TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CLXXXIV

A pretty good tip and the prospect of more.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CLXXXIII

I have teeth with which to eat candy.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Houston Chronicle.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CLXXXII

The pigs are home. And there were five checks waiting for me in the mail.

WEEK 88

''All in all, though, I'd say it was a pretty good visit.''

Aida Turturro

I didn’t whack anybody. No matter how much I felt like it. Of course everything resolved itself about two or three hours before it was time for me to go home. I don’t think Jesus meant for his birthday to be a living hell for everyone.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CLXXXI

Record-breakingly beautiful weather, a final walk on the beach, seven checks sent out and another on the way.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CLXXX

More beautiful weather and a walk on a different beach.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXIX

Neither Mom nor I live in an institution.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXVIII

Other than the obvious, the word becoming flesh, we had beautiful weather and a nice walk on the beach. And H isn't related to us.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

"War is over. If you want it"

John Lennon

"G-d sent his only begotten son to die on the cross to redeem mankind and all we did to pay him back was make terrible fucking cartoons, like the Transformers"

Jeff Anderson

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXVII

Another blessedly short mass with a seven-minute sermon. Two days in a row we heard the verses with"fear not."

And a lovely evening at the Seatons'.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXVI

A beautiful day at the beach, a short mass and an even shorter sermon.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Tampa Tribune.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXV

My pigs are in good hands.

Week 87

“What's your encore? Do you, like, anally rape my mother while pouring sugar in my gas tank?”

Brian O'Halloran

That’s about how I feel.

Things over which I have been obsessing: the refinancing, the clean-up, my new office space, my new massage space and the pigs. What have I learned? That "okay," "normal," and "the way it should be" are not so bad, especially compared to "horrible," miserable" and "catastrophic".

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXIV

A Christmas bonus. And a good vet visit.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXIII

Voicemail. And business cards.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXII

Closed on the refinancing. And had filet mignon for lunch.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXXI

We have settled a closing time and place. And the vet tech sez whatever I've been doing, it's working.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CLXX


I don't have to bring a covered dish to the office party.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXIX

Got another Starbucks Gift Card.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Dallas Morning News.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXVIII

Got my Christmas bonus.

WEEK 86

As politically incorrect as it sounds, this week has been like one long version of the Chinese water torture treatment, as my mother would say. And, having grown up with my grandmother, she should know.

What have I learned? That being "happy," "healthy" and just plain "safe" are as good as or better than "rich," "famous," "glamourous" or "powerful." And I have learned the importance of good dental health.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXVII

My beloved Pippin is home. And people are responding to my ads.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXVI

My beloved Pippin got through his latest surgery OK. And we are closer to closing on the refinancing.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXV

My property value may increase by ten to twenty thousand dollars. And I've lost pounds since my last trip to the cardiologist.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXIV

Free lunch from Guapo's.

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXIII

On to the next step with the refinancing.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXII

I had an easy morning. And an easy evening. And a good sleep in between.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the San Francisco Examiner.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLXI

I got a new curtain for the bathroom. Sometimes we have to stretch it.

WEEK 85

Well, I would like to think the worst is behind me. I am getting a lot of calls and e-mails from potential clients, my beloved Pippin had his tooth pulled, I have mailed out all my generic winter holiday cards and the refinancing is scheduled for December 15th. Or maybe the 14th.

I feel as though I've been beaten up.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLX

Both pigs are back home. And my toilet flushes again.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLIX

Free champagne. And hot clients who tip.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLVIII

P gave me a Starbucks gift card, which will be used to buy healthy things. And I only have one card left to send.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLVII

I had my first client in the new space.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLVI

F gave me a Starbucks gift card.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLV

The leaves were a beautiful shade of yellow, more beautiful than I've seen in a long time. They brightened up the nasty grey sky.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Chicago Daily Herald.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLIV

Barkley Square had 12 calendars left. And H sez he's glad it was me, rather than C, who was on duty.

WORLD AIDS DAY

Today is World AIDS Day.

