My boss asked me to find a document called "Written Representations" in a file today. This is the procedure I have to go through in order to find stuff around here:
1. First I have to open the pleadings index in Word and search for the words "Written Representations". In this case, there were 107 references to "Written Representations" in a 34-page list of 500 documents.
2. Once I find the specific Written Representations I'm looking for, I take note of their pleading number: in this case, it was 453.
3. Then I close this pleading index and open the sub-file index, which is 22 pages long and contains 144 different boxes of documents.
4. I search for pleading #453 and discover it is located in Box 48L, in slot 110. Thankfully, this box is still onsite. Most of them are located offsite and have to be ordered from Records Management.
5. Then I have to go to the file room, find the box, lift the heavy box off the shelf and search through it for pleading #453.
6. It's a motion record so once I find it, I have to open it to look for the Written Representations, which are located at Tab 17.
7. Then I have to go the photocopy room, unbind the motion record and copy the 20 pages of Written Representations.
8. I also decide to scan the document so that if he ever decides he wants it again, I can access it easily on my computer as opposed to having to physically find it.
9. I send the document to myself from the scanner, re-bind the motion record, return it to the box, put the box back on the shelf, put the photocopy in his tray, go back to my desk and save the documents on the system for future reference.
10. All of this takes approximately 15-30 minutes and I have to do this over and over, every day.
Now you know why I hate my job!
Friday, June 01, 2007
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Ottawa Food
We had some amazing meals in Ottawa which was actually quite surprising since all of my memories of Ottawa (I lived there for 6+ years) do not include food. As mentioned previously, the breakfast at the Mayflower is a tradition since this restaurant has been around since the 70's. Here's a short review, in case you're interested: Mayflower
We had done some research on restaurants before heading to Ottawa and I knew all about the touristy-type places in the Byward Market. I also remember a number of "Mexican" (I put that in quotes because you and I both know my definition of Mexican food has changed somewhat in the last few years) and Tex-Mex places where I might have tasted my first margarita but I wondered whether there was any real Mexican food to be found. I read about the Azteca online and learned it was owned by a Mexican family so I thought that bode well for authentic Mexican food. We were amazed and charmed by this little restaurant.
We arrived for a typical Mexican lunch, at around 2:30PM. The place was not busy but the only table in the window overlooking the busy marketplace was already taken so, when invited to look around by the non-Mexican waitress, we headed upstairs and found a delightful room with a fresh breeze blowing in the second storey through an open window. We grabbed a table in the corner and looked at the menu. Rob was still feeling a little overheated so we ordered tap water and micheladas con Corona. It was nice to see this refreshing libation offered (a Michelada is actually beer, served over ice with lime and hot sauce or salsa) and I thought it was a great start to our lunch!
Despite it being a hot, sunny day, we both decided we wanted soup so I ordered us some Azteca soup. I love tortilla soup when in Mexico and have tried many different varieties there but this soup was sensational! It came steaming to the table in two large bowls containing tortilla chips, chicken, cheese, avocado, and sour cream in a tomato broth and the cost was only $5! We decided to stick with small dishes to share so we could sample more of this delicious food and finally settled on ensalada de nopales (cactus salad), shrimp sopes and mushrooms stuffed with guacamole and coated in melted cheese. Everything was beautifully presented and extremely tasty. This was the real deal! I took some photos of the food and the restaurant (see previous blog). For more information on this great little restaurant, check out their website at Calendario Azteca.
After lunch, we took a much needed walk around the market to help digest lunch and then headed back to the hotel for a much needed siesta. :) Our choices for dinner were numerous but I knew I wanted to stay away from the overly-trendy Byward Market because the Ottawa Senators had just won the Eastern Division final late that afternoon and hockey fans were everywhere (and quite obnoxious too!). I had read about the Metropolitan Brasserie and realized it was kitty corner to our hotel. I figured it was just high-scale enough to thwart most hockey fans and I was right. The patio was coolish and dark so we opted to eat inside. The restaurant is styled after a Parisian brasserie and we were quite impressed with (1) the drinks menu, (2) the wine list and (3) the food menu!
Rob ordered draft beer and I tried a tequila champagne cocktail: ice cold tequila (Sauza Gold, I think) served in a champagne flute with some bubbly and a salted rim. It was an interesting drink but not one I would order again. I settled on a glass of merlot with my steak and frites and Rob ordered the pork tenderloin. The food and service were great. Our waiter was attentive without being intrusive. The restaurant was boisterous and there is a separate bar from the eating area which seemed pretty lively when we left around 11PM after our late dinner. I would recommend it but only if you're not on a budget: Metropolitain Brasserie
And here are Rob's photos from our trip.
We had done some research on restaurants before heading to Ottawa and I knew all about the touristy-type places in the Byward Market. I also remember a number of "Mexican" (I put that in quotes because you and I both know my definition of Mexican food has changed somewhat in the last few years) and Tex-Mex places where I might have tasted my first margarita but I wondered whether there was any real Mexican food to be found. I read about the Azteca online and learned it was owned by a Mexican family so I thought that bode well for authentic Mexican food. We were amazed and charmed by this little restaurant.
We arrived for a typical Mexican lunch, at around 2:30PM. The place was not busy but the only table in the window overlooking the busy marketplace was already taken so, when invited to look around by the non-Mexican waitress, we headed upstairs and found a delightful room with a fresh breeze blowing in the second storey through an open window. We grabbed a table in the corner and looked at the menu. Rob was still feeling a little overheated so we ordered tap water and micheladas con Corona. It was nice to see this refreshing libation offered (a Michelada is actually beer, served over ice with lime and hot sauce or salsa) and I thought it was a great start to our lunch!
