Gorbulas, only 1 day old, lay sleeping only 14 inches away. I was in bed, facing the darkened window, laying half on my side, half on my back, slightly curled. He slept in the cradle next to me because I couldn't reach him. I remember being in so much pain; such incredible pain. I couldn't move. I couldn't sleep. I just lay there in the dark with my eyes closed, tears dripping out of the corners of my eyes. Everything was so quiet, but I was fully alert.
The nurse comes in to check on me and inquires what's the matter.
"I'm just in so much pain," I say. "I can't move. The duramorph wore off and I'm just really hurting now."
"Oh honey," she replies, "Why didn't you ring the call button? We can give you something for the pain."
"Well, I couldn't reach it. It hurts too much to move. I guess I just sort of hole up in a dark cave when I'm in pain. I figured it would be over soon on my next med rotation. I'm not sure when I'm due for more pain meds."
"You're overdue, actually. Can I get you something?" she says.
"Yes, please."
Everyone deals with pain differently. But, that's how I deal with pain. I retreat into solitude, turn out the lights, curl up, cry a little, weather the storm and hope that this-too-shall-pass. I'm not a take the bull by the horns kind of gal. I give way too much latitude and eventually will address the problem. I suppose if she left me there long enough, I would have pushed through the pain to find the call button remote which had dropped to the floor, now dangling over the head of the bed.
I feel like since getting laid off in October that I've been in a dark cave. I have been crabby, bitter and half-empty. I'm easily angered and feel like there's no pain meds coming. No resolution from my prior company actually making good on the severance and back commissions they owe me, no help from the Obama camp with all these Hope for Homeowners programs that go unfulfilled and no help from our Congressmen.
But, in the darkness, the Lord has provided a bit of light. Probably just enough for me to see only what I really needed to see. He provided a very, very, very part-time job starting in the fall. I'll be teaching Computer Technology at my children's private school next year. I'll bring in just enough salary to cover one child's tuition for the year. I'll be teaching K-8th grade and 7 classes a week. I'll be home when my kids are home, only teaching two days a week, and I'll be teaching something I'm passionate about. It's truly a gift from the Lord. And, it's just enough. He knows what I need and what will bring contentment.
I'm starting to edge out of my funk. I've heard from the Labor Commissioner and my former company has been served with a Notice of Claim and must respond within 10 days or the Labor Commission will take the next step, which I believe is a court date. The claim is seeking several tens of thousands of dollars, which our family desperately needs. Unfortunately, we will be losing our home and need to plan for a rental sometime this year. It's likely, because we will have foreclosed, that our credit will be all shot to hell and landlords might be hesitant to lease to us. So, perhaps we can offer to pay 6 months upfront. Who knows... but I do know that we need the money (which is rightfully owed to me).
Aside from the financial upheaval, things are starting to brighten. The brightest part of this entire experience is that, thanks to my parents footing the bill (thank you Mom and Dad!), the kids have stayed at their school which we love so much. That was critically important to me. And, I've had the opportunity to be with my kids all year long. I've taken and picked them up from school each day, been a substitute teacher, brought them to dance class, violin class, swimming lessons, the library and hosted playdates. We've talked, we've laughed, we've painted birdhouses and we've spent priceless time together that I will never get back.
So, for that, I must thank my former employer. They've given the opportunity for the Lord to show me clarity in purpose.
Getting laid off still sucks, but it doesn't suck as BAD as I thought it would. We are still the same people that we were. If we claim bankruptcy, foreclose on our home, err, I mean "house", and have our cars repo'd, we will still be a family that laughs together, cries together and can thank God for whatever blessings he chooses to bestow.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
I Hate our Government
http://www.bankruptcylawnetwork.com/2009/05/02/why-did-cramdown-fail-insurance-and-principal/
Screwed AGAIN.
I hate our government. Absolutely hate every last one of them.
Screwed AGAIN.
I hate our government. Absolutely hate every last one of them.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Job Searching for the Discouraged
Each day I'm looking at various job search sites for some leads for gainful employment. What I find incredibly frustrating are the obviously STUPID jobs out there that are obviously a farce, that ultimately just end up wasting people's time (and money).
Case in point:
****Immediate Openings**** No experience necessary, SIX-Figure Income!!! Needed: Outgoing, energetic, success-oriented professionals for well-established Vacation Ownership Company. Enjoy a fun working environment at one of Expedia’s top-rated resorts with potential income of $5K-$10K/month. No experience necessary…just a good attitude and an enthusiastic personality!!! NO COLD CALLING, NO GENERATING LEADS, WE PROVIDE ALL THE CUSTOMERS. Call today…space is extremely limited!!!
Take a look at that posting again.
1) NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY, yet the company is advertising a six-figure income. At my former job, it took me 8 years to just inch above six-figures. And that was with 8 years of experience! But THIS...this job requires NO experience! Whoo Hoo! Sign me up!
2) Notice the "potential income of $5-10k/month" Interesting that the figure is doubled. Even in my last sales job -- where the market was ripe with customers NEEDING my product because of the Y2K crunch, replacement of legacy/mainframe systems, etc, at no time did I EVER EVER EVER make $10k a month.
3) And, since WHEN ON GOD'S GREEN EARTH has any salesperson EVER EVER EVER not have to make cold calls or generate their own leads? What? I just sit in my cubicle taking purchase orders all day long? Give me a break.
But you know...space is limited, so I just might call today!
BAH!
Case in point:
****Immediate Openings**** No experience necessary, SIX-Figure Income!!! Needed: Outgoing, energetic, success-oriented professionals for well-established Vacation Ownership Company. Enjoy a fun working environment at one of Expedia’s top-rated resorts with potential income of $5K-$10K/month. No experience necessary…just a good attitude and an enthusiastic personality!!! NO COLD CALLING, NO GENERATING LEADS, WE PROVIDE ALL THE CUSTOMERS. Call today…space is extremely limited!!!
Take a look at that posting again.
1) NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY, yet the company is advertising a six-figure income. At my former job, it took me 8 years to just inch above six-figures. And that was with 8 years of experience! But THIS...this job requires NO experience! Whoo Hoo! Sign me up!
2) Notice the "potential income of $5-10k/month" Interesting that the figure is doubled. Even in my last sales job -- where the market was ripe with customers NEEDING my product because of the Y2K crunch, replacement of legacy/mainframe systems, etc, at no time did I EVER EVER EVER make $10k a month.
3) And, since WHEN ON GOD'S GREEN EARTH has any salesperson EVER EVER EVER not have to make cold calls or generate their own leads? What? I just sit in my cubicle taking purchase orders all day long? Give me a break.
But you know...space is limited, so I just might call today!
BAH!
Friday, March 27, 2009
ExecsAreDufuses Update
It has been a mixed blessing being off work since October 1. I have good days, such as when I spend the day with my kids or have breakfast with other SAHMs. The bad days are when I come home, look around the house, and think, "Everybody in the family has a "life" except me." Frederor is off making amazing decisions for his employer, being praised for saving $250k here, $500k there, Ruby and Gorby are at school -- in small class sizes where teachers pray for them and get praise from their teachers and classmates -- and I'm looking at the hard wood floor thinking, "You know, that cleaner just leaves the most awful streaks." Gosh...it's no wonder I'm a volunteer-a-holic and lead this project and that fundraiser and this field trip and that PTA goal.
Anyway, the big elephant in the room needs to get out of the way:
No, my former company has STILL not paid me for commissions due and for severance due.
Yes, I've filed with the California Labor Commissioner.
Yes, I'm waiting to see what the Labor Commissioner says.
Former company, "ExecsAreDufuses," actually came back to me and said they'd like to settle the matter, in its entirety, for $25,000. Hmmm...I wonder if they've heard from the Labor Commissioner!?!?
Yeah, that sounds great and all, except they owe me $32,000 plus another five grand in waiting time penalties! So, after taxes, I'm looking at MAYBE seeing $20k.
What possible incentive do I have to settle? TO TRY AND SAVE MY HOUSE? BAH! That's not gonna happen. I'm already resigned to losing it.
WHAT DOES IT MATTER if I wait around and fight for every last cent? And, by the way, because of the way they've treated me, I want every red cent that is owed, plus waiting time penalties, attorney's fees and punitive damages if the court will allow.
Actually, I'd rather schedule a court date, and have the ExecsAreDufuses legal staff have to spend all this time and money flying to California to defend their horrible behaviour in front of an already employee-biased California legal system. I have an hour drive to the courthouse through the beautiful Sonoma County -- they have at least a 6 hour travel day getting out of LA. HA!
And, the crazy part of this whole thing is that I am perfectly OK with not receiving the full amount if that's what the judge orders. If the judge says, "I'm sorry for your circumstances Mrs. Proudneck (or whatever the hell my Hobbit last name is), the law says that commissions are only payable at 80% of the contract amount because of blah blah blah and you are not entitled to 100% of contract commissions." I would be totally fine with that because I have followed the rules and have been forthright and have operated in good faith. I'm not in some legal office trying to screw me over and "minimize exposure to the company."