WEEK 84

Things are moving ahead at glacial speed, not much worse, maybe a little better. We hope to close on the refinancing by December 10th or 15th. Not much else, other than the new massage space and I have learned the importance of good hydration.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLIII

My beloved Pippin does not have cancer, but an infection which is usually easily-treated. And the vet can do his dental work herself without having to send him to Vienna.

janedoe@seductive.com

CHRISTMAS NOVENA

"Hail and blessed be the hour and moment
At which the Son of God was born
Of a most pure Virgin
At a stable at midnight in Bethlehem
In the piercing cold
At that hour vouchsafe, I beseech Thee,
To hear my prayers and grant my desires."

The first time I heard this one was in seventh grade. You are supposed to pray it at least once every day until Christmas and what you wanted will be granted on (or by?) Christmas

It's unclear as to whether it should be started on November 30th, the feast of St. Andrew, or right before Christmas and whether it should be said for that whole time or just nine days, the way novenas are. And whether it should be said once a day or 15 times a day. At any rate even though I don't remember it working for me in the past, it couldn't hurt to try it again.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLII

I put down a deposit on a new studio. And I get to produce a show Monday.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CLI

The market closed up. And my beloved Pippin got through the anesthesia ok.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CL

Things are no worse, which is in itself a good thing. Also, cliched as it sounds, the red and gold autumn leaves on Connecticut Avenue look like jewels against the blue sky in the morning sun.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT...CXLIX

Pippin's penis has retracted.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXLVIII

I found my glasses. Thank you St. Anthony!

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Los Angeles Daily News.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXLVII

My morning shift went smoothly.

janedoe@seductive.com

по-русски

My latest endeavour: learning Russian. Maybe it has something to do with the Russians at the beach or maybe something to do with the Russians on the Sopranos. Or maybe it’s because my great-grandfather and I think my grandfather spoke Russian. Before this I think I spoke about ten words of Russian, now my vocabulary is well over 100 words, so we can say my ability has increased tenfold.

True, there are other more useful things I could be learning, such as Spanish or computer science, yet there’s something to doing something for the fun of it and not for material or any other gain. And I promise I will start up with Spanish again after New Year’s.

WEEK 83

Well, I got through it. Not much new, really. I’m just thankful that Thanksgiving is over and am trying to look at the holidays with some optimism. At least I got all my birthday, thank-you, congratulatory and condolence cards written.

janedoe@seductive.com

PORTRAIT OF THE BLOGGER AS AN ANGRY YOUNG SHOPPER

Ok, really an indifferent one. This is the first year in at least four years that I did not hit the stores as soon as I got off work. Except for Mom everyone is getting the same thing this year: Alexandria Animals Calendars and Mary Kay stuff I over-ordered. All I really need are gift bags and tissue paper. Michael's, AC Moore and LNT did not post opening hours on their web sites or in their newspaper inserts, nor did their phone messages give any times. So the the alarm went off at 4, then 6 and I figured "bag it." If they can't be bothered to let me know when they're open I'm staying home. So I did.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXLVI

I had the afternoon off. And will have Friday afternoons free for the foreseeable future.

janedoe@seductive.com

THANKSGIVING/GIVING THANKS

"PoorMeg seldom complained, but a sense of injustice made her feelbitter toward everyone sometimes, for she had not yet learnedto know how rich she was in the blessings which alone can make life happy."

Louisa May Alcott

"Gratitude." It’s a word that’s been tossed around a lot. I remember first hearing about it from Marabel Morgan’s Total Woman during the ‘70’s and I thought “what a load of crap.” Then during the ‘90’s Sarah Ban Breathnach came up with her “Gratitude Journal.” The idea left me cold.

And I got e-mails talking about how we should be grateful because we had electricity, running water, flush toilets and enough food when people in Zambia didn’t. Somehow that seemed like minimizing things. Ok, so I eat three meals a day and someone in Bangladesh doesn’t. But then my best friend/cousin/high school classmate/former co-worker is more attractive than I am, earns more money, gets the validation my family doesn’t give me. It’s supposed to make me feel good that I earn more/eat better than the average Bengali?