Despite it being a hot, sunny day, we both decided we wanted soup so I ordered us some Azteca soup. I love tortilla soup when in Mexico and have tried many different varieties there but this soup was sensational! It came steaming to the table in two large bowls containing tortilla chips, chicken, cheese, avocado, and sour cream in a tomato broth and the cost was only $5! We decided to stick with small dishes to share so we could sample more of this delicious food and finally settled on ensalada de nopales (cactus salad), shrimp sopes and mushrooms stuffed with guacamole and coated in melted cheese. Everything was beautifully presented and extremely tasty. This was the real deal! I took some photos of the food and the restaurant (see previous blog). For more information on this great little restaurant, check out their website at Calendario Azteca.
After lunch, we took a much needed walk around the market to help digest lunch and then headed back to the hotel for a much needed siesta. :) Our choices for dinner were numerous but I knew I wanted to stay away from the overly-trendy Byward Market because the Ottawa Senators had just won the Eastern Division final late that afternoon and hockey fans were everywhere (and quite obnoxious too!). I had read about the Metropolitan Brasserie and realized it was kitty corner to our hotel. I figured it was just high-scale enough to thwart most hockey fans and I was right. The patio was coolish and dark so we opted to eat inside. The restaurant is styled after a Parisian brasserie and we were quite impressed with (1) the drinks menu, (2) the wine list and (3) the food menu!
Rob ordered draft beer and I tried a tequila champagne cocktail: ice cold tequila (Sauza Gold, I think) served in a champagne flute with some bubbly and a salted rim. It was an interesting drink but not one I would order again. I settled on a glass of merlot with my steak and frites and Rob ordered the pork tenderloin. The food and service were great. Our waiter was attentive without being intrusive. The restaurant was boisterous and there is a separate bar from the eating area which seemed pretty lively when we left around 11PM after our late dinner. I would recommend it but only if you're not on a budget: Metropolitain Brasserie
And here are Rob's photos from our trip.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
On The Road Again ...
Rob and I spent a lot of time on the highway this last long weekend, between Toronto and Ottawa. We noticed a lot of bad drivers on the road and, therefore, a lot of (in my opinion) unnecessary traffic snarls.
We've decided that mini-vans are the scourge of the earth. Nine times out of ten, the people driving these view-blocking mammoths don't have a clue about how to drive on the highway. We figure it is because they spend more time driving between home and Wal-Mart and hockey arenas than actually doing any consistent highway driving. The rule in Ontario and, in fact, most roads in North America and the UK (according to Rob) is that you drive in the right lane unless you are passing someone in the right lane. You are supposed to signal your intentions, move over to the left lane, pass the car moving slower than you and return to the right lane.
But some drivers get into the left lane, see it is clear and remain there, forgetting to check their rearview mirrors for traffic coming up fast behind them. We passed more cars from the right hand lane than was necessary. And we weren't the only ones doing it. Invariably, a mini-van was tottering along in the passing lane, doing just over the speed limit, which a hugh line of cars formed behind them, hoping they'd get the hint and move over. I can totally understand how road rage develops. I wasn't even driving but I was getting frustrated with these idiots. Anyways, enough of that rant. Watch your driving next time you're on the highway!
Ottawa itself was such a treat. I haven't been there in almost two years and it is as gorgeous as I remember it. We stayed at the Westin, right downtown and attached to the Rideau Centre. We were close to Elgin Street, the Sparks Street Mall, Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal and the Byward Market. The hotel was under construction so we were given a free room upgrade which afforded us a spectacular view of the many of the above-mentioned sites. We arrived late on Friday night and crashed after the long drive. Saturday morning saw us up early, raring to go on a walking tour that I had planned for Rob. We started with a hearty breakfast at the Mayflower on Elgin Street. Good food, lousy service (why can't waiters multi-task?) and a high price of almost $30 for our meals and a marginal tip.
We walked south on Elgin Street, West on Waverley Street (I used to live in an apartment building on Waverley) and then north on Bank Street. We veered slightly off course because of the construction on Bank Street but ended up on the Sparks Street Mall and walked east the length of it, back to Elgin Street and then across the street to the War Memorial. As you can imagine, this Memorial has special meaning to me so we stopped and took a lot of great photos. I will post the links to pics at the end of this blog. Then we headed across the street and up to the Hill.
Canada's Parliament buildings and grounds are readily accessible to tourists and, because of the fabulous weather, the place was really crowded with people from many different cultures. We toured all around them, front and back and took tons of photos. We walked along the Canal and viewed a boat going through the locks on the Rideau Canal. We finally had to return to the hotel because we were overheated and short on water. Anyway, here's a few pics to keep you going until I continue this mini trip report:
Ottawa Photos
We've decided that mini-vans are the scourge of the earth. Nine times out of ten, the people driving these view-blocking mammoths don't have a clue about how to drive on the highway. We figure it is because they spend more time driving between home and Wal-Mart and hockey arenas than actually doing any consistent highway driving. The rule in Ontario and, in fact, most roads in North America and the UK (according to Rob) is that you drive in the right lane unless you are passing someone in the right lane. You are supposed to signal your intentions, move over to the left lane, pass the car moving slower than you and return to the right lane.
But some drivers get into the left lane, see it is clear and remain there, forgetting to check their rearview mirrors for traffic coming up fast behind them. We passed more cars from the right hand lane than was necessary. And we weren't the only ones doing it. Invariably, a mini-van was tottering along in the passing lane, doing just over the speed limit, which a hugh line of cars formed behind them, hoping they'd get the hint and move over. I can totally understand how road rage develops. I wasn't even driving but I was getting frustrated with these idiots. Anyways, enough of that rant. Watch your driving next time you're on the highway!
