The final entry from the 2004 Nokia Brier
It is with a bit of a sad heart that I sign off from my Brier experience. It had its moments, good and bad. The worst was the physical pain, of 16 hour days, with no rest, doing labor that my body is simply not accustomed to doing. I handled it well, given the circumstances I was dealt, but the pain was a low-light. But there were highlights too. The camaraderie I developed with many of the concessions people that I'd previously known, but with whom I'd not spent much time. I learned things, nuances, idiosyncracies, and bits and pieces of their personalities. I connected more with some, than with others, but the whole experience was another vast step into a realm I'd known of, but had never explored. I end my Brier experience with a twinge of sadness, that is much covered by the fun I had, and the friends I made.
But this wouldn't be a Brier update without the customary rant. We simply have to include that. So, in conclusion, I must speak about the Sask. Place elevator.
What the hell were they thinking when they had that hunk of crap installed? Okay, the old elevator had its faultss, and I suppose I probably had seen its time pass, with all the use. But my god, couldn't they have found a better replacement than that!?!
Its slow. Its stupid. It does things that don't come close to being logical. You're the only one in the elevator and yet it stops on every floor, up to three, and then back down through 2, when you got on at 2, and just wanted to go down. No one else on any other floor pushed a button signalling the elevator. Why did it have to stop SO many times!?!?!
And another thing. Why is it so slow? The old one wasn't that slow. When the door closed, you went up. Exactly the way an elevator is supposed to work. This one, the doors close, it seems to think about the situation for a moment and then come to the conclusion, oh yeah, they want me to go up! What the hell is that all about!?! Elevator logic shouldn't be that complicated. Push a button, here comes the elevator. Push another button and the elevator goes to the programmed level. Where's the vast, conspiratorial complexity that makes this elevator have to ponder the situation for an eternity!?!
That is all from me. I hope you have all enjoyed your Brier experience, as soon through my eyes. It was fun to be there, and I hope I gave you a satisfying taste of it. I will return tomorrow, with tales of water treatment.
Toodles one and all!!!
Monday, March 15, 2004
Saturday, March 13, 2004
This will be my second last update from the Brier. Its a little weird, that thought in my head. Its become such a part of my daily life that I am a little confused about my state of mind. It all ends now. After tomorrow, all the hoopla will be over, and just the mundane nuances of daily life will return. I will go back to the office, sit at my desk, and design and build water treatment systems. No more hanging out at Sask. Place. No more joking around with new friends, of whom I'd only recently come to know. No more long days, and sore feet, but smiles despite the pain. Its sad, in a real way, while at the same time full of relief at being back to normal. I don't know exactly what I feel tonight.
However, that is all a little deep for a Saturday night. We should all go on to bigger, brighter, more exciting thoughts right now. I hope that everyone I know, and care about, has a wonderful evening, full of life, love and merriment. I will stay here, near you, my internet friends. I know there is part of me that says I should be out with my real-time friends tonight. One last evening to enjoy the camaraderie. It is not me however. That is not my place, my venue, my way of enjoying good friends. I am simple, and I am quiet. I must remain here.
Have fun all of you, my friends, companions, and buddies, as you enjoy one great night of partying. Tip one back for me, as I rest here on my couch. I think it is best that way.
Good night, and great times all!
However, that is all a little deep for a Saturday night. We should all go on to bigger, brighter, more exciting thoughts right now. I hope that everyone I know, and care about, has a wonderful evening, full of life, love and merriment. I will stay here, near you, my internet friends. I know there is part of me that says I should be out with my real-time friends tonight. One last evening to enjoy the camaraderie. It is not me however. That is not my place, my venue, my way of enjoying good friends. I am simple, and I am quiet. I must remain here.
Have fun all of you, my friends, companions, and buddies, as you enjoy one great night of partying. Tip one back for me, as I rest here on my couch. I think it is best that way.
Good night, and great times all!
Friday, March 12, 2004
Brier Update from Friday, Day Seven:
Okay, I gotta say something about volunteers. From where did they get the idea they could be so, god damn pushy!?!
Yes, you are giving of your time freely. However, just because you agreed to provide a service, for free, does not mean you have a right to walk all over those of us that are here, and being paid.
I'll give you an example. The concession booth in one corner of the arena, is a little congested. You have the door for a concession booth, a storage room behind the concession booth, with a door emptying into the same spot, and a stairwell from the ground floor of the area. All three doors feed into the same 3 meter square space of real estate. Oh, did I mention that there was also a condiments table in the same general area?
The part that pisses me off is these volunteers, crashing up this stairwell, and spilling out around this confined space I outlined. I have a cart full of crap that I'm delivering to the concession booth. I do not need the dirty stares or the under-the-breath comments about it being rude that I've parked my cart there. You do not own the building. Take your self-righteousness and go home!
That's all for today. My feet hurt real bad and I think I need something to eat. Two more days to go!!!
From the Brier, this is Grant reporting.
Okay, I gotta say something about volunteers. From where did they get the idea they could be so, god damn pushy!?!
Yes, you are giving of your time freely. However, just because you agreed to provide a service, for free, does not mean you have a right to walk all over those of us that are here, and being paid.
I'll give you an example. The concession booth in one corner of the arena, is a little congested. You have the door for a concession booth, a storage room behind the concession booth, with a door emptying into the same spot, and a stairwell from the ground floor of the area. All three doors feed into the same 3 meter square space of real estate. Oh, did I mention that there was also a condiments table in the same general area?
The part that pisses me off is these volunteers, crashing up this stairwell, and spilling out around this confined space I outlined. I have a cart full of crap that I'm delivering to the concession booth. I do not need the dirty stares or the under-the-breath comments about it being rude that I've parked my cart there. You do not own the building. Take your self-righteousness and go home!
That's all for today. My feet hurt real bad and I think I need something to eat. Two more days to go!!!
From the Brier, this is Grant reporting.
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Brier Update, Volume 6:
There is little news today. It was a productive day. I gave a better effort. Not that I gave a bad effort yesterday, but I just couldn't find the strength and/or motivation yesterday. I pondered it when I got home and realized, I only ate once yesterday. The key to surviving Brier is to consume energy, so you have energy to burn.
I'm somewhat conflicted by the, topic du jour around the stock room today. Perhaps a more adequate definition would be to say I'm puzzled by it. Same old story, like I've lamented before. What do women want? Some guys are gifted, and they just connect with women, seemingly at will. Others employ a type of smarminess, that while offensive to me, seems to achieve the desired results in male/female interactions. So what should I do? I'm not gifted in this respect. I'm actually the polar opposite, to the point of retardation. I can't be the player, because that approach does not rest well with my constructed morality. That leaves a rather vast canyon in which I can not find the goat path up the side of the hill to nirvana. Not that anyone can really help me with this problem. I'm reaching the conclusion that you have to find your own goat path. However, it is demoralizing to watch it work for others, and to not even be to the, understanding the process, level yourself.
Sorry if that got a little too philosophical. Nonetheless it is my blog, and I can say whatever I want. If I'm boring, just skip this entry.
Toe Update:
The blister has popped. I checked my foot at the close of the day and the sac of fluid had burst, sometime since this morning. (I checked before putting my sock on) Oddly enough, my feet feel better today than yesterday. It was almost tolerable, until right at the end. Hopefully the blisters on my feet can hold out for three more days, as the burden will lessen. At least that's what I'm hoping for.
Toodles!
There is little news today. It was a productive day. I gave a better effort. Not that I gave a bad effort yesterday, but I just couldn't find the strength and/or motivation yesterday. I pondered it when I got home and realized, I only ate once yesterday. The key to surviving Brier is to consume energy, so you have energy to burn.
I'm somewhat conflicted by the, topic du jour around the stock room today. Perhaps a more adequate definition would be to say I'm puzzled by it. Same old story, like I've lamented before. What do women want? Some guys are gifted, and they just connect with women, seemingly at will. Others employ a type of smarminess, that while offensive to me, seems to achieve the desired results in male/female interactions. So what should I do? I'm not gifted in this respect. I'm actually the polar opposite, to the point of retardation. I can't be the player, because that approach does not rest well with my constructed morality. That leaves a rather vast canyon in which I can not find the goat path up the side of the hill to nirvana. Not that anyone can really help me with this problem. I'm reaching the conclusion that you have to find your own goat path. However, it is demoralizing to watch it work for others, and to not even be to the, understanding the process, level yourself.
Sorry if that got a little too philosophical. Nonetheless it is my blog, and I can say whatever I want. If I'm boring, just skip this entry.
Toe Update:
The blister has popped. I checked my foot at the close of the day and the sac of fluid had burst, sometime since this morning. (I checked before putting my sock on) Oddly enough, my feet feel better today than yesterday. It was almost tolerable, until right at the end. Hopefully the blisters on my feet can hold out for three more days, as the burden will lessen. At least that's what I'm hoping for.
Toodles!
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Greetings from Day 5 of the 2004 Nokia Brier!!
I'm sorry I have to do this but, its an issue that will not go away. We're talking about old people. In the first place, I'm more than just a shade pissed off with their walking. Okay, fine, you're old and maybe not as spry as you used to be. If that is so, and you know it is so, can you please not weave back and forth, like a drunk on a three day bender, as you walk down the congested thoroughfares for foot traffic. That just drives me insane. I'm younger, faster, and in a lot more of a hurry but I have to come to an almost dead stop, becase Grandma can't keep her pokey, uncoordinated ass going in a straight line.
And the other thing is, that nearly unrelenting attempt at humor from this goobers. Somehow I'm supposed to find humor in their question, can I have a ride? Can you have a ride!?! Look numbnuts, the likelihood is I've walked more this week than you have in the preceding year. I'm tired. My feet hurt. Why the HELL don't you offer to push me to where I'm going? How god damn bad off could you possibly be if you can attend the Brier, as a patron, on a Wednesday morning/afternoon!?!
These are the kinds of things rolling across my mind lately. I will write again, if there are further thoughts.
Toodles!
I'm sorry I have to do this but, its an issue that will not go away. We're talking about old people. In the first place, I'm more than just a shade pissed off with their walking. Okay, fine, you're old and maybe not as spry as you used to be. If that is so, and you know it is so, can you please not weave back and forth, like a drunk on a three day bender, as you walk down the congested thoroughfares for foot traffic. That just drives me insane. I'm younger, faster, and in a lot more of a hurry but I have to come to an almost dead stop, becase Grandma can't keep her pokey, uncoordinated ass going in a straight line.
And the other thing is, that nearly unrelenting attempt at humor from this goobers. Somehow I'm supposed to find humor in their question, can I have a ride? Can you have a ride!?! Look numbnuts, the likelihood is I've walked more this week than you have in the preceding year. I'm tired. My feet hurt. Why the HELL don't you offer to push me to where I'm going? How god damn bad off could you possibly be if you can attend the Brier, as a patron, on a Wednesday morning/afternoon!?!
These are the kinds of things rolling across my mind lately. I will write again, if there are further thoughts.
Toodles!
Tuesday, March 09, 2004
Brier, Day Four Addendum 2:
Click the link to the photo, before continuing on with the text. This is something you may never see again!