One would think that laws are black and white. But they are SO not black and white. You would think that if the law states, "Final wages are due to employee upon separation" would be an easily understood statement as its in plain English. But all the shenanigans and maneuvering is just killin' me.
Anyway, the big elephant in the room needs to get out of the way:
No, my former company has STILL not paid me for commissions due and for severance due.
Yes, I've filed with the California Labor Commissioner.
Yes, I'm waiting to see what the Labor Commissioner says.
Former company, "ExecsAreDufuses," actually came back to me and said they'd like to settle the matter, in its entirety, for $25,000. Hmmm...I wonder if they've heard from the Labor Commissioner!?!?
Yeah, that sounds great and all, except they owe me $32,000 plus another five grand in waiting time penalties! So, after taxes, I'm looking at MAYBE seeing $20k.
What possible incentive do I have to settle? TO TRY AND SAVE MY HOUSE? BAH! That's not gonna happen. I'm already resigned to losing it.
WHAT DOES IT MATTER if I wait around and fight for every last cent? And, by the way, because of the way they've treated me, I want every red cent that is owed, plus waiting time penalties, attorney's fees and punitive damages if the court will allow.
Actually, I'd rather schedule a court date, and have the ExecsAreDufuses legal staff have to spend all this time and money flying to California to defend their horrible behaviour in front of an already employee-biased California legal system. I have an hour drive to the courthouse through the beautiful Sonoma County -- they have at least a 6 hour travel day getting out of LA. HA!
And, the crazy part of this whole thing is that I am perfectly OK with not receiving the full amount if that's what the judge orders. If the judge says, "I'm sorry for your circumstances Mrs. Proudneck (or whatever the hell my Hobbit last name is), the law says that commissions are only payable at 80% of the contract amount because of blah blah blah and you are not entitled to 100% of contract commissions." I would be totally fine with that because I have followed the rules and have been forthright and have operated in good faith. I'm not in some legal office trying to screw me over and "minimize exposure to the company."
One would think that laws are black and white. But they are SO not black and white. You would think that if the law states, "Final wages are due to employee upon separation" would be an easily understood statement as its in plain English. But all the shenanigans and maneuvering is just killin' me.
Book Review: Twilight
I am our school's Read-a-Thon chair this year and in the next few weeks we will begin reviewing the book selections sent from Scholastic. I find myself really struggling with the amount of the "world" to allow into our home and to what degree to expose our kids. They are certainly at an age where I can (and do) pretty much control what books come into the house, what shows they watch, how much computer time they get, etc. But, there will soon come a day when the kids will want to make their own choices.
I got a glimpse of that this morning when I was making the kids' breakfasts. I said, "How about you guys do a build-your-own-breakfast sandwich?" and Ruby was ALL OVER THAT IDEA. "Yay!" she replied, "We get to choose whatever WE want!!!"
Granted, I gave them an English Muffin, a fried egg, two slices of bacon and cheese all on separate plates. Ruby chose not to have cheese and had her bacon on the side. Gorby added everything and devoured it. But the glimpse into Ruby's decision making and control of her own choices really made her day.
But, I'm finding out that as the good book says, "we are IN the world, not OF the world." So, I think it's important to allow books like this one, Twilight, to be read and discussed. I haven't read it personally, but I'm wondering if it'll be on our Book Fair shelves this year. At a Christian school, I'm not sure we should be stocking books about vampires...
Enjoy the book review!
------------------------
This fantasy/romance book by Stephenie Meyer is readable for kids ages 9 and up and is at a high school curriculum level. (Age range refers to readability, and curriculum level refers to when a book is studied; neither are a reflection on content appropriateness.)
Plot Summary
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When Bella Swan moves to dismal Forks, Wash., to live with her dad, she never dreams of meeting someone as attractive and mysterious as Edward Cullen. Edward warns Bella to stay away from him, but the electricity between them intensifies. Edward finally reveals his secrets: He loves Bella — but he's a vampire, who desperately lusts for her blood. When an enemy vampire hunts Bella, Edward and his family take extreme measures to protect her.
Christian Beliefs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Edward notes that all the intricate things in the world couldn't have come into being on their own.
Authority Roles
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bella's father has never parented before. He asks casual questions about Bella's activities, but he's easily satisfied by her frequent lies and half-truths concerning her whereabouts. He clearly cares for her but doesn't provide much "authority" (although he does set a few more boundaries toward the end of the story). Bella's real protector is Edward. He sets the tone for their relationship, and Bella follows him fearlessly, despite knowing that he literally wants to devour her. Edward excuses Bella's repeated lying to others because it allows them to be together.
Other Belief Systems
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Edward and his family are vampires, so the book includes vampire lore. A local Indian tribe fears the Cullen family because of tribal legends about vampires.
Profanity/Graphic Violence
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Main characters use variations of "d--n" twice. Bella is beaten up and bloodied by an evil vampire who wants to kill her.
Kissing/Sex/Homosexuality
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Edward and Bella engage in a number of fairly innocuous kisses. Although Bella and Edward don't have sex, their relationship is extremely intense and sensual. It seems the only thing preventing intercourse is the fact that Edward desires to suck her blood, not to deflower her. He abstains from acting on his thirst because he loves her.
Awards
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Editor's choice in The New York Times book section in 2006, 2006 Top Ten Books for Young Adults by the Young Adult Library Services Association
Discussion Topics
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If your children have read this book or someone has read it to them, consider these discussion topics:
1) Real teens who act in some of the ways Bella and Edward did probably find themselves in real trouble. Parents may want to discuss how Bella blindly follows a boy she knows is dangerous.
2) What might be some of the consequences of becoming involved with a "bad boy," or a possessive person with anger or jealousy issues?
3) Also, real teens emulating Edward and Bella would find themselves in sexually compromising situations. Edward stays in Bella's room at night to watch her sleep. They caress each other in a secluded clearing, without anyone knowing where they are. How can we keep from placing ourselves in circumstances where temptation is too strong? Can touching in nonsexual ways be dangerous?
As published: http://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/book_reports/twilight.aspx
I got a glimpse of that this morning when I was making the kids' breakfasts. I said, "How about you guys do a build-your-own-breakfast sandwich?" and Ruby was ALL OVER THAT IDEA. "Yay!" she replied, "We get to choose whatever WE want!!!"
Granted, I gave them an English Muffin, a fried egg, two slices of bacon and cheese all on separate plates. Ruby chose not to have cheese and had her bacon on the side. Gorby added everything and devoured it. But the glimpse into Ruby's decision making and control of her own choices really made her day.
But, I'm finding out that as the good book says, "we are IN the world, not OF the world." So, I think it's important to allow books like this one, Twilight, to be read and discussed. I haven't read it personally, but I'm wondering if it'll be on our Book Fair shelves this year. At a Christian school, I'm not sure we should be stocking books about vampires...
Enjoy the book review!
------------------------
This fantasy/romance book by Stephenie Meyer is readable for kids ages 9 and up and is at a high school curriculum level. (Age range refers to readability, and curriculum level refers to when a book is studied; neither are a reflection on content appropriateness.)
Plot Summary
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When Bella Swan moves to dismal Forks, Wash., to live with her dad, she never dreams of meeting someone as attractive and mysterious as Edward Cullen. Edward warns Bella to stay away from him, but the electricity between them intensifies. Edward finally reveals his secrets: He loves Bella — but he's a vampire, who desperately lusts for her blood. When an enemy vampire hunts Bella, Edward and his family take extreme measures to protect her.
Christian Beliefs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Edward notes that all the intricate things in the world couldn't have come into being on their own.
Authority Roles
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bella's father has never parented before. He asks casual questions about Bella's activities, but he's easily satisfied by her frequent lies and half-truths concerning her whereabouts. He clearly cares for her but doesn't provide much "authority" (although he does set a few more boundaries toward the end of the story). Bella's real protector is Edward. He sets the tone for their relationship, and Bella follows him fearlessly, despite knowing that he literally wants to devour her. Edward excuses Bella's repeated lying to others because it allows them to be together.
Other Belief Systems
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Edward and his family are vampires, so the book includes vampire lore. A local Indian tribe fears the Cullen family because of tribal legends about vampires.
Profanity/Graphic Violence
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Main characters use variations of "d--n" twice. Bella is beaten up and bloodied by an evil vampire who wants to kill her.
Kissing/Sex/Homosexuality
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Edward and Bella engage in a number of fairly innocuous kisses. Although Bella and Edward don't have sex, their relationship is extremely intense and sensual. It seems the only thing preventing intercourse is the fact that Edward desires to suck her blood, not to deflower her. He abstains from acting on his thirst because he loves her.
Awards
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Editor's choice in The New York Times book section in 2006, 2006 Top Ten Books for Young Adults by the Young Adult Library Services Association
Discussion Topics
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If your children have read this book or someone has read it to them, consider these discussion topics:
1) Real teens who act in some of the ways Bella and Edward did probably find themselves in real trouble. Parents may want to discuss how Bella blindly follows a boy she knows is dangerous.