It was early 2006 when I heard someone from Prevention Magazine talking about people choosing to be happy. She suggested writing down three things every day that make one happy, even if it’s something as trite as "the grocery clerk smiled at me."

I figured “couldn’t hurt” and “how bad can it be?” so I tried it for about two weeks. It was exhausting. Then about a year later I heard about the “Secret” DVD which pitched the same idea “just think how you want to do more for grateful people than ungrateful ones, the universe feels the same way.” So I tried it again. And things started improving, at least a little. And even when they didn’t I didn’t feel nearly so bad about bad things happening. .

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXLV

The weather was nice. And I got to spend a lot of time with the pigs.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXLIV

The sun shone. And I had the day off. And got e-mails from two people from whom I hadn't heard in a long time.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXLIII

We still have jobs.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXLII

I got some rest. And an opportunity to make some extra money.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXLI

I have not one, but two opportunities for Thanksgiving dinner.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Asbury Park Press.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXX

I am thankful for A. Because he is such a nice guy.

OUT OF HOSPITAL

No, I wasn't a patient there. I have been volunteering there since February and I completed the required number of hours this month. I learned as much as one would in a semester of community college, but at what price? If the hospital had paid me ten dollars per hour I would be over a thousand dollars richer now. And I missed out on some opportunities. Still, it was hard to say good-bye to the people there – I told M I would like to continue in some capacity and I would also like to go to the generic winter holiday party. At least it looks good on a resume. Now I will have Friday afternoons free. Four hours a week, 52 weeks per year. That’s a gift.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXIX

I got a baby to stop crying.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 82

Things are looking up a little. I am doing somewhat better financially, we are closer to completing the re-financing and Pippin is doing better, or at least no worse. Really I have learned a lot from caring for him, things I can parallel in my own life: Shit happens. Good nutrition is important. So are rest and TLC. And patience. L will have to start dialysis soon, mainly as the result of poor self-care – not watching her diet, exercising, taking her medications or keeping her doctor’s appointments. I hate to be harsh, but a lot of her problems stem from conscious decisions. Yet how many of mine do, too?.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXVIII

Reek will actually have to work for his money now.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXVII

I went to a nice party.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXVI

I made more money than expected. And Pippin is not doing any worse. And I said "yes" to some massage space. And the market closed up.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXV

This day came to an end.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXIV

I am thankful for heat. In my car, in my condo after working a 15-hour day, six of them in a frigid control room. And for burritos with fire sauce. And parking spaces practically right outside my door. And for Butterfingers.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Daily Jang.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXIII

A phone call from K. And Cakesters from M.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 81

I am keeping it together, if barely.There has not been much work this week, but not a lot of money either. But a lot of stress. I am considering some avenues which were less appealing earlier, but will at least bring some money in.

By the end of the week things were going well and I was feeling more optimistic. Then Friday night: I get up just before ten and find Pippin’s tummy troubles flaring up again. So I dose him with Mylecon and Critical Care. I have to call a guy by 11PM about renting some massage space and I cannot log onto the Internet to get his number. It takes several tries and a re-start but I get the number and get to him on time. It gets better. I forget where I’ve parked the car and one of the tires is nearly flat. Traffic is moving about two feet per hour and every light is red. When I get to the gas station there’s a cab parked in front of the air pump. It reminds me of the book Pet Semetary in which Rachel Creed tries to get home and everything tries to stop her. At least I got to work on time. I guess it’s true that all’s well that ends well.

So what I’ve learned is to keep on keeping on. Keep on paying the bills, making the phone calls, sending the e-mails, drinking the water, eating the salads, taking the meds, putting on the makeup. Because even if it doesn’t bear fruit NOT doing it will only make things worse.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXII

The vet was able to take us today instead of Tuesday. And I made it to the gas station on time.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...CXXXI

I am thankful for chicken. And ribs. And beans. And greens. And corn pudding. And pineapple upside down cake.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXX

The fountain at 7-11 is working again.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXVIX

I am thankful for lattes. And Starbucks velvet chairs and couches.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXVIII

More sleep. And hopefully more money.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXVII

R threw a nice party.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for Pravda.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXVI

Athena is back after being in an abusive relationship.

