domestic disasters and sends immediate relief grants for such basics as food, water, medical assistance, and financial aid within the first 90 days following a disaster.

Friends Disaster Service (FDS) provides clean-up and rebuilding assistance to the elderly, disabled, low income, or uninsured survivors of disasters. The Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) provides for immediate disaster response, in both natural and technological disasters, long-term rebuilding efforts, and support for preparedness planning through synods, districts, and social ministry organizations.

Gift of Sight - assists victims in replacing their glasses lost from the hurricane.

Humane Society of the US - helps with reunification pets and owners after a disaster, referrals of care and provides communities assistance with rescue of pets.

Mennonite Disaster Services - assists disaster victims by providing volunteer personnel to clean up and remove debris from damaged and destroyed homes and personal property and to repair or rebuild homes. Special emphasis is placed on assisting those less able to help themselves, such as the elderly and handicapped.

National Emergency Response Team (NERT) meets the basic human needs of shelter, food, and clothing during times of crisis and disaster. NERT provides Emergency Mobile Trailer units (EMTUs), which are self-contained, modest living units for up to 8-10 people, to places where disaster occurs. When EMTUs are not in use, they serve as mobile teaching units used in Emergency Preparedness programs in communities.

National Organization for Victim Assistance provides social and mental health services for individuals and families who experience major trauma after disaster, including critical incident debriefings.

The Salvation Army - provides emergency assistance including mass and mobile feeding, temporary shelter, counseling, missing person services, medical assistance, and distribution of donated goods.
Victims Needing Assistance Please call 1-888-363-2769.

Second Harvest National Network of Food Banks - collects, transports, warehouses, and distributes donated food and grocery products for other agencies involved in both feeding operations and the distribution of relief supplies through its national network of food banks. (Food Bank Locator here)

The Society of St. Vincent De Paul provides social services to individuals and families, and collects and distributes donated goods. It operates retail stores, homeless shelters, and feeding facilities that are similar to those run by the Salvation Army. The storesÂ’ merchandise can be made available to disaster victims. Warehousing facilities are used for storing and sorting donated
merchandise during the emergency period.

The Southern Baptist Disaster Relief - provides more than 200 mobile feeding units staffed by volunteers who can prepare and distribute thousands of meals a day. Active in providing disaster childcare, the agency has several mobile childcare units. Southern Baptists also assist with clean-up activities, temporary repairs, reconstruction, counseling, and bilingual services.

UJA Federations of North America organizes direct assistance, such as
financial and social services, to Jewish and general communities in the U.S.
following disaster. It also provides rebuilding services to neighborhoods and
enters into long-term recovery partnerships with residents.

United Methodist Committee on Relief (800) 554-8583 - provides funding for local units in response and recovery projects based on the needs of each situation. This
agency also provides spiritual and emotional care to disaster victims and long-term care of children impacted by disaster.

Federal Emergency Management Agency - FEMACall to Apply for Assistance 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The speech or hearing impaired may call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. You may also register online at the link above.

• For use ONLY by people in designated federal disaster areas.
• Be prepared to give your Social Security number, describe your losses, provide financial information, and give directions to the damaged property.
• If you get a busy signal, try to call in the evening after 6:00 p.m. or on the weekends when call volumes tend to be lighter.
The information you provide is put into the computer. You are now in the system and the recovery process begins:
• An inspector will call back to schedule an appointment.
• Inspector will visit damaged property
• Packet will arrive in mail
• You MUST fill out and return application to be eligible for any further assistance.

For Small Business Owners:
Small Business Administration (Low Interest Loans)
US Chamber of Commerce (Low Interest Loans)

Finally, some Gas, Electric, Telephone and MORTGAGE service providers have announced temporary bill/debt forgiveness for those in the federally designated disaster areas. To be eligible for this, you MUST REGISTER WITH FEMA and provide your service providers with your FEMA Registration information.

Regarding Telephone Numbers/Service: This one is from personal experience during 9-11. Both cell and land phone carriers will hold your telephone number for a certain period of time (check your provider's website). They will allow also allow you to resume service under your old number once you return to your home. That is what happened to the residents of Lower Manhattan and most cell phone subscribers in NYC. You can also temporarily port your number another area. Again, check with your service provider.

Additional information was compiled by The Bastard of Bring It ON.

Thanks to my Blog Dad, Harvey of Bad Example for the reminder that sometimes people need all the info in one place.

Technorati tags: flood aid; Hurricane Katrina

Posted by: Michele at 04:59 AM | Comments (5) | Add Comment
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I got more bad news about the repairs that are being done to my apartment, which will require me to stay at my mother's overnight.

But after seeing the devastation and the flood damage, loss of life and the thousands of homes destroyed as a result of this hurricane, well, I have little to moan and groan about. As bad as things are, I do have a dry environment, clothes, a roof over my head and a job I love. Many Katrina survivors don't even have that.