2) What might be some of the consequences of becoming involved with a "bad boy," or a possessive person with anger or jealousy issues?
3) Also, real teens emulating Edward and Bella would find themselves in sexually compromising situations. Edward stays in Bella's room at night to watch her sleep. They caress each other in a secluded clearing, without anyone knowing where they are. How can we keep from placing ourselves in circumstances where temptation is too strong? Can touching in nonsexual ways be dangerous?
As published: http://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/book_reports/twilight.aspx
Sunday, March 22, 2009
If you like science...
I love science.
And, I love it when science proves God.
Listen to it in its entirety!
And, I love it when science proves God.
Listen to it in its entirety!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Our Trip - The Drive Out
My last remaining uncle on my Mom's side passed away last Thursday, so we drove back home to support my Mom and Dad, pay our last respects and to be here with the family.
We did the 20-hour drive straight through and it wasn't as bad as we thought it was going to be. And of course, the kids added comedy to the trip so it was never a dull moment.
Case in point:
Ruby: (to Gorby): "Heyyyyyy! Stop it!"
Mom: "What's going on back there?"
Ruby: "Gorby is taking my fuzzy, purple pillow and threw it on my headphones wire. And, now I can't hear the movie!!!!!"
Mom: "Ohhhh, Ruby, just relax, I'm sure it was an accident. Here, I'll plug it back in for you."
Gorby: "Actually....it was on purpose."
:-) Bah!
We did the 20-hour drive straight through and it wasn't as bad as we thought it was going to be. And of course, the kids added comedy to the trip so it was never a dull moment.
Case in point:
Ruby: (to Gorby): "Heyyyyyy! Stop it!"
Mom: "What's going on back there?"
Ruby: "Gorby is taking my fuzzy, purple pillow and threw it on my headphones wire. And, now I can't hear the movie!!!!!"
Mom: "Ohhhh, Ruby, just relax, I'm sure it was an accident. Here, I'll plug it back in for you."
Gorby: "Actually....it was on purpose."
:-) Bah!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Fighting for the Little Guy
I really like this lady. She might just turn me into a Democrat!
Madam Speaker, I am glad I was here on the floor to respond to the prior Member who felt compelled to say that he thought the Wall Street bailout was working. I would like to know what evidence he has to prove that, since we have no forensic accounting of what the Wall Street banks that got all this money did with the money. Maybe he has some special access inside these institutions and can provide it to the Record, because I will tell you what happened yesterday.
I went before our Rules Committee and I proposed a very simple amendment. My amendment was that before we give one more dime of the people's money, we require the Treasury to do a forensic accounting of every bit of money that was sent up there to Wall Street. And I was denied my amendment.
There is no Member of this Congress that can say with accuracy, including the gentleman who just spoke, that he knows where the money is, because, you know what? They haven't told us. All you know is what you have read in the newspapers, and how can we extend more money from the American people when we don't even know what happened to the money that went out the door?
So you can say whatever you want and create a fiction, but the fact is that foreclosures are going up across this country. That bill that was passed last year was supposed to help people hang onto their homes. In Ohio, foreclosures have gotten worse every month.
What I am telling people right now is, stay in your homes. If the American people, anybody out there is being foreclosed, don't leave, because I will tell you what. If you had a smart lawyer like those banks up there on Wall Street can get, they would take you into court and they couldn't find the mortgage. They couldn't find the mortgage.
So why should any American citizen be kicked out of their homes in this cold weather? In Ohio it is going to be 10 or 20 below zero. Don't leave your home. Because you know what? When those companies say they have your mortgage, unless you have a lawyer that can put his or her finger on that mortgage, you don't have that mortgage, and you are going to find they can't find the paper up there on Wall Street.
So I say to the American people, you be squatters in your own homes. Don't you leave. In Ohio and Michigan and Indiana and Illinois and all these other places our people are being treated like chattel, and this Congress is stymied. We have the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression and our committees are muzzled. Power is given to one chairman or one person.
We are all equal here. We have a right to be heard. The concerns of our constituents have a right to be registered in the committees of this House, not choked down as what is happening here today. It is just a tragedy. And if we don't fix the economic cure, it is going to get worse, and the cure is to go after the home foreclosure crisis.
Who does that? Treasury? No. That is absolutely the wrong place. We need the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Securities and Exchange Commission empowered to do the real estate workouts on books across this country. Those are the normal institutions that are used. And then you have got HUD there now with FHA that can take these mortgages once they are refinanced. But that is not what is happening across our country. There is no help for the homeowner. That whole section they talked about today, Help for Homeowners over at HUD, nobody has even benefited. We said last year they wouldn't, and that is exactly what has happened.
So I say to the American people, stay in your homes. You have earned them. And don't you get out until you get a really good lawyer who can find your mortgage up there on Wall Street. Because, you know what? They won't be able to find it, and therefore they can't prove you should be evicted.
Madam Speaker, I am glad I was here on the floor to respond to the prior Member who felt compelled to say that he thought the Wall Street bailout was working. I would like to know what evidence he has to prove that, since we have no forensic accounting of what the Wall Street banks that got all this money did with the money. Maybe he has some special access inside these institutions and can provide it to the Record, because I will tell you what happened yesterday.
I went before our Rules Committee and I proposed a very simple amendment. My amendment was that before we give one more dime of the people's money, we require the Treasury to do a forensic accounting of every bit of money that was sent up there to Wall Street. And I was denied my amendment.
There is no Member of this Congress that can say with accuracy, including the gentleman who just spoke, that he knows where the money is, because, you know what? They haven't told us. All you know is what you have read in the newspapers, and how can we extend more money from the American people when we don't even know what happened to the money that went out the door?
So you can say whatever you want and create a fiction, but the fact is that foreclosures are going up across this country. That bill that was passed last year was supposed to help people hang onto their homes. In Ohio, foreclosures have gotten worse every month.
What I am telling people right now is, stay in your homes. If the American people, anybody out there is being foreclosed, don't leave, because I will tell you what. If you had a smart lawyer like those banks up there on Wall Street can get, they would take you into court and they couldn't find the mortgage. They couldn't find the mortgage.
So why should any American citizen be kicked out of their homes in this cold weather? In Ohio it is going to be 10 or 20 below zero. Don't leave your home. Because you know what? When those companies say they have your mortgage, unless you have a lawyer that can put his or her finger on that mortgage, you don't have that mortgage, and you are going to find they can't find the paper up there on Wall Street.
So I say to the American people, you be squatters in your own homes. Don't you leave. In Ohio and Michigan and Indiana and Illinois and all these other places our people are being treated like chattel, and this Congress is stymied. We have the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression and our committees are muzzled. Power is given to one chairman or one person.
We are all equal here. We have a right to be heard. The concerns of our constituents have a right to be registered in the committees of this House, not choked down as what is happening here today. It is just a tragedy. And if we don't fix the economic cure, it is going to get worse, and the cure is to go after the home foreclosure crisis.
Who does that? Treasury? No. That is absolutely the wrong place. We need the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Securities and Exchange Commission empowered to do the real estate workouts on books across this country. Those are the normal institutions that are used. And then you have got HUD there now with FHA that can take these mortgages once they are refinanced. But that is not what is happening across our country. There is no help for the homeowner. That whole section they talked about today, Help for Homeowners over at HUD, nobody has even benefited. We said last year they wouldn't, and that is exactly what has happened.
So I say to the American people, stay in your homes. You have earned them. And don't you get out until you get a really good lawyer who can find your mortgage up there on Wall Street. Because, you know what? They won't be able to find it, and therefore they can't prove you should be evicted.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Miss Terwilliger
So, the family is on its way to church yesterday, and its pouring down rain here in Northern California. Which is a good thing, because we need it. Anyway, we're on the way to church an the kids want to play the "Guess Who" game. It's a liberal take on 20 questions and we usually think of animals as our item to guess. We usually play on the way to school, but since Dad was with us, it's a whole 'nother ball game.
The youngest always goes first, so Gorbulas thinks of an animal and I guess it relatively quickly. It's now my turn. I think of an animal. OK, got one. "Go!" I tell the family.
"Is it a polar bear?" Gorbulas asks.
"No honey, it's not a polar bear, but you need to ask me questions about the animal and try and guess," I say.
Ruby asks, "Does it live on land?"
"Yes, it lives on land," I say.
Gorby asks, "Does it live in the water?"
"No, it lives on land, but it really likes the water and lives by the water."
"Can I hunt it?" Frederor asks.
"No."
"Does it live in *our city*?"
"Yes! It lives in *our city*."
He continues, "Is it a bird?"
"Yes, it's a bird."
Gorby shouts, "An eagle? A hawk?"
"No, and No."
Frederor says, "Is it Nigel from Nemo?"
I giggle, "Do you mean, 'Is it a pelican?'" I ask.
"Yeah."
"No, it's not a pelican."
I say, "Here's a hint: it's a white bird with a long beak and spindly legs."