Ottawa itself was such a treat. I haven't been there in almost two years and it is as gorgeous as I remember it. We stayed at the Westin, right downtown and attached to the Rideau Centre. We were close to Elgin Street, the Sparks Street Mall, Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal and the Byward Market. The hotel was under construction so we were given a free room upgrade which afforded us a spectacular view of the many of the above-mentioned sites. We arrived late on Friday night and crashed after the long drive. Saturday morning saw us up early, raring to go on a walking tour that I had planned for Rob. We started with a hearty breakfast at the Mayflower on Elgin Street. Good food, lousy service (why can't waiters multi-task?) and a high price of almost $30 for our meals and a marginal tip.
We walked south on Elgin Street, West on Waverley Street (I used to live in an apartment building on Waverley) and then north on Bank Street. We veered slightly off course because of the construction on Bank Street but ended up on the Sparks Street Mall and walked east the length of it, back to Elgin Street and then across the street to the War Memorial. As you can imagine, this Memorial has special meaning to me so we stopped and took a lot of great photos. I will post the links to pics at the end of this blog. Then we headed across the street and up to the Hill.
Canada's Parliament buildings and grounds are readily accessible to tourists and, because of the fabulous weather, the place was really crowded with people from many different cultures. We toured all around them, front and back and took tons of photos. We walked along the Canal and viewed a boat going through the locks on the Rideau Canal. We finally had to return to the hotel because we were overheated and short on water. Anyway, here's a few pics to keep you going until I continue this mini trip report:
Ottawa Photos
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Cussing at Work
Anyone who knows me, knows that I can curse like a trucker in three languages. *grin*
There are some subjects which cause me to swear MORE (slow public transit, inconsiderate cell phone users, inconsiderate smokers, etc.) but there are many instances when I feel that "cussing" is not appropriate: church (I don't go often but when I do, I keep it clean), when I'm with my Mom, with I'm with my friends' Moms (unless they like to swear too), when I'm meeting people for the first time (usually) and at work (again, usually).
Occasionally, everyone lets fly with an expletive at work when they're frustrated, confused or when they discover a stupid mistake they've made. Paper cuts will also elicit a *$%# from me before I plop my finger into my mouth to stop myself from bleeding all over the files. And I've even heard lawyers swear (*gasp* -- yes, I know you're stunned!), but I've never heard language like I'm hearing in my new job. OMG!
So I started doing some research on the internet about this subject. FYI, it is not addressed in the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Ontario Employment Standards Act or the Health and Safety Act of Ontario. Some firms have "respect in the workplace" policies but most don't. While sexual harassment is a subject that is taken very seriously in every office I've ever worked in, respect for your fellow workers is not.
However, since profanity at work seems to be increasing, employers are starting to see the detrimental affects of such behaviour. The Cuss Control Academy covers it all. And while we're at it, let's discuss full-volume speaker-phone conversations with your door open, yelling for your assistant from your desk and not being able to get your own gosh-darn coffee!
There are some subjects which cause me to swear MORE (slow public transit, inconsiderate cell phone users, inconsiderate smokers, etc.) but there are many instances when I feel that "cussing" is not appropriate: church (I don't go often but when I do, I keep it clean), when I'm with my Mom, with I'm with my friends' Moms (unless they like to swear too), when I'm meeting people for the first time (usually) and at work (again, usually).
Occasionally, everyone lets fly with an expletive at work when they're frustrated, confused or when they discover a stupid mistake they've made. Paper cuts will also elicit a *$%# from me before I plop my finger into my mouth to stop myself from bleeding all over the files. And I've even heard lawyers swear (*gasp* -- yes, I know you're stunned!), but I've never heard language like I'm hearing in my new job. OMG!
So I started doing some research on the internet about this subject. FYI, it is not addressed in the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Ontario Employment Standards Act or the Health and Safety Act of Ontario. Some firms have "respect in the workplace" policies but most don't. While sexual harassment is a subject that is taken very seriously in every office I've ever worked in, respect for your fellow workers is not.
However, since profanity at work seems to be increasing, employers are starting to see the detrimental affects of such behaviour. The Cuss Control Academy covers it all. And while we're at it, let's discuss full-volume speaker-phone conversations with your door open, yelling for your assistant from your desk and not being able to get your own gosh-darn coffee!
Friday, May 11, 2007
In Hiding
I've hidden my blogs for the time being as I've been having some privacy issues with the internet. After all these years, it's finally dawning on me that there are people out there who will use to the internet to say whatever they want about anyone they want. I've always tried to be somewhat circumspect in my postings and never post too much information about my personal life but now that the blog is private (by invitation only), I guess I can be a bit more free wheeling with what I write. And if any of this new information gets out there, I'll know who to blame! LOL
The recent weather in Toronto has me thinking a lot about the upcoming summer. It looks like it is going to be a busy one! Rob and I are off to a wedding in Niagara Falls this weekend and will be returning to Toronto on Sunday in order to hook up with my Mom, my brother and his friend, Alma, visiting from Ohio. They're going to be in T.O. for my brother's ex-wife's daughter's Bat Mitzvah brunch on Sunday. He's not sure why he's going except that the young lady personally asked him to attend.
Next weekend is the first long weekend of the summer (Victoria Day is Monday, May 21), so Rob and I are heading to Ottawa (the nation's capital, for all my American readers). It's about a 4-5 hour drive from Toronto in holiday traffic on a Friday night. I'm not looking forward to the drive at night (I have terrible night vision) but the three days there should be fun. I used to live in Ottawa so it will be interesting to see what changes the years have wrought.