As I work today, I will be waiting anxiously to hear from my best friend in New Orleans. I've been trying real hard not to visit CNN because doing so brings back tearful memories. These images trigger memories of knowing first hand what it's like when you emerge from your shelter after a hurricane only to see the world around you totally destroyed.

Having survived 19 hurricanes during the years I lived in the Caribbean, I know firsthand the shock, bewilderment, sadness, depression and utter despair one feels in the first few weeks after a major hurricane. Being surrounded 24/7 by so much devastation influences negatively these survivors' psyche and spirit. Boudicca says it better than I can in this post, for if I were to try I would start to cry immediately; doing that at my work desk is not a good idea.

I have already sent money, but Lee Ann remind us, there's still a bit more everyone can do - by giving blood, etc. Please visit Lee Ann's post for ideas and details. Thanks.

Posted by: Michele at 08:39 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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My life is usually lived on an even kiel, most days. But when the stuff hita the fan, it comes in 3's and they're usually doozies.

Yesterday, I met my lovely new downstairs neighbors who were moving in and as promptly as they set foot in their new home they showed up and accused me of causing a leak in their apartment. After they raised holy hell, I was summoned from work and threatened with a lawsuit if any more damage occurred to their apartment if I didn't come back at once.

I did leave work right away, but it was to prove to everyone that the leak was not coming from my apartment. After doing volunteer work for 3 years with Habitat for Humanity I know my way around floor plans and structural issues really well. Well, my words went ignored (after all I'm only a woman) and when I stepped out of my apartment to go see the water damage in the apartment downstairs the plumber, who I can't stand, took a sledghammer to my foyer then proceeded to tear up my cedar lined walk-in closet. I ran upstairs just as he was taking aim with his sledgehammer for my tiled bathroom wall. You see he decided to make the holes first and inspect afterwards. I was so angry I stood in front of the sledge hammer and tore it from his hands, pulled out my cell phone, called management and told them the only lawsuits were going to be coming from my attorney who happened to be sitting in my living room at the moment (my sister in law) from the inept way they were handling the situation.

Within the hour the leak was located (downstairs midway through their wall) and I was left to clean up the plaster dust that was on my floor, furniture clothes, etc. I have already obtained receipts from the dry cleaners and laundromat for the clothes that have to be washed as a result of the plaster dust.

I've taken pictures and documented everything (did I mention it's good to have your attorney in your apartment when this is going on?). Well, at one point my attorney (who's also my sister n law) put her litigator game face on and the result was: today I will have a crew in my apartment fixing all the holes and painting the walls. In addition, I've hired a cleaning woman to clean everything after they're gone, for which the board will receive a bill.

Of course, immediately afterwards I was both visually overwhelmed and saddened seeing the damage of the hurricane. Later, when I finally finished my software upgrade I visited all my affected BE (blog) family and was greatly relieved to see they were all okay. It definitely put things in perspective for me! Everyone in that area continues to be in my prayers!

Anyway, by the time I finished sweeping, dusting mopping, and finished preparing dinner for 5, my sister in law informed me that my brand spanking new computer Hi-Speed computer had gotten infected by what she believes was a virus. I had not had breakfast or lunch, let alone a snack, and it was looking like I wouldn't have time for dinner other than a meal bar. I was ready to scream and cry at that point. I didn't because I have to keep my most excellent attorney happy and my son remindded me, "don't worry mommy, you're really good at fixing computers. There hasn't been a computer you have not been able to fix yet."

That was the inspiration and affirmation I needed. SO, after having spent the last 5.5hrs debugging, disinfecting and upgrading (with only one major issue solved with the help of a most wonderful guardian angel), I am now back to blogging full time. YAY! [doing snoopy happy dance]

My new state of the art PC is so awesome he's been christened Bad Boy!

Posted by: Michele at 01:35 AM | Comments (7) | Add Comment
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1 Glad you are blogging, sorry to hear about your apartment.

Posted by: vw bug at August 30, 2005 07:13 AM (8QWwp)

2 Glad for the new computer, condolences on the charming new neighbors. Recommendation: push hard now as they seem like the type that you need to keep pruned back and on the defensive. As for the plumber, keep going and get rid of him. Feh to them all. *wolf turns, rakes paw back towards the louts a few times*

Posted by: Laughing Wolf at August 30, 2005 07:23 AM (ofLxe)

3 I would include a letter demanding the stupid plumber be replaced. I'm glad the computer is working. I can send you new games now.

Posted by: _Jon at August 30, 2005 10:01 AM (R6yie)

4 Unfarkingbelievable. Can you get compensation for the lost work time? I'm thinking you need to install some big-assed bass speakers in your floor, pointing down at their apartment. 'Cause those new games _Jon's gonna send you really need good bass to be thoroughly enjoyed at 3 a.m. Congrats on not belting anybody. p.