Gorby shouts, "A seagull!"
"Nope, but good guess buddy," I say, "Everybody give up?"
They all groan.
"It's a stork!"
Frederor exclaims, "We don't have storks here."
"Yes, we do!" I say. "Look! There's one right there!!!"
"That's an egret."
"Ohhhh same thing."
"No, they're different."
"They're the same!"
"No, actually they're not."
"Reeeeallly. OK, well, then what's the difference Mr. I-Know-Water-Birds?"
He laughs, "I don't know, but Miss Terwilliger in 3rd grade said they were different birds."
Bahhhh hahahaha -- is that all you got? Miss Terwilliger from third grade?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Hjal/Elizabeth_Terwilliger
The youngest always goes first, so Gorbulas thinks of an animal and I guess it relatively quickly. It's now my turn. I think of an animal. OK, got one. "Go!" I tell the family.
"Is it a polar bear?" Gorbulas asks.
"No honey, it's not a polar bear, but you need to ask me questions about the animal and try and guess," I say.
Ruby asks, "Does it live on land?"
"Yes, it lives on land," I say.
Gorby asks, "Does it live in the water?"
"No, it lives on land, but it really likes the water and lives by the water."
"Can I hunt it?" Frederor asks.
"No."
"Does it live in *our city*?"
"Yes! It lives in *our city*."
He continues, "Is it a bird?"
"Yes, it's a bird."
Gorby shouts, "An eagle? A hawk?"
"No, and No."
Frederor says, "Is it Nigel from Nemo?"
I giggle, "Do you mean, 'Is it a pelican?'" I ask.
"Yeah."
"No, it's not a pelican."
I say, "Here's a hint: it's a white bird with a long beak and spindly legs."
Gorby shouts, "A seagull!"
"Nope, but good guess buddy," I say, "Everybody give up?"
They all groan.
"It's a stork!"
Frederor exclaims, "We don't have storks here."
"Yes, we do!" I say. "Look! There's one right there!!!"
"That's an egret."
"Ohhhh same thing."
"No, they're different."
"They're the same!"
"No, actually they're not."
"Reeeeallly. OK, well, then what's the difference Mr. I-Know-Water-Birds?"
He laughs, "I don't know, but Miss Terwilliger in 3rd grade said they were different birds."
Bahhhh hahahaha -- is that all you got? Miss Terwilliger from third grade?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Hjal/Elizabeth_Terwilliger
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Breath of Fresh Air
Happy Valentine's Day!
It was certainly a happy one for me, and my husband came through in amazing ways to make me feel loved (and to redeem himself from last year).
I think most of you who read this blog know that I'm a huge fan of The Five Love Languages. I don't think it's a spiritual book, but it truly has opened my eyes to how each person gives and receives love. I know I am a "Gifts" person, but today, I discovered the "Quality Time" side of me.
I truly felt loved today. My husband and I spend quality time together (with the kids). We discovered something called "Letterboxing." The best part -- it's free. The second best part -- we were outdoors, walking, hunting, searching, discovering and basically just bonded as a family. It was good, quality family time without having to purchase anything (well, I take that back: we each purchased a lined journal from Ross).
So what is Letterboxing? Letterboxing is a search for air-tight containers that someone has left hidden. In the container is a logbook and a stamp. When you find the box, you take out the stamp and stamp your personal journal or logbook. Then, you leave your mark (ie. a stamp you've selected for yourself) in their journal/logbook, seal it up and rebury it where you found it so the next person can enjoy it. Another flavor of this is called geocaching, but with letterboxing, you don't take any or leave any trinkets with you. And God knows I have enough clutter...I don't need any more little army men, or legos or bounceyballs, etc.
This morning, I got out my old stamps and we all selected what would become our own personal signature stamp. Ruby selected a flower with smileyface center, Gorbulas selected a pufferfish, Frederer selected a bass fish, and I selected a seashell. We gathered up our stamps, a stamp pad and our clues and headed out to find two letterboxes that we chose from www.atlasquest.com.
www.letterboxing.org gives all the details, but suffice it to say, I think we found a wonderful family hobby that gets us out in the outdoors, together, and having fun. Letterboxes are all over the world so we decided to go to Ross to purchase cheap spiral bound journals to mark and remember our travels. When we go to Colorado this summer, we'll bring our journals and visit the websites to scout out where we want to search.
It was certainly a happy one for me, and my husband came through in amazing ways to make me feel loved (and to redeem himself from last year).
I think most of you who read this blog know that I'm a huge fan of The Five Love Languages. I don't think it's a spiritual book, but it truly has opened my eyes to how each person gives and receives love. I know I am a "Gifts" person, but today, I discovered the "Quality Time" side of me.
I truly felt loved today. My husband and I spend quality time together (with the kids). We discovered something called "Letterboxing." The best part -- it's free. The second best part -- we were outdoors, walking, hunting, searching, discovering and basically just bonded as a family. It was good, quality family time without having to purchase anything (well, I take that back: we each purchased a lined journal from Ross).
So what is Letterboxing? Letterboxing is a search for air-tight containers that someone has left hidden. In the container is a logbook and a stamp. When you find the box, you take out the stamp and stamp your personal journal or logbook. Then, you leave your mark (ie. a stamp you've selected for yourself) in their journal/logbook, seal it up and rebury it where you found it so the next person can enjoy it. Another flavor of this is called geocaching, but with letterboxing, you don't take any or leave any trinkets with you. And God knows I have enough clutter...I don't need any more little army men, or legos or bounceyballs, etc.
This morning, I got out my old stamps and we all selected what would become our own personal signature stamp. Ruby selected a flower with smileyface center, Gorbulas selected a pufferfish, Frederer selected a bass fish, and I selected a seashell. We gathered up our stamps, a stamp pad and our clues and headed out to find two letterboxes that we chose from www.atlasquest.com.
www.letterboxing.org gives all the details, but suffice it to say, I think we found a wonderful family hobby that gets us out in the outdoors, together, and having fun. Letterboxes are all over the world so we decided to go to Ross to purchase cheap spiral bound journals to mark and remember our travels. When we go to Colorado this summer, we'll bring our journals and visit the websites to scout out where we want to search.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Checking Out
It's taken me a month to get my paperwork in order to finally call our mortgage company, Countrywide Home Loans. I'm home with a sick child today, so I get him all squared away. I take his temp again (100.6), cozily tuck him under down blankets in the master bedroom, sufficiently medicate him with Tylenol meltaways and a teaspoon of cold medicine and I take a deep breath and dial the phone.
My parents raised me right. My parents raised me to honor my debts and always set a good example for me. No matter how difficult things got, you adjusted your expenses and you "just make do." I am so proud to be my parent's child, because they taught me loyalty, the value of hard work, and to do a job right. So, I'm pretty humiliated to call the mortgage company to begin with, but to ask for a loan modification is darn near suffocating me.
I dial the 800 number on my statement and (naturally) have called the wrong department. After 5 tries, and 5 different numbers, I finally reach the right department. After verifying umpteen pieces of information to make sure I am who I say I am, the rep asks how she can help me. I figure I'd come out with all guns blazing, asking for the moon, so I ask for "principal forgiveness from the $612,000 we currently owe to the $391,500 which is the current market value of our home."
Clickity-clickity-click. She types away. "Hmmm" she says.
(wait for it...wait for it...)
"It appears that you do not qualify for the principal forgiveness program that Countrywide offers. That program is specifically for customers that have a "neg am" product."
I figure I don't even want to go down the deep, dark hole of mortgage acronyms, and I know that neg-am means negative amortization, so I'm willing to let this one slide.
"OK" I say. "So, what assistance do we qualify for?"
"I'll need all your financials and then we can see" she says.
I give her my husband's gross and net income and my unemployment information. I give her all our expenses too. I explain that I've been laid off and we had about 3 months of savings which has now been depleted. At present, our expenses exceed our income (shocker, I know).
Clickity-clickity-click. She types away. "Hmmm" she says.
(wait for it...wait for it...)
"Ma'am, I'm sorry, but I suggest you call HUD because, at this time, you do not qualify for any assistance or loan modification program that Countrywide offers" she says.
Seriously, I wonder WHY I even try.
We never (NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER) qualify for any assistance for ANYTHING.
EVER.
I wonder if all these government programs we hear about are just a farce, because seriously, I have yet to see ANY break from ANY government agendy or creditor at ANY time.
I say, "Well, I'm looking on the hardship portion of your website and it says that you're offering loan term extensions and rate reductions. We just need the mortgage to come down from the astronomical $3,600 that it is now to something like $2,600 and then we'll be able to make it. If Countrywide would lower the interest rate from the horrific 6.875% that our mortgage is at now, to something more reasonable, say 4.75% or even better 4.5% then you won't have to have another California foreclosure looming and I could be financially solvent. It's a win-win for both of us."
"Yes, ma'am. I see your point. But, at this time, I'm sorry to say that you don't qualify for any assistance that Countrywide offers at this time. (What? is she reading from a script?) I suggest that you wait a couple of months until your unemployment runs out and then your income will have changed. Then, call us back to see if you qualify for some help."