It's always been a very clean city and the Canadian Tulip Festival will be winding up that weekend. We are staying right downtown, along the Rideau Canal and close to the Byward Market and Parliament Hill. I am looking forward to being a tourist again. I still have a few friends living there, and they might all be out-of-town for the long weekend, but I should still send off a few emails anyway.
The recent weather in Toronto has me thinking a lot about the upcoming summer. It looks like it is going to be a busy one! Rob and I are off to a wedding in Niagara Falls this weekend and will be returning to Toronto on Sunday in order to hook up with my Mom, my brother and his friend, Alma, visiting from Ohio. They're going to be in T.O. for my brother's ex-wife's daughter's Bat Mitzvah brunch on Sunday. He's not sure why he's going except that the young lady personally asked him to attend.
Next weekend is the first long weekend of the summer (Victoria Day is Monday, May 21), so Rob and I are heading to Ottawa (the nation's capital, for all my American readers). It's about a 4-5 hour drive from Toronto in holiday traffic on a Friday night. I'm not looking forward to the drive at night (I have terrible night vision) but the three days there should be fun. I used to live in Ottawa so it will be interesting to see what changes the years have wrought.
It's always been a very clean city and the Canadian Tulip Festival will be winding up that weekend. We are staying right downtown, along the Rideau Canal and close to the Byward Market and Parliament Hill. I am looking forward to being a tourist again. I still have a few friends living there, and they might all be out-of-town for the long weekend, but I should still send off a few emails anyway.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Good Movie
I don't usually use my blog to plug any type of entertainment-related events but every once in a while, I see a great movie and I feel the need to share it with others.
Let me preface this recommendation by giving you a bit of background. Last weekend, Rob and I watched 1957's "Witness for the Prosecution" starring Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich and Charles Laughton. It was nominated for and received six Academy Awards. The plot was thick and full of twists and, when it was finally over, we both agreed: "They don't make movies like that any more!"
But we were wrong! "Fracture" starring Anthony Hopkins and Ryan Gosling is such a movie. There are no car chases. There are no tired and trite cliches. There is good writing, tight dialogue and a plot that will keep you guessing right up until the last scene. If you get a chance, go see this mind bender and try to figure it out yourself!
Let me preface this recommendation by giving you a bit of background. Last weekend, Rob and I watched 1957's "Witness for the Prosecution" starring Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich and Charles Laughton. It was nominated for and received six Academy Awards. The plot was thick and full of twists and, when it was finally over, we both agreed: "They don't make movies like that any more!"
But we were wrong! "Fracture" starring Anthony Hopkins and Ryan Gosling is such a movie. There are no car chases. There are no tired and trite cliches. There is good writing, tight dialogue and a plot that will keep you guessing right up until the last scene. If you get a chance, go see this mind bender and try to figure it out yourself!
Friday, April 13, 2007
Repatriation II
As I approach the one year anniversary of my repatriation date (April 14, 2006), I am making a few changes in my life. I am starting a new job on Monday, April 23. I am going to a bigger firm with better benefits and more vacation. The position is working one-on-one with a senior partner and, according to one of my bosses here, it is "one of the sexiest firms in town". Not sure what that means but I am looking forward to the change and the challenge of a new position.
I'm also making overdue upgrades to my condo. Lately, I've been hanging out in hardware stores looking at new drawer handles, new lighting fixtures and mirrored doors for my front hallway closet. Fun? WOW!
On a more serious note, did anyone watch the coverage earlier this week about Vimy, France? It was so moving to see so many Canadians remembered abroad. That brilliant monument is a testment to the young soldiers who gave their lives so many years ago. I plan to go there later this year.
I have taken to wearing my poppy again, especially on those days when coffins draped in the Maple Leaf are repatriated at CFB Trenton. This week has been especially difficult for the Canadians serving in Afghanistan and the families waiting to receive their dead here at home.
Please honour them by wearing a poppy, your "Support the Troops" pin or bumper sticker.
I'm also making overdue upgrades to my condo. Lately, I've been hanging out in hardware stores looking at new drawer handles, new lighting fixtures and mirrored doors for my front hallway closet. Fun? WOW!
On a more serious note, did anyone watch the coverage earlier this week about Vimy, France? It was so moving to see so many Canadians remembered abroad. That brilliant monument is a testment to the young soldiers who gave their lives so many years ago. I plan to go there later this year.
I have taken to wearing my poppy again, especially on those days when coffins draped in the Maple Leaf are repatriated at CFB Trenton. This week has been especially difficult for the Canadians serving in Afghanistan and the families waiting to receive their dead here at home.
Please honour them by wearing a poppy, your "Support the Troops" pin or bumper sticker.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Passport Woes
Lately, I've been hearing a lot of pissing and moaning by people about passports. Airports in the U.S. are requiring everyone to have a passport.
So all of those "cheap" (stereotype about Canadians), "lazy" (stereotype about Mexicans) Americans must have a passport if they want to get in and out of their wonderful country.
I just have one question for you people:
WHAT PART OF 9/11 DIDN'T YOU UNDERSTAND???
So all of those "cheap" (stereotype about Canadians), "lazy" (stereotype about Mexicans) Americans must have a passport if they want to get in and out of their wonderful country.
I just have one question for you people:
WHAT PART OF 9/11 DIDN'T YOU UNDERSTAND???
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Things That Tick Me Off
My day started without any hot water so I was kind of cranky all day. And Tuesdays are my long days, with three hours of school right after work. A lot of things bugged me today. Here's hoping tomorrow will be better.