Brier Damage
As you will see from the photo, there is something of particular notice, within the red oval on the picture. In case you can not see exactly what is significant about this photo, I will try to explain.
That is a blister. Ok, in and of itself, not that interesting. However, in this case, my entire fourth toe has blistered. Front to back, side to side, the entire toe is incapsulated by a fluid filled sac. I know this is going to be excruciatingly painful, the day that blister decides to break.
But overall, it was a pretty good Brier day. Stocking went well, there were few calamities, and everyone still seems upbeat. I'm impressed. We are moving towards the final now, and I'm sure everyone is anxious for it to arrive.
Stay tuned for further updates!
Click the link to the photo, before continuing on with the text. This is something you may never see again!
Brier Damage
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As you will see from the photo, there is something of particular notice, within the red oval on the picture. In case you can not see exactly what is significant about this photo, I will try to explain.
That is a blister. Ok, in and of itself, not that interesting. However, in this case, my entire fourth toe has blistered. Front to back, side to side, the entire toe is incapsulated by a fluid filled sac. I know this is going to be excruciatingly painful, the day that blister decides to break.
But overall, it was a pretty good Brier day. Stocking went well, there were few calamities, and everyone still seems upbeat. I'm impressed. We are moving towards the final now, and I'm sure everyone is anxious for it to arrive.
Stay tuned for further updates!
Brier, Day 4 Addendum 1:
Okay people, as a society we really need to come up with an agreement on a minumum acceptable walking speed. At least for public venues anyway, like shopping malls, and sports arenas. We can't have two 70 year old people, walking hand in hand down the CENTER of the aisle way, at a speed measured in glacial advancement speeds. I have a cart FULL of supplies and food. You gotta take your slow ass out of the middle of the road.
That is all. We return you to your regularly scheduled noon hour.
Okay people, as a society we really need to come up with an agreement on a minumum acceptable walking speed. At least for public venues anyway, like shopping malls, and sports arenas. We can't have two 70 year old people, walking hand in hand down the CENTER of the aisle way, at a speed measured in glacial advancement speeds. I have a cart FULL of supplies and food. You gotta take your slow ass out of the middle of the road.
That is all. We return you to your regularly scheduled noon hour.
Monday, March 08, 2004
Musings from the third day of Brier:
The feet still hurt.
If you're 60 years old, you do not wear a mini-skirt.
It is not funny, if you ask me whether the stuff on my cart is free.
That is all so far. I'm sure there is more but, my mind has gone temporarily blank. I blame it on the relentless series of tasks that must be completed, over and over and over again. I will blog again, if I remember my previous comment, or think up a new one.
Stay tuned . . .
The feet still hurt.
If you're 60 years old, you do not wear a mini-skirt.
It is not funny, if you ask me whether the stuff on my cart is free.
That is all so far. I'm sure there is more but, my mind has gone temporarily blank. I blame it on the relentless series of tasks that must be completed, over and over and over again. I will blog again, if I remember my previous comment, or think up a new one.
Stay tuned . . .
I have just one point that I want to make today, as I conclude the second day of Brier.
I hope that Kevin, Wendy, Cowan and Aaron appreciate the significant effort I am contributing to the accomplishment of the 2004 Brier. I came home tonight and literally peeled my clothes off my body. In doing so, I discovered that over the course of the past couple of days, I have developed some chafing in a VERY sensitive location. You might say, the most sensitive place you could ever expect to develop a chafing problem.
I bring this up, not to generate any sympathy or pity. I know that everyone is giving their utmost to the task. I simply thought that it was poignant illustration of the tireless efforts that my partners, Devin, and Clayton, along with myself, have invested.
P.S. Does anyone have some lubricant I could have? I'd rather this raw spot not grow any further.
I hope that Kevin, Wendy, Cowan and Aaron appreciate the significant effort I am contributing to the accomplishment of the 2004 Brier. I came home tonight and literally peeled my clothes off my body. In doing so, I discovered that over the course of the past couple of days, I have developed some chafing in a VERY sensitive location. You might say, the most sensitive place you could ever expect to develop a chafing problem.
I bring this up, not to generate any sympathy or pity. I know that everyone is giving their utmost to the task. I simply thought that it was poignant illustration of the tireless efforts that my partners, Devin, and Clayton, along with myself, have invested.
P.S. Does anyone have some lubricant I could have? I'd rather this raw spot not grow any further.
Sunday, March 07, 2004
Saturday, March 06, 2004
Friday, March 05, 2004
Thursday, March 04, 2004
I believe I've blogged about this movie before. I'm watching 'Life Or Something Like It' starring Angelina Jolie. The blonde hair draws you in, and it makes you notice the mouthful of horse-teeth.
But I digress . . .
In the movie, these two people that know each other, are having a conversation about her supposed, impending death. Man and woman, fairly robust amount of antagonism between them, but there is a previous history, and you can tell its heading in the direction of them hooking up again.
But I digress . . .
She up and says 'Let's have sex', or something to that affect. Is that allowed? Can you initiate the physical by simply asking? I've been curious about this, as I traverse the thing that we call life. (I have a feeling this movie, like Shallow Hall, is going to have a profound effect on me that was not entirely intended) I'm not the type to be foolish, lose my inhibitions and have it wind up happening. I just don't behave like that.
So then, how?
Answer by the usual methods. Thanks for your input.
Toodles!
But I digress . . .
In the movie, these two people that know each other, are having a conversation about her supposed, impending death. Man and woman, fairly robust amount of antagonism between them, but there is a previous history, and you can tell its heading in the direction of them hooking up again.
But I digress . . .
She up and says 'Let's have sex', or something to that affect. Is that allowed? Can you initiate the physical by simply asking? I've been curious about this, as I traverse the thing that we call life. (I have a feeling this movie, like Shallow Hall, is going to have a profound effect on me that was not entirely intended) I'm not the type to be foolish, lose my inhibitions and have it wind up happening. I just don't behave like that.
So then, how?
Answer by the usual methods. Thanks for your input.
Toodles!
And again!!!
It seems like I can't win this week. I try, I fail, I try again, I fail. For someone not as heavily medicated as I am, this could be an extremely frustrating series of coincidences.
The truck did not start again this morning. The whole, not charging the battery every time its started theory, has been debunked. It idled for 15 minutes every time I started it yesterday, and it wasn't bone-chillingly cold, so there is no reason to suspect that its a battery charge problem. There's something else going on, that needs to be ironed out. Next week it will spend the week at the dealership. I am not taking it back until they find a problem, fix it, and return it with a guarantee. I am NOT amused.
Thus we come to the Blog Question Of The Day:
Should I drive to Humboldt and back, just to give the battery some significant charging time, at full operating temperatures, so its reliable for the next couple days?
It seems like I can't win this week. I try, I fail, I try again, I fail. For someone not as heavily medicated as I am, this could be an extremely frustrating series of coincidences.
The truck did not start again this morning. The whole, not charging the battery every time its started theory, has been debunked. It idled for 15 minutes every time I started it yesterday, and it wasn't bone-chillingly cold, so there is no reason to suspect that its a battery charge problem. There's something else going on, that needs to be ironed out. Next week it will spend the week at the dealership. I am not taking it back until they find a problem, fix it, and return it with a guarantee. I am NOT amused.
Thus we come to the Blog Question Of The Day:
Should I drive to Humboldt and back, just to give the battery some significant charging time, at full operating temperatures, so its reliable for the next couple days?
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
I HAVE SINNED!!!
Before the eyes of God, and all of you, I confess. I have sinned. My trangression has not been minor. It is an abomination. I have committed the unspeakable. The crimes for which I lay myself on the altar for your forgiveness, are not forgivable. The act, the deed, that which I committed this evening, was an atrocity. I know there can be no redemption from the place I have taken myself. I must spend my time alone here, in purgatory, the last circle of the Dante's Inferno.
I can not even beg forgiveness. With all of my heart, and my soul, I wish I could ask for salvation. But I can not be saved. There is no penance that can absolve me of my sins. No recitations of script and verse that can pale the blackness that colors my heart. What I have done is forever. I will live with this scar on my heart, from this moment forward, into eternity.
Pray for me, if you care. I can not be saved, but perhaps damnation can be avoided. I shall now sleep on what I have done. My hope is that morning light will dilute the pitch that colors my heart.
I watched Crossroads, starring Britney Spears.
Before the eyes of God, and all of you, I confess. I have sinned. My trangression has not been minor. It is an abomination. I have committed the unspeakable. The crimes for which I lay myself on the altar for your forgiveness, are not forgivable. The act, the deed, that which I committed this evening, was an atrocity. I know there can be no redemption from the place I have taken myself. I must spend my time alone here, in purgatory, the last circle of the Dante's Inferno.
I can not even beg forgiveness. With all of my heart, and my soul, I wish I could ask for salvation. But I can not be saved. There is no penance that can absolve me of my sins. No recitations of script and verse that can pale the blackness that colors my heart. What I have done is forever. I will live with this scar on my heart, from this moment forward, into eternity.
Pray for me, if you care. I can not be saved, but perhaps damnation can be avoided. I shall now sleep on what I have done. My hope is that morning light will dilute the pitch that colors my heart.
I watched Crossroads, starring Britney Spears.
Tuesday, March 02, 2004
It's been one of those days.
Actually, its beginning to look like, one of those weeks.
I say that because, it started last night. I spent about 2 hours last night, again, trying to get the wireless connection to my PDA to work. It still doesn't. I don't know what the issue is. I can use my PDA on the wireless network in the office, and besides being a little slow, it works just fine. So what's wrong at home, which is hooked up exactly the same? I don't get that.
I guess it actually started yesterday, period, end of sentence. I had all those computer 'issues' that made up my Monday blog entry. Thus I've been running uphill, with a boulder on my back, for two days now. But I handle it well, given the circumstances I'm dealt. Take another pill, and stay happy for a day.
So I come to work this morning and the software I bought online yesterday has finished restoring all my data to me. A few glitches and bumps along the way, as it managed to restore some stuff that I actually wanted deleted, or had moved to somewhere else in the directory structure, thus leaving me with things in different spots at the same time. No problem, now lets put it all back on the portable hard drive.
Uhhhh..... no, I don't think we'll be doing that. WTF!?!?! I can NOT get this directory to remove itself from the hard drive. The damn thing had become completely orphaned. 28 gigabytes worth of space that I couldn't gain access to, to save my life, but similarly is not intact enough that Windows can understand what it is, and let me REMOVE it. Stuck halfway between heaven and hell.
So I have to format the drive. But Hell's Bell's, that's not simple either. The original file system on the drive was something called FAT32. For the purposes of simplicity I'll categorize this as a Windows 98 thing. I'm on Windows 2000 at work. Windows 2000 uses something called NTFS. Now you can convert FAT32 to NTFS, but it doesn't seem its possible (without spending more money on this project) to convert NTFS to FAT32. And you can't format to FAT32 from Windows 2000, to the full 120 gigabyte limit of my portable drive. Long story short? My portable hard drive will no longer be completely backwards compatible with Windows 98. I'm not sure how I feel about that. Nevertheless I spent an enormous amount of time on the puzzle, finally arriving at a conclusion that didn't thrill me, but made the best of a bad situation.