PUBLIC SERVANTS ANNOUNCEMENT

Set your clocks back one hour if you haven't already done so.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXV

There will be more money coming in in the next week.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 80

Around the blog in 80 weeks. Huh. That's about as clever as it gets. It's been a fair week financially, lots of needing to wait and be patient, not my strong suit.

Monday was the third anniversary of my father's death. Wednesday was Samhain, the day the Celts believed the veil between life and death was at its thinnest. When Mom was at Aunt Irene's she said the phone rang in the middle of the night but nothing showed up on the caller ID. She thought it was Grandma's spirit trying to call. The same thing happened to me Wednesday morning. Then I dialed Star 69 and found it was probably a delivery guy trying to get into the building.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXIV

Inrun's niece is OK.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXIII

Traffic and weather were OK considering the holiday and the cab drivers' strike.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXII

Our network beat CNN to the earthquake story.

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXXI

I got some air time.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXX

I got to go home.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Wyoming Tribune-Eagle.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXIX

K was there to relieve me.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXVIII

I finished my hospital volunteer requirements. And I got my cable back. And I booked a flight to Florida. Paid for by Mom. And my prescription arrived in the mail.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 79

Finished my last four required hours of hospital volunteership. Other than that it hasn’t been much of a week, just hanging in there, waiting to refinance the condo, waiting for more money. .

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXVII

My cousins are safe.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXVI

Free power steering fluid.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXV

I did not have to watch my home burn down like the people in California.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXIV

A nice client and a nice tip.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXIII

A very special phone call.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Madison Capital Times.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXII

K sez maybe G-d has shown me more than I realize. And maybe he's right.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CXI

Mom won about $135 at the Hard Rock Cafe.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 78

It rained. That’s the first real rain we’ve had in about a month. Despite talk of droughts and higher farm prices, I’ve been enjoying the weather, almost literally making hay while the sun shines. Ok, dirty cars, but also no ruined hair styles, makeup, clothes, shoes or papers.

It’s been a week of anxiety and disappointment, worrying about whether payments will be transferred on time. At least I was able to pay the mortgage. Things should get better when I refinance the condo, at least it will leave me with some financial breathing room.

It gets harder to get up with every knockout punch, every bad decision made, every bad bit of advice followed on – the job that just ruined Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year before fizzling out and kept me from advancing at another, the “media networking event” that turned out to be a meeting of a social club for the severely mentally ill. The only recognizable members of the media were me, my boss, and a WTOP reporter.

The latest job from Hell was actually recommended by the school. I told L not to send any students to them. And not to give them free advertising.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CX

L gave me a flower. And some job leads. And Jacob Allen has been found alive.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CIX

The vet visit went well and it looks as though the refinancing will go through.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CVIII

I earned a fair amount of money and stand to make more tomorrow.

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CVII

I got a lot of sleep. And hope to make a lot of money tomorrow.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CVI

We had a nice time at the pignic.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Village Voice.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CV

I will be getting more hours than expected in a couple weeks.

PIGNIC TOMORROW

It's mentioned on the Smooth Jazz Web Site:

http://tinyurl.com/3892wr

Scroll down to October 14th.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CIV

The people at the hospital said nice things to and about me.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 77

It's been a tough week, financially and emotionally. On Wednesday I got the following e-mail:

"Jane, Both ABC and XYZ complained regarding your professionalism. Your tone, attitude and demands did not reflect well upon our company. Consequently, we can no longer use your services and we will not pay you for your services as XYZ is refusing to pay for last night’s debacle.
Best of luck in your career."