Posted by: Light & Dark at August 30, 2005 11:16 AM (+Ds2b)

5 Sounds like nothing you couldn't handle in grand style, Michele. By the way, did the downstairs people have the grace to say, "gee, sorry"? Or is that asking too much?

Posted by: RP at August 30, 2005 12:08 PM (LlPKh)

6 Well... I'm just going to tear up my list of things to complain about, now :-) Glad it got better.

Posted by: Harvey at August 30, 2005 05:14 PM (ubhj8)

7 There's got to be a way you can rope those new neighbor's into the litigation... something. Jerks.

Posted by: Bou at August 30, 2005 10:27 PM (5JHEt)

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My day started off bad when I found out that the person they hired to replace me at my old job will have less responsibilities than I did and will paid over $15K more than I received. The 2 global projects I managed have also been reassigned to 2 different Assistant Vice Presidents. I will be meeting with them on Thursday to train them.

It really went down hill from there. By 1:00pm I just wanted to pack my belongings and begin my hejira that would take me far, without being able to look back. Unfortunately, IÂ’m too much of a professional to just walk out. So instead, IÂ’ll need to remain in purgatory for 4 more days.

A mind shift occurred a little while ago when I received a belated birthday e-card from a former famine relief worker I had worked with. He was now in the outskirts of Somalia, doing the kind of work we had done in Mexico and South America. A flood of memories of those days came back to me, helping me realize I had very little to complain about. After all, I not only was able to eat good healthy food and drink clean fresh water; I would soon be going to bed in a safe and secure environment in a comfortable bed located in a climate controlled bedroom and sleeping on nice, soft, clean sheets.

In comparison to him, I have nothing to complain about.

Posted by: Michele at 10:34 PM | Comments (4) | Add Comment
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In some ways I have been a very lucky girl! From very early on in my life I lived in an environment where womenÂ’s roles and lives were limited by those around them. I wanted more. I wanted the freedom, fun and excitement of a manÂ’s life.

As the women in my life tried to curb my independence and exuberance for life, the men in my life (my track, volleyball and softball coaches) fostered in me a sense of independence, drive, competitiveness, and lots of leadership qualities that have served me well to this day. They created and provided a solid foundation for my life. Had my dad not been too busy with his business and congregation he would have joined the women in the restraint and reformation of Michele. When my dad finally did notice I was too much of a tomboy for his taste, so I was sent off to be under the supervision of a distant relative at a convent school. This was followed by an all girls high school. I thought it would not be fun but I was wrong. Our brother school was an all boy military academy, incredible boys each one of them. I also went to a martial arts school where I was one of 4 girls.
more...

Posted by: Michele at 11:05 AM | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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A recent Federal Trade Commission (FTC) report indicated there were 10 million cases of identity theft in 2004. In 1993 I became a victim and only discovered it in 1998 when the IRS began a multi year audit of my taxes. This audit lasted several years and only ended recently in my favor because of my meticulous accounting and record keeping. I was able to prove that in those years I lived, studied and worked only in New York and not in Florida at the same time. I was lucky, IÂ’ve read of cases where victims have: lost job opportunities, been refused loans, been barred from educational institutions, rejected for housing, and have even been arrested for crimes they didn't commit.

Today it almost happened again. I was purchasing an item in a store with a credit card and the cashier, after swiping my card on the register began to walk away with my card from the register and was about to put it in her pocket. When I called her back and asked her to return my card or to at hold it while she was in front of me she made some lame excuse about needing to swipe it on a different machine instead because her register wasnÂ’t working. Just then the authorization came through on my charge. Something as simple as a small credit card scanner could have been hidden in her pocket, which captures the personal info from the magnetic strip on my credit card. This can happen anywhere a credit card or debit card is accepted: restaurants, malls, gas stations, bookstores and your local convenience store. ItÂ’s not just the companies like Citibank and Wells Fargo losing your information.

HereÂ’s some ways identity theft can happen?
• Purse snatching - A thief steals your wallet or purse containing your personal information, credit and bankcards.
• Mail theft - Thieves steal bank and credit card statements, pre-approved credit offers, telephone calling cards and tax information from your mailbox.
• Change of address - Thieves divert your mail to another location.
• Dumpster diving - Thieves rummage through residential or business trash, looking for personal information.
• Masquerading - Thieves fraudulently pose as your landlord or banker or someone else with a legitimate need for your personal information.
• Stealing work records - Thieves get your business or personnel records at work.
• Home theft - Thieves find personal information in your home. They can be either guest, workers, visitors or posing as sales people or lost individuals.
• Internet theft - Thieves obtain personal information from unsecured Web sites that you may have visited or through Phishing and Pharming techniques. More about these 2 tomorrow.
• Insider crime - People who have access to personal identifying information such as bank or financial institutions employees and steal id’s to sell or use it themselves.
• Pretexting - Thieves pretend to be you or a legitimate requestor and persuade business employees to provide them with your personal information.
• Corporate espionage - Thieves steal business secrets or data which encompasses employee and client information.