And then there was Souris. That climbed up and barfed on me again. I hate that place. Luckily it wasn't anything that would need me to DO anything. Just write a letter acknowledging their complaints, and suggesting a course of action. I wrote the letter. We'll see if they freak out. I'm guessing yes, but hoping for no.
This has been Tuesday, March 2, 2004. If you need me, I'll be the lump under the green blanket.
Toodles.
Actually, its beginning to look like, one of those weeks.
I say that because, it started last night. I spent about 2 hours last night, again, trying to get the wireless connection to my PDA to work. It still doesn't. I don't know what the issue is. I can use my PDA on the wireless network in the office, and besides being a little slow, it works just fine. So what's wrong at home, which is hooked up exactly the same? I don't get that.
I guess it actually started yesterday, period, end of sentence. I had all those computer 'issues' that made up my Monday blog entry. Thus I've been running uphill, with a boulder on my back, for two days now. But I handle it well, given the circumstances I'm dealt. Take another pill, and stay happy for a day.
So I come to work this morning and the software I bought online yesterday has finished restoring all my data to me. A few glitches and bumps along the way, as it managed to restore some stuff that I actually wanted deleted, or had moved to somewhere else in the directory structure, thus leaving me with things in different spots at the same time. No problem, now lets put it all back on the portable hard drive.
Uhhhh..... no, I don't think we'll be doing that. WTF!?!?! I can NOT get this directory to remove itself from the hard drive. The damn thing had become completely orphaned. 28 gigabytes worth of space that I couldn't gain access to, to save my life, but similarly is not intact enough that Windows can understand what it is, and let me REMOVE it. Stuck halfway between heaven and hell.
So I have to format the drive. But Hell's Bell's, that's not simple either. The original file system on the drive was something called FAT32. For the purposes of simplicity I'll categorize this as a Windows 98 thing. I'm on Windows 2000 at work. Windows 2000 uses something called NTFS. Now you can convert FAT32 to NTFS, but it doesn't seem its possible (without spending more money on this project) to convert NTFS to FAT32. And you can't format to FAT32 from Windows 2000, to the full 120 gigabyte limit of my portable drive. Long story short? My portable hard drive will no longer be completely backwards compatible with Windows 98. I'm not sure how I feel about that. Nevertheless I spent an enormous amount of time on the puzzle, finally arriving at a conclusion that didn't thrill me, but made the best of a bad situation.
And then there was Souris. That climbed up and barfed on me again. I hate that place. Luckily it wasn't anything that would need me to DO anything. Just write a letter acknowledging their complaints, and suggesting a course of action. I wrote the letter. We'll see if they freak out. I'm guessing yes, but hoping for no.
This has been Tuesday, March 2, 2004. If you need me, I'll be the lump under the green blanket.
Toodles.
Monday, March 01, 2004
Its been one of those days.
I thought I'd get ahead of the game last night. Everyone left, after a successful Gamefest (I thought it went well) and I was feeling a little blue. I had lots of time on my hands so I figured I'd build the computer that Greg had brought me on Thursday, in parts. I spent a couple hours last night putting it together, and making it ready to put into place today.
It was a nice idea.
I get to work, ready to do the operating system install. We can't find out Windows 2000 disk. Maybe it got loaned to somebody. Fine, but then why isn't it here now!?! I was not amused. There was talk of hacking our way around the problem by I decided no, its our disk, whoever has it can cough it up. Finally someone admitted having it, and gave it back. I commenced the install.
Installing Windows takes a long time. First, you don't format a 120 GB hard drive in two minutes. That gobbled up a considerable amount of time. Then I spent half an hour installing the OS. Then there are driver updates, Windows patches, peripheral devices, yadda, yadda, yadda. More and more time. It went on and on and on, until I swear I had uploaded into the thing the entirety of human wisdom.
Meanwhile, work happened. The phone is ringing, the birds are singing, all is merry and bright! NOT!!! The phone is ringing, but its more grumbling I didn't really want to hear. Just make it happen people, its not going to go away because you wish it to be so. Then my computer coughed up on itself. I was not amused. My one folder, while completely intact, and not recording an error, could not be accessed because, while it showed up in Windows, was not apparently there. I didn't get that. Spent a couple hours trying to fix that, before abandoning that pursuit and just downloading off the internet, a program that is supposed to recover files from a hard drive, in just such an instance as the one I have.
Meanwhile, as my hard drive was burping on itself, my video installation decided to crap out, again. More frustration to a day that was already frustrating enough. I attempted to patch it, the way I had before, and get back to normal operation. This time it would not allow me to follow the steps that I'd used before. The driver installation simply WOULD NOT come out. So I have to fuss around with that, and find a solution that would do more than 640x480 in 16 colors.
it is now 3:30, and all seems more or less right with the universe. Perhaps I speak too soon. The hard drive recovery is not complete yet. Just my luck, it'll probably spontaneously combust yet. Stay tuned for updates.
Toodles.
I thought I'd get ahead of the game last night. Everyone left, after a successful Gamefest (I thought it went well) and I was feeling a little blue. I had lots of time on my hands so I figured I'd build the computer that Greg had brought me on Thursday, in parts. I spent a couple hours last night putting it together, and making it ready to put into place today.
It was a nice idea.
I get to work, ready to do the operating system install. We can't find out Windows 2000 disk. Maybe it got loaned to somebody. Fine, but then why isn't it here now!?! I was not amused. There was talk of hacking our way around the problem by I decided no, its our disk, whoever has it can cough it up. Finally someone admitted having it, and gave it back. I commenced the install.
Installing Windows takes a long time. First, you don't format a 120 GB hard drive in two minutes. That gobbled up a considerable amount of time. Then I spent half an hour installing the OS. Then there are driver updates, Windows patches, peripheral devices, yadda, yadda, yadda. More and more time. It went on and on and on, until I swear I had uploaded into the thing the entirety of human wisdom.
Meanwhile, work happened. The phone is ringing, the birds are singing, all is merry and bright! NOT!!! The phone is ringing, but its more grumbling I didn't really want to hear. Just make it happen people, its not going to go away because you wish it to be so. Then my computer coughed up on itself. I was not amused. My one folder, while completely intact, and not recording an error, could not be accessed because, while it showed up in Windows, was not apparently there. I didn't get that. Spent a couple hours trying to fix that, before abandoning that pursuit and just downloading off the internet, a program that is supposed to recover files from a hard drive, in just such an instance as the one I have.
Meanwhile, as my hard drive was burping on itself, my video installation decided to crap out, again. More frustration to a day that was already frustrating enough. I attempted to patch it, the way I had before, and get back to normal operation. This time it would not allow me to follow the steps that I'd used before. The driver installation simply WOULD NOT come out. So I have to fuss around with that, and find a solution that would do more than 640x480 in 16 colors.
it is now 3:30, and all seems more or less right with the universe. Perhaps I speak too soon. The hard drive recovery is not complete yet. Just my luck, it'll probably spontaneously combust yet. Stay tuned for updates.
Toodles.
Friday, February 27, 2004
I don't normally wade into the topic of politics. I have a couple of times but for the most part I leave that for others to rant about. However, even in my isolated, disinterested world view, the current political scandal that is going on in Canada, has managed to register me with an opinion.
I don't know at this situation. Maybe it is my acute sense of paranoia that makes me notice something like this. That caveat given, it seems awfully convenient that we transition power between two leaders, and a scandal breaks out. We have a Prime Minister sign out of power, with a string of goodwill proclamations, and an exit that smells like that of a farewell concert tour. His duly selected successor has no sooner settled into the chair of power, that his predecessor had kept warm for over a decade, when a scandal of proportion not seen since bringing to its knees the founding political party of the country, erupts. Its just too convenient. It fits together too nicely. There are just too many convenient coincidences for this to all be the work of destiny.
Personally, I hope our new leader can weather this storm, and win a term of office from the general population, and not just his party faithful. I have confidence in this leader, while I considered the previous one to be a lame duck, blessed by circumstance, and not grand wisdom. I hope the new guy can make things work, because I feel like he's the best choice for us. The alternatives hold no appeal, and while we are mired in a scandal with the current people in power, I fear that a change to one of the alternatives might be a drastic step in the wrong direction.
I wish him luck, and hope he wins. He didn't deserve to be saddled with this baggage. The true design of our former leader is becoming apparent. I hope people can vote on the strength of the new people holding the reins, and realize that the culprits of this scandal, are not the ones tasked with cleaning it up.
Vote well people. Our future depends on it.
I don't know at this situation. Maybe it is my acute sense of paranoia that makes me notice something like this. That caveat given, it seems awfully convenient that we transition power between two leaders, and a scandal breaks out. We have a Prime Minister sign out of power, with a string of goodwill proclamations, and an exit that smells like that of a farewell concert tour. His duly selected successor has no sooner settled into the chair of power, that his predecessor had kept warm for over a decade, when a scandal of proportion not seen since bringing to its knees the founding political party of the country, erupts. Its just too convenient. It fits together too nicely. There are just too many convenient coincidences for this to all be the work of destiny.
Personally, I hope our new leader can weather this storm, and win a term of office from the general population, and not just his party faithful. I have confidence in this leader, while I considered the previous one to be a lame duck, blessed by circumstance, and not grand wisdom. I hope the new guy can make things work, because I feel like he's the best choice for us. The alternatives hold no appeal, and while we are mired in a scandal with the current people in power, I fear that a change to one of the alternatives might be a drastic step in the wrong direction.
I wish him luck, and hope he wins. He didn't deserve to be saddled with this baggage. The true design of our former leader is becoming apparent. I hope people can vote on the strength of the new people holding the reins, and realize that the culprits of this scandal, are not the ones tasked with cleaning it up.
Vote well people. Our future depends on it.
Thursday, February 26, 2004
All of you with the ability to do so, please congratulation my sister Candace on her bonus. She put in some extra effort last year, visiting mine sites to help them with compensation reviews, and her employer recognized her extended effort. My congratulations go out to her, along with those of her company, for what I know was a job well done.
Way to go Candace!
Way to go Candace!
Okay, this is a pretty significant problem.
We hired another person, to complete project work. The decision to hire someone was a well thought out one. We are understaffed in the projects department. There is outstanding training at all but a couple of the 8 projects we undertook last year. In fact, all the project work is not yet completed. We needed another person.
So, my boss hired someone. The idea of getting another person was a good one, and I'm glad he pursued it. However, there appears to be a very significant glitch in the process that, may not be so easily remedied.
Our new hire stopped in at the production shop yesterday, to talk to our Production Manager, who will be doing the scheduling for this new technician. I had spoken to the Production Manager about our plans for this new guy already, and he was passing them along. The issue that came up in their discussion was, the idea of being away from home a significant amount (most) of the time. That wasn't going to work for him.
Being away from home wasn't going to work for him!?! That was the primary necessity that hiring someone was supposed to address. We need another field technician.