1. No hot water on a cold March morning.
2. People who don't use proper grammar, spelling and/or punctuation.
3. People who get on to an elevator and then stand so close to the panel, no one else can press a button for their floor.
4. People who stop at the top (and bottom) of escalators and don't move out of the way.
5. People who ask inane questions, like "what's a co-ed" and "who is Gloria Steinem." *sigh*
6. People who use cell phones, "Crack"berries and other electronic devices while in my presence.
7. Telemarketers who call from my own Bank to offer me a credit card with a higher rate of interest than the one I already have.
8. People who decide the best place to train their two-year-old on a tricycle is in the hallway, outside my door, at 8AM on a workday.
9. People who use buttons and panels intended to help disabled people. Overuse of these facilities by able-bodied people will result in them NOT working one day for someone who really needs it. Don't be so fucking lazy and open the door yourself!
10. Wait staff who insist on referring to me and my girlfriends (or me and my boyfriend) as "you guys". I am not a guy. Never have been. And I am not a "folk" either.
GRRR!!! (Please feel free to add your own.)
1. No hot water on a cold March morning.
2. People who don't use proper grammar, spelling and/or punctuation.
3. People who get on to an elevator and then stand so close to the panel, no one else can press a button for their floor.
4. People who stop at the top (and bottom) of escalators and don't move out of the way.
5. People who ask inane questions, like "what's a co-ed" and "who is Gloria Steinem." *sigh*
6. People who use cell phones, "Crack"berries and other electronic devices while in my presence.
7. Telemarketers who call from my own Bank to offer me a credit card with a higher rate of interest than the one I already have.
8. People who decide the best place to train their two-year-old on a tricycle is in the hallway, outside my door, at 8AM on a workday.
9. People who use buttons and panels intended to help disabled people. Overuse of these facilities by able-bodied people will result in them NOT working one day for someone who really needs it. Don't be so fucking lazy and open the door yourself!
10. Wait staff who insist on referring to me and my girlfriends (or me and my boyfriend) as "you guys". I am not a guy. Never have been. And I am not a "folk" either.
GRRR!!! (Please feel free to add your own.)
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Mary Sue Morris - 5 Oct 38 to 17 Mar 07
Dear Mary Sue:
I was certainly shocked when I received Ana Margarita's email from Vallarta, telling me about your illness. It made me sad to learn that you are so sick you had to cut your summer buying trip short and return to the U.S. My thoughts immediately flew to your baby, VIVA, wondering what will happen now that you're not there to lead the charge into the new season. A million memories of Mexico flooded my mind. You and VIVA were such an intrinsic and important part of my life there.
I enjoyed having the opportunity to work in the store. I learned so many invaluable lessons and made lifelong friends working there. I remember the day you interviewed me and your conviction that I was obviously "very intelligent" since I had worked for lawyers. You promised somehow to make use of my talents in that regard and you eventually did. But first you taught me how to sell and discovered that I had a knack for it. The work was hard and fun, all at the same time. The product, of course, was fabulous, making VIVA well known in PV and beyond. I was always very proud to tell people where I worked. I never forgot your admonishment for us to "behave" in public because you didn't want to hear about any kind of outlandish behaviour. I knew that you had "eyes" everywhere. *smile*
You were an inspiration to some and a mentor to others. Miguel was so excited at being allowed to go to the gem show with you in Tucson. I also remember the email he sent, complaining that you were wearing him out, going non-stop from dawn to dusk at the show with your power shopping. Did you know many on your staff were totally terrified of you? I think you liked that idea because it kept everyone on their toes. The mood in the store changed dramatically every time we learned your plane had landed. When the word filtered down from the office that "Mary Sue is back!", panic reigned. Everything shifted into overdrive as we all scrambled to ensure the store would pass your inspection when you breezed through the doors. Nothing escaped your sharp eye for detail and it showed in the accolades you received from other retailers and designers from around the world.
I'll never forget my first VIVA "party" and the crush of people coming through the doors for hours. Many of them were there to sample your "liquid generosity" but the electric current generated by the crowds jolted the sales into the stratosphere, year after year. It was exhilarating and utterly exhausting to work those nights. And you were always the main attraction, flitting around the store like a sleek, bejewelled butterfly in your incredible stilleto heels, fabulous designer clothes and sparkling baubles.
I know VIVA was your private jewellery box. I will admit to being jealous of you for that reason alone but the international travel you enjoyed was also very exciting. You had so many amazing adventures in your life but I think owning VIVA was your true passion. I'll never forget the look on your face when you returned from a buying trip and unwrapped all your "treasures" for us on the table in the back room. Your life was pretty incredible. I wish we had written a book about it. Just think of the movie rights! *smile*
I want to thank you for giving me the chance to test the waters with a few adventures of my own. As if living in Mexico wasn't exciting enough, I got to work with you and learn more about fashion and retailing. Being a VIVA Diva was so much fun! Those small chances given by you meant so much to me, and others. My life in Mexico taught me a lot about myself and the things I am capable of doing. So thanks for everything Mary Sue. I hope you are surrounded by the people who love you and who will care for you gently. I send my deepest wishes for your ongoing comfort and peace.
Juliana
Mary Sue Morris is the owner of Viva Jewelry at 274 Basilio Badillo, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico.
I was certainly shocked when I received Ana Margarita's email from Vallarta, telling me about your illness. It made me sad to learn that you are so sick you had to cut your summer buying trip short and return to the U.S. My thoughts immediately flew to your baby, VIVA, wondering what will happen now that you're not there to lead the charge into the new season. A million memories of Mexico flooded my mind. You and VIVA were such an intrinsic and important part of my life there.