When I asked for what the “demands” and “attitudes” were it was

1. Asking for a glass of ice tea (the sales director asked if I wanted anything besides water.
Asking for a pencil and paper (the client did not provide a list of people asking for massages, as was the usual. I didn’t want anyone to get cheated out of a massage.
My “attitude” towards the valet parking attendant. I was upset because he left my car with the keys in the ignition for almost three hours. This was in the dark at the intersection of 23rd and M Streets.

I asked to let him tell me my side of the story and he said “you don’t have a side.”
So now it’s off the labour board. I should not have come back when they asked me to.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CIII

A sez I'm a good therapist.

SOME ADVICE

Buy Philippe Saisse CD's.Don't stay at a Westin Hotel.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CII

I still have most of my jobs. And the boss at one wants me to work more hours. And I won 12 dollars playing Powerball.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

janedoe@post.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH CI

I made a fair amount of money with relatively little effort.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH C

I had the day off. Wow, 100 days of this. Ok, so I have to stretch some days.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCIX

I got to sleep uninterruptedly. And the weather was nice.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Charleston Gazette.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCVIII

Baby Pandora's brother's tooth is OK.

PIGSTRAVAGANZA!

GuineaPinny sez:

Here’s your invitation to come get jiggy with the piggies! Metropolitan Guinea Pig Rescue is hosting its second annual fall pignic in Baltimore County. This pignic is free and open to the public. All are invited to attend. Make sure to bring your furry cavy friends! No RSVP required.

WHAT: Metropolitan Guinea Pig Rescue (MGPR) – a local nonprofit guinea pig rescue, rehabilitation and adoption organization – is hosting its SECOND ever Fall pignic in Baltimore County

WHEN: Sunday, October 14, 2007 From 1:00pm until 4:00pm

WHERE: Reisterstown Regional Park Pavilion 401 Mitchell Drive, Reisterstown

www.co.ba.md.us/Agencies/recreation/countyparks/regionalparks/reisters town.html

CONTACT: Please contact MGPR at events@mgpr.org for further information.

GENERAL INFORMATION: We’re going to have one fun-filled oinker of a day, and hope you’ll join us! Come and meet other piggie enthusiasts; enjoy contests, raffles, door prizes, a bake sale, and more! We’ll even have piggie cookies for our cavy friends! Remember to bring your lawn chairs or blanket, a picnic lunch, piggie water and pens. Reisterstown Regional Park’s lawn is not treated by any chemicals, so piggies will be able to enjoy their day frolicking in the grasses and clover.

WHERE TO GO FOR MORE INFORMATION: * http://www.mgpr.org: See our website for up-to-date info concerning the pignic. If it’s raining or the outdoor temperature is not favorable, the pignic will be rescheduled and will be noted on the website.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCVII

I got paid.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 76

88% done with my volunteer obligation. Five weeks to go. One thing I have learned from volunteering at the hospital and taking Metro: DC is seriously unprepared for a major crisis. A major hospital runs out of pillowcases on a good day. And one Metro station closes and it screws up the whole red line. I am not optimistic about our chances of dealing with a pandemic.

And I wonder about the wisdom of trying to conceive a baby “no matter what it takes.” From looking at some kids’ files it looks as though fertility clinics are working to provide fodder for our physical therapy department. And special ed teachers.

It seems as though everyone works for someone who works for someone else. Case in point: a couple weeks ago I did a health fair at a Baptist Church in Northwest. The health fair was sponsored by Providence Hospital. I had to explain I was not a parishioner and did not work for Providence, that I was an independent contractor for a third-party provider.

The National Governors’ Association is a client of another boss. When I pitch stuff to stations and networks, I have to explain I do not work for Governor Goodguy, that the news release comes from National Governors’ Association who is paying us to pitch this stuff.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCVI

My foot feels better.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCV

It's like this: I am feeling good about psycho ex-boss and the job-stealing bitch being out of my life, at least temporarily. And about my financial situation improving and maybe other things too. And I get an e-mail about a job which wouldn't be my dream job, but so much better than anything I have now. So I e-mail a resume and the boss e-mails me back and I get excited. When we finally make contact he says something like "I just wanted to give you the benefit of a doubt" and that I probably don't have the experience he's looking for. I manage to bullshit my way through it and get an audition. I figure I barely have a snowball's chance of getting the job, but there is NO hope for me if I don't audition. And it will be good practice and hopefully I will have made a friend. The problem is when you've been beaten down so often it gets harder and harder to pick yourself up. So I guess I the thing I should be happy about is that I have an audition Monday.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCIV

V, the job-stealing bitch, has got a temp job at Lockheed. Let's hope it becomes permanent.