Apparently the wife of our new hire is an ambulance technician. She has to be on-call for 6 days in a row, and then gets a 3 day break. The problem becomes obvious. If his wife is 'on-call' at her job, then he must be 'on-call' for child care.
I'm not sure how we're going to address this problem. I'm not sure if my boss took this into account when he hired this person. I'm not sure he's even aware of it at this moment. If he was aware of the situation, and asked about the availability for travel, I wonder what this has come up again, with the Production Manager. It is not that useful to us to have another person in the shop. We need someone on the road. If this issue slipped under the radar of my bosses attention, then I'm pretty annoyed that he wasn't more thorough about his hiring attempt.
Thus I have one more issue to wrangle tomorrow. Stay tuned for the resolution.
We hired another person, to complete project work. The decision to hire someone was a well thought out one. We are understaffed in the projects department. There is outstanding training at all but a couple of the 8 projects we undertook last year. In fact, all the project work is not yet completed. We needed another person.
So, my boss hired someone. The idea of getting another person was a good one, and I'm glad he pursued it. However, there appears to be a very significant glitch in the process that, may not be so easily remedied.
Our new hire stopped in at the production shop yesterday, to talk to our Production Manager, who will be doing the scheduling for this new technician. I had spoken to the Production Manager about our plans for this new guy already, and he was passing them along. The issue that came up in their discussion was, the idea of being away from home a significant amount (most) of the time. That wasn't going to work for him.
Being away from home wasn't going to work for him!?! That was the primary necessity that hiring someone was supposed to address. We need another field technician.
Apparently the wife of our new hire is an ambulance technician. She has to be on-call for 6 days in a row, and then gets a 3 day break. The problem becomes obvious. If his wife is 'on-call' at her job, then he must be 'on-call' for child care.
I'm not sure how we're going to address this problem. I'm not sure if my boss took this into account when he hired this person. I'm not sure he's even aware of it at this moment. If he was aware of the situation, and asked about the availability for travel, I wonder what this has come up again, with the Production Manager. It is not that useful to us to have another person in the shop. We need someone on the road. If this issue slipped under the radar of my bosses attention, then I'm pretty annoyed that he wasn't more thorough about his hiring attempt.
Thus I have one more issue to wrangle tomorrow. Stay tuned for the resolution.
Wednesday, February 25, 2004
I've been watching 'The Incredible Hulk' reruns on one of my satellite channels, DejaView. Its the only time I ever watch that channel so I can't be too authoritative about what kind of programming they have, as a general rule. It would seem to be syndicated shows from 20+ years ago. I suppose they are playing 'The Incredible Hulk' because of the movie that came out last summer. It has become my new, noon hour, regime.
I have an observation/question about the show. David seems to turn into 'The Hulk' about twice per episode. Keeping in mind that David is living the life of a drifter, isn't it kind of odd that he can afford to buy news clothes, as often as he does?
Just something I was wondering.
I have an observation/question about the show. David seems to turn into 'The Hulk' about twice per episode. Keeping in mind that David is living the life of a drifter, isn't it kind of odd that he can afford to buy news clothes, as often as he does?
Just something I was wondering.
Tuesday, February 24, 2004
I love when something is easy!
I fixed a computer at lunch today. A former customer phoned me on Sunday night with a problem. Their computer had gone south and was completely inoperable. My heart fell into my stomach. 'NO! Not computer problems!! Not now!!!'
I couldn't stay, and they couldn't bring it to me Sunday night. Thus I seemed to be out of options. I wrestled with it for awhile and came up with a solution, if imperfect. I would get my parents to ship it to me in Watson. Not perfect, but it was the best I could think up, on short notice.
So, it arrived in Watson this morning. Rounded it up, and then took it home at lunch. I have a spare setup ready to go in my office. The computer that would sit there, is in a state of disrepair, so to speak. It'll boot up and everything, so its not a broken computer. But I need to install an operating system on it, drivers, etc. I have little motivation for that project. Nevertheless, I had a spot to quickly hook it up, and see if I could find out what was wrong, and maybe do a parts order this afternoon.
Turns out it wasn't really broken at all. I booted it up and straight away I figured out the problem. Somehow the hard drive had been taken out of BIOS. The computer didn't think there was a hard drive. Changed that back to what it was supposed to be and voila! It was fixed. I will get a hold of them tonight and let them know things are groovy again.
I just love when a plan comes together! :-D
I fixed a computer at lunch today. A former customer phoned me on Sunday night with a problem. Their computer had gone south and was completely inoperable. My heart fell into my stomach. 'NO! Not computer problems!! Not now!!!'
I couldn't stay, and they couldn't bring it to me Sunday night. Thus I seemed to be out of options. I wrestled with it for awhile and came up with a solution, if imperfect. I would get my parents to ship it to me in Watson. Not perfect, but it was the best I could think up, on short notice.
So, it arrived in Watson this morning. Rounded it up, and then took it home at lunch. I have a spare setup ready to go in my office. The computer that would sit there, is in a state of disrepair, so to speak. It'll boot up and everything, so its not a broken computer. But I need to install an operating system on it, drivers, etc. I have little motivation for that project. Nevertheless, I had a spot to quickly hook it up, and see if I could find out what was wrong, and maybe do a parts order this afternoon.
Turns out it wasn't really broken at all. I booted it up and straight away I figured out the problem. Somehow the hard drive had been taken out of BIOS. The computer didn't think there was a hard drive. Changed that back to what it was supposed to be and voila! It was fixed. I will get a hold of them tonight and let them know things are groovy again.
I just love when a plan comes together! :-D
Monday, February 23, 2004
Okay people, some good news!
Awhile ago you will recall I wrote a passionate entry about the anonymity of the internet, and how that can give you the freedom to pursue some choices that you might not otherwise. At the end you will recall that I mentioned a particular title by name.
After a long time at 604 MB, I moved up to 616 MB of the 733 MB that comprise the whole file. I'm am encouraged by this turn of events.
Stay tuned for more adventures from my modest life.
Awhile ago you will recall I wrote a passionate entry about the anonymity of the internet, and how that can give you the freedom to pursue some choices that you might not otherwise. At the end you will recall that I mentioned a particular title by name.
After a long time at 604 MB, I moved up to 616 MB of the 733 MB that comprise the whole file. I'm am encouraged by this turn of events.
Stay tuned for more adventures from my modest life.
Saturday, February 21, 2004
I went to the Sheraton this afternoon. My sister had gotten a room there, to have a party, of sorts, where everyone could go water-sliding and/or hot-tubbing. (Thanks again for inviting me.) It was awesome. I had a great time. We stayed about 2 hours, and really, the only reason we left is, the pool area was swarming with kids by then, and it was getting a little crowded. I could have done more sliding but time was winding down on me. End result is an enthusiastic thumbs up from me.
I was sitting in the hot tub at one point, by myself. Everyone else had either left the pool, or were swimming without me. I was basically just sitting there, minding my own business. I had a sense, and I looked to my left. Just over my shoulder was the head of a little girl. I watched her for about a half second, and then she spit a mouthful of pool water, over my shoulder, and into the hot tub. Her task done, she pulled back, and went back into the wading pool. It was such an absurd moment I could only laugh.
I was sitting in the hot tub at one point, by myself. Everyone else had either left the pool, or were swimming without me. I was basically just sitting there, minding my own business. I had a sense, and I looked to my left. Just over my shoulder was the head of a little girl. I watched her for about a half second, and then she spit a mouthful of pool water, over my shoulder, and into the hot tub. Her task done, she pulled back, and went back into the wading pool. It was such an absurd moment I could only laugh.
Friday, February 20, 2004
I have just seen the video for 'Hey Ya' by Outkast. I have to admit, I'd heard the song before on the radio. I thought it fair to average, and certainly nothing to get excited about. It turns out that its the No. 1 video on Much Music.
I've seen the video. It is just BRUTAL!!! I haven't seen such crap in a long time. Is there no discerning opinion anymore? Do we just like what we're told to like? That video is the ugliest thing I've ever seen.
But that's just my opinion. I could be wrong.
I've seen the video. It is just BRUTAL!!! I haven't seen such crap in a long time. Is there no discerning opinion anymore? Do we just like what we're told to like? That video is the ugliest thing I've ever seen.
But that's just my opinion. I could be wrong.
Greetings from Chaos Central!
Its another day of trials and tribulation here, in the jungles of Central Water. The piranhas are once again nipping at my Achilles tendons. The vicious, ravenous beasts would see to cripple me, as I tread the filthy, crud infested waters of this place.
If only I had a booster pump. 50 horsepower ought to do. Then I could throw so much water, with so much pressure, that no piranha could get near my toes, to nibble at them with little teeth. The mongrelous bastards would have to fight to not be blown from the creek. But I would be safe, and secure. My path through treacherous water would be serene.
But I don't have a 50 horsepower pump. Its broken. It chugs and farts, trying to be might, but failing in abject misery. Thus I am reduced to bludgeoning my enemies with the pump. Wielding it like a giant cudgel, I crush my enemies with its prodigious size. My enemies are strong, they are persistent. More than a single blow is needed to fell them. And once felled, than can be renewed. Thus I face the horrors of an unstoppable mob.
I have grown weary from the battle. I must rest before mounting another charge. May peace be with you, as it has foresaken me now.
Its another day of trials and tribulation here, in the jungles of Central Water. The piranhas are once again nipping at my Achilles tendons. The vicious, ravenous beasts would see to cripple me, as I tread the filthy, crud infested waters of this place.
If only I had a booster pump. 50 horsepower ought to do. Then I could throw so much water, with so much pressure, that no piranha could get near my toes, to nibble at them with little teeth. The mongrelous bastards would have to fight to not be blown from the creek. But I would be safe, and secure. My path through treacherous water would be serene.
But I don't have a 50 horsepower pump. Its broken. It chugs and farts, trying to be might, but failing in abject misery. Thus I am reduced to bludgeoning my enemies with the pump. Wielding it like a giant cudgel, I crush my enemies with its prodigious size. My enemies are strong, they are persistent. More than a single blow is needed to fell them. And once felled, than can be renewed. Thus I face the horrors of an unstoppable mob.
I have grown weary from the battle. I must rest before mounting another charge. May peace be with you, as it has foresaken me now.
Thursday, February 19, 2004
Okay, and now for my BIG event!!!
A lot of you like to tease me about my evening meal. In specific, you like to tease me about the fact that I don't actually make an evening meal, but instead just warm something up in the microwave. Well folks, the joke is on you. I made supper tonight!!!
Admittedly, it was not a real ambitious meal. But do I really need an ambitious meal for just myself? I didn't think so.
I made tacos. I know, easy thing to pick. Nonetheless, I made the whole thing. I had no cheese or other toppings, so I made due with salsa. For the seasoning I had, I think I needed more hamburger. I should have thought more ahead but I got this great idea last night and kinda assumed I had everything I needed. I didn't. Plus, my cheese turned. It wasn't pretty. I spared you having to see that.
So, here's the photographic proof that I did, in fact, make my own supper. In your ear people!!!