I enjoyed having the opportunity to work in the store. I learned so many invaluable lessons and made lifelong friends working there. I remember the day you interviewed me and your conviction that I was obviously "very intelligent" since I had worked for lawyers. You promised somehow to make use of my talents in that regard and you eventually did. But first you taught me how to sell and discovered that I had a knack for it. The work was hard and fun, all at the same time. The product, of course, was fabulous, making VIVA well known in PV and beyond. I was always very proud to tell people where I worked. I never forgot your admonishment for us to "behave" in public because you didn't want to hear about any kind of outlandish behaviour. I knew that you had "eyes" everywhere. *smile*
You were an inspiration to some and a mentor to others. Miguel was so excited at being allowed to go to the gem show with you in Tucson. I also remember the email he sent, complaining that you were wearing him out, going non-stop from dawn to dusk at the show with your power shopping. Did you know many on your staff were totally terrified of you? I think you liked that idea because it kept everyone on their toes. The mood in the store changed dramatically every time we learned your plane had landed. When the word filtered down from the office that "Mary Sue is back!", panic reigned. Everything shifted into overdrive as we all scrambled to ensure the store would pass your inspection when you breezed through the doors. Nothing escaped your sharp eye for detail and it showed in the accolades you received from other retailers and designers from around the world.
I'll never forget my first VIVA "party" and the crush of people coming through the doors for hours. Many of them were there to sample your "liquid generosity" but the electric current generated by the crowds jolted the sales into the stratosphere, year after year. It was exhilarating and utterly exhausting to work those nights. And you were always the main attraction, flitting around the store like a sleek, bejewelled butterfly in your incredible stilleto heels, fabulous designer clothes and sparkling baubles.
I know VIVA was your private jewellery box. I will admit to being jealous of you for that reason alone but the international travel you enjoyed was also very exciting. You had so many amazing adventures in your life but I think owning VIVA was your true passion. I'll never forget the look on your face when you returned from a buying trip and unwrapped all your "treasures" for us on the table in the back room. Your life was pretty incredible. I wish we had written a book about it. Just think of the movie rights! *smile*
I want to thank you for giving me the chance to test the waters with a few adventures of my own. As if living in Mexico wasn't exciting enough, I got to work with you and learn more about fashion and retailing. Being a VIVA Diva was so much fun! Those small chances given by you meant so much to me, and others. My life in Mexico taught me a lot about myself and the things I am capable of doing. So thanks for everything Mary Sue. I hope you are surrounded by the people who love you and who will care for you gently. I send my deepest wishes for your ongoing comfort and peace.
Juliana
Mary Sue Morris is the owner of Viva Jewelry at 274 Basilio Badillo, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Perception is Key
I spend too much time posting on message boards and not enough time blogging. A fellow blogger recently added me to her links list so now I feel like I should blog something profound so here goes.
In a recent bulletin board conversation about measuring happiness, I wrote this:
What's new with you?
In a recent bulletin board conversation about measuring happiness, I wrote this:
I know now that my happiness is not determined by where I reside. It is, however, directly related to my perception of where I am living. I am much more content living in Canada, after my sojourn in PV.Change is good. I know I get bored easily so it is important for me to give myself a good shake every once in a while and try something new. Currently, I am taking the second course in my Editing Certificate program. Next I might try tennis lessons.
I am calmer, less stressed and more appreciative of the non-material things in life (friends, family, changes in weather, etc.). The fact that I had to live in Mexico to "learn" this lesson does not escape me.
What's new with you?
Friday, February 16, 2007
Toronto The Good
I have had a number of people point out to me lately that Toronto is a mean-spirited City filled with non-smiling, stressed-out creeps who never make eye contact or talk to strangers. I don't happen to agree with this opinion. As recent as this morning, my bus driver told me that, on his previous run past my stop, he waited an extra four minutes for me, not wanting me to miss my bus to work on this very cold morning. What a sweetheart! Not all TTC drivers are this nice. There is good and bad here (just like everywhere else) but I happen to think that the good outweighs the bad. Apparently this glass half-full philosophy seems to be working.
I often read the Acts of Kindness section in the Toronto Star and this story touched me today because it is just SO Canadian:
For more stories, click on Acts of Kindness here.
I often read the Acts of Kindness section in the Toronto Star and this story touched me today because it is just SO Canadian:
In December, I went to the Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Philips Square. As I was sitting at the side of the rink taking off my skates, a little boy about 6 or 7 walks up and asks "Are those your skates?"
I answered ‘Yes’ and wondered if he thought I had stolen his skates, since I wear boys hockey skates. He said: "Oh, I don't have skates." For some reason, I blurted, "Do you want mine?"
I told him to first ask his mom. He ran away excited and his mom asked if it was really okay [and I said yes.] He was jumping up and down in excitement. After he put on the skates, I watched him take off with a big smile.
Two weeks later I was in the recycling room in our condo. Residents leave items for others to salvage. I found two Bauer boxes with new skates, both in my size!
I gave one pair to a friend who was there the evening I gave the boy my used skates. She shook her head and said: “You give away one pair, and you get back two”!
J. Madden, Toronto
For more stories, click on Acts of Kindness here.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Celebrity Status
While in PV recently with my friend Linda, she mentioned that someone approached her, asking if she was my friend and when Linda replied yes, the woman seemed quite impressed. Linda then implied to me that I was some sort of a celebrity in PV. I was appalled by that comment and tried to make Linda understand why it upset me so much. It's one of the many reasons I left Vallarta -- too many people thought that they "knew" me because of my blog. (And yet here I am, blogging again! LOL) Frankly, I am enjoying my relative anonimity back here in Toronto.