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCIII

The stock market closed at a record high. And I had a pleasant, profitable evening at Starbucks.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCII

I made more money than expected.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Olympian.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...XCI

I got two offers in the mail.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR XC

I may be able to move money around more painlessly than I thought.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 75

Not a terribly stressful week, but not a very profitable one, either. Still, I'm massaging again. I feel kind of like a butterfly or a hummingbird, flitting from interest to interest. Maybe I would feel better if I would pick one thing and stay with it -- Radio/Massages/Public relations? Losing weight, improving my finances?

The problem is, once I settle on something, something seemingly better comes along. Two years ago when I was getting serious about massaging, I got the job at Radio America, thinking it would be the answer to all my problems. Big mistake. It set me back further, professionally and financially. Then when I started massage school, my other jobs picked up. And when I quit my sweat shop massage job, the others fizzled out. Now, I am chugging along, but it's kind of like one step forward, two steps back.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LXXXIX

D noticed I work all kinds of shifts. So maybe other people do, too. And maybe they appreciate it.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LXXXVIII

My financial situation may be improving. And we're having a pignic on the 14th.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LXXXVII

The weather was nice, I didn't have to work too hard, the hicks weren't too retarded.

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...LXXXVI

More money. And we had a birthday cake for Reek.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...LXXXV

I am getting more hours.

THE FIRST DAY OF FALL

Funny, fall runs technically from about September through December 21st. I got the best job I ever had in the fall. And I met the great love of my life in the fall. Okay, my father also died in the fall and I was robbed in the fall.
This time of year brings us beginnings – the beginning of the school year, the Jewish holidays, football season and the upcoming TV season.

Even though three quarters of it are in summer, significant things have happened in September. I met three of the most important men in my life in September. So let’s see what this autumn brings.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Richmond Style-Weekly.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...LXXXIV

The people I massaged today were really grateful. And P sez they all said nice things about me.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...LXXXIII

I am not gaining anymore weight, maybe even am losing some. And I found my key card.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 74

80% done with my hospital volunteership. Seven weeks to go.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXXII

I earned a fair amount of money with little effort.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXXI

I am thankful for Dr. Scholl's foot products. And for not getting a parking ticket.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXX

It's a free country. And presumably I will be able to live in it as long as I like. Or leave it whenever I like.

Whenever I disagreed with the ex I would say "es ist ein freies Land" and he would say "was hat das damit zu tun?"Just like when I would say "my word is not the Gospel" he would say "but it IS the Koran." Some things just don't translate.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXIX

I have a date for Mardi Gras already.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXVIII

I got to eat soft ice cream outside in the sunshine.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Montpelier Times Argus.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXVII

The weather was nice. And I didn't have to work too hard for my money. And I am at least 1/500th of the way to owning a beach condo.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXVI

Michael said I was a G-dsend.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 73

76% done with my hospital volunteer work. Earned more than last week, but still not enough. At least the weather was nice.

This year will be my most successful one financially, if not in other areas. When I look at my life now, I think “gee, that wasn’t so bad, why didn’t you enjoy it more?” For example, I didn’t have as much money or own my own home, but I was younger and thinner and my hair looked better.Or I wasn’t earning much money, but I was full-time reporter and on-air anchor. Or I wasn’t well-treated, but I was earning good money benefits. And I had two parents and a grandmother.

janedoe@seductive.com

DING DONG

My psycho ex-boss is no longer there. So I called and told the people frankly she was the main reason I left. About half an hour later they called me and offered me work next Wednesday.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXV

Got to see Bohannon and Burd. And free movie tickets.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 5768!