Tacos 1
Tacos 2
Tacos 3
Tacos 4
Tacos 5
Tacos 6
Tacos 7
Tacos 8
Tacos 9
Tacos 10
A lot of you like to tease me about my evening meal. In specific, you like to tease me about the fact that I don't actually make an evening meal, but instead just warm something up in the microwave. Well folks, the joke is on you. I made supper tonight!!!
Admittedly, it was not a real ambitious meal. But do I really need an ambitious meal for just myself? I didn't think so.
I made tacos. I know, easy thing to pick. Nonetheless, I made the whole thing. I had no cheese or other toppings, so I made due with salsa. For the seasoning I had, I think I needed more hamburger. I should have thought more ahead but I got this great idea last night and kinda assumed I had everything I needed. I didn't. Plus, my cheese turned. It wasn't pretty. I spared you having to see that.
So, here's the photographic proof that I did, in fact, make my own supper. In your ear people!!!
Tacos 1
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Tacos 2
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Tacos 3
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Tacos 4
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Tacos 5
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Tacos 6
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Tacos 7
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Tacos 8
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Tacos 9
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Tacos 10
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Wednesday, February 18, 2004
Interesting turn of events this afternoon in the office of World Wide Water!!
I sold three computers. I like selling computers to my boss. He just calls me into his office and says, I want this stuff. He talks himself around to asking for a quote but, I'll give him that and he'll just okay it. He might as well just say, make me happy, and let Kim see the bill. It will be a multiple thousand dollar sale.
Other news coming out of my bosses office. We are getting a full time salesman. I think my boss wants to semi-retire. He'll still be president, but the operations of the business will be handled by others. We're getting a taste of that this week, because he is on vacation. He can't stay away completely, and spent a few hours here today, but for the most part he's gone.
His being here kind of put into stark perspective that he's best left out of a technical decision. Its not that he doesn't have the knowledge or skill. He definitely has that. But he's not applying it very judiciously. The response to a question is usually to just throw money at it. I needed some advice on membrane scaling and while he had the answer to my question, he didn't follow the logic path to it, but just suggested making random adjustments. I guess I'll have to just figure it out myself.
Anyway, back to the salesman. I'm at once happy about this, and nervous at the same time. I don't like looking over my shoulder. Its just a paranoid reaction, that I wish would go away. I'm sure I'm golden, as a friend is often known to say. I really should look into my paranoid reaction to things.
That's all from my world. Hope things are better in yours. I especially hope that some good things come Greg's way before the end of the day. He's had a nervous week so far, and today's events have not helped much. Be well Greg, and I hope things get better soon.
Toodles all!!!
I sold three computers. I like selling computers to my boss. He just calls me into his office and says, I want this stuff. He talks himself around to asking for a quote but, I'll give him that and he'll just okay it. He might as well just say, make me happy, and let Kim see the bill. It will be a multiple thousand dollar sale.
Other news coming out of my bosses office. We are getting a full time salesman. I think my boss wants to semi-retire. He'll still be president, but the operations of the business will be handled by others. We're getting a taste of that this week, because he is on vacation. He can't stay away completely, and spent a few hours here today, but for the most part he's gone.
His being here kind of put into stark perspective that he's best left out of a technical decision. Its not that he doesn't have the knowledge or skill. He definitely has that. But he's not applying it very judiciously. The response to a question is usually to just throw money at it. I needed some advice on membrane scaling and while he had the answer to my question, he didn't follow the logic path to it, but just suggested making random adjustments. I guess I'll have to just figure it out myself.
Anyway, back to the salesman. I'm at once happy about this, and nervous at the same time. I don't like looking over my shoulder. Its just a paranoid reaction, that I wish would go away. I'm sure I'm golden, as a friend is often known to say. I really should look into my paranoid reaction to things.
That's all from my world. Hope things are better in yours. I especially hope that some good things come Greg's way before the end of the day. He's had a nervous week so far, and today's events have not helped much. Be well Greg, and I hope things get better soon.
Toodles all!!!
Tuesday, February 17, 2004
For those of you that would like to vote on today's blog question, another piece of information to aid your decision. A picture of the aforementioned vehicle.
Sean's white 2000 GMC Jimmy
Sean's white 2000 GMC Jimmy
Okay people, its survey time again!!!
Bloq Question Of The Day:
Should Sean buy the white, 2000 GMC Jimmy SLE?
Things of note, its the mid-range package, with all the features of my 2000 Jimmy, but as its the SLE model, it will have some extra dangles, dingles, bee-bops and whiz-bangs. No leather though, and no sun roof. Mileage is in the 50,000 range. It is white in color, with gold trim. Those are the features I can recall, and the rest escapes my attention.
Please respond as usual. Toodles!
Bloq Question Of The Day:
Should Sean buy the white, 2000 GMC Jimmy SLE?
Things of note, its the mid-range package, with all the features of my 2000 Jimmy, but as its the SLE model, it will have some extra dangles, dingles, bee-bops and whiz-bangs. No leather though, and no sun roof. Mileage is in the 50,000 range. It is white in color, with gold trim. Those are the features I can recall, and the rest escapes my attention.
Please respond as usual. Toodles!
It is my sister Candace's birthday today. All of you that know how to contact her, please do so. Candace is a sweet, and caring soul, and deserves to hear from all of us, on this her special day.
In addition to a birthday gift that I gave her on Sunday evening, I would like to add this public message.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY CANDACE!!!
I am becoming concerned about the state of my office computer. There appears to be something glitchy in the hardware. Today, when I rebooted it, I got performance similar to what occured to me a week and a half ago. It rebooted but then when it switches to Windows desktop resolution, it would reboot itself. At least I know what the problem was this time, and could skip right over the diagnostic phase, and apply the solution.
However, I am still unsettled about why it is behaving in this way. It doesn't seem to be related to anything I've done with the machine, or settings I am making to the main OS environment. It seems to be just 'random' moments of flaky behaviour. I've checked system temps, fans, and the usual indicators of hardware failure, and its not that. I am left with the conclusion that its software based. But I'm getting no errors messages that scream at me 'THERE IS A PROBLEM' so I'm stumped about what to do next.
It seems to work fine, when its working. Leave well enough alone?
Toodles!
However, I am still unsettled about why it is behaving in this way. It doesn't seem to be related to anything I've done with the machine, or settings I am making to the main OS environment. It seems to be just 'random' moments of flaky behaviour. I've checked system temps, fans, and the usual indicators of hardware failure, and its not that. I am left with the conclusion that its software based. But I'm getting no errors messages that scream at me 'THERE IS A PROBLEM' so I'm stumped about what to do next.
It seems to work fine, when its working. Leave well enough alone?
Toodles!
Monday, February 16, 2004
Sunday, February 15, 2004
Saturday, February 14, 2004
I have a question.
What the hell is the deal with people in their cars?
I'm driving down a major collector road this afternoon. I'm in the right hand lane because I know that in a half kilometer or so, I'll want to turn right. The roadway is three lanes wide. In my lane I am the last in a string of about 4 vehicles that are reasonably close to equal space. Not tailgating, but a respectable safe distance in case of emergency. The other two lanes have more cars, spaced out in front and behind me.
These two nitwits just had to get ahead of me, and into the right lane in front of me. There was not enough room for them between myself and the car ahead of me. There was lots of room behind me. Nevertheless these gene pool winners had to speed up, get beyond me, and then dive into spots that weren't really there, in my lane. Why the HELL couldn't they just fall into the right lane behind me? You're not going to gain even 5 seconds with this irritating behaviour.
WHY!?!?!?!
What the hell is the deal with people in their cars?
I'm driving down a major collector road this afternoon. I'm in the right hand lane because I know that in a half kilometer or so, I'll want to turn right. The roadway is three lanes wide. In my lane I am the last in a string of about 4 vehicles that are reasonably close to equal space. Not tailgating, but a respectable safe distance in case of emergency. The other two lanes have more cars, spaced out in front and behind me.
These two nitwits just had to get ahead of me, and into the right lane in front of me. There was not enough room for them between myself and the car ahead of me. There was lots of room behind me. Nevertheless these gene pool winners had to speed up, get beyond me, and then dive into spots that weren't really there, in my lane. Why the HELL couldn't they just fall into the right lane behind me? You're not going to gain even 5 seconds with this irritating behaviour.
WHY!?!?!?!
Friday, February 13, 2004
Thursday, February 12, 2004
I was riding my exercise bike this evening, as part of my typical exercise regime. Its kinda boring to just sit there and pedal. I try to watch TV while I'm doing this, but for some reason I was not enthralled by the action. My mind drifted and my eyes wandered. I started looking at the stipple on ceiling. I don't know if I just have an active imagination or if anyone would have made this connection.
I saw, as a pattern in the stipple, the representation of male genitalia in an aroused state.
Its entirely possible that I have a defective brain.
I saw, as a pattern in the stipple, the representation of male genitalia in an aroused state.
Its entirely possible that I have a defective brain.
My computer is behaving strangely lately. Thus I've been monkeying with settings, trying to figure out what is going on with my system. I stumbled upon a setting for my graphics card that allows me to change my desktop orientation. I can rotate it 90, 180 or 270 degrees.
Why the hell would you turn your desktop sideways!?!
LMAO!!!!!!!
Why the hell would you turn your desktop sideways!?!
LMAO!!!!!!!
I just got an alert in my system tray. It said, I have a message from 'rebecka'.
My spam filter is usually efficient enough that I don't get alerts for unwanted emails anymore. If anything its too efficient, and I'm finding mail I want, in my Junk folder. (as was the case with Christiane when she was emailing from a different computer) I assumed this was an email I might want to read, so I clicked the alert to open the message.
rebecka thinks I need another 3 inches.
Who the hell is rebecka!?!?!
My spam filter is usually efficient enough that I don't get alerts for unwanted emails anymore. If anything its too efficient, and I'm finding mail I want, in my Junk folder. (as was the case with Christiane when she was emailing from a different computer) I assumed this was an email I might want to read, so I clicked the alert to open the message.
rebecka thinks I need another 3 inches.
Who the hell is rebecka!?!?!
Wednesday, February 11, 2004
I am disturbed by a trend I have witnessed among my friends, and for that matter in myself.
Everyone is asking to be shot. Counting my own plaintive cry, the total numbers four. Which is kind of remarkable, since my circle of friends and acquaintances is not that wide. (At least not when measured by the number of them I talk to day by day) In fact, at least half of the people I talk to daily, have asked me to shoot them. Of course I have not, because they are all too important.
The truly perplexing part of this equation is, the two people who most have cause to ask for some hot lead, have not made the 'please shoot me' request. In my left hand is Greg, who had no water at his house. None. The well, metaphorically speaking, was dry. Not a drop. Melting show in the tub for water. I consider that a pretty sufficient hardship. No requests to be shot. Greg and Irene are made of hardy stock. I would guess they just leveled up their stamina. In my right hand is Sean. Perhaps his tribulations were not as dire as the 'no water' at Casa del Schwalm but, for those of you that have seen the pictures, I think you'd agree, he had reason to be angry, or depressed. Spewing invectives with every breath he was but, there was no request to be shot. Sean has a healthy dose of mettle as well.
