Next thing...

So.

I haven't been writing because I haven't had much to say, and what I have had, isn't "good". Didn't our parents teach us to not say anything if we don't have anything nice to say?

Well, my cell phone was stolen today- at the public library none-the-less. How bad is that? And that number is the ONLY number that the 60+ jobs have to contact me. I'm supposed to be able to return calls to the temp companies in about one hour. Guess that's not going to happen. I disconnected the phone since it was stolen and not lost, because I didn't want the person to use it. And now I can't reconnect it for a while even if I do find it, and mom wants to switch companies and get me a new phone, and my head just can't handle that right now.

To fill everyone in, I have 5ish jobs out here, and no hours. The casino hasn't even given me the department training yet. So it'll be weeks there still before I get hours. I had a job last night, drove into the city, go there 28 minutes early, and it took me 32 minutes to find a parking spot, making me late, and losing my position since it was one of the Temp jobs... so I had to get in my car and drive 45 minutes home. That was at least $10 in lost gas.

So, there. I'm out of energy and options. Always thinking that the next turn has the options and opportunities I've been looking for, and the fact of the matter is that in this economy, no one does. No jobs in CA, FL, or MI for me right now. No fin aid to get back to school to get a degree where I can get a job. Stuck in the mud. Deep. With LOTS of bills.

So, my sensible option? Be rash and stupid. I'm hitting the road and taking a long road trip home. Figure it all out later. Catch up with all these things later. For now, regroup, recenter, abuse free rent at home. Not too long, because I hate the state of Florida. Nice for a few days every Christmas, but that's all I can handle.

The California stories will hopefully return this winter- when I know there are hours here. And I can get some money for school again.

Ciao.

PS:

Work was fine tonight. Nothing exciting either way. Well, guess some good/fun stuff. The Clark's, whom I stayed with on my first visit here, were in attendance, and in my section! So I got a chance to chat with them again. Such incredible people. This was apparently the ball of the year, so was kinda cool. It was themed "Silk and Spice" and everything was Indian. The colors were amazing, great decor, and they had a live elephant outside. It was fun to see all the men in tuxes, women in beautiful gowns of silk and beading with very Indian feels to them. And then we got to eat some of the extra food at the end of the night, so I had a lobster tail salad and this fancy creme brulee dessert. :) And got paid to eat it. Well, suppose I was on my unpaid break time, but still, didn't have to pay for it! :D

Going to curl up on the couch now and watch crap on TV while I wind down since I have nothing but the grocery store on the calendar for tomorrow.

What a Week... August 2nd-8th

Well the week started off on a rough foot. I didn't end up babysitting last Sunday (never got a call back). Working at the wedding was alright (last Saturday), not so sure how much I'd want to regularly work for these guys later on. The food was really plain, the regular servers were useless, and I won't get paid for that event until like Aug 19th. And that was technically a June working date... Then Monday and Tuesday I was in training for the Casio ALLL day. Long bi***fest short: it really is only an on-call position (not a part time like I was basically told), there are no benefits for part-time or on-call (like I was lead to believe), employee meals are not free (like I thought), I cannot be dual rated (did basically know this) and then have to wait 6months before I can transfer OR before I can become full-time. If I do, at that time become full-time, I have to wait ANOTHER 90 days for benefits. SO, the EARLIEST I can get benefits from them will be, MY BIRTHDAY NEXT YEAR. Overall, there aren't real benefits to working there at this point in time. Now, if I leave on good terms, I can be rehired back at any time. So if I leave in a month, does that mean I can come back in two months as a full-time dealer, and get all my benefits 4 months before I could if I worked the entire time?

So Tuesday as soon as I could get out of training, I bolted to San Diego for training with another company (Royalty Staffing). In my mad rush, I tried to stop by the bank to take out money for gas as I don't have a new debit card for this account yet- I missed the bank by 5 minutes. Screwed. So, I went on my not-so-merry-way, hoping I could get a check cashed or something. After training, I couldn't find some place to use my check, cash it, or call my mom to borrow her cc #. No one would do anything for me. My only option? Try to make it home. Well, in my stress to try to make it, I got ON THE WRONG HIGHWAY. Yup, on the 5, rather than the 15. Both north bound but one runs the coast, the other in a little ways. And I ran out of gas- fast. I had to call 911, who had to call 4 tow companies before she found one that would take my starter check for me and come and get me. Big expensive booboo, but I didn't really have any more options. It was just a looonggg day for me. Left at 7am, got home at 9:30. Going going going.