I pause. There's nothing quite like silence to make the other party uncomfortable.
"So, let me make sure I understand what you're saying. You're saying that because of the particular type of PRODUCT we have, we don't qualify for principal forgiveness, and because we're not late on any payments we don't qualify for any loan modification assistance, and that I need to contact HUD to potentially, maybe, just *see* if I qualify for their assistance, correct?" I say.
"Yes, ma'am."
"I've heard that HUD is offering a Hope for Homeowners program whereby FHA will take over the loan, based on market value, and that we would enter into an appreciation sharing arrangement with them. Is Countrywide entertaining that program?"
"Yes, ma'am, in April, Countrywide will be participating in the Hope for Homeowners program for select customers."
Ahhhh -- there it is. Did you catch that? "...for select customers." Yeah, I caught it too.
"So, Countrywide would be willing to let a $612,000 mortgage go and take a huge loss instead of modifying the loan as it exists today, to something more reasonable, thereby keeping the astronomical principal balance of $610,000 with Countrywide but at a lower interest rate so that it makes it possible that could pay it for the next 30 years?"
"Ummm. Well, I don't know. I'm so sorry this is happening to you. Perhaps if you give us a call in a few months, we'll have new programs in place to help you." (at least she's nice)
I sit here, tears welling up in my eyes, trying to understand how my trying to avert an economic implosion -- proactively I might add -- is being received with the standard:
You. Don't. Qualify.
Couple that bit of good news with the fact that job searches are coming up empty, interview feedback isn't being given, hiring decisions on interviews I've done aren't being disclosed, my former employer STILL has not paid me for November's commission, December's commission, January's commission nor the severance payout, and my attorney is freegin' worthless and I just want to check out.
I don't want to play "Economy" anymore.
Like Alexander, I'm having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day and I want to run away to Australia.
My parents raised me right. My parents raised me to honor my debts and always set a good example for me. No matter how difficult things got, you adjusted your expenses and you "just make do." I am so proud to be my parent's child, because they taught me loyalty, the value of hard work, and to do a job right. So, I'm pretty humiliated to call the mortgage company to begin with, but to ask for a loan modification is darn near suffocating me.
I dial the 800 number on my statement and (naturally) have called the wrong department. After 5 tries, and 5 different numbers, I finally reach the right department. After verifying umpteen pieces of information to make sure I am who I say I am, the rep asks how she can help me. I figure I'd come out with all guns blazing, asking for the moon, so I ask for "principal forgiveness from the $612,000 we currently owe to the $391,500 which is the current market value of our home."
Clickity-clickity-click. She types away. "Hmmm" she says.
(wait for it...wait for it...)
"It appears that you do not qualify for the principal forgiveness program that Countrywide offers. That program is specifically for customers that have a "neg am" product."
I figure I don't even want to go down the deep, dark hole of mortgage acronyms, and I know that neg-am means negative amortization, so I'm willing to let this one slide.
"OK" I say. "So, what assistance do we qualify for?"
"I'll need all your financials and then we can see" she says.
I give her my husband's gross and net income and my unemployment information. I give her all our expenses too. I explain that I've been laid off and we had about 3 months of savings which has now been depleted. At present, our expenses exceed our income (shocker, I know).
Clickity-clickity-click. She types away. "Hmmm" she says.
(wait for it...wait for it...)
"Ma'am, I'm sorry, but I suggest you call HUD because, at this time, you do not qualify for any assistance or loan modification program that Countrywide offers" she says.
Seriously, I wonder WHY I even try.
We never (NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER) qualify for any assistance for ANYTHING.
EVER.
I wonder if all these government programs we hear about are just a farce, because seriously, I have yet to see ANY break from ANY government agendy or creditor at ANY time.
I say, "Well, I'm looking on the hardship portion of your website and it says that you're offering loan term extensions and rate reductions. We just need the mortgage to come down from the astronomical $3,600 that it is now to something like $2,600 and then we'll be able to make it. If Countrywide would lower the interest rate from the horrific 6.875% that our mortgage is at now, to something more reasonable, say 4.75% or even better 4.5% then you won't have to have another California foreclosure looming and I could be financially solvent. It's a win-win for both of us."
"Yes, ma'am. I see your point. But, at this time, I'm sorry to say that you don't qualify for any assistance that Countrywide offers at this time. (What? is she reading from a script?) I suggest that you wait a couple of months until your unemployment runs out and then your income will have changed. Then, call us back to see if you qualify for some help."
I pause. There's nothing quite like silence to make the other party uncomfortable.
"So, let me make sure I understand what you're saying. You're saying that because of the particular type of PRODUCT we have, we don't qualify for principal forgiveness, and because we're not late on any payments we don't qualify for any loan modification assistance, and that I need to contact HUD to potentially, maybe, just *see* if I qualify for their assistance, correct?" I say.
"Yes, ma'am."
"I've heard that HUD is offering a Hope for Homeowners program whereby FHA will take over the loan, based on market value, and that we would enter into an appreciation sharing arrangement with them. Is Countrywide entertaining that program?"
"Yes, ma'am, in April, Countrywide will be participating in the Hope for Homeowners program for select customers."
Ahhhh -- there it is. Did you catch that? "...for select customers." Yeah, I caught it too.
"So, Countrywide would be willing to let a $612,000 mortgage go and take a huge loss instead of modifying the loan as it exists today, to something more reasonable, thereby keeping the astronomical principal balance of $610,000 with Countrywide but at a lower interest rate so that it makes it possible that could pay it for the next 30 years?"
"Ummm. Well, I don't know. I'm so sorry this is happening to you. Perhaps if you give us a call in a few months, we'll have new programs in place to help you." (at least she's nice)
I sit here, tears welling up in my eyes, trying to understand how my trying to avert an economic implosion -- proactively I might add -- is being received with the standard:
You. Don't. Qualify.
Couple that bit of good news with the fact that job searches are coming up empty, interview feedback isn't being given, hiring decisions on interviews I've done aren't being disclosed, my former employer STILL has not paid me for November's commission, December's commission, January's commission nor the severance payout, and my attorney is freegin' worthless and I just want to check out.
I don't want to play "Economy" anymore.
Like Alexander, I'm having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day and I want to run away to Australia.
Monday, February 2, 2009
My Network is Now My Competition
Since getting laid off in October, I find myself networking with other peers. But, in the last 60 days most of THEM have also been laid off. So now, my networking buddies are my competition for the scarce jobs that are available. And, many of my networking buddies are vastly more qualified than I. Disappointing.
My former employer has STILL YET to pay me out the November commissions, December commissions (and obviously, January) and also has not sent me the Severance payout. It royally stinks and my lackluster attorney is trying her very-laid-back best. Gosh, I sure hope this is pro bono considering the attention she's paid to me. (sigh)
But, the good news is that I'm spending a TON of time with the kids. I love it, and it's great. I'm praying that one of Obama's fancy schmancy new programs to forgive mortgage principal will help us out and we can refinance to the existing market appraisal. It would be so nice to pay a mortgage on a home worth $390,000 instead of on a $612,000 mortgage from la-la land.
My former employer has STILL YET to pay me out the November commissions, December commissions (and obviously, January) and also has not sent me the Severance payout. It royally stinks and my lackluster attorney is trying her very-laid-back best. Gosh, I sure hope this is pro bono considering the attention she's paid to me. (sigh)
But, the good news is that I'm spending a TON of time with the kids. I love it, and it's great. I'm praying that one of Obama's fancy schmancy new programs to forgive mortgage principal will help us out and we can refinance to the existing market appraisal. It would be so nice to pay a mortgage on a home worth $390,000 instead of on a $612,000 mortgage from la-la land.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Saga with Former Employer Continues
If you thought the saga with my former company paying out my final commissions was over, you're sadly mistaken. It's been dragging on for over 60 days now, and it's so frustrating.
But, I must say, the most hurtful thing thusfar has been the knowledge that I was basically let go from a group of people I had worked with for over 13 years, 6 of which at the last company that had acquired the software I sold.
When the president of the division called me to announce that "my role was not being transitioned to the new company" I was shocked, hurt and felt like the wind had been taken out of the room.
Now, it appears that my former role DID appear important because they posted a job solicitation for it just today (oddly enough, the day AFTER I signed the Separation Agreement & Release -- basically a doc that says I won't sue them -- good thing it has a 7 day recision clause though).
So here it is in all its former glory. EXACTLY what I used to do for the company that they said "was not transitioning my role" to the new company.
THE COMPANY
ExecsAreDufuses is an industry-leading provider of technology and consulting solutions for asset and infrastructure-intensive organizations in government, education, utilities, telecommunications, transportation, healthcare and the commercial sector. Our suite of software solutions and professional consulting services enable organizations to improve maintenance practices, streamline operations, and improve accountability for mission-critical capital and infrastructure assets. ExecsAreDufuses is part of the ExtremeJackasses Software Inc. group of companies which trades on the under the symbol “FUCKDAISY”.