L'Shanah Tovah!

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXIV

I'm not in love.

janedoe@seductive.com

ALL OUT OF LOVE

I'm lying alone with my head on the phone
Thinking of you till it hurts
I know you hurt too but what else can we do
Tormented and torn apart
I wish I could carry your smile and my heart
For times when my life feels so low
It would make me believe what tomorrow could bring
When today doesn't really know, doesn't really know
Chorus: I 'm all out of love, I'm so lost without you
I know you were right believing for so long
I 'm all out of love, what am I without you
I can't be too late to say that I was so wrong
I want you to come back and carry me home
Away from this long lonely nights
I'm reaching for you, are you feeling it too
Does the feeling seem oh so right
And what would you say if I called on you now
And said that I can't hold on
There's no easy way, it gets harder each day
Please love me or I'll be gone, I'll be gone
Chorus Oh, what are you thinking of?
What are you thinking of?
Oh, what are you thinking of?
What are you thinking of?

Clive Davis · Graham Russell

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXIII

I wasn't robbed.

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

AT LEAST TWO PEOPLE ROBBED AT KNIFEPOINT

At about 8:12 PM in front of the Connecticut Gardens Apartments at 19th St. and Kalorama Rd a young woman says she was robbed at knifepoint. A black juvenile jumped out the car, pointed a knife at her and took her purse with "everything in it." She is five feet seven inches and says the attacker was probably a little taller than she was.

She says there were two other young men with the attacker. One of the three was wearing a "dark hoodie," at least one had "hair like an Afro."They drove off in a dark-coloured, late-model car with temporary tags.Shortly before this police say a woman was robbed in a similar manner at Lauriol plaza.

If anyone can help nail these motherfuckers call 911 in DC or 202-373-3700.

SEPTEMBER 11TH

The original September 11th was also a Tuesday, but the weather was nicer. I thought "how does the sun have the right to shine on such an awful day?"

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXII

I probably won't take too big a hit financially.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXXI

Julian McCormick has been found alive.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Salt Lake Tribune.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXX

I got plenty of sleep.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXIX

I got my insurance cheque.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 72

72% done with my volunteer work. In about nine weeks I will have four more hours per week free in which I can earn money or do other stuff.Didn't earn much money, but was able to enjoy the nice weather and time with the pigs.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXVIII

I got to see Zig Ziglar for free.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXVII

I had a good lunch and a good session with Peggie.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

VOTE FOR US!

My beloved Pippin and Baby Pandora are both entrants in the 2008 Pets of Alexandria calendar contest. You can vote in person, by phone or by snail mail. See www.alexandriaanimals.org or call 703-838-4774.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXVI

The pigs have been given a clean bill of health. And the vet paid me a compliment.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXV

I had the day off. And the pigs have a nice clean pen.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LXIV

Pippin is wheeking for food.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Austin American-Statesman.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR LXIII

The weather was beautiful. And the pigs are OK.

RANDOM THOUGHTS ON THE JERSEY SHORE

Lots of Russians there. And all over New York and New Jersey. Some of them are with a US study program. I wonder how they feel having to work in an un-air conditioned Internet shop in a reasonably obscure beach town. I felt sorry for the foreign students who ended up in Gainesville.

A popular T-shirt decal sez "Jersey girls don't pump gas." Very true, and it's cheaper than it is here -- I think I saw it for $2.47/gallon.

Stuff tastes good fried. And on a stick. What next—fried watermelon? Tuna fish on a stick? If you’re in Ocean City, eat at Angelo’s Pizza on the boardwalk.

We saw the Nanny Diaries Thursday night. They mentioned New Jersey a couple times. Including the Jersey shore. Massage therapists get treated somewhat like nannies. I guess the thing to do is to earn as much money as possible so that you can get massages rather than give them. And hire a nanny rather than be one.

After spending 24-7 with people ages four to 77 I wonder if I am meant with other people. Especially with children.