The world's fascination with celebrity is something I've never understood. I've never been "star struck" by someone who is involved in the movies, theatre, sports or music. Actually, I find it all a great big, fucking BORE and my attitude, when someone just has to tell me what so-'n'-so is doing to so-'n'-so, is to say "Who cares?". I mean really, in the great puzzle of my insignificant life, I really have no desire to know who's dumping their lover in a public display of jealous rage or who's flashing their twat for the papparazzi.
Today, at the office, when we heard the news of Anna Nicole Smith's death, there were literally gasps of disbelief. Someone actually sent an email around, stating that "an icon" had died. An icon? I would hardly call someone known for her bad taste and poor choices an icon. Just another over-processed blonde willing to do just about anything to get her face or ass on the cover of a magazine. Some will argue that she was successful because she had money, yet she couldn't even save her 20 year-old-son. This woman did not have an easy life, even with all her celebrity and wealth.
I'm sure Nancy Grace and her cannabilistic crew at CNN.com will be running with this story for a couple of weeks as the "conspiracy" unfolds, and millions of Americans (no doubt Canadians too) will eat at the bowl of her bullshit like so many spineless lap dogs. Thank GOD something has happened to displace the crazy astronaut in the consciousness of Mr. and Mrs. John Q. Public! The morbid obsession people have with personalities like Dog the Bounty Hunter and Steve Irwin are pathetic. When's the last time you spent time with your neighbours or volunteering in your community?
As you can tell, I have a pretty negative attitude when it comes to this kind of stuff. I don't buy People Magazine. I already knew OJ was guilty. And I don't really care how Anna Nicole died but I predict chemical substances were involved. What a waste! Not the waste of an icon or future royalties, but the waste of a human life and the mother of a five month old baby. It just might be that Anna Nicole will gain back some of her humanity in death, even if she has to be on the 6 o'clock news to get it.
The world's fascination with celebrity is something I've never understood. I've never been "star struck" by someone who is involved in the movies, theatre, sports or music. Actually, I find it all a great big, fucking BORE and my attitude, when someone just has to tell me what so-'n'-so is doing to so-'n'-so, is to say "Who cares?". I mean really, in the great puzzle of my insignificant life, I really have no desire to know who's dumping their lover in a public display of jealous rage or who's flashing their twat for the papparazzi.
Today, at the office, when we heard the news of Anna Nicole Smith's death, there were literally gasps of disbelief. Someone actually sent an email around, stating that "an icon" had died. An icon? I would hardly call someone known for her bad taste and poor choices an icon. Just another over-processed blonde willing to do just about anything to get her face or ass on the cover of a magazine. Some will argue that she was successful because she had money, yet she couldn't even save her 20 year-old-son. This woman did not have an easy life, even with all her celebrity and wealth.
I'm sure Nancy Grace and her cannabilistic crew at CNN.com will be running with this story for a couple of weeks as the "conspiracy" unfolds, and millions of Americans (no doubt Canadians too) will eat at the bowl of her bullshit like so many spineless lap dogs. Thank GOD something has happened to displace the crazy astronaut in the consciousness of Mr. and Mrs. John Q. Public! The morbid obsession people have with personalities like Dog the Bounty Hunter and Steve Irwin are pathetic. When's the last time you spent time with your neighbours or volunteering in your community?
As you can tell, I have a pretty negative attitude when it comes to this kind of stuff. I don't buy People Magazine. I already knew OJ was guilty. And I don't really care how Anna Nicole died but I predict chemical substances were involved. What a waste! Not the waste of an icon or future royalties, but the waste of a human life and the mother of a five month old baby. It just might be that Anna Nicole will gain back some of her humanity in death, even if she has to be on the 6 o'clock news to get it.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
On The Road Again ...
Well, I'm not exactly taking a road to Puerto Vallarta but I am taking a trip. I decided to get away from the cold weather that so rudely arrived last Sunday and grab some sun and sand for a week. Besides, I have two weeks of vacation to use up before the end of April, my next course starts at the college in early February and my gal pal Colleen is heading back to Colorado so ...
Anyway, if I can get online, I might revive the old blog with a couple of trip reports but only if something really funny happens while I'm there. Frankly, I'm kind of happy the way I left things with the old blog. It seems to end on a sweet note and I am loathe to screw around with that. And I'm still getting hits on it so check it out the next time you feel like doing some travelling from your desk:
PV BLOG
Anyway, if I can get online, I might revive the old blog with a couple of trip reports but only if something really funny happens while I'm there. Frankly, I'm kind of happy the way I left things with the old blog. It seems to end on a sweet note and I am loathe to screw around with that. And I'm still getting hits on it so check it out the next time you feel like doing some travelling from your desk:
PV BLOG
Saturday, January 13, 2007
No Fun In Acapulco
With the murder of Adam Deprisio, a 19-year-old Canadian on vacation in Acapulco a week ago, there have been a lot of things flying around on the internet and into my inbox. One was a copy of a letter from Adam's aunt, Lucy DeFlippis-Pannozzi, which she has written to her Member of Parliament, setting out the events that happened and stating "Mexico is unsafe for Canadians". She is also asking him to "make others aware of the dangers in traveling to Mexico" and "have the Mexican government take ownership and made accountable of the fact that their civil workers (mainly the police and hospital) failed".
The other was an open letter by Nancy Leoni, someone who vacationed in Acapulco last year and had a similar incident happen to one of her travelling companions. Fortunately for her friend, he survived the beating. In her letter, she says: "We are the ones that support that country, tourism. Without our financial support that country (those dastards {sic} of Mexicans') would not be able to eat" and "We all need to stick together as a nation and teach a lesson to these ungrateful animals."