Its 8:00 and all seems quiet. Here's to hoping it stays that way, for me and all of you.
Toodles!
Everyone is asking to be shot. Counting my own plaintive cry, the total numbers four. Which is kind of remarkable, since my circle of friends and acquaintances is not that wide. (At least not when measured by the number of them I talk to day by day) In fact, at least half of the people I talk to daily, have asked me to shoot them. Of course I have not, because they are all too important.
The truly perplexing part of this equation is, the two people who most have cause to ask for some hot lead, have not made the 'please shoot me' request. In my left hand is Greg, who had no water at his house. None. The well, metaphorically speaking, was dry. Not a drop. Melting show in the tub for water. I consider that a pretty sufficient hardship. No requests to be shot. Greg and Irene are made of hardy stock. I would guess they just leveled up their stamina. In my right hand is Sean. Perhaps his tribulations were not as dire as the 'no water' at Casa del Schwalm but, for those of you that have seen the pictures, I think you'd agree, he had reason to be angry, or depressed. Spewing invectives with every breath he was but, there was no request to be shot. Sean has a healthy dose of mettle as well.
Its 8:00 and all seems quiet. Here's to hoping it stays that way, for me and all of you.
Toodles!
A couple random thoughts on my mind this morning.
I have a bag of baby carrots in my fridge, that I had intended to eat as a fruit/vegetable contribution to my lunches. However, I spent a lot of time away, and recieved fresh fruit from my mother, such that the bag of carrots has sat there for awhile. They still taste fine but I'm wondering, would their flavor be improved if I were to boil them up?
The dry mouth situation has not abated. While its not a huge problem, I do find myself intrusively curious about what is causing the condition.
There will be more random thoughts as a I think of them. Toodles!
I have a bag of baby carrots in my fridge, that I had intended to eat as a fruit/vegetable contribution to my lunches. However, I spent a lot of time away, and recieved fresh fruit from my mother, such that the bag of carrots has sat there for awhile. They still taste fine but I'm wondering, would their flavor be improved if I were to boil them up?
The dry mouth situation has not abated. While its not a huge problem, I do find myself intrusively curious about what is causing the condition.
There will be more random thoughts as a I think of them. Toodles!
Tuesday, February 10, 2004
Calling all amatuer physicians!
I have a medical problem of a very minor nature. So minor that I wouldn't begin to consider troubling an actual doctor with it. My mouth is dry lately. And not casually dry, or else I wouldn't be mentioning it. I'm talking about, parched, dry as the Sahara. I will find my tongue nearly glued to my mouth and it will require several concerted attempts to moisten the condition. This is not a normal situation for me.
Thoughts?
I have a medical problem of a very minor nature. So minor that I wouldn't begin to consider troubling an actual doctor with it. My mouth is dry lately. And not casually dry, or else I wouldn't be mentioning it. I'm talking about, parched, dry as the Sahara. I will find my tongue nearly glued to my mouth and it will require several concerted attempts to moisten the condition. This is not a normal situation for me.
Thoughts?
Monday, February 09, 2004
Well, that was a uselesss, god damn, day!
Monday is now only a memory in our collected minds. The events and moments that define Monday, February 9, 2004, are sealed for posterity, as the last moments of the work clock pass without incident. My contribution to the cumulative advancement of society's purpose? There wasn't any.
Today was a waste of my good time. God damn vehicle dealerships! They screwed around until 2:30 before examining my truck. Their conclusion? There is nothing wrong with it. The test probably took 10 minutes, and they pissed away my entire day because they can. I hate that. When do we, as consumers, step up and say no, you can't lie to us like this. If you say you'll look at it at 9:15, then dammit, by 10:15 you'd better have looked at it and reported back.
As it was I was on the phone a bunch of times today, trying to work, without being at work. It did not help that my laptop is a brick and completely useless to me. At least when I have that, I can look stuff up, and work on things. I'm having a lousy string of luck lately. I hope the tide turns.
That is all from G-Fresh today. I know you all must be tired from the other endeavours you have undertaken today. Be well and hopefully I have better news tomorrow.
Toodles!
Monday is now only a memory in our collected minds. The events and moments that define Monday, February 9, 2004, are sealed for posterity, as the last moments of the work clock pass without incident. My contribution to the cumulative advancement of society's purpose? There wasn't any.
Today was a waste of my good time. God damn vehicle dealerships! They screwed around until 2:30 before examining my truck. Their conclusion? There is nothing wrong with it. The test probably took 10 minutes, and they pissed away my entire day because they can. I hate that. When do we, as consumers, step up and say no, you can't lie to us like this. If you say you'll look at it at 9:15, then dammit, by 10:15 you'd better have looked at it and reported back.
As it was I was on the phone a bunch of times today, trying to work, without being at work. It did not help that my laptop is a brick and completely useless to me. At least when I have that, I can look stuff up, and work on things. I'm having a lousy string of luck lately. I hope the tide turns.
That is all from G-Fresh today. I know you all must be tired from the other endeavours you have undertaken today. Be well and hopefully I have better news tomorrow.
Toodles!
Sunday, February 08, 2004
This blog entry is probably more suited to Saskatoon residents, as some of you others may not have similar commercials in your cities. However, I think the question that I pose should make equal sense to Saskatoonians and non residents.
I've been listening to the radio lately. I'm not motivated enough to get some new CD's for my changer, and I'm bored with the current roster I have installed. Thus I have taken the path of least resistance and put my car stereo on a radio station. I got back and forth between C95 and Rock 102. Usually there is a decent song on one or the other, as I listen.
How many of you have listened to the radio ads? I know we've all heard them, found them annoying, and wish they weren't there. I concede that they are really superlative enough to warrant deep attention. However, there seem to be two particular ones that get enormous air time. One is the never-ending string of Cupid.com ads. I could accept these ads as legitimate if they seemed to be working on increasing usage of the Cupid.com site. I've been there. The ratio of, people signing in just to find out what it is, as opposed to those that are subscribing, does not seem to indicate a healthy revenue stream. Perhaps these ads are working better somewhere else but, for the amount of times I hear their ads, compared to the number of Saskatoon subscribers, I gotta think they are in a loss position right now.
Which brings me to the second ad that I hear incessantly, when I listen to Saskatoon radio, www.saskatoonjobshop.ca. I will admit, the radio ads made me check out the site, and the posting on that site got me my current job. And its the best job I've ever had. That aside though, I want to comment on the idiocy of the one particular ad.
The premise is, this guy's mom phones him up, pretends to be a stranger, and tells him to look at saskatoonjobshop.ca for a position that will bring him success and wealth. First of all I think the, pretending to be a stranger, angle is stupid and pointless. Who's not going to know the sound of their own mom's voice? Second, is how the ad ends. The guy sees through the 'stranger' facade, and as they end the call, tells his mom he'll be over for supper on Sunday. So the mother says, have you ever considered taking your dear mother out for supper? Let's think about this for a second. If you, mom, are phoning your son up to tell him to look for a job on saskatoonjobshop.ca doesn't that kinda suggest that he's either a) unemployed, or b) stuck in a lousy job that doesn't pay well. Either condition, I think, makes it a little tough for the guy to take his sweet mother out for dinner.
I hate a lack of consistency in a radio ad.
Toodles!
I've been listening to the radio lately. I'm not motivated enough to get some new CD's for my changer, and I'm bored with the current roster I have installed. Thus I have taken the path of least resistance and put my car stereo on a radio station. I got back and forth between C95 and Rock 102. Usually there is a decent song on one or the other, as I listen.
How many of you have listened to the radio ads? I know we've all heard them, found them annoying, and wish they weren't there. I concede that they are really superlative enough to warrant deep attention. However, there seem to be two particular ones that get enormous air time. One is the never-ending string of Cupid.com ads. I could accept these ads as legitimate if they seemed to be working on increasing usage of the Cupid.com site. I've been there. The ratio of, people signing in just to find out what it is, as opposed to those that are subscribing, does not seem to indicate a healthy revenue stream. Perhaps these ads are working better somewhere else but, for the amount of times I hear their ads, compared to the number of Saskatoon subscribers, I gotta think they are in a loss position right now.
Which brings me to the second ad that I hear incessantly, when I listen to Saskatoon radio, www.saskatoonjobshop.ca. I will admit, the radio ads made me check out the site, and the posting on that site got me my current job. And its the best job I've ever had. That aside though, I want to comment on the idiocy of the one particular ad.
The premise is, this guy's mom phones him up, pretends to be a stranger, and tells him to look at saskatoonjobshop.ca for a position that will bring him success and wealth. First of all I think the, pretending to be a stranger, angle is stupid and pointless. Who's not going to know the sound of their own mom's voice? Second, is how the ad ends. The guy sees through the 'stranger' facade, and as they end the call, tells his mom he'll be over for supper on Sunday. So the mother says, have you ever considered taking your dear mother out for supper? Let's think about this for a second. If you, mom, are phoning your son up to tell him to look for a job on saskatoonjobshop.ca doesn't that kinda suggest that he's either a) unemployed, or b) stuck in a lousy job that doesn't pay well. Either condition, I think, makes it a little tough for the guy to take his sweet mother out for dinner.
I hate a lack of consistency in a radio ad.
Toodles!
Friday, February 06, 2004
There is the distinct possibility that I'm cursed.
This morning was the morning from hell. I don't even know how to write it, with enough energy to accurately portray the series of events that bordered on catastrophe. Likewise, it is somewhat surreal to reach 2:00 in the afternoon, and discover that you've met all the challenges of the morning, and find yourself back at square one.
First bad thing to happen this morning was . . . the truck didn't start. What the hell is up with that? Its not THAT cold out. It should have turned over. I was not amused. Fine, deal with it, get a ride to work.
Second bad thing, after I arranged for an appointment to get it looked at, the guy from TJ Electric shows up, to review the SCADA system (remote monitoring) in Okanese, and discuss the potential for a similar system for Balmoral. I'd forgotten about that. So, I had to deal with this guy, and shelf the, fix the truck, plan.
Third bad thing, we install PCanywhere on my desktop computer, as that is the method by which is remote monitor this treatment plant. We install and there's the typical, request to reboot. Fine, I gotta hook up modem cables anyway. The phone cables take me several minutes, and in the mean time, my computer is rebooting, over and over again.
Fourth bad thing, the guy who's here to show me how to remotely sample the system in Okanese, can not get his software to work. He's sitting in my guest chair, working on his laptop, while I try to fix mine.
Bad things three and four continue to battle each other for dominance through the rest of the morning, and right up until lunch. Finally, after an exhaustive process I find out what the problem is, and am able to move towards fixing it. Its 12:!5 now, and I finally go for lunch.
Fifth bad thing to happen this day, my truck STILL won't start, even though its considerably warmer, and I've had it plugged in for 5 hours. I'm honked right off about that but, my boss has a battery charger and about 1 minute from that and she turns over finally. Still, Sherwood and I are going to have a discussion about what the hell is going on with my truck.