Maybe the Jersey shore is where I am supposed to end up. I am busting my ass in DC, apparently for nothing, running like a hamster on a wheel, trying to earn money to pay debts which just keep growing back. I loathe Florida beyond all description, even though I could probably get a job there.

So maybe I will end up on the Jersey shore, working at some tiny little radio station and doing massages to supplement my earnings. Or I could go to New York or Los Angeles and become some anonymous drone a title that has “assistant” or “associate” in it.

I took the Clerks and Clerks II DVD's to work to avoid withdrawal.

I THINK I'M IN LOVE

With the Jersey shore. I feel like telling my boss I’m not coming back – Don Williams at WOND in Linwood has given me a job and I will spend the rest of my life in Ocean City. But then I say that every year.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LXII

I found two dollars on the sidewalk.

janedoe@seductive.com

WEEK 71

My last day at the shore. This time I ended up with only a minor rash. My doctor sez maybe I'm allergic to vacations. When you pay $2.00 per 15 minutes of Internet use you have to economize. This week instead of giving massages I got one. And a facial, too. And I have not gained any weight. I got more sleep than I have in weeks, but I still don’t feel totally relaxed. But then again, you can’t undo what took more than six years to accomplish in fewer than six days.

Driving up I-95 brought back a lot of memories -- of Immaculata, of Princeton, of Wilmington. Really the only regret I should have is not having enjoyed it for what it was worth more than I did.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR LXI

I am thankful for chocolate aromatherapy massages.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR LX

I am thankful for facials.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LIX

I am thankful for chocolate funnel cakes.

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LVIII

I am thankful for nice weather. And nice people. You can see this isn't very deep, but I'm on vacation.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LVII

I am thankful for friends.

DOWN THE SHORE

Or actually up the shore. Until Friday.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Nashville Tennessean.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LVI

As shallow and materialistic as it sounds, I am grateful for malls. And for roads that will get me there. And a car that will take me on them. And enough money to buy tacos and ice cream when I get there. And for friends who are there when I get there.

WEEK 70

I wouldn’t say, stop the world, I wanna get off, but I would say slow it down. Or maybe, thanks, G-d, but no need to overdo it. I am getting more work than I have in the last couple years. And I am even enjoying a lot of it. So why do I feel angry, sad and scared? Maybe because even on my days off I’m still running around like a chicken with its head cut off. Or because of some stupid scary stuff at work.

I will be happy to start my vacation.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LV

I am grateful for enough to drink: water, tea, coffee, tea, soda, wine. Especially since in some countries people don't even have safe water. A dilemma, if that's what it is: People are being encouraged to drink more water because it's healthy. Never mind most tap water in America is ok to drink even thought it doesn't taste all that good.

Fiji water is a popular brand. The problem: many people on the island of Fiji lack safe drinking water and other hygiene. And the production/disposal of bottles is not good for the environment. One Catholic Exchange reader suggests drinking tap water and giving the money you saved to water projects in third-world countries. I know Maryknoll does such things.

But on the other hand, how many Fijians have jobs and a better way of life thanks to bottled Fiji water?

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR...LIV

A surprise tip from a client.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...LIII

It looks as though I will keep at least three of my four regular shifts, if not all.

janedoe@seductive.com

POKER #1

Poker is #1 of the latest Lycos 50.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...LII

Made a lot of money. And had a nice evening with Dianne.

CALENDAR PIGS (AND OTHER PETS)

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, from whence cometh my beloved Pippin and Baby Pandora is taking entries for its 2008 Pets of Alexandria Calendar.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE DOESN'T SUCK TOO MUCH LI

Made a lot of money.

janedoe@seductive.com

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...L

Both my shifts went smoothly.

SUNDAY PAPER

Click here for the Pierre Capital-Journal.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...XLIX

Got my hair permed. And I am 1/800th of the way to owning that beach condo.

TRYING NOT TO BE TOO UNHAPPY ABOUT IT, OR MY LIFE...XLVIII

Made a fair amount of money and got a birthday cake at work.

janedoe@seductive.com