I am ashamed to call this woman a fellow Canadian.
I have an equal chance of being shot downtown Toronto while shopping. But, to be fair, the results will be different. Hospitals here don't require you to prove your ability to pay before you receive treatment. And the police actually caught the assholes who shot 15-year-old Jane Creba on December 26, 2005. Hopefully, our justice system will deal with them in due course.
The fact is, the government in Mexico, at all levels, is corrupt.You only have to follow world events to know this. Remember the last Mexican federal election? Remember the demonstrations all over the country, especially in Oaxaca? Acapulco is well known by Mexicans as being a dangerous place. That's why I don't go there anymore. And foreigners do not have any rights in Mexico.
This reminds of the time I was at a grocery store in Puerto Vallarta, in line behind a couple of American tourist who were buying Budweiser beer and didn't want the cashier to give them their change in "that money" (pesos). When the ex-pat in line behind me commented, in Spanish, that "someone should have told them they were entering a different country when they got off the plane", we both smiled those knowing smiles of experienced travellers.
Mexico is not Canada. It's a different country with different rules. When you're in their country, you live by their rules. It's as simple as that. And condeming an entire country because of the murderous actions of a few "dastards" is racism in its purest form. I like to think that Canadians, as a whole, are a little bit more open-minded than that.
The other was an open letter by Nancy Leoni, someone who vacationed in Acapulco last year and had a similar incident happen to one of her travelling companions. Fortunately for her friend, he survived the beating. In her letter, she says: "We are the ones that support that country, tourism. Without our financial support that country (those dastards {sic} of Mexicans') would not be able to eat" and "We all need to stick together as a nation and teach a lesson to these ungrateful animals."
I am ashamed to call this woman a fellow Canadian.
I have an equal chance of being shot downtown Toronto while shopping. But, to be fair, the results will be different. Hospitals here don't require you to prove your ability to pay before you receive treatment. And the police actually caught the assholes who shot 15-year-old Jane Creba on December 26, 2005. Hopefully, our justice system will deal with them in due course.
The fact is, the government in Mexico, at all levels, is corrupt.You only have to follow world events to know this. Remember the last Mexican federal election? Remember the demonstrations all over the country, especially in Oaxaca? Acapulco is well known by Mexicans as being a dangerous place. That's why I don't go there anymore. And foreigners do not have any rights in Mexico.
This reminds of the time I was at a grocery store in Puerto Vallarta, in line behind a couple of American tourist who were buying Budweiser beer and didn't want the cashier to give them their change in "that money" (pesos). When the ex-pat in line behind me commented, in Spanish, that "someone should have told them they were entering a different country when they got off the plane", we both smiled those knowing smiles of experienced travellers.
Mexico is not Canada. It's a different country with different rules. When you're in their country, you live by their rules. It's as simple as that. And condeming an entire country because of the murderous actions of a few "dastards" is racism in its purest form. I like to think that Canadians, as a whole, are a little bit more open-minded than that.
Circumvention
I discovered something interesting today. You know how when you call the credit card company, the phone company or the cable company, you have to punch in all kinds of numbers in order to speak to a live person? Inevitably, they also ask you to enter your 16 digit account number and then, when you finally get to speak to somone, they ask you for you account information all over AGAIN!
I find this very frustrating and time consuming.
Today I tried something different. I needed to call to cancel my American Express card. No one wants to take it any more so I've decided to stop using it and I want it off my credit report. After dialing the 1-800 number, I didn't do anything. I didn't choose English or French. I didn't punch in my card number. I just waited. In less than a minute, I was speaking with a live person!
It was great! Try it the next time you have to make one of these calls and cut your wait time IN HALF.
I find this very frustrating and time consuming.
Today I tried something different. I needed to call to cancel my American Express card. No one wants to take it any more so I've decided to stop using it and I want it off my credit report. After dialing the 1-800 number, I didn't do anything. I didn't choose English or French. I didn't punch in my card number. I just waited. In less than a minute, I was speaking with a live person!
It was great! Try it the next time you have to make one of these calls and cut your wait time IN HALF.
Monday, January 01, 2007
They're Over!
The holidays are finally over. We can all get back to normal life, however we live it, tomorrow. The break was good for having time off work and seeing friends, getting out to enjoy a new movie and sleeping in the mornings. I've had two Mondays off in a row so I'm certainly not complaining about that! However, of the 7 days in total (including weekends) that I was off, my gym was closed for 5 of them which means I'll have to really get serious about training in the next few weeks. I feel like I've gained 20 lbs. although I'm sure it is closer to 5 lbs. All I know is nothing fits anymore!!!
Still no snow here in the Big Smoke. It actually poured rain here last night for New Year's Eve. We participated in a fabulous evening at Imperia in Yorkville. I had a friend visiting from out-of-town and we did it up right! Xmas was a bit more casual but still fun. I have a few photos posted at Webshots if you want to take a look. I've heard from Afghanistan and all is well there. My buddy is due home at the beginning of March and he has a lot to look forward to as he told me yesterday that he is engaged! It's a fitting end to a fabulous year. I wonder what 2007 will bring our way?
Still no snow here in the Big Smoke. It actually poured rain here last night for New Year's Eve. We participated in a fabulous evening at Imperia in Yorkville. I had a friend visiting from out-of-town and we did it up right! Xmas was a bit more casual but still fun. I have a few photos posted at Webshots if you want to take a look. I've heard from Afghanistan and all is well there. My buddy is due home at the beginning of March and he has a lot to look forward to as he told me yesterday that he is engaged! It's a fitting end to a fabulous year. I wonder what 2007 will bring our way?
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