So its been a collection of misadventures in my life today. How are all of you?
P.S. Thanks to all that responded to my 'poll'. I appreciate the feedback.
This morning was the morning from hell. I don't even know how to write it, with enough energy to accurately portray the series of events that bordered on catastrophe. Likewise, it is somewhat surreal to reach 2:00 in the afternoon, and discover that you've met all the challenges of the morning, and find yourself back at square one.
First bad thing to happen this morning was . . . the truck didn't start. What the hell is up with that? Its not THAT cold out. It should have turned over. I was not amused. Fine, deal with it, get a ride to work.
Second bad thing, after I arranged for an appointment to get it looked at, the guy from TJ Electric shows up, to review the SCADA system (remote monitoring) in Okanese, and discuss the potential for a similar system for Balmoral. I'd forgotten about that. So, I had to deal with this guy, and shelf the, fix the truck, plan.
Third bad thing, we install PCanywhere on my desktop computer, as that is the method by which is remote monitor this treatment plant. We install and there's the typical, request to reboot. Fine, I gotta hook up modem cables anyway. The phone cables take me several minutes, and in the mean time, my computer is rebooting, over and over again.
Fourth bad thing, the guy who's here to show me how to remotely sample the system in Okanese, can not get his software to work. He's sitting in my guest chair, working on his laptop, while I try to fix mine.
Bad things three and four continue to battle each other for dominance through the rest of the morning, and right up until lunch. Finally, after an exhaustive process I find out what the problem is, and am able to move towards fixing it. Its 12:!5 now, and I finally go for lunch.
Fifth bad thing to happen this day, my truck STILL won't start, even though its considerably warmer, and I've had it plugged in for 5 hours. I'm honked right off about that but, my boss has a battery charger and about 1 minute from that and she turns over finally. Still, Sherwood and I are going to have a discussion about what the hell is going on with my truck.
So its been a collection of misadventures in my life today. How are all of you?
P.S. Thanks to all that responded to my 'poll'. I appreciate the feedback.
Thursday, February 05, 2004
Okay, we're going to do something a little different today. Our post for the day is going to be a 'Blog Question Of The Day' but with a twist.
Unless I subscribe to the 'subscription' Blogger model, I can't collect statistics on my site, how many people are reading it, and so on. I have contemplated going that route but, it seems like a poor choice to make since I can get around the 'no pictures' problem by posting to them to my SaskTel web site, and linking to that in the blog. The only other thing I want is the counter, and we're going to try and get around that right here.
Part one of this mysterious blog posting is, to collect site statistics. Do you read my blog? If so, please respond to the email posted on the page. There are probably some of you that want to remain anonymous. I'm okay with that. Set up a bogus Hotmail (or Yahoo, Mail.com, Netscape, etc) and email me with 'I read your blog' I just want numbers. I don't need names.
Part two. This is an issue that has become more and more prominent lately. It came to a head with my 'Janet Jackson' post of a couple days ago. The Question Of The Day is, do you think I should pursue some type of professional writing assignment? I'm not looking for a pat on the back. Several people have said I should, so I'm just curious about whether this is a general consensus or whether I'm only hearing from half of my readership.
Its all voluntary. I'm just curious about these two things. Thanks for listening.
Toodles!
P.S. I couldn't think of anything to rant about today. I spent the day being pissed off about Mouse. I didn't want to spit venom about that yet again. Thus, my lame appeal for feedback.
Unless I subscribe to the 'subscription' Blogger model, I can't collect statistics on my site, how many people are reading it, and so on. I have contemplated going that route but, it seems like a poor choice to make since I can get around the 'no pictures' problem by posting to them to my SaskTel web site, and linking to that in the blog. The only other thing I want is the counter, and we're going to try and get around that right here.
Part one of this mysterious blog posting is, to collect site statistics. Do you read my blog? If so, please respond to the email posted on the page. There are probably some of you that want to remain anonymous. I'm okay with that. Set up a bogus Hotmail (or Yahoo, Mail.com, Netscape, etc) and email me with 'I read your blog' I just want numbers. I don't need names.
Part two. This is an issue that has become more and more prominent lately. It came to a head with my 'Janet Jackson' post of a couple days ago. The Question Of The Day is, do you think I should pursue some type of professional writing assignment? I'm not looking for a pat on the back. Several people have said I should, so I'm just curious about whether this is a general consensus or whether I'm only hearing from half of my readership.
Its all voluntary. I'm just curious about these two things. Thanks for listening.
Toodles!
P.S. I couldn't think of anything to rant about today. I spent the day being pissed off about Mouse. I didn't want to spit venom about that yet again. Thus, my lame appeal for feedback.
Wednesday, February 04, 2004
Tuesday, February 03, 2004
Isn't this just so typical? Haven't we got bigger, more important things to get excited about?
Okay, she exposed her breast. Big deal. And it wasn't even complete nudity. There was some stupid piece of jewelry covering the part that, by fairly common agreement, is essential to determining whether a woman is revealing too much or not. And now they want federal inquiries on decency, fines, penalties, and on and on and on until you can't blather on about it any more because your throat is hoarse.
Its a boob. For crying out loud people, can't we put this in the right context? There are soldiers dying in a foreign land, for a reason that is turning out to be spurious. There are children being abused, and living on the street, selling their souls for $5 and the chance to eat for the first time in a week. There are people dying of diseases we can't cure. With all of this other heartbreak going on, real people suffering real indignities, the sight of one woman's partially exposed breast, is the thing that we can't get past?
Grow up people. All the adults in the world ought to have the sense of reason to know that seeing one breast will not bring down upon us the fall of the heavens. And to those that scream in anguish 'think of the children!' I have some wisdom. Kids don't care. Curious they might be, but offended they are not. Nor should you be. Its one breast, on one stage, at one event. Was it the most tactful choice to have made. No, probably not, considering the zealots who live for an opportunity to get excited about something like this. But is it indecent? Hardly.
Its a breast people. Every woman has them. Grow up, and find something more important to crusade about.
Okay, she exposed her breast. Big deal. And it wasn't even complete nudity. There was some stupid piece of jewelry covering the part that, by fairly common agreement, is essential to determining whether a woman is revealing too much or not. And now they want federal inquiries on decency, fines, penalties, and on and on and on until you can't blather on about it any more because your throat is hoarse.
Its a boob. For crying out loud people, can't we put this in the right context? There are soldiers dying in a foreign land, for a reason that is turning out to be spurious. There are children being abused, and living on the street, selling their souls for $5 and the chance to eat for the first time in a week. There are people dying of diseases we can't cure. With all of this other heartbreak going on, real people suffering real indignities, the sight of one woman's partially exposed breast, is the thing that we can't get past?
Grow up people. All the adults in the world ought to have the sense of reason to know that seeing one breast will not bring down upon us the fall of the heavens. And to those that scream in anguish 'think of the children!' I have some wisdom. Kids don't care. Curious they might be, but offended they are not. Nor should you be. Its one breast, on one stage, at one event. Was it the most tactful choice to have made. No, probably not, considering the zealots who live for an opportunity to get excited about something like this. But is it indecent? Hardly.
Its a breast people. Every woman has them. Grow up, and find something more important to crusade about.
Monday, February 02, 2004
Okay, rant number two for today.
Why the hell don't people just listen to me!?!
Here we are again with this infamous plant, who's name I will no longer utter. Back in December we were experiencing troubles with this plant. I gathered up all the data, and did some fairly intensive analysis of what was going on, what the problem was, what was the cause, and how to fix it. After all of that, I came to a conclusion, and wrote a nice, very objective, non-accusatory letter outlining the cause of the problem, and what the solution should be. I tried to be even-handed, thorough, and completely non-judgemental.
I got my ass handed to me on a platter. The consultant, the one we know and love, called my boss, and bitched me out about this letter. I wasn't blaming anyone, but it took complete offense to it, and basically ripped me a new one. To say he was angry would be putting it mildly. And this was to a letter I had attempted to keep friendly, and professional.
A couple weeks passed and the situation did not improve. I wrote another letter, again trying not to honk anyone off. In short form, I stated that the system was continuing to perform poorly, for the reasons I had already outlined, and we still needed to change operation of the system to improve results. My polite letter was again responded to with vitriole.
Now it is February, and the town's co-owner, in the form of provincial water governing body, has decided to speak up. First he calls me, and asks me what the situation is, and what needs to be done to make things work better. I explain what my position is, and what I think will remedy our problem. He thanks me for the opinion and we hang up.
Not 30 minutes later I get a fax from the consulting engineer. Sequencing of the plant will be changed immediately, to exactly what I had suggested almost two months ago.
This drives me up the wall. The consultant can stick it in my left ear, and scream that we aren't going to change the sequencing. Even though it is obviously contributing to the deterioration of performance in the total water treatment package. My good intentions and due dilligence is stomped on by arrogance and pride. Then one call from someone else, and we reverse directions immediately.
AARRRGGGGHHHHH!!!!!!
Why the hell don't people just listen to me!?!
Here we are again with this infamous plant, who's name I will no longer utter. Back in December we were experiencing troubles with this plant. I gathered up all the data, and did some fairly intensive analysis of what was going on, what the problem was, what was the cause, and how to fix it. After all of that, I came to a conclusion, and wrote a nice, very objective, non-accusatory letter outlining the cause of the problem, and what the solution should be. I tried to be even-handed, thorough, and completely non-judgemental.
I got my ass handed to me on a platter. The consultant, the one we know and love, called my boss, and bitched me out about this letter. I wasn't blaming anyone, but it took complete offense to it, and basically ripped me a new one. To say he was angry would be putting it mildly. And this was to a letter I had attempted to keep friendly, and professional.
A couple weeks passed and the situation did not improve. I wrote another letter, again trying not to honk anyone off. In short form, I stated that the system was continuing to perform poorly, for the reasons I had already outlined, and we still needed to change operation of the system to improve results. My polite letter was again responded to with vitriole.
Now it is February, and the town's co-owner, in the form of provincial water governing body, has decided to speak up. First he calls me, and asks me what the situation is, and what needs to be done to make things work better. I explain what my position is, and what I think will remedy our problem. He thanks me for the opinion and we hang up.
Not 30 minutes later I get a fax from the consulting engineer. Sequencing of the plant will be changed immediately, to exactly what I had suggested almost two months ago.
This drives me up the wall. The consultant can stick it in my left ear, and scream that we aren't going to change the sequencing. Even though it is obviously contributing to the deterioration of performance in the total water treatment package. My good intentions and due dilligence is stomped on by arrogance and pride. Then one call from someone else, and we reverse directions immediately.
AARRRGGGGHHHHH!!!!!!
Okay, I have to rant. Again. Stupid people!
What the hell is wrong with some people? Why don't they sit down, and figure out their situation, before getting all excited and starting to phone? I don't understand this.
This guy, on one of our jobs, phoned this morning wanting to know where his equipment was. We knew nothing about it, as we figured that all the material was on site and either, installed, or waiting to be installed. There was no news about additional parts to supply. But this guy is all excited, and why isn't the unit complete, and when are you coming to fix it, and where are the parts. Your basic whine of anyone that wants something, and has no control over its delivery.