POSITION
This position is for a Sales Support Representative who will work in tandem with the Sales Account Managers as well as other members of the ExecsAreDufuses team to generate new business with existing customers, works to identify prospective new customers and can meet or exceed sales quotas while increasing customer satisfaction.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
The successful candidate will be a talented, self-directed and a self-motivated individual, who knows the importance of teamwork, cooperation and pleasant persistence.
Sales
• Obtain proficiency with ExecsAreDufuses software products in order to demonstrate modules via remote presentation tools (Webex).
• Generate new and repeat sales by providing product and technical information in a timely manner.
• Determine customer requirements and expectations in order to recommend specific products and solutions
• Recommend alternate products based on cost, availability or specifications
• Present price and terms in accordance with standard procedures and in concert with the Account Manager(s)
• Accurately process customer transactions such as proposals, quotes and orders
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date information on existing and prospective clients and be prepared to report on same.
• Proactively recommend items needed by customers to increase customer satisfaction and improve transaction profitability
• Increase sales and average order size by means of cross-selling, up-selling, add-on sales and offering promotional sale items
• Educate customers about terminology, features and benefits of products in order to improve product related sales and customer satisfaction
• Identify prospective new customers through telemarketing
• Travel for customer/prospect meetings as directed
Support
• Assist customers with support issues by documenting their issues, and handing off to support, with the issue well understood and documented
• Contact customers following sales to ensure ongoing customer satisfaction and resolve any complaints
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Minimum 2 years in similar position preferred
• Effective listening, communication (verbal and written), negotiation and excellent phone skills
• Demonstrated integrity and ethical standards
• Delivers superior customer service
• Technical expertise and knowledge of company products
• Problem-solving and analytical ability
• Able to handle difficult customers with diplomacy and tact
• Manages time effectively and adapts quickly to changing priorities
• Able to multi-task
• Team player who works productively with wide range of people
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly MS Excel
Work Environment and Physical Demands
Office environment, Some stress may occur at times
No special physical demands required.
Travel 10% of time
Am I bitter? Oh yeah.
But, I must say, the most hurtful thing thusfar has been the knowledge that I was basically let go from a group of people I had worked with for over 13 years, 6 of which at the last company that had acquired the software I sold.
When the president of the division called me to announce that "my role was not being transitioned to the new company" I was shocked, hurt and felt like the wind had been taken out of the room.
Now, it appears that my former role DID appear important because they posted a job solicitation for it just today (oddly enough, the day AFTER I signed the Separation Agreement & Release -- basically a doc that says I won't sue them -- good thing it has a 7 day recision clause though).
So here it is in all its former glory. EXACTLY what I used to do for the company that they said "was not transitioning my role" to the new company.
THE COMPANY
ExecsAreDufuses is an industry-leading provider of technology and consulting solutions for asset and infrastructure-intensive organizations in government, education, utilities, telecommunications, transportation, healthcare and the commercial sector. Our suite of software solutions and professional consulting services enable organizations to improve maintenance practices, streamline operations, and improve accountability for mission-critical capital and infrastructure assets. ExecsAreDufuses is part of the ExtremeJackasses Software Inc. group of companies which trades on the under the symbol “FUCKDAISY”.
POSITION
This position is for a Sales Support Representative who will work in tandem with the Sales Account Managers as well as other members of the ExecsAreDufuses team to generate new business with existing customers, works to identify prospective new customers and can meet or exceed sales quotas while increasing customer satisfaction.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
The successful candidate will be a talented, self-directed and a self-motivated individual, who knows the importance of teamwork, cooperation and pleasant persistence.
Sales
• Obtain proficiency with ExecsAreDufuses software products in order to demonstrate modules via remote presentation tools (Webex).
• Generate new and repeat sales by providing product and technical information in a timely manner.
• Determine customer requirements and expectations in order to recommend specific products and solutions
• Recommend alternate products based on cost, availability or specifications
• Present price and terms in accordance with standard procedures and in concert with the Account Manager(s)
• Accurately process customer transactions such as proposals, quotes and orders
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date information on existing and prospective clients and be prepared to report on same.
• Proactively recommend items needed by customers to increase customer satisfaction and improve transaction profitability
• Increase sales and average order size by means of cross-selling, up-selling, add-on sales and offering promotional sale items
• Educate customers about terminology, features and benefits of products in order to improve product related sales and customer satisfaction
• Identify prospective new customers through telemarketing
• Travel for customer/prospect meetings as directed
Support
• Assist customers with support issues by documenting their issues, and handing off to support, with the issue well understood and documented
• Contact customers following sales to ensure ongoing customer satisfaction and resolve any complaints
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Minimum 2 years in similar position preferred
• Effective listening, communication (verbal and written), negotiation and excellent phone skills
• Demonstrated integrity and ethical standards
• Delivers superior customer service
• Technical expertise and knowledge of company products
• Problem-solving and analytical ability
• Able to handle difficult customers with diplomacy and tact
• Manages time effectively and adapts quickly to changing priorities
• Able to multi-task
• Team player who works productively with wide range of people
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly MS Excel
Work Environment and Physical Demands
Office environment, Some stress may occur at times
No special physical demands required.
Travel 10% of time
Am I bitter? Oh yeah.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Could Homeschooling Work for Us?
f
This woman makes me want to homeschool my kids.
http://thepioneerwoman.com/homeschooling/2008/11/color-me-counted/
Gorbulas just recently had his Kindergarten readiness test at school (now? in November? OK. whatever) and he met or exceeded all the marks except fine motor skills. Which doesn't surprise me. OK, so we just need to work on picking up beads with a tweezer...so be it.
But, as I started to think about how to prepare him for Kindergarten, I did a bit of research. This looks like just too much fun, I think I'm going to explode.
http://homeschooling.about.com/cs/learning/qt/coursehisk.htm
This woman makes me want to homeschool my kids.
http://thepioneerwoman.com/homeschooling/2008/11/color-me-counted/
Gorbulas just recently had his Kindergarten readiness test at school (now? in November? OK. whatever) and he met or exceeded all the marks except fine motor skills. Which doesn't surprise me. OK, so we just need to work on picking up beads with a tweezer...so be it.
But, as I started to think about how to prepare him for Kindergarten, I did a bit of research. This looks like just too much fun, I think I'm going to explode.
http://homeschooling.about.com/cs/learning/qt/coursehisk.htm
I like the Birk Plan
Sassybug had a terrific post that she found from a forum, and I thought it was just too good too pass up.
Enjoy.
I’m against the $85,000,000,000.00 bailout of AIG.
Instead, I’m in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in a We Deserve It Dividend.
To make the math simple, let’s assume there are 200,000,000 bonafide U.S. Citizens 18+.
Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up.
So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billion that equals $425,000.00.
My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a We Deserve It Dividend.
Of course, it would NOT be tax free.
So let’s assume a tax rate of 30%.
Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes.
That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.
But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500.00 in their pocket. A husband and wife have $595,000.00.
What would you do with $297,500.00 to $595,000.00 in your family?
Pay off your mortgage - housing crisis solved.
Repay college loans - what a great boost to new grads
Put away money for college - it’ll be there
Save in a bank - create money to loan to entrepreneurs.
Buy a new car - create jobs
Invest in the market - capital drives growth
Pay for your parent’s medical insurance - health care improves
Enable Deadbeat Dads to come clean - or else
Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks
who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.
If we’re going to re-distribute wealth let’s really do it…instead of trickling out a puny $1000.00 ( “vote buy” ) economic incentive that is being proposed by one of our candidates for President.
If we’re going to do an $85 billion bailout, let’s bail out every adult U S Citizen 18+!
As for AIG - liquidate it. Sell off its parts. Let American General go back to being American General. Sell off the real estate. Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.
Here’s my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn’t. Sure it’s a crazy idea that can ”never work.” But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party! How do you spell Economic Boom? I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion We Deserve It Dividend more than I do the geniuses at AIG or in Washington DC. And remember, The Birk plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5 Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.
Ahhh…I feel so much better getting that off my chest.
Kindest personal regards,
Birk
T. J . Birkenmeier, A Creative Guy & Citizen of the Republic
PS: Feel free to pass this along to your pals as it’s either good for a laugh or a tear or a very sobering thought on how to best use $85 Billion!!
Enjoy.
I’m against the $85,000,000,000.00 bailout of AIG.
Instead, I’m in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in a We Deserve It Dividend.
To make the math simple, let’s assume there are 200,000,000 bonafide U.S. Citizens 18+.
Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up.
So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billion that equals $425,000.00.
My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a We Deserve It Dividend.
Of course, it would NOT be tax free.
So let’s assume a tax rate of 30%.
Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes.
That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.
But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500.00 in their pocket. A husband and wife have $595,000.00.
What would you do with $297,500.00 to $595,000.00 in your family?
Pay off your mortgage - housing crisis solved.