Because this is such a huge topic, and one which Congress and many states are dragging their feet on, I decided precipitated by todayÂ’s events, that I would make others aware of this potential danger by doing a sort of installment on this topic broken down in segments. My next post will deal exclusively with cyber identity theft, specifically Phishing and Pharming. I will also show, with the permission of a few of my kind family members as guinea pigs, how easy it is for a thief or a stalker to obtain a information on them without their knowledge or consent. I will also show everyone how to protect themselves from this type of crime and those who commit them. Sorry, no fun post, it was a weary day!

Posted by: Michele at 09:26 PM | Comments (4) | Add Comment
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When given the choice between hearing the good or bad news first, I usually ask to hear the bad news first. That way when the good news is given, it will hopefully soften the blow of the bad news or eliminate the sting altogether.

So the bad news first. This was news I actually received over 6 months ago, when I showed up at my university, after trying unsuccessfully to get my diploma through the mail. On that day I was told that the reason requests went unanswered was due to a stop on my record. The stop was placed there because there were 3 classes I needed to complete from my last semester at school.

So my reaction: Impossible, I completed all my coursework. It turns out, after waiting for 3 hrs to meet with the Chair of the English Dept., that my professor died before he was able to turn in the semester grades for classes. I was extremely upset on 2 counts! First, that my life was unfairly being turned upside down, as a result of external circumstances, for something that was totally out of my control. Second, that the man who inspired me to pursue a Master's degree in English, and later reccommended me for the English Doctoral Program at CUNY's Graduate Center, had died so abruptly, sadly and alone. Since then, I've been filing academic and other appeals so that I could do the coursework without having to attend classes. Why, my job right now is to fulfill my responsibilities as a single-mom.

Late Friday I learned that my last appeal had been denied. Which in essence means that since I was in an accelerated combined BA/MA Honors program, and since the courses I had been taking were to complete both my undergrad & grad requirements, I would remain without degrees until I re-enrolled, paid back the scholarship money I was given to take those classes in the first place, then pay over $5,000 in tuition fees to take the new classes, successfully complete the damned courses, and then refile for accreditation to see if I am then eligible to graduate with the combined BA/MA degree. That just sucks bigtime!

One of the suggestions I was given by one of the administrators was for me to put my child in daycare (till 9:00pm) 3 nights a week, so that I could quickly finish my degrees in one semester. There were many expletives that were unsaid and will remain unwritten, though the thought of sharing it (full force) with them was very tempting. To say that I'm angry is to do my rage an injustice. I have been considering my next steps, but I felt that I needed to sit, vent, think, evaluate and then decide on the best course of action, after consulting a lawyer.

As for the good news... the first is that my son did extremely well in his scholastic test, which means that we have 4 schools from which to choose. The second is that I received an offer for the job I really wanted. Yay on those two counts, and on the third... I can finally stop interviewing! So it took me a total of 9 weeks from when I started making phone calls, to when I'm supposed to be starting the new job. I'm both happy and relieved, though it still doesn't take away from the anger and frustration I've been feeling since Friday over my educational situation. Grrrrr! I do a slow, intense burn everytime I think of it. I think I need to pray for peace of mind and a viable solution.

Posted by: Michele at 12:01 AM | Comments (10) | Add Comment
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1 Hip Hip Horray!!! You got the job you wanted! I am so happy to hear that. I am also very happy to hear your son has so many options. That is not good news about your degree. It just doesn't make sense that they are not working with you considering the circumstances.

Posted by: vw bug at June 02, 2005 06:48 AM (V4mW3)

2 Yea for you! Yea for your cutie son! Boo, hiss at the University. Sounds like they know you are right but they sense they can make some money off of this. It might be wise to contact other students of the professor to see what they have done. Also contact a lawyer.

Posted by: Machelle at June 02, 2005 08:43 AM (ZAyoW)

3 Yay!! - Focus on the good.

Posted by: _Jon at June 02, 2005 08:56 AM (ewFgD)

4 Wow, the university thing sucks. I have never heard of anything like that happening anywhere else. I'm sorry you have to go through that. Congrats on your kid. Sounds like you have one sharp minded lad. Watch out for them, they are the ones that can cause the most trouble.

Posted by: Contagion at June 02, 2005 09:02 AM (Q5WxB)

5 I'm with Machelle on this one - contact a lawyer! If you've completed the coursework you should get the credit - that's on their shoulders it doesn't matter if the professor died. You shouldn't have to repay money AND retake the classes!!! ARG - this kind of stuff just pisses me off big time! Anyhow... major congrats on getting the job! And big hugs for your little guy for doing so well on the tests so he has a choice of schools.