So I get on this, and see what's wrong, and how to fix it. I take the excited guy out of the equation and talk to my technician, who's on site trying to finish this job out. I go through with him everything on the unit, and what's wrong, what's missing, and what do we need to do. I get myself an accurate read on the situation and go about remedying it.
A few minutes later we get another call. The excited guy was completely out to lunch, and all parts were on site, and installed. Some of them had not been hooked up, and thus looked defective when they were just inoperative. This nitwit had to go and stir up all this fuss, when all he really needed to do was check to see why things weren't working.
I hate people that do that! Examine your situation critically, and not from the hip, and often the solution is right in front of you. Don't use the phone just because its handy! Use your eyes, and you sense of ration. Doesn't anyone think anymore!?!
What the hell is wrong with some people? Why don't they sit down, and figure out their situation, before getting all excited and starting to phone? I don't understand this.
This guy, on one of our jobs, phoned this morning wanting to know where his equipment was. We knew nothing about it, as we figured that all the material was on site and either, installed, or waiting to be installed. There was no news about additional parts to supply. But this guy is all excited, and why isn't the unit complete, and when are you coming to fix it, and where are the parts. Your basic whine of anyone that wants something, and has no control over its delivery.
So I get on this, and see what's wrong, and how to fix it. I take the excited guy out of the equation and talk to my technician, who's on site trying to finish this job out. I go through with him everything on the unit, and what's wrong, what's missing, and what do we need to do. I get myself an accurate read on the situation and go about remedying it.
A few minutes later we get another call. The excited guy was completely out to lunch, and all parts were on site, and installed. Some of them had not been hooked up, and thus looked defective when they were just inoperative. This nitwit had to go and stir up all this fuss, when all he really needed to do was check to see why things weren't working.
I hate people that do that! Examine your situation critically, and not from the hip, and often the solution is right in front of you. Don't use the phone just because its handy! Use your eyes, and you sense of ration. Doesn't anyone think anymore!?!
Sunday, February 01, 2004
Saturday, January 31, 2004
I gotta get something off my chest.
What's with these idiots who bring $100 bills to a hockey game? Who carries around $100 bills anyway? Okay, I could understand if you were going to Future Shop to buy a big screen TV. Having hundreds would be the most expedient way to pay for the purchase in cash. But to a hockey game!?! What's the typical cost for something you might want? $4 or $5 for a drink, or some food and a drink. Even if you buy a round of beers for you and your 3 friends, that's still not even $20, and you're going to get back $80+ in return.
It pisses me off. What, are you trying to show off? What practical purpose could their be to having a wallet full of $100 bills? Sooner or later you have to spend them, and the likelihood is, whatever you want to buy is not going to consume $100. You're going to drain somebody's cash drawer. Isn't it kinda rude then, to expect that someone can make change for your flashy $100 bill?
I don't understand it. If someone knows the answer, please enlighten me. Otherwise, I'll be over the corner muttering curses.
What's with these idiots who bring $100 bills to a hockey game? Who carries around $100 bills anyway? Okay, I could understand if you were going to Future Shop to buy a big screen TV. Having hundreds would be the most expedient way to pay for the purchase in cash. But to a hockey game!?! What's the typical cost for something you might want? $4 or $5 for a drink, or some food and a drink. Even if you buy a round of beers for you and your 3 friends, that's still not even $20, and you're going to get back $80+ in return.
It pisses me off. What, are you trying to show off? What practical purpose could their be to having a wallet full of $100 bills? Sooner or later you have to spend them, and the likelihood is, whatever you want to buy is not going to consume $100. You're going to drain somebody's cash drawer. Isn't it kinda rude then, to expect that someone can make change for your flashy $100 bill?
I don't understand it. If someone knows the answer, please enlighten me. Otherwise, I'll be over the corner muttering curses.
Friday, January 30, 2004
And it continues . . .
2-1/2 hours more spent with the demon that haunts me. I've been to battle. I've seen war. It never ceases, never ends, never slackens or gives any quarter. Just brutal, unrelenting punishment.
And the result? A solution that makes no one happy, but similarly makes no one angry. I hate conclusions that don't result in some amount of contentment.
2-1/2 hours more spent with the demon that haunts me. I've been to battle. I've seen war. It never ceases, never ends, never slackens or gives any quarter. Just brutal, unrelenting punishment.
And the result? A solution that makes no one happy, but similarly makes no one angry. I hate conclusions that don't result in some amount of contentment.
For all of you who have wondered about Boris, and who he is, I snapped a quick picture of him the last time I was on site.
Boris
Boris
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Thursday, January 29, 2004
Here is an update to yesterday's battery troubles. I know you all love this so . . . WE HAVE PICTURES!!!
Picture #1
Picture #2
There will be further pictures from my life, at a later date.
Toodles!
Picture #1
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Picture #2
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There will be further pictures from my life, at a later date.
Toodles!
Wednesday, January 28, 2004
Update to the earlier post about my battery.
Again, the service department is still populated by idiots. I finally got to speak to a representative. He seemed far less than concerned about my problem. As I correctly predicted, their answer was for ME to have it hauled into their shop, so they could look at it at their convenience. As I'm in WATSON and not SASKATOON, this is not really an option.
And why isn't it an option? Well friends, as any right thinking, logical person would have concluded, my battery was completely wrecked, and needed to be replaced. Boosting it and driving to Sherwood in Saskatoon is not an option. I know the suspense is killing you so I'll explain why its not an option.
I blew up my battery! That's right, exploded it. Okay, that might be a little overboard, but I did destroy it. One of our service guys got it into the car wash this afternoon, and took things apart. Once it was apart it was easy to see why it wouldn't start, hold a charge, worked some times and didn't work other times.
The plastic housing that encompasses the chemical cells that make a battery, a battery, was burst. The plastic ripped almost completely around. It actually folds out like a convenient door right now. This is not by design. I guess the liquid inside must have froze, expanded, and stressed the plastic until it broke. I have pictures and any one that wants to see is welcome. I'm going to be creating a place for me to upload pictures, to link to in this blog, but its not set up yet tonight. Just ask if you wanna see the pics.
And so ended my day. New battery, installed for me, which I greatly appreciated, and all is back to right in my world. This does not absolve Sherwood of their lack of interest, and I'm still peeved at them. But, I'm back in the driving game, so that much makes me glad.
Toodles all, and be well.
Again, the service department is still populated by idiots. I finally got to speak to a representative. He seemed far less than concerned about my problem. As I correctly predicted, their answer was for ME to have it hauled into their shop, so they could look at it at their convenience. As I'm in WATSON and not SASKATOON, this is not really an option.
And why isn't it an option? Well friends, as any right thinking, logical person would have concluded, my battery was completely wrecked, and needed to be replaced. Boosting it and driving to Sherwood in Saskatoon is not an option. I know the suspense is killing you so I'll explain why its not an option.
I blew up my battery! That's right, exploded it. Okay, that might be a little overboard, but I did destroy it. One of our service guys got it into the car wash this afternoon, and took things apart. Once it was apart it was easy to see why it wouldn't start, hold a charge, worked some times and didn't work other times.
The plastic housing that encompasses the chemical cells that make a battery, a battery, was burst. The plastic ripped almost completely around. It actually folds out like a convenient door right now. This is not by design. I guess the liquid inside must have froze, expanded, and stressed the plastic until it broke. I have pictures and any one that wants to see is welcome. I'm going to be creating a place for me to upload pictures, to link to in this blog, but its not set up yet tonight. Just ask if you wanna see the pics.
And so ended my day. New battery, installed for me, which I greatly appreciated, and all is back to right in my world. This does not absolve Sherwood of their lack of interest, and I'm still peeved at them. But, I'm back in the driving game, so that much makes me glad.
Toodles all, and be well.
It is time. I can hold back the sense of outrage no longer.
My truck, the new truck, the bend over and take it like a man payment truck, does not work. That part I could be okay with, I think, if it made sense why it didn't work. Instead, it chooses to be mysterious, which is confounding me to great heights.
First of all, who ordered this god damn weather!?! I mean, this is freakin' retarded! I have a fair sense of outrage about that too. What's with this, all of a sudden being -40 crap? I mean, its -40 C air temperature out there! Its bloody retarded! And why, as humans, are we still trying to have a normal existence? Shouldn't we be bundled up in our respective igloos?
Back to the truck, that vile perpetrator. Its a brick. There's no more descriptive noun for what its been turned into. To the point, it doesn't do a damn thing. There are times when it won't supply enough electricity to power the remote door locks. When it sits outside, it is a total brick. But then again, its not. The headlights will flash, but the radio will have lost power and be reset to 12:00. Sometimes it seems fine, cold but fine, but won't start. Check that, it never starts when its outside, but sometimes it does everything else but start.
All that I could manage. What I can no abide is the complete lack of sense to be made from things. Okay, its a brick. Sitting in the parking lot outside, a battery charger could not but a charge to the battery. Move it into the car wash for 10 minutes and it acts like its a summer day. What the hell is going on?
Now, to compound all of that, the sons of bitches at Sherwood service will not call me back. What if I wasn't in Watson, but instead parked at Muskowekwan First Nation, which is in the middle of piss all? What then? Oh, so sorry. Bring it in for service in two weeks and we'll look at it. Look at it! Its broke now! I need it back, NOW! And I can't even get someone on the phone.
If you need me, I'll be over here in the corner, beating my monkey severely.
My truck, the new truck, the bend over and take it like a man payment truck, does not work. That part I could be okay with, I think, if it made sense why it didn't work. Instead, it chooses to be mysterious, which is confounding me to great heights.
First of all, who ordered this god damn weather!?! I mean, this is freakin' retarded! I have a fair sense of outrage about that too. What's with this, all of a sudden being -40 crap? I mean, its -40 C air temperature out there! Its bloody retarded! And why, as humans, are we still trying to have a normal existence? Shouldn't we be bundled up in our respective igloos?
Back to the truck, that vile perpetrator. Its a brick. There's no more descriptive noun for what its been turned into. To the point, it doesn't do a damn thing. There are times when it won't supply enough electricity to power the remote door locks. When it sits outside, it is a total brick. But then again, its not. The headlights will flash, but the radio will have lost power and be reset to 12:00. Sometimes it seems fine, cold but fine, but won't start. Check that, it never starts when its outside, but sometimes it does everything else but start.
All that I could manage. What I can no abide is the complete lack of sense to be made from things. Okay, its a brick. Sitting in the parking lot outside, a battery charger could not but a charge to the battery. Move it into the car wash for 10 minutes and it acts like its a summer day. What the hell is going on?
Now, to compound all of that, the sons of bitches at Sherwood service will not call me back. What if I wasn't in Watson, but instead parked at Muskowekwan First Nation, which is in the middle of piss all? What then? Oh, so sorry. Bring it in for service in two weeks and we'll look at it. Look at it! Its broke now! I need it back, NOW! And I can't even get someone on the phone.
If you need me, I'll be over here in the corner, beating my monkey severely.