Repay college loans - what a great boost to new grads
Put away money for college - it’ll be there
Save in a bank - create money to loan to entrepreneurs.
Buy a new car - create jobs
Invest in the market - capital drives growth
Pay for your parent’s medical insurance - health care improves
Enable Deadbeat Dads to come clean - or else
Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks
who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.
If we’re going to re-distribute wealth let’s really do it…instead of trickling out a puny $1000.00 ( “vote buy” ) economic incentive that is being proposed by one of our candidates for President.
If we’re going to do an $85 billion bailout, let’s bail out every adult U S Citizen 18+!
As for AIG - liquidate it. Sell off its parts. Let American General go back to being American General. Sell off the real estate. Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.
Here’s my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn’t. Sure it’s a crazy idea that can ”never work.” But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party! How do you spell Economic Boom? I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion We Deserve It Dividend more than I do the geniuses at AIG or in Washington DC. And remember, The Birk plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5 Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.
Ahhh…I feel so much better getting that off my chest.
Kindest personal regards,
Birk
T. J . Birkenmeier, A Creative Guy & Citizen of the Republic
PS: Feel free to pass this along to your pals as it’s either good for a laugh or a tear or a very sobering thought on how to best use $85 Billion!!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
It's Beginning to Look alot Like Christmas!
As you can see from my lack-of-blogging, I'm much busier now than I ever was when I was working. Which is ironic, because I felt busy then. I've really enjoyed not being chained to my desk and I've never been more active in volunteering and helping others. It's amazing.
Well, Fall is officially here and Thanksgiving is right around the corner, which means my mind bypasses it and goes directly to Christmas. I love Christmas. I cannot wait for Christmas each and every year -- and each and every year, it seems to come more quickly than previous years, which is A-OK with me.
However, this year is different. Because...well...we really have no extra money. We can either pay the mortgage, or buy Christmas presents. We can either buy Christmas presents or pay our electric bill. Well, it's not quite THAT bad, but there are just no "extras" this year. I'm not sad, I'm just going to be adapatable. I'm a Gift Person if you're unfamiliar with Love Languages. OHHHH am I a gift person and there's always a way to make it work.
I'm hoping this year is the Year of Perspective, the Year of Family, or the Year of Anti-Consumerism, if you will. Black Friday may have come early, but still, without a job, there won't be multiple Christmas presents per person under our tree this year. And you know what? I'm OK with that. Presents will be given that's for sure (see prior paragraph -- hello, I'm a GIFT person!) but it won't have been purchased from any expensive retail establishment. No large eToys purchases will be coming via FedEx to our home, no plastic "Made in China" items will appear under our tree. Gifts will truly be from the heart, whether it's a set of handmade greeting cards or something edible or an inexpensive clothing item or a small toy for the kids. Maybe we'll revert to yesteryear when stockings were the big thing and there was one present under the tree.
And you know what, I think it might just be the best Christmas ever.
If you're like us and you live in the land of plenty....rest assured and be comforted knowing your kids need nothing except YOU and YOUR FAMILY.
And maybe a little surprise in their stocking.
Well, Fall is officially here and Thanksgiving is right around the corner, which means my mind bypasses it and goes directly to Christmas. I love Christmas. I cannot wait for Christmas each and every year -- and each and every year, it seems to come more quickly than previous years, which is A-OK with me.
However, this year is different. Because...well...we really have no extra money. We can either pay the mortgage, or buy Christmas presents. We can either buy Christmas presents or pay our electric bill. Well, it's not quite THAT bad, but there are just no "extras" this year. I'm not sad, I'm just going to be adapatable. I'm a Gift Person if you're unfamiliar with Love Languages. OHHHH am I a gift person and there's always a way to make it work.
I'm hoping this year is the Year of Perspective, the Year of Family, or the Year of Anti-Consumerism, if you will. Black Friday may have come early, but still, without a job, there won't be multiple Christmas presents per person under our tree this year. And you know what? I'm OK with that. Presents will be given that's for sure (see prior paragraph -- hello, I'm a GIFT person!) but it won't have been purchased from any expensive retail establishment. No large eToys purchases will be coming via FedEx to our home, no plastic "Made in China" items will appear under our tree. Gifts will truly be from the heart, whether it's a set of handmade greeting cards or something edible or an inexpensive clothing item or a small toy for the kids. Maybe we'll revert to yesteryear when stockings were the big thing and there was one present under the tree.
And you know what, I think it might just be the best Christmas ever.
If you're like us and you live in the land of plenty....rest assured and be comforted knowing your kids need nothing except YOU and YOUR FAMILY.
And maybe a little surprise in their stocking.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Busier than ever...a family update for my Mom
Since being laid off on 9/30, I am busier than ever. I can hardly believe it actually.When I was on maternity leave with my daughter, I remember thinking, "Gosh, this is really nice! I can't believe all the things that I'm actually getting done. When do the working folk actually get this stuff done?" The answer? "They don't." And I was one of them. I still am, to a degree, I guess. But, suffice it to say that it's been really nice being home.
We're stressing financially, but harmony in the home has never (EVER) been better and I feel like a round peg in a round hole. Aside from Mount Washmore always being there, I feel like the house is truly a home. The trick will be to not let financial stress get the best of Frederer's and my marriage. We need to remain a united front and take whatever comes our way, deal with it, and then move on to the next challenge together.
However, the bliss of being home hasn't precluded me from looking for work. Frankly, I have this nasty little thing called a "work ethic" that translates to other areas of my life, and we have obligations that need to be fulfilled. I really feel responsibility weighing heavily on my shoulders.
I had an initial phone interview with an enterprise software company in San Francisco, and frankly, I'm very well qualified, and I could do the job, there's no question about that. It's comparable pay, and its software -- which I have experience selling. But it would require my being physically absent from the kids, family and home for 12 hours a day and honestly, I'm not convinced it's worth it.
After the first interview, I felt really good about myself, my qualifications and what I have to offer a company, and agreed to the 2nd telephone interview. That went swimmingly, and now I'm on to the VP panel. But again....I'm not sure I even WANT to work in software again, let alone work 60 miles away from my kids each day. Telecommuting is not an option (at least not in the near term but anyone in sales knows that on-target salespeople can pretty much do what they want -- but not initially). So, we'll see where that lands.
The second bit of news on the job front is that a competitor to my former employer wants to hire me.....but.....as a 1099 employee. I could work from home, and it would be selling into the same space I did previously, but the downside is that it's dealing with the same BS in the same industry as before (with all the same players and I can imagine the gossip). The pay would be 50% of what I was making before. And, I'm not sure how a 1099 factors into unemployment, or if it would disqualify me, so, we'll see...
My attorney is still trying to resolve the commissions payable issue. I may have to file a claim with the Labor Commission. It sucks. Frankly, she's not as much of a bulldog as I thought and I find that I, myself, am doing a lot of legwork. I thought that was why I hired an attorney! I don't want to pay $250 an hour for her to just make infrequent phone calls and emails.
Anyway...
I'm volunteering at the kids school more, filled in for the secretary who was on bereavement leave, went on a field trip, helped a friend de-clutter her ever-so-cluttered home, am Chairing the school's Christmas Parade committee, and I joined a women's bible study class. I'm still in my Anatomy and Chemistry classes and I'm trying to regain my A status. I really got thrown this month due to the layoff, and I choked on two exams and two quizzes (not to mention completely spaced Ruby's alphabet packet -- a nice huge packet of blank sheets of each letter to practice writing capitals and lower case. The entire class must have completed it by...uh 10/31. Oops). Hopefully, I won't have all Bs from this experience and Ruby will get a bit of grace from the teacher.
I haven't received my first unemployment check yet, either. However, I'm surprisingly at peace during this financial and occupational storm we're weathering. I suppose I should just take a job to have any income but neither one of those opportunities above get me excited and motivated. But then again, whoever said one must "enjoy" their job?
Frederer's brother and his family leave for Japan -- their next military post -- on Saturday and we're had them over for dinner and pumpkin carving last night. It'll be tough to see them go -- we've gotten used to having them here in the Bay Area and we'll miss them tremendously. We'll try and plan a trip there, but at $2,000 per ticket it would be a $10k vacation (if not more). Frederer said he'd pimp himself out, then reconsidered and said he'd collect soda cans. I think we might just buy a webcam and join Skype. :-)
Tonight, the kiddos will go trick-or-treating around our neighborhood (Hannah Montana and the Dark Knight) and then, if the rain holds, we'll possibly head over to a neighbor friend's church to their Harvest Party. It's kind of nice being on the receiving end of churchgoer's invitations to events.
Speaking of which...the 2nd grade neighbor girl who invited Ruby was just diagnosed with Hodgkins' Lymphoma. Oh, my heart breaks for this family. I can't imagine the pain her mother and father feel right now. It's one thing to endure Ruby's growth hormone disorder -- which, praise God, is not terminal -- and another to receive word from a child's physician that they have a life-threatening disease that could very well take this young one's life. I'm not sure what type it is, or if it's acute or chronic but I'll try and visit with the Mom sometime soon (I have spare time!) and see if I can get an update.