Posted by: Teresa at June 02, 2005 09:16 PM (nAfYo)

6 whoo hoo! I'm excited about the job and your boy! You have made so many right choices to get you where you are. As for the university thing, I am speechless. And angry. Puzzled. Horrified. Blech.

Posted by: Boudicca at June 02, 2005 09:45 PM (z7nbM)

7 Congrats on the job and your son! That other business, though.... something isn't right there. Lawyer time, definitely.

Posted by: That 1 Guy at June 03, 2005 12:07 AM (lopGJ)

8 Yay for the good news!!! I'm really happy to hear about the job and the school! I have been checking in periodically, hoping for some good news there. As for the school, I don't know what your options are. And I am in attorney, admitted to practice in NY. I sort of think that any lawyer you contact will require some bucks upfront just to cover the time and research needed to see if you have a claim. Something to keep in mind.

Posted by: RP at June 03, 2005 11:46 AM (LlPKh)

9 I guess I should stop complaining about my issues with Rutgers. The RU screw, as it is called, doesn't seem so bad now. At least I got my degree. Nine weeks? Wow! I have been dealing with one of my potential employers (a university, no less) since the end of March. Their slowness at getting around to things is frustrating. So don't give up! But congrats on the job and I hope things work out well.

Posted by: Charles at June 03, 2005 08:54 PM (ufu0n)

10 I would think there would have to be other students that were effected by the professor's demise. Maybe you could find out who they were and attack together...???

Posted by: TNT at June 05, 2005 09:56 PM (ubhj8)

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More details will be posted after my baptism through fire subsides. Suffice to say, I've been undergoing what seems to me a Promethean like existence, which has been testing my strength of character and my emotional and psychological fortitude. I'll post about it after this Dantian period is over!

Hope you all have a great Memorial Day!

Posted by: Michele at 09:22 AM | Comments (1) | Add Comment
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And I'd like to:

1. fire a gun or rifle
2. go hunting
3. try ocean surfing
4. ride in a tank
5. ride in an F15
6. go inside 10 Downing St. for tea w/a political staffer
7. get a small tattoo or piercing
8. go to Disney World or Disney Land
9. snowboard (I used to skateboard a lot)
10. Â…Â…?

I've been trying to think of the 10th for the last few days now and have come up blank. IÂ’d welcome any suggestions for things I might consider in order to finish my list. Feel free to share your list via a trackback or in the comments section. [via Poliblog]

Posted by: Michele at 01:20 AM | Comments (8) | Add Comment
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1 My #10 would be - go to a week spa. Ahhhhhhh.

Posted by: vw bug at May 26, 2005 07:08 AM (V4mW3)

2 Me... Just once - own a car without rust.

Posted by: Harvey at May 26, 2005 11:27 AM (tJfh1)

3 I think you should keep a strangers children for a wekk LOL

Posted by: Katy at May 26, 2005 12:11 PM (4aVl/)

4 my number 10 would be go to spain and run with the bulls I swear I am going to do that before I die. as for your list number one and 2 are great choice any idea what you would like to hunt? Regards GBfan

Posted by: gbfan001 at May 26, 2005 10:18 PM (+ghkI)

5 GBfan - I'm thinking maybe Michael Isikoff :-)

Posted by: Harvey at May 27, 2005 10:35 AM (tJfh1)

6 What or where would you get the piercing, hmm? Inquiring minds and all that.

Posted by: RP at May 27, 2005 02:04 PM (LlPKh)

7 GBfan: I'd hunt Pistons/Red Wing Fans Penseur: I've allways wanted 3 or 4 additional piercings in my left earlobe. As for the tatoo, it would probably be a heart with a scroll (wording on scroll as of yet undecided) with an arrow going through it, placed just above the coccyx. I just haven't been brave enough to do it. Brave as in removing clothing or exposing enough skin for the tatoo artist to work on me. As for taking care of a stranger's children, been there done that!

Posted by: michele at May 27, 2005 11:58 PM (ht2RK)

8 Good thing you haven't fired a gun or rifle...

Posted by: _Jon at May 28, 2005 07:37 AM (E69MM)

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Looking for a job is very much a job in itself. Looking for a job and being a single mom is like having 2 full time jobs. I am IN NEED OF A VACATION!

I'm currently staying at my mom's in Manhattan due to chemical fumes seeping into my own apt from construction in the apt. below. So life will continue to be stressful and posting will be light, as anyone who works or has been in Manhattan can attest, that life here is noisy, over stimulating and energy depleting.

In the mean time, I encourage everyone, AND I MEAN YOU! to go over to Bill Whittle's site of Eject! Eject! Eject for his long awaited essay installments since his hiatus: Sanctuary I and Sanctuary II. Grab you're favorite drink and prepare yourself to have your heart and mind stimulated for an hour or so.

Posted by: Michele at 06:47 PM | Comments (4) | Add Comment
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IÂ’m at peace today. Actually IÂ’ve been that way since last night, which was a good feeling to go to sleep to. IÂ’ve got a To Do list thatÂ’s almost a full typed page, that will take me the remainder of this week to finish. Of all the tasks on that list the one that least appeals to me is the Spring Cleaning of the remaining 3 rooms in the house. Ugh! But motivate myself and trudge on I must, lest I choose to live amongst dust bunnies and cob webs. So, until something terribly interesting happens in my life blogging will be non-personal. IÂ’m sure you all could use a break from my intense writing anyway!

Posted by: Michele at 08:31 AM | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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In my 20's, I always wondered if I was mother material. Kids were adorable and I enjoyed being around them, but I had goals, plans and a timetable to keep to, and raising good children came at the end of those plans.

It came at the end, because I knew that I would never willingly divide my time between career and motherhood. If I had to choose between the two, motherhood always won out.

In fact I had always planned on being home during the first 5 or 6 years of their life, and maybe, if I was really lucky, home school them through 3rd grade. Unfortunately, life has a way of making adjustments to life plans, without regard for timetables or goals. The blessing is that I did have the child, but with him came a whole new way of looking at this great big world we lived in.

Being a mom has been the hardest job I have ever had, but it's also the toughest job I've ever loved. In the role of mom I wear the subsidiary hats of domestic engineer, nurse, advisor, teacher, nutritionist, behavioral specialist, and travel companion, sometimes all in one day.

There are good and easy days, just as there are tough and bad days. The good days are marked with smiles, laughter, hugs and kisses, while the bad days are ones with frowns, tears, and sad faces.

What makes it all worthwile? The compensation! My compensation today is the smiles, laughter, hugs and kisses I receive when his life is good and happy. For they are what motivate me, when the tears and frowns appear; and they are my reward and incentive, when I'm not sure if I'm doing the right thing.

The demands are great. The responsibilities many, and in the process of it all, I discovered that I'm more than equal for this job, and that I would not change a thing, even for all the gold and tea in China.

It turns out I am not unique. That's the thing about motherhood, it puts our roles and lives in perspective. One remarkable woman who is already exhibiting the wonderous and life altering change of creating life is Right Thinking Girl. I wish her and Z all the best and will continue to pray for all 3.

Posted by: Michele at 12:05 AM | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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Have spent the day doing what I love mostÂ…writing.

Writing thank you letters to interviewers, those that passed along my resume and those who simply talked with me when I called. I have written motherÂ’s day cards to all the mothers I know; a get well card for my former boss and former office mate.

I have also responded to emails, written briefly in all my 5 journals, and have made some concrete plans on what on earth IÂ’m going to with myself and with my son this summer; especially when heÂ’s out of school at the end of June and end of August. I almost ran out of things to work on with him during spring break and I donÂ’t want a repeat of that.

My son and I love trains so weÂ’ll probably do a couple of those trips, in addition to the beach. We get newsletters from train museums far and wide so that we can plan train trips to special train exhibits. Last year we went as far as New Hampshire for a special historic train ride. It was fun, but the dual role of pack mule and mommy, really tired me out.

Cuddlebunny has already put in for 2 additional trips for his birthday present: a monster truck exhibition in Long Island and a NASCAR race in Pennsylvania. When he said this my mouth dropped open and I said to him, “who are you? and where have you put my son.” As I looked in his eyes (forehead to forehead) and searched in his ears and behind his back, he just giggled. When I asked him if he was serious about this he went on to give me 20 minutes worth of reasons why we should go. It ended with his famous: “Okay mommy?” Sigh! “I’ll look into it,” was all I could say. He’s such a good kid it’s hard to say no without a really good valid reason.

Monster trucks? NASCAR races? Where does he get this stuff? Sigh. ItÂ’s at times like these that my eyes go up to the ceiling and I internally wonder why I didnÂ’t have a girl. I like race cars but to watch 30 cars go 200 laps in an elliptical circle is just a bit too much for me to watch. I like his toy trucks, but the thought of sitting there and watching a truck with huge tires crush junk carsÂ…well, its just not exciting to me. But I love him, soÂ…. IÂ’ll look into it and IÂ’ll pray that none of the dates are good for us.

So yesterday afternoon, in the hopes of getting him interested in some my favorite sports, we went to Chelsea Piers Sporting Center to watch a local hockey league game. When we got there we discovered we had lucked out. There were was a visiting Russian Team that was practicing. Boy was it exciting! I hadnÂ’t realized how much I was missing hockey until about 20 min into the practice session. Curses on the NHL for the lockout!

Happily my son got into it, but the game was so fast paced he had problems seeing what was happening. I realized in the process that I was anticipating the plays because IÂ’m familiar with the game. IÂ’m keeping my fingers crossed that IÂ’ll be able to steer him away from Monster trucks and towards hockey. Otherwise I fear that wrestling will be my next fate. ThatÂ’s where I draw the lineÂ…. thatÂ’s a pseudo sport I really hate!

BTW, writing of kids, if you like kids and haven't checked out the Karnival of Kidz you should. Kids make the best photo subjects and some of these pics are pretty funny.

Posted by: Michele at 02:52 PM | Comments (8) | Add Comment
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1 Trains? I'm in so much trouble as they just put in a Train Museum about 2 1/2 hours away from us. That is where we went and saw Thomas the Tank Engine. If you head down to Florida, let me know!

Posted by: vw bug at May 02, 2005 04:47 PM (lv6eM)

2 If you ever get close to Green Bay Wis they have a wonderful train museum. and come on Nascar isnt so bad though I am right with you on the whole monster truck thing and I am an educated redneck and I cant stand monster trucks lol. Regards GBfan

Posted by: gbfan001 at May 02, 2005 11:34 PM (UL3Xk)

3 GB, I do love race cars, in college I spent many a weekend with my best friend and her boyfriend working on his race car and learning about cars. But instead of paying and sitting in bleacher seats I'd rather watch them on TV where you get the racecar cam and can pretend you inside the car as opposed to outside. It's the only way I'll reach close to 200mph.

Posted by: michele at May 03, 2005 07:14 AM (ht2RK)

4 Still keeping my fingers crossed for you on the interview front, which makes it hard to type my comment!

Posted by: RP at May 03, 2005 07:57 AM (LlPKh)

5 Not that I'm a wrestling fan, but in their defense, at least they keep themselves physically fit. There are WORSE role models :-)

Posted by: Harvey at May 03, 2005 10:30 AM (tJfh1)

6 I'm not much for the wrestling. But it can be entertaining if you watch it with someone who can fill you in on the "inside scoop". It's a soap opera with big (not-so) dumb hunks. Why *wouldn't* chicks dig it? I used to watch nascar before it was popular. I still have a race / show car in the garage and plan to drive it this year. At least once. To another garage. But I may have to have it towed. I haven't started it in two years. Can't afford the fuel. The race itself is rather boring. Usually very hot. Very loud. Oh, and there are a lot of *PEOPLE*. (certain expletive deleted) Monster truck - LOUD. Put that in 96 point font. Yep, I've been around them too. Stood in their tires. The wheels are over 6' inside diameter. Did I mention they are loud? Most around here are indoors. Even louder. No, really - they are LOOOOUUUUDDDD!!!! Take a train ride to Chicago. I'll get on in Dearborn, we can pick up Machelle a little west of here and meet some more BEF Family in Chicago.

Posted by: _Jon at May 03, 2005 12:13 PM (uHRYR)

7 My son read this over my shoulder and asked if we could go with Jon's plan to Chicago. When I told it would be a 19 hour train trip, he responded, "if the train goes at 350mph and only stops for Jon we can get there sooner." Sigh! It's always so simple and uncomplicated in there world. I don't know. 19 hours is a long time to be in a capsule with a 5 yr old. I'd have to really think about this. I really would love meeting everyone though.

Posted by: michele at May 04, 2005 07:01 PM (ht2RK)

8 Your a Hockey Fan?!! I didn't know! I knew there was a reason I like you.

Posted by: Machelle at May 05, 2005 04:47 PM (ZAyoW)

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I've been busy continuing my job search, beginning my spring cleaning, starting the slow changing over of winter to spring clothes, and the packing away of all the winter stuff (coats, sweaters, hats, gloves, linens, etc.) and accumulating stuff in the donation pile. I've been working so hard my workouts at the gym seem tame by comparison.

more...

Posted by: Michele at 09:08 AM | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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1 *ring* *ring*

Posted by: _Jon at May 01, 2005 10:38 AM (E69MM)

2 http://www.lsc.org/visiting/exhibits/traveling/robotsandus/robotsus.html That looks COOL :-)

Posted by: Harvey at May 01, 2005 12:29 PM (ubhj8)

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And not just any kind of love, but a deep incredible, first time kind of love. Sigh!
IÂ’m trying really hard not to obsess and to take things slow, but without a doubt itÂ’s true love at first sight. The kind of love that youÂ’ll remember where you were and what you were doing when you first met. A forever love! I could hardly walk, let alone tear myself away afterwards. And no, it's not my endorphins talking here! I believe this is truly the real thing!! Let me fill you in.

There I was, minding my own business, fixing my shoe laces when my trainer decides to introduce us so that we could work out together. It seems he felt bad about my injury when I was last at the gym, and decided to turn me over to someone else for awhile. At first I thought, why is he doing this to me, I just want to get on the treadmill and get on with my workout. But when I looked up and straight aheadÂ…POW, WOW, just like on a Batman episode. My mouth dropped open! What beauty, what figure, what strength? [Okay, breathe MicheleÂ….Focus] Sigh! [Big Silly Grin]

My trainer tried talking to me but I was mesmerized. Somewhere through the foggy haze in my brain I heard my trainer’s voice saying “has great experience, an excellent memory, will always be available to me”…my mind goes wandering off again into an incredible visual of how things can be between us. [I nod to pretend I’m listening] I still have the biggest, stupidest grin on my face you’ve ever seen. My trainer asks another question and I just respond with “ahuh!”. He just laughs, shakes his head and starts walking away.

Then as I slowly come back to earth he says, “I’ll leave you to your workout and I'll check back with you in an hour.” I barely got a “Bye” out of my mouth and just stumbled forward in a half daze and we decided to work on all my problem areas - instensely. Oooooooh!

My breath was taken away, I was made to feel feverish all over, and shortly after we started, I found myself to be all hot and sweaty. It was an incredible workout and time just seemed to fly by. I didn’t want to stop, I didn’t want to go, but my trainer forced me. He leaned into my ear and said I couldn’t hog him. “NOT FAIR” I thought, don’t the others know I’m in love. Can’t they see it in my eyes, my face, my soul?

Now I sit here counting the minutes, dreaming in fantasy landÂ…I canÂ’t wait until we see each other again tomorrow. In fact, IÂ’ve begun to obsess. ThatÂ’s it, IÂ’m done for! [Big Sigh] IÂ’ve never felt like this before. Yes there were times that I thought this was it, but no, this IS really IT!

WhatÂ’s my latest loveÂ’s name? Precor!

Posted by: Michele at 01:39 PM | Comments (7) | Add Comment
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1 You deserve to be shot! Wish I had one of those to work with!

Posted by: vw bug at April 27, 2005 02:26 PM (IHRU4)

2 The one I have in the basement isn't quite as fancy, but it gets me worked up and sweaty.

Posted by: _Jon at April 27, 2005 07:39 PM (E69MM)

3 LOL! They are good, aren't they? I want one of my own, we's does my precious.... *G*

Posted by: Laughing Wolf at April 28, 2005 08:47 AM (zI0Ey)

4 For a second there, I thought I'd been replaced as the love of your life :-)

Posted by: Harvey at April 28, 2005 10:21 AM (tJfh1)

5 I LOVE the precor. LOVE IT. It's the main focus of my work out.

Posted by: Boudicca at April 28, 2005 10:55 PM (z7nbM)

6 GRIN Nicely done!

Posted by: That 1 Guy at April 29, 2005 12:42 AM (HoSBk)

7 love huh? Ah yes the love and the endorphins, and the sweetness that follow....enjoy!

Posted by: ArmyWifeToddlerMom at April 29, 2005 09:36 AM (jHFmI)

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My aunt was always an unusual woman. She always skirted the edge of what women in her family were supposed to do, without outright defying convention. She came from a world where there was one cardinal, 2 monsignors and 2 bishops. People used to tell her, it was as close to heaven as she would ever get, because of her dangerous dance on that edge. She belonged to a world where women listened, and obeyed the spirit and letter of everything their wise husbands told them to do. Widows and divorcees were to wear black, the color of mourning, forever.

I was never a part of that world. In fact, I was so far from it, having left home at 17, to seek knowledge and adventure, that to this day IÂ’m still a woman under scrutiny and judgment. For some people, all IÂ’m missing is my scarlet letter. more...

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Today was a day I don't care to repeat any time soon. Thank you very much!

It started off like any other Monday. Everything went almost according to schedule until I got home and opened the mailbox to find a letter from:

- the Internal Revenue Service
- my employer
- two of my attorney's - one of them working on my divorce - Sigh!
- mortgage company
- Empire Blue Cross

It turns out they all had issues with paperwork I had fax/mailed to them over a month ago documents which I was required to file. My reaction: NOW you write to me? As I made the obligatory phone calls to straighten everything out I was told in every instance to make piddly minor modifications and refile all the paperwork I submitted in the first place. Now mind you, I had just returned from waiting over an hour on line at the post office. OK deep breath.... I say to myself, I'll get everything done tomorrow. Let's stay positive.
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I've been very busy this week dealing with lots of appointments and other things. I currently have 3 to do lists: one for me, one for my 5 year old son and one for our home. My Personal To Do List, like the other 2, is broken down into 4 categories: Urgent, Critical, Soon and Whenever.

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