So Wednesday, I did a whole lot of NOTHING. :) and ate it up. :) Wednesday is the day Katie usually does all her errands and stuff, so she was gone most of the day. When she and her mom got back we watched some TV we had recorded on the DVR and just relaxed. Nice day.

Thursday was just the best day EVER! Aren't you all glad to hear it after that terrible Tuesday? Thursday I got to sleep in just enough, got up and got some phone calls made, worked things out with my new bank finally, after doing some hollering. Then the pool guy came- just a side note there, because we have the perfect Cali pool guy, fun to watch clean our pool! :D And then Katie and I took off for a day at the beach! Her boyfriend and the baby came too. Katie and Pat went swimming for a bit, but it was too cold for me! So Derrik and I hung and played in the sand. Lots of moms say babies don't like sand, but Derrik looooves it. Anyway, then Pat and the baby went for a walk on the beach and Katie and I laid and chatted and relaxed for a bit, (and watched the lifeguards). Then for dinner we went to this restaurant that is at the end of a really long pier. I just about killed Katie because I was pushing her and the front wheels kept getting caught, almost sending her flying into a face plant. But luckily we made it safe and sound. Another great thing about being short? I'm the PERFECT pushing height! yey short ppl! We had a absolutely splendid dinner at this little diner where we could watch an amazing sunset and slip our root beer floats. I forgot to ask the lady for a turkey burger rather than a regular burger for my dinner (there was a lot entailed in ordering from this place), so I ate beef! And it wasn't bad at all. Well, then we all came home, hoped in the hot tub and pool for a bit longer, got out, took showers, and played a great game of SpyAlley. I had to be up this morning, or I would have stuck around for then a movie. But it was just such a nice and perfect day! Next time we only need a bit more sun-time.

Then on Friday morning I went in for what I thought was a second interview with another staffing company- it was more a training session. I work for the Chargers next Saturday, and Sunday I'm bar tending at a big hotel downtown for some big event there! YEY. WORK!

Today I woke up, went for a swim (it was way too cold to stay for too long- only like 75 degrees!), had breakfast on the porch, and am about to head out for some quick errands. Then home to change, and work tonight. :) Not bad for a Saturday. And, yes, our UNHEATED pool is usually around 82 in the afternoon. It's been in the high 90s, low 100s weather-wise here. But it's starting to cool down, like in the 80s.

So my New Year's resolution this year, as you may have heard, was to have 3 or less W2s for next years tax season. Little did I realize that by the time I said that, I already had 3. And had plans for more. So guess how many I'm at now. 10. Well, filing taxes for 10 jobs I should say, and still not planning on being done. TEN. Insane. They are: TCCasino(MI), The Terminal (MI), Unemployment (MI), 1099 for my mom, 1099 for parties, Buckboard Catering (CA), Black Ties Staffing (CA), Royalty Staffing (CA), Party Staff (CA), Pechanga (CA). I am trying to pick up shifts dealing blackjack for a party company as well- 11. And trying to find a cash-paying restaurant job near me-12. And might apply at a different casino-13. But I have received (or will soon) a paycheck from ALL of the above companies except Royalty, and I should be on their schedule next week apparently. So, next year I might have to file for THIRTEEN tax thingies. Good thing you don't have to file for babysitting. :D I've also had my name on 3 different cars, had 3 different addresses, and been enrolled in 2 different colleges (4 different campuses). Been quite the year already, and I still have 4.5 months to go. Ut oh. Sounds like fun, doesn't it? I know you are all so jealous. :)

I'm also thinking I'll have to take winter session off from school as my financial aid hasn't come through. I have to petition a board to give me aid since I've already finished one degree, so that may take a while. But, looking at my list of jobs, maybe taking one more semester off won't be so bad. But still crossing my fingers that I can work it out with the school on Monday. We shall see.

So it was a rather long week, but seems to be ending on an ok note.

Next Thursday marks my being here one month. Feels like it's been forever. Guess that isn't all that long though. :)

Now that I have finished writing this long entry, I'm not feeling so much like getting up, going to the bank, grocery shopping, and then having