Next weekend, we'll be going to Colorado (yay!) for an early Thanksgiving with my grandmother who is flying in from Chicago. We'll have the whole fam damily there so it should be interesting. It always is with my grandmother around! I love her the way she is though. :-) All of us are looking forward to going, and we are so thankful for my mother's frequent flier points! Thanks Mom!!!! We'll see you soon.
That's it on our homefront for now. As the title suggests, things ARE [wonderfully] quiet on our homefront.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Liberals Have Their Place in This World
I was talking with a friend recently and shared that I pretty much agree with most Republican platforms: 1) pro-guns, 2) anti-abortion (as a means of birth control -- medically necessary ones get morally dicey), 3) pro-tax cuts, and 4) pro-smaller government.
However...there have been a few times when the leftist government here in California has pleasantly surprised me. Normally, our family never "qualifies" to be considered one of the little guys. So, all the help and programs that are "available to help people in need" are usually unavailable to us. You'd have to be near destitute to be able to qualify. Anyway...that's a story for another day.
There have been two instances most recently that I'm sooooo thankful for:
1) in California, it is illegal for companies to enforce Non-Competition Agreements. Companies can't preclude their former employees from pursuing work for which they are qualified. And you know what??? That means, no matter how much one's former employer hopes and prays you won't go work for a competitor, you absolutely can....and, smile all the way into their building. Granted, you must abide by the Confidentiality Agreement and not share non-public secrets but you aren't precluded from actually working for a competitor.
2) a former competitor called me and we're talking.....and, if it works out.....trust me, I'm going after all my former customers with a vengance.
What's the old addage? "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned."
So...we'll see.
However...there have been a few times when the leftist government here in California has pleasantly surprised me. Normally, our family never "qualifies" to be considered one of the little guys. So, all the help and programs that are "available to help people in need" are usually unavailable to us. You'd have to be near destitute to be able to qualify. Anyway...that's a story for another day.
There have been two instances most recently that I'm sooooo thankful for:
1) in California, it is illegal for companies to enforce Non-Competition Agreements. Companies can't preclude their former employees from pursuing work for which they are qualified. And you know what??? That means, no matter how much one's former employer hopes and prays you won't go work for a competitor, you absolutely can....and, smile all the way into their building. Granted, you must abide by the Confidentiality Agreement and not share non-public secrets but you aren't precluded from actually working for a competitor.
2) a former competitor called me and we're talking.....and, if it works out.....trust me, I'm going after all my former customers with a vengance.
What's the old addage? "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned."
So...we'll see.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Kreative Blogger Award
Imagine my surprise when I went to read my blogroll and Sassybug gave me the Kreative Blogger award for the creative names for my family! Yay! I love encouragement like this, and I'm just tickled.Thank you Sassy!!!!
So, the rules of the award are that I need to list 6 things I love, then pass it on to 6 lovely bloggers who will then repeat the love. It's a modern day chain letter, really.
Things I love:
1. The smell of the air after it rains.
2. Being able to explain a difficult concept to someone that doesn't understand it at all. It helps reinforce what I've just learned -- most recent example was nomenclature for polyatomic ionic compounds. Yeah, see? Pretty intimidating.
3. I love the fact that my husband is a Mr. Steady Man.
4. Sitting outside on a sunny day, with a glass of white wine and a plate of cheeses and grapes (I know...I know...very Napa Valley, but we really do DO this!), reading Cook's Illustrated, People or Women's Day, knowing all the while that the kids are safely tucked away at school, the house is totally clean, the beds are made, sink is spotless and the and laundry is underway.
5. I have to copycat Sassy's last item because it's exactly how I feel too. "I love the fact that I have nationwide coverage on my cell phone plan. I can call my mother anytime, anywhere, and for any reason. I talk to my mother almost everyday, and most days nothing profound or even interesting to anyone else is ever really said but it comforts me to know that even though she is 800+ miles away she is never more than a phone call way."
Now, I tag:
Have fun, ladies! And thank you Sassy!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Curious George, er, I mean Gorbulas
My son, Gorbulas, never stops getting into things and never ceases to amaze me, both good and bad. He's incredibly curious, and pretty much gets into everything that isn't locked down. And, sometimes the little bugger makes his way into things that ARE locked down.
Today, I'm at the computer emailing my former company on their outrageous claim that my $25,000 in commissions isn't payable to me anymore because I'm not a "full time employee." Well, that's a story for another day, but I'm feverishly typing away and Frederor comes up and drops two documents on my keyboard.
"What's this?" I ask. "Where'd you get these?"
"YOUR son," he says.
(as told by Dad, who witnessed this event)
One day, Gorbulas is in his room playing and hears the ice cream truck coming. He dashes to my office and then runs outside. The repeating jingle of the ice cream truck continues on a never ending loop and Frederer goes out to investigate. And, there's Gorby, at the ice cream truck window, handing the man...
a $50 Savings Bond...
...in his SISTER'S name, no less!
*sigh* I'm smiling through this phase. Really, I am.
Today, I'm at the computer emailing my former company on their outrageous claim that my $25,000 in commissions isn't payable to me anymore because I'm not a "full time employee." Well, that's a story for another day, but I'm feverishly typing away and Frederor comes up and drops two documents on my keyboard.
"What's this?" I ask. "Where'd you get these?"
"YOUR son," he says.
(as told by Dad, who witnessed this event)
One day, Gorbulas is in his room playing and hears the ice cream truck coming. He dashes to my office and then runs outside. The repeating jingle of the ice cream truck continues on a never ending loop and Frederer goes out to investigate. And, there's Gorby, at the ice cream truck window, handing the man...
a $50 Savings Bond...
...in his SISTER'S name, no less!
*sigh* I'm smiling through this phase. Really, I am.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Knocked down...but thankfully not knocked-up
It's been a week since I got laid off and stopped working. It took a few days to get adjusted to not checking my Blackberry, email and voicemail. The pace of the day seemed to stop as quickly as a river is dammed. Friends and customers were curious and alarmed, but those calls have stopped. My family is wonderful and will always be there for me, I know this.
I'm probably going through the stages of grieving, actually. One day, I'm a mess. The next, I'm surpringly peaceful, hopeful and my outlook is encouraging. The next day, I'm sullen, withdrawn, teary and actually consider things like "bankruptcy", "foreclosure" and "automobile repossession" and the aftermath that would affect our already-spotty credit rating.
Today is one of those days.
I pray for a financial savior to come -- be it a rich, distant relative that I don't know well that dies and bequeeths their fortune to our family, or how about winning the Lotto -- but I know it's not coming. Yesterday, I actually daydreamed that Frederor and I won $1 million dollars. I started to wonder what I'd do with it, and the first thing that popped into my head was that I would build a field and gymnasium for our wee school. They own the property adjacent to the parking lot, but there's no funds to build right now. I'd totally do it too. Oh, the opportunities it would bring! Remember in "Back to School" when Rodney Dangerfield's character dedicated the building to himself? I giggled that we should name it the "[Our Last Name Here] Building" but then, I reconsidered. After all, it is a Christian school. So, I would name it the "Jesus H. Christ" Building. Hehehe. I giggle about stuff like that.
And, then I snap back into reality. Where our mortgage is due, and we have half that amount in the bank and no savings to speak of (whoo...a whopping $1,000). And, overall, I'm scared. I feel like our financial future rides on MY having to find another "professional" job, and I don't like that feeling. I look at our lives like one of the twin towers as it collapses onto itself.
Yep, that's how I feel.
I'm probably going through the stages of grieving, actually. One day, I'm a mess. The next, I'm surpringly peaceful, hopeful and my outlook is encouraging. The next day, I'm sullen, withdrawn, teary and actually consider things like "bankruptcy", "foreclosure" and "automobile repossession" and the aftermath that would affect our already-spotty credit rating.
Today is one of those days.
I pray for a financial savior to come -- be it a rich, distant relative that I don't know well that dies and bequeeths their fortune to our family, or how about winning the Lotto -- but I know it's not coming. Yesterday, I actually daydreamed that Frederor and I won $1 million dollars. I started to wonder what I'd do with it, and the first thing that popped into my head was that I would build a field and gymnasium for our wee school. They own the property adjacent to the parking lot, but there's no funds to build right now. I'd totally do it too. Oh, the opportunities it would bring! Remember in "Back to School" when Rodney Dangerfield's character dedicated the building to himself? I giggled that we should name it the "[Our Last Name Here] Building" but then, I reconsidered. After all, it is a Christian school. So, I would name it the "Jesus H. Christ" Building. Hehehe. I giggle about stuff like that.
And, then I snap back into reality. Where our mortgage is due, and we have half that amount in the bank and no savings to speak of (whoo...a whopping $1,000). And, overall, I'm scared. I feel like our financial future rides on MY having to find another "professional" job, and I don't like that feeling. I look at our lives like one of the twin towers as it collapses onto itself.
Yep, that's how I feel.
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