Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-25T09:43:02-04:00
Ah, thank you, construction across the street, I wasn't aware it was almost an hour before my alarm goes off. Please, continue to make so much noise that it wakes me up and prevents me from going back to sleep even through a shut window, I only had 3-4 hours of sleep last night. I would hate to have to get any more than that the day of a sort of test where I actively have to focus and think on the go and also have a very important meeting and will be busy until ~7pm today.
Technology is a wonderful thing...when it actually works. Log off and shut down my computer before going home last night, and everything was working fine all day. Get in today, can't log onto the remote desktop which we run the Canadian payroll(which I'm retraining on) through...this is going to be a long day.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-25T11:09:35-04:00
@Zem, think of it as life wanting to make sure it really is a test for you in multiple ways. Sharing is caring right? ;) You can do this man, if you feel yourself getting frustrated, just count down from ten and move on, you got this!
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-25T11:14:04-04:00
@GM, I blame microsoft. Have I ever mentioned that I absolutely hate microsoft? Yeah, probably way too many times... ;) I have issues with pc's that I never have with my mac, ever. No tech is perfect (humans did create it after all) but I have a much better time using apple products than what pc's have to offer. You can't beat the reliability of a mac. You can beat the price, but thats about it.
@BaKhan: I've only ever had the opposite with mac. But this is the entire network(I barely have connection to even type this out...it is so sketchy right now).
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-25T11:36:54-04:00
It never fails. The day or so before I go on vacation, s&%t happens to piss me off. It almost makes me want to never take a vacation.
@BaKhan: I'll pay you for a bottle of vodka and Bailey's when I get there tomorrow. I'm going to need it.
@Geist: Mine is the opposite, it's when I get back I have to fix TONS of stuff.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-25T12:25:06-04:00
I found out a few hours ago that one of the newer staff in our small department took today off even though there are still a ton of work to be done. How he has so much time, is beyond me. In order for me to go to the first KC, I had to work a holiday and a LOT of extra hours to cover the time I'd be out because I had just been hired a month and a half before. Plus, they notice that he comes in late and leaves early some days.
I refuse to work longer today. I'd be at risk of missing my flight due to the fact that I'd have to try to catch an Uber at 1am. I might be able to schedule a Lyft for 2am but I don't feel like I should stress this badly because the new guy dropped the ball.
@Geist: Bosses always notice those things(coming in late and leaving early). Sadly, the people that come in early, stay late, and bust their ass, typically aren't rewarded for it. And nothing usually happens to the people who come in late and leave early.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-25T12:49:18-04:00
the people that come in early, stay late, and bust their ass, typically aren't rewarded for it
Funny you should mention that. I found out today that I didn't get a raise this year but other people did.
@Geist: I know that feeling all too well. People who have been here less than a year have gotten a raise. People who stuck with the company through the downturn, and a lot of whom(not me as I wasn't over the threshold of $50k/year) got rollbacks, get absolutely nothing. Also found out are field safety advisor and the HSE girl in the office are doing the exact same job, just the FSA guy travels, but there is an almost $30k difference in their salaries.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-25T13:21:35-04:00
30 grand?! Jeez, that is a huge gap. If I were her, I'd ask them to at least add $15,000 per year to make it a bit more equal. I'm pretty sure travel for him doesn't cost that much extra.
@Geist: See you when I come to visit(not sure what day it will be as I'm working tomorrow and Friday, but Sat during the day, and all Sunday I know is completely open for me).
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-25T15:27:07-04:00
Dang, Geist, I'm so jealous! Don't forget to take tons of pictures for the rest of us this year!
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-26T02:21:28-04:00
@Geist, I’ll be waiting! See you tomorrow or today if you wanna get technical... ;)
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-26T02:25:36-04:00
In other news, there are four trays of MBB cooling on my counters right now... and I’m finally getting to bed! ;) I’ll check in when I can kittens! Wish me luck!
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-26T02:34:12-04:00
So, uhh... don't wonder if one or more of those trays goes missing, just know it's to a good cause.
... now the only problem is trying to get all the way up there to steal them before you wake up. Also getting back before my exam tomor-.... technically today, at 12:30. Hmmm, this is tricky. But well worth it!
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-26T04:30:10-04:00
Morning kittens! Waiting for the Air Canada booths to open. Only an hour and a half until takeoff.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-26T14:40:26-04:00
So you should probably be in Canada right about now, Geist, or soon. You're so lucky! Have way too much fun while you're there!
I mean, I don't really have to worry about that, I know you will, but have enough fun for the rest of us!
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-27T09:47:37-04:00
Happy Friday, for those to whom it's still relevant!
And for those to whom it's not, like those on vacation in, say, the land of the Maple Bacon Brittle... well I think you already have the "have fun!" under control.
@Zem: I live in the land of the Maple Bacon Brittle...but I still need to work(come on 15mil lottery win!)
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-27T15:36:49-04:00
Hey, don't forget if one of us wins the lottery, we all win! ;)
`
On another note, WOO! We finally got below freezing! I know I'm weird in that I love that, but hey, someone's got to love the cold. Don't want to give it the cold-shoulder, we're not all cold-hearted people. I'm going to stop before this becomes a problem.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-30T09:38:29-04:00
Morning, all! I don't know how much I'll be in today. There's a mountain of work for me to do in order to catch up, since I was out all last week.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-30T14:32:44-04:00
Well, LZ, the upside is that you were out all last week, which makes up for having more work. I mean, now you're just stuck with the work, but you got a break. ?
Lord Zombitten 2017-10-30T14:35:49-04:00
Indeed, and it was an amazing break!
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-31T08:39:34-04:00
Morning kittens!
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-31T09:31:55-04:00
Morning kittens!
@BaKhan: Thank you for the lovely time I had at your Halloween party. Thank you for the goodie bag. You guys didn't have to do that. I am just happy to meet your friends. Even Joel. ;-)
Thank you for introducing me to AWOL Nation. I'm currently listening to them while I clean my apartment. I'm going to have to check them out if they swing by DC.
@GM: You have the EK title now. I'm going to have to take it back next year. Be prepared.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-31T09:56:12-04:00
@Geist, I'm so glad that you came up! I'm also glad that you had a good time, even with Joelie... ;) I'm always happy to share music with others, especially in the hopes that they will reciprocate! ;) In regards to the EK title, I hate to burst your bubble, but next year its mine I tell you! All mine!!! Muahahahahahaha! ;)
...Is it bed time yet? Did not sleep well these last two nights, even sleeping through my alarm in the morning.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-31T11:27:45-04:00
@GM, I think thats just guilt for knocking me out first in our EK game! ;) Hope you find some peace and get some sleep though, I know what thats like all too well.
Lord Zombitten 2017-10-31T12:37:47-04:00
Morning, all!
My costume caused me to be nearly an hour late to work. Fortunately, I can pretty much come and go as I please. I just don't like taking advantage of that. It was worth it, though. Everyone loves the 'stume.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-31T13:26:57-04:00
@LZ, thats awesome man! Totally jelly of all that chainmail!
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-31T14:05:41-04:00
@GM: that was the hex I put on you for taking my EK title. I still have the voodoo doll of you that I'm working on.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-31T14:42:56-04:00
YAY snow!!! Well, slightly. More of a heavy flurry, but it counts! Don't take this away from me!
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-31T14:50:23-04:00
Okay, no, now it's legitimately lightly snowing! Let's hope though that all this winter it actually accumulates, as opposed to what it's done for like 3 or 4 years now: snowing, melting immediately, then refreezing overnight and staying as just sheets of ice everywhere for a week or more every time. Or freezing-raining and then just immediately freezing on the ground. Fun times...
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-10-31T15:23:34-04:00
@Zem, you poor crazy snow deprived so and so! ;) I'm glad that someone appreciates it anyways... ;) It even came down a little in Calgary on Sunday before Geist had to return home. Those that ask, shall receive I guess.... Even those that don't ask... XD
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-10-31T15:57:49-04:00
Hey, I feel bad for winter, it's so underappreciated! ;)
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-31T17:20:21-04:00
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-10-31T17:20:43-04:00
*n
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-01T06:24:32-04:00
Morning kittens! Hope your Halloween was fun! In all honesty, I spent it relaxing in bed. And binge watching Stranger Things 2. I screamed at the Aliens Easter egg they planted in one of the episodes.
@BaKhan: Did you know your airport has a game room with 3 pinball machines in them? I couldn't help myself from playing 4 games before checking in. Did lots of kids come by the house yesterday? I hope they enjoyed the goodie bags. Next year, I swear I'll be there to help hand them out. (Hopefully LZ will be there as well)
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-01T09:12:01-04:00
@Geist, yes! I've seen them there, but never had time to play them before, I'm always coming or going when I'm there... ;)
Halloween went well! I was worried as the weather wasn't the best, close to freezing rain, and it wasn't letting up at all! It started off pretty quietly, I don't think we got our first trick or treater till almost 5:30, but then it picked up and stayed pretty steady till around 9:30. We had just over 200 kids! Which is down from peak years, but given that it was on a tuesday, and it was cold and rainy, I think that was pretty good. Most importantly, Misty enjoyed herself. She was handing out candy dressed as Tinkerbell! ;) Any excuse to wear a costume... ;)
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-01T09:49:58-04:00
@BaKhan: 200 kids?! Did the goodie bags hold out? I think I only stuffed 150.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-01T09:57:03-04:00
@Geist, lol, we ran out of goodie bags around 7 - 7:30 or so, then it was just on to random handfuls of stuff... ;) Your help with the stuffing of said bags is hugely appreciated! You really helped to make a lot of kids super happy! We couldn't have pulled it off with out you! ;)
Don't think we got that many trick or treaters last night. Mind you, I wasn't the one handing out the goodies...so can't really give a definitive answer regarding that.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-01T10:02:22-04:00
@GM, morning sir! I think trick or treating is dying off sadly. Too many people worried about bad people, and even though there is nothing to back up or support that fear, it is the age we live in. People afraid of what might be, rather than celebrating what is. Did you know, that there have been zero (as in none, ever) actual reports of tampered with candy being handed out during halloween in north america? All those stories of poison and razor blades are just that, stories. Yet, people still choose to live in fear because of them. Scariest thing to me? People shutting down childhood institutions like halloween because of ignorance and fear.
@GM, hmmm sounds like some tweaker dropped his stash while handing out candy... still doesn't mean that any of that candy was contaminated or tampered with.
Lord Zombitten 2017-11-01T11:35:02-04:00
That story pissed me off. One kid gets one little baggie of meth, so everyone freaks out and throws away perfectly good candy! Stupidest. Thing. Ever!
Lord Zombitten 2017-11-01T11:37:51-04:00
And as I recall, there was one case of poisoned Halloween candy....
...in 1974....
...by the victim's own father. There were no other victims, and it happened after trick or treating was done.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-11-01T11:40:31-04:00
You know, that place is only probably like a 10 hour drive from me... Kinda tempting with an entire community's worth of free candy!
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-01T11:48:28-04:00
@LZ, yeah, I do remember that one, but didn't remember when. I didn't mention it as it was the children's own father, and he didn't poison any other kids, not that it makes it any better. Some people should just be removed from the gene pool...
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-01T11:51:29-04:00
I think that the main reason why that meth story pisses me off so much, is that people will use it as justification to keep their kids from going trick or treating. Its just another chink in the armour so to speak. To me it seems inevitable, but I hope that its not, and can somehow be brought back around. I think that the act of going door to door in your neighbourhood is a good thing, builds a stronger sense of community, and shows people that we are all the same.
One of the girls in the office said that there is no way that meth story is true...since that stuff is damned expensive.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-11-01T15:06:44-04:00
Yeah, seriously, GM. My first thought was legitimately, "Why the hell would you do that? Not only does it spread false thoughts about a community holiday, as BaKhan has said, but seriously, JUST RESELL IT! I mean, sure, it's highly illegal and risky, but that'd set you up on candy for several years!" ;)
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-02T08:32:53-04:00
Morning kittens!
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-02T08:37:50-04:00
So todays weather in Calgary would make Zem happy at least... ;) God I just hate how every single year people forget how to drive in the snow. Like every year. Its almost like the first time they've seen snow. Slipping and sliding everywhere, passing and swerving, creating their own lanes... Hello, this is Canada! We get snow, every single year, for like six months... sheesh! I think people should have to take their drivers licence test in the winter, that way, they'd have no excuses. Would it help though? i somehow doubt theres anyway around human nature... ;)
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-11-02T12:59:36-04:00
That's just how it is everywhere, unfortunately, BaKhan. People seem to un-learn how to drive in plowed-snow conditions, which to be fair, for the most part it ins't much worse than very heavy rain at all.
Then again, the people around me get a pass the last few years, what with over centimeter-thick sheet-ice in most places. That's not fun to drive on, I'll accept them driving super, super slow on that.
I got to see Thor Ragnarok last night. It's a fantastic movie! It was much needed, as just before I left work, I learned that I will probably have to fire someone for bullying.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-11-03T15:40:26-04:00
That sounds fun, LZ. Really? Why are people like that?
But yeah, I've heard the movie is great! My roommate went to see it and didn't even tell me yesterday until he got back and told me it was a great watch.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-03T21:03:40-04:00
Hello kittens!
I am so sorry for the radio silence. This short week has been absolute hell. Most of that is thanks to a co-worker that they hired 6 months ago but that I just found out has been doing an absolutely sh^tty job. Right before I went to KC 2, he called didn't tell anyone he was in the weeds with paper work so that on my last day, when asked how much he still had to do, he gave a large figure. Then he took the next day off. My goodness was I pissed. On the day I came back to work, I found out that the guy took a leave of absence so now we are short staffed to the point that we all have to work long hours again.
And to top it all off, the head of the global AP department arrived the week I came back. I didn't want to meet her because she would sense my unhappiness and frustration and that is exactly what happened. The good news is that when I poured my heart out, she seemed receptive to what I was saying and will help me with a project I wanted to do to make part of our operation go a bit smoother.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-03T21:10:52-04:00
Then to top it off, I had no hot water in my apartment for three days. I knew it was the boiler so I was surprised when I saw notices that the issue had been fixed but I still was getting cold water. I called the rental office and they said they would send someone over to check it out. Well I panicked because my apartment is rather cluttered. It's like the costume room in BaKhan's house only with books and paper. And THAT can get you an eviction in the state of Maryland. I told my boss that I had an emergency at home and then took an Uber there to try to tidy things up a bit I realized it was pretty hopeless when I got home. I knew I wouldn't be able to get things neat in time. Luckily, when the maintenance men knocked, I was able to keep them out of the apartment. Still, it depressed me for the rest of the day because I really don't have any excuse for letting my apartment get that junky. I've got to do better at keeping the place neat, if only for my peace of mind.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-03T21:11:41-04:00
@LZ: I'm going to see Thor Ragnarok, this Sunday. I could really use the escapism.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-11-04T03:03:37-04:00
Wow, Geist, so sorry about your hectic week! That sounds terrible, and I don't know why people like that are allowed to work. How could they take that much time off with no problem immediately after giving everyone all that backup of work that they themselves caused?
Well, here's hoping your water situation gets fixed so that's one less thing to worry about!
`
And here I had a final, another exam, and 2 projects that are basically exams and thought my week was a bit crazy! I had nothing in comparison!
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-06T09:15:14-05:00
Morning kittens!
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-06T09:19:03-05:00
@LZ, I want to see that one too, it looks great and we've liked the previous ones so I think its worth it. Sorry to hear about your bully situation. I think I would find it easier to deal with that reason for letting someone go rather than, other things though. Still, never easy let someone go. Good luck.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-06T09:22:59-05:00
@Geist, yikes! Sounds like you need to get a storage bin, and start sorting all your books out into three piles. You know which piles I mean... ;) Oh, and thats Misty's costume room, I don't even have a key! ;) I hope it works out for you! In regards to your heating system. If you look behind the covers of the baseboard, you will eventually find a thing called an air vent, depending on what kind it is it will have a relief on it. Sometimes they look like little wheels, if you open that wheel just a little bit, you will hear some air come out of it, as soon as you see water come, close the wheel again. That will fix your heat situation. Sorry I didn't check in sooner, hope its all ok!
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-11-06T14:32:58-05:00
So how's it going for everyone else? My week will turn out to either be extremely busy or extremely calm. Or most likely, extremely busy until wednesday and then really calm until next week. Which I'm kind of fine with, except for all the work I'll have for the first half of the week.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-07T06:54:51-05:00
Morning kittens. The temps last week and yesterday were some of the warmest. Mid 70s and some folks walking around in shorts. Not today. It's 41 outside now with the high only going to 57. Finally. Proper fall weather. I might need to get another space heater because if I run the one in my unit, my electric bills are going to shot through the roof.
@BaKhan: I don't have access to the building boiler. Heck, I don't even think it's located in the building since there are several that are linked. I wish I had radiator heat but those are usually found in much older buildings and even then, you can't control them. My first apartment had a radiator and the landlord was notorious for not turning it on unless we threaten to call the inspectors.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-07T08:00:00-05:00
Morning kittens.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-07T08:15:11-05:00
Morning BaKhan! Getting lots of snow yet?
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-07T09:40:53-05:00
@Geist, yeah, we've had lots of snow. Its already dropped in temperature quite a bit we're only expecting a high of 20F today. Its yucky. :(
I'm really frustrated with the contracted technical supervisor right now. He's supposed to be here all this week to validate the new LCMS system. I saw him once ladt week, during a job interview. I told him I had some questions for him after the interview, when he said he needed to talk to the guy who eas setting it up. He disappeared after that. I haven't seen him since. I've tried emailing him, calling him, and texting him. Nothing! In my opinion, he is not worth what we're paying him at this point! The worst part is that I don't even know who to complain to at this point...
Lord Zombitten 2017-11-07T13:04:16-05:00
The up side to all this ridiculousness is that it gives me more ammo in asking the company to pay a lot more than $2k/year to help me get my Master's degree.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-07T13:44:13-05:00
@LZ, I'm glad that you can see a bright side to all of that! I hope that they realize how much you care about that place! Best of luck!
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-08T06:27:48-05:00
Morning kittens!
I haven't been posting as much since I came back from vacation because I found out that the guy they hired 6 months ago decided to take a leave of absence right before I came back and was vague enough to not give a time frame. The funny part is, right before I left for Calgary, I got the tea on this guy. I knew about him pretending he is busy when he isn't and coming to work late and leaving early. What I didn't know was the attitude problems he had with other staff and the huge mistakes that he has constantly made week after week. Not to mention all the days off he takes. Plus he did this when the corporate head of AP was in town so now they are thinking of making us change our hours so that I'm forced to come in at 9 rather than 6 in the morning.
I find it very unfair that this guy didn't get even one probation slip, never issued a warning. When I made too many mistakes, I got a probation slip and 3 months to improve. Funny about that male/female double standard.
The good news is that the new girl hired after this jerk is really nice and we seem to get along great. Feels good to have one person that doesn't make me grind my teeth.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-08T06:30:21-05:00
Other good news: The Crafty Bastard festival is this weekend! I've been looking forward to this all year! Below is a list of vendors that will be there and I already know what I'll be purchasing.
@BaKhan: if there is something that you or Misty might like, let me know. I'll get it and bring it with me next year.
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-08T06:30:46-05:00
One more thing: Halloween stuff are now on sale 75% off. :-O
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-08T08:32:31-05:00
Morning kittens.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-08T08:33:44-05:00
@Geist, I find it hard to believe anyone would have a hard time getting along with you! You are too much fun to be around. I'll take a look at that festival, did you have a link?
Geist de la Muerte Gatito 2017-11-08T08:35:17-05:00
*smacks forehead*
Sorry BaKhan. I thought I had provided the link. My brain is still in bed, curled up asleep.
Micah "Zem the Mattress" Philson 2017-11-08T09:46:23-05:00
Good to know there's at least one person at work who doesn't seem to be actively making your life miserable now, Geist! So are you saying they ditched the other guy who wasn't doing anything? I sure hope so.
@BaKhan: Not really...since it's just moving my Dec 27th day off to this Friday. Still need to work Dec 26, 27, 28, 29. And process a 2.5 day payroll in 1.5 days.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-08T11:42:39-05:00
@GM, ahhh man! Sorry to hear that bro! Jealousy revoked!
I have also found out the true meaning behind "not in the budget". The real meaning is "we don't value you, but we value these other people more. One of whom has just as much responsibility as you, another who is a member of a three person team doing the invoice entry".
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-08T13:24:44-05:00
@GM, ouch, you'd think that they would think about stuff like that. Especially as you directly see what others make as part of your job... yikes!
@BaKhan: Well, it just gives me the ability to use "not in the budget" as why I'm leaving when I get a new job. Or when they next talk to me about stuff and try to explain why "nobody" is getting a raise.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-08T13:49:22-05:00
@GM, that kinda reminds me of growing up tbh. If my dad wanted something, "everyone wants", If my mom wanted something "nobody wants", and if they wanted me to do something, "somebody should". At least I was a somebody... ;)
Lord Zombitten 2017-11-08T13:55:36-05:00
So the bully worked for the victim Friday evening. During that time, she told the lab assistant that the victim had told me to fire the lab assistant and hire a phlebotomist in her place. She said she was only telling the lab assistant this because she loves her and hopes that the lab assistant would tell her if anyone was looking to get her fired. She then admitted to wanting to get rid of the victim. Of course, the victim never said any such thing to me. I heard about the conversation and thought, "That's an incredibly manipulative and divisive thing to say!" The bully doesn't understand that being mean to someone you don't like is a great way to get yourself fired, and will do nothing to get the other person fired.
Rod "BaKhan" Mitchell 2017-11-08T14:11:00-05:00
@LZ, that sounds like some pro level manipulation there for sure!
Ah, thank you, construction across the street, I wasn't aware it was almost an hour before my alarm goes off. Please, continue to make so much noise that it wakes me up and prevents me from going back to sleep even through a shut window, I only had 3-4 hours of sleep last night. I would hate to have to get any more than that the day of a sort of test where I actively have to focus and think on the go and also have a very important meeting and will be busy until ~7pm today.
Morning kittens.
Technology is a wonderful thing...when it actually works. Log off and shut down my computer before going home last night, and everything was working fine all day. Get in today, can't log onto the remote desktop which we run the Canadian payroll(which I'm retraining on) through...this is going to be a long day.
@Zem, think of it as life wanting to make sure it really is a test for you in multiple ways. Sharing is caring right? ;) You can do this man, if you feel yourself getting frustrated, just count down from ten and move on, you got this!
@GM, I blame microsoft. Have I ever mentioned that I absolutely hate microsoft? Yeah, probably way too many times... ;) I have issues with pc's that I never have with my mac, ever. No tech is perfect (humans did create it after all) but I have a much better time using apple products than what pc's have to offer. You can't beat the reliability of a mac. You can beat the price, but thats about it.
@BaKhan: I've only ever had the opposite with mac. But this is the entire network(I barely have connection to even type this out...it is so sketchy right now).
It never fails. The day or so before I go on vacation, s&%t happens to piss me off. It almost makes me want to never take a vacation.
@BaKhan: I'll pay you for a bottle of vodka and Bailey's when I get there tomorrow. I'm going to need it.
@Geist: Mine is the opposite, it's when I get back I have to fix TONS of stuff.
I found out a few hours ago that one of the newer staff in our small department took today off even though there are still a ton of work to be done. How he has so much time, is beyond me. In order for me to go to the first KC, I had to work a holiday and a LOT of extra hours to cover the time I'd be out because I had just been hired a month and a half before. Plus, they notice that he comes in late and leaves early some days.
I refuse to work longer today. I'd be at risk of missing my flight due to the fact that I'd have to try to catch an Uber at 1am. I might be able to schedule a Lyft for 2am but I don't feel like I should stress this badly because the new guy dropped the ball.
@Geist: Bosses always notice those things(coming in late and leaving early). Sadly, the people that come in early, stay late, and bust their ass, typically aren't rewarded for it. And nothing usually happens to the people who come in late and leave early.
the people that come in early, stay late, and bust their ass, typically aren't rewarded for it
Funny you should mention that. I found out today that I didn't get a raise this year but other people did.
@Geist: I know that feeling all too well. People who have been here less than a year have gotten a raise. People who stuck with the company through the downturn, and a lot of whom(not me as I wasn't over the threshold of $50k/year) got rollbacks, get absolutely nothing. Also found out are field safety advisor and the HSE girl in the office are doing the exact same job, just the FSA guy travels, but there is an almost $30k difference in their salaries.
30 grand?! Jeez, that is a huge gap. If I were her, I'd ask them to at least add $15,000 per year to make it a bit more equal. I'm pretty sure travel for him doesn't cost that much extra.
@Geist: Especially when he has a company truck and company credit card for his meals/gas.
Ok. I'm out of here. Screw this. I've got things to do.
@BaKhan: Like I said last year. See you on the flip side. :-)
@Geist: See you when I come to visit(not sure what day it will be as I'm working tomorrow and Friday, but Sat during the day, and all Sunday I know is completely open for me).
Dang, Geist, I'm so jealous! Don't forget to take tons of pictures for the rest of us this year!
@Geist, I’ll be waiting! See you tomorrow or today if you wanna get technical... ;)
In other news, there are four trays of MBB cooling on my counters right now... and I’m finally getting to bed! ;) I’ll check in when I can kittens! Wish me luck!
So, uhh... don't wonder if one or more of those trays goes missing, just know it's to a good cause.
... now the only problem is trying to get all the way up there to steal them before you wake up. Also getting back before my exam tomor-.... technically today, at 12:30. Hmmm, this is tricky. But well worth it!
Morning kittens! Waiting for the Air Canada booths to open. Only an hour and a half until takeoff.
Morning kittens.
So you should probably be in Canada right about now, Geist, or soon. You're so lucky! Have way too much fun while you're there!
I mean, I don't really have to worry about that, I know you will, but have enough fun for the rest of us!
Happy Friday, for those to whom it's still relevant!
And for those to whom it's not, like those on vacation in, say, the land of the Maple Bacon Brittle... well I think you already have the "have fun!" under control.
Morning kittens.
@Zem: I live in the land of the Maple Bacon Brittle...but I still need to work(come on 15mil lottery win!)
Hey, don't forget if one of us wins the lottery, we all win! ;)
`
On another note, WOO! We finally got below freezing! I know I'm weird in that I love that, but hey, someone's got to love the cold. Don't want to give it the cold-shoulder, we're not all cold-hearted people. I'm going to stop before this becomes a problem.
Greetings, felines.
Morning kittens.
Morning, all! I don't know how much I'll be in today. There's a mountain of work for me to do in order to catch up, since I was out all last week.
Well, LZ, the upside is that you were out all last week, which makes up for having more work. I mean, now you're just stuck with the work, but you got a break. ?
Indeed, and it was an amazing break!
Morning kittens!
Morning kittens!
@BaKhan: Thank you for the lovely time I had at your Halloween party. Thank you for the goodie bag. You guys didn't have to do that. I am just happy to meet your friends. Even Joel. ;-)
Thank you for introducing me to AWOL Nation. I'm currently listening to them while I clean my apartment. I'm going to have to check them out if they swing by DC.
@GM: You have the EK title now. I'm going to have to take it back next year. Be prepared.
@Geist, I'm so glad that you came up! I'm also glad that you had a good time, even with Joelie... ;) I'm always happy to share music with others, especially in the hopes that they will reciprocate! ;) In regards to the EK title, I hate to burst your bubble, but next year its mine I tell you! All mine!!! Muahahahahahaha! ;)
Also, Happy Halloween kittens!
Morning kittens.
Happy Halloween.
...Is it bed time yet? Did not sleep well these last two nights, even sleeping through my alarm in the morning.
@GM, I think thats just guilt for knocking me out first in our EK game! ;) Hope you find some peace and get some sleep though, I know what thats like all too well.
Morning, all!
My costume caused me to be nearly an hour late to work. Fortunately, I can pretty much come and go as I please. I just don't like taking advantage of that. It was worth it, though. Everyone loves the 'stume.
@LZ, thats awesome man! Totally jelly of all that chainmail!
@GM: that was the hex I put on you for taking my EK title. I still have the voodoo doll of you that I'm working on.
YAY snow!!! Well, slightly. More of a heavy flurry, but it counts! Don't take this away from me!
Okay, no, now it's legitimately lightly snowing! Let's hope though that all this winter it actually accumulates, as opposed to what it's done for like 3 or 4 years now: snowing, melting immediately, then refreezing overnight and staying as just sheets of ice everywhere for a week or more every time. Or freezing-raining and then just immediately freezing on the ground. Fun times...
@Zem, you poor crazy snow deprived so and so! ;) I'm glad that someone appreciates it anyways... ;) It even came down a little in Calgary on Sunday before Geist had to return home. Those that ask, shall receive I guess.... Even those that don't ask... XD
Hey, I feel bad for winter, it's so underappreciated! ;)
Because it is Hallowee
https://www.boredpanda.com/creative-halloween-costumes/…
*n
Morning kittens! Hope your Halloween was fun! In all honesty, I spent it relaxing in bed. And binge watching Stranger Things 2. I screamed at the Aliens Easter egg they planted in one of the episodes.
@BaKhan: Did you know your airport has a game room with 3 pinball machines in them? I couldn't help myself from playing 4 games before checking in. Did lots of kids come by the house yesterday? I hope they enjoyed the goodie bags. Next year, I swear I'll be there to help hand them out. (Hopefully LZ will be there as well)
@Geist, yes! I've seen them there, but never had time to play them before, I'm always coming or going when I'm there... ;)
Halloween went well! I was worried as the weather wasn't the best, close to freezing rain, and it wasn't letting up at all! It started off pretty quietly, I don't think we got our first trick or treater till almost 5:30, but then it picked up and stayed pretty steady till around 9:30. We had just over 200 kids! Which is down from peak years, but given that it was on a tuesday, and it was cold and rainy, I think that was pretty good. Most importantly, Misty enjoyed herself. She was handing out candy dressed as Tinkerbell! ;) Any excuse to wear a costume... ;)
@BaKhan: 200 kids?! Did the goodie bags hold out? I think I only stuffed 150.
@Geist, lol, we ran out of goodie bags around 7 - 7:30 or so, then it was just on to random handfuls of stuff... ;) Your help with the stuffing of said bags is hugely appreciated! You really helped to make a lot of kids super happy! We couldn't have pulled it off with out you! ;)
Morning kittens.
Don't think we got that many trick or treaters last night. Mind you, I wasn't the one handing out the goodies...so can't really give a definitive answer regarding that.
@GM, morning sir! I think trick or treating is dying off sadly. Too many people worried about bad people, and even though there is nothing to back up or support that fear, it is the age we live in. People afraid of what might be, rather than celebrating what is. Did you know, that there have been zero (as in none, ever) actual reports of tampered with candy being handed out during halloween in north america? All those stories of poison and razor blades are just that, stories. Yet, people still choose to live in fear because of them. Scariest thing to me? People shutting down childhood institutions like halloween because of ignorance and fear.
@BaKhan: Speaking of stories about tampered candy, saw this one this morning...which I find unlikely.
http://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/us/entire-community-dumps-halloween-candy-after-meth-found-in-kid%e2%80%99s-bag/ar-AAuhYKB…
@GM, hmmm sounds like some tweaker dropped his stash while handing out candy... still doesn't mean that any of that candy was contaminated or tampered with.
That story pissed me off. One kid gets one little baggie of meth, so everyone freaks out and throws away perfectly good candy! Stupidest. Thing. Ever!
And as I recall, there was one case of poisoned Halloween candy....
...in 1974....
...by the victim's own father. There were no other victims, and it happened after trick or treating was done.
You know, that place is only probably like a 10 hour drive from me... Kinda tempting with an entire community's worth of free candy!
@LZ, yeah, I do remember that one, but didn't remember when. I didn't mention it as it was the children's own father, and he didn't poison any other kids, not that it makes it any better. Some people should just be removed from the gene pool...
I think that the main reason why that meth story pisses me off so much, is that people will use it as justification to keep their kids from going trick or treating. Its just another chink in the armour so to speak. To me it seems inevitable, but I hope that its not, and can somehow be brought back around. I think that the act of going door to door in your neighbourhood is a good thing, builds a stronger sense of community, and shows people that we are all the same.
One of the girls in the office said that there is no way that meth story is true...since that stuff is damned expensive.
Yeah, seriously, GM. My first thought was legitimately, "Why the hell would you do that? Not only does it spread false thoughts about a community holiday, as BaKhan has said, but seriously, JUST RESELL IT! I mean, sure, it's highly illegal and risky, but that'd set you up on candy for several years!" ;)
Morning kittens!
So todays weather in Calgary would make Zem happy at least... ;) God I just hate how every single year people forget how to drive in the snow. Like every year. Its almost like the first time they've seen snow. Slipping and sliding everywhere, passing and swerving, creating their own lanes... Hello, this is Canada! We get snow, every single year, for like six months... sheesh! I think people should have to take their drivers licence test in the winter, that way, they'd have no excuses. Would it help though? i somehow doubt theres anyway around human nature... ;)
That's just how it is everywhere, unfortunately, BaKhan. People seem to un-learn how to drive in plowed-snow conditions, which to be fair, for the most part it ins't much worse than very heavy rain at all.
Then again, the people around me get a pass the last few years, what with over centimeter-thick sheet-ice in most places. That's not fun to drive on, I'll accept them driving super, super slow on that.
Morning kittens! Happy Friday!
Morning kittens.
Happy Friday, all!
I got to see Thor Ragnarok last night. It's a fantastic movie! It was much needed, as just before I left work, I learned that I will probably have to fire someone for bullying.
That sounds fun, LZ. Really? Why are people like that?
But yeah, I've heard the movie is great! My roommate went to see it and didn't even tell me yesterday until he got back and told me it was a great watch.
Hello kittens!
I am so sorry for the radio silence. This short week has been absolute hell. Most of that is thanks to a co-worker that they hired 6 months ago but that I just found out has been doing an absolutely sh^tty job. Right before I went to KC 2, he called didn't tell anyone he was in the weeds with paper work so that on my last day, when asked how much he still had to do, he gave a large figure. Then he took the next day off. My goodness was I pissed. On the day I came back to work, I found out that the guy took a leave of absence so now we are short staffed to the point that we all have to work long hours again.
And to top it all off, the head of the global AP department arrived the week I came back. I didn't want to meet her because she would sense my unhappiness and frustration and that is exactly what happened. The good news is that when I poured my heart out, she seemed receptive to what I was saying and will help me with a project I wanted to do to make part of our operation go a bit smoother.
Then to top it off, I had no hot water in my apartment for three days. I knew it was the boiler so I was surprised when I saw notices that the issue had been fixed but I still was getting cold water. I called the rental office and they said they would send someone over to check it out. Well I panicked because my apartment is rather cluttered. It's like the costume room in BaKhan's house only with books and paper. And THAT can get you an eviction in the state of Maryland. I told my boss that I had an emergency at home and then took an Uber there to try to tidy things up a bit I realized it was pretty hopeless when I got home. I knew I wouldn't be able to get things neat in time. Luckily, when the maintenance men knocked, I was able to keep them out of the apartment. Still, it depressed me for the rest of the day because I really don't have any excuse for letting my apartment get that junky. I've got to do better at keeping the place neat, if only for my peace of mind.
@LZ: I'm going to see Thor Ragnarok, this Sunday. I could really use the escapism.
Wow, Geist, so sorry about your hectic week! That sounds terrible, and I don't know why people like that are allowed to work. How could they take that much time off with no problem immediately after giving everyone all that backup of work that they themselves caused?
Well, here's hoping your water situation gets fixed so that's one less thing to worry about!
`
And here I had a final, another exam, and 2 projects that are basically exams and thought my week was a bit crazy! I had nothing in comparison!
Morning kittens!
@LZ, I want to see that one too, it looks great and we've liked the previous ones so I think its worth it. Sorry to hear about your bully situation. I think I would find it easier to deal with that reason for letting someone go rather than, other things though. Still, never easy let someone go. Good luck.
@Geist, yikes! Sounds like you need to get a storage bin, and start sorting all your books out into three piles. You know which piles I mean... ;) Oh, and thats Misty's costume room, I don't even have a key! ;) I hope it works out for you! In regards to your heating system. If you look behind the covers of the baseboard, you will eventually find a thing called an air vent, depending on what kind it is it will have a relief on it. Sometimes they look like little wheels, if you open that wheel just a little bit, you will hear some air come out of it, as soon as you see water come, close the wheel again. That will fix your heat situation. Sorry I didn't check in sooner, hope its all ok!
So how's it going for everyone else? My week will turn out to either be extremely busy or extremely calm. Or most likely, extremely busy until wednesday and then really calm until next week. Which I'm kind of fine with, except for all the work I'll have for the first half of the week.
Morning kittens. The temps last week and yesterday were some of the warmest. Mid 70s and some folks walking around in shorts. Not today. It's 41 outside now with the high only going to 57. Finally. Proper fall weather. I might need to get another space heater because if I run the one in my unit, my electric bills are going to shot through the roof.
@BaKhan: I don't have access to the building boiler. Heck, I don't even think it's located in the building since there are several that are linked. I wish I had radiator heat but those are usually found in much older buildings and even then, you can't control them. My first apartment had a radiator and the landlord was notorious for not turning it on unless we threaten to call the inspectors.
Morning kittens.
Morning BaKhan! Getting lots of snow yet?
@Geist, yeah, we've had lots of snow. Its already dropped in temperature quite a bit we're only expecting a high of 20F today. Its yucky. :(
Morning kittens.
Morning, all!
I'm really frustrated with the contracted technical supervisor right now. He's supposed to be here all this week to validate the new LCMS system. I saw him once ladt week, during a job interview. I told him I had some questions for him after the interview, when he said he needed to talk to the guy who eas setting it up. He disappeared after that. I haven't seen him since. I've tried emailing him, calling him, and texting him. Nothing! In my opinion, he is not worth what we're paying him at this point! The worst part is that I don't even know who to complain to at this point...
The up side to all this ridiculousness is that it gives me more ammo in asking the company to pay a lot more than $2k/year to help me get my Master's degree.
@LZ, I'm glad that you can see a bright side to all of that! I hope that they realize how much you care about that place! Best of luck!
Morning kittens!
I haven't been posting as much since I came back from vacation because I found out that the guy they hired 6 months ago decided to take a leave of absence right before I came back and was vague enough to not give a time frame. The funny part is, right before I left for Calgary, I got the tea on this guy. I knew about him pretending he is busy when he isn't and coming to work late and leaving early. What I didn't know was the attitude problems he had with other staff and the huge mistakes that he has constantly made week after week. Not to mention all the days off he takes. Plus he did this when the corporate head of AP was in town so now they are thinking of making us change our hours so that I'm forced to come in at 9 rather than 6 in the morning.
I find it very unfair that this guy didn't get even one probation slip, never issued a warning. When I made too many mistakes, I got a probation slip and 3 months to improve. Funny about that male/female double standard.
The good news is that the new girl hired after this jerk is really nice and we seem to get along great. Feels good to have one person that doesn't make me grind my teeth.
Other good news: The Crafty Bastard festival is this weekend! I've been looking forward to this all year! Below is a list of vendors that will be there and I already know what I'll be purchasing.
@BaKhan: if there is something that you or Misty might like, let me know. I'll get it and bring it with me next year.
One more thing: Halloween stuff are now on sale 75% off. :-O
Morning kittens.
@Geist, I find it hard to believe anyone would have a hard time getting along with you! You are too much fun to be around. I'll take a look at that festival, did you have a link?
*smacks forehead*
Sorry BaKhan. I thought I had provided the link. My brain is still in bed, curled up asleep.
https://dc.craftybastards.com/vendors/
Good to know there's at least one person at work who doesn't seem to be actively making your life miserable now, Geist! So are you saying they ditched the other guy who wasn't doing anything? I sure hope so.
Morning kittens. Only one more day after today for me this week. So close, yet so far.
@GM, congrats! Lucky sob... ;)
@BaKhan: Not really...since it's just moving my Dec 27th day off to this Friday. Still need to work Dec 26, 27, 28, 29. And process a 2.5 day payroll in 1.5 days.
@GM, ahhh man! Sorry to hear that bro! Jealousy revoked!
I have also found out the true meaning behind "not in the budget". The real meaning is "we don't value you, but we value these other people more. One of whom has just as much responsibility as you, another who is a member of a three person team doing the invoice entry".
@GM, ouch, you'd think that they would think about stuff like that. Especially as you directly see what others make as part of your job... yikes!
@BaKhan: Well, it just gives me the ability to use "not in the budget" as why I'm leaving when I get a new job. Or when they next talk to me about stuff and try to explain why "nobody" is getting a raise.
@GM, that kinda reminds me of growing up tbh. If my dad wanted something, "everyone wants", If my mom wanted something "nobody wants", and if they wanted me to do something, "somebody should". At least I was a somebody... ;)
So the bully worked for the victim Friday evening. During that time, she told the lab assistant that the victim had told me to fire the lab assistant and hire a phlebotomist in her place. She said she was only telling the lab assistant this because she loves her and hopes that the lab assistant would tell her if anyone was looking to get her fired. She then admitted to wanting to get rid of the victim. Of course, the victim never said any such thing to me. I heard about the conversation and thought, "That's an incredibly manipulative and divisive thing to say!" The bully doesn't understand that being mean to someone you don't like is a great way to get yourself fired, and will do nothing to get the other person fired.
@LZ, that sounds like some pro level manipulation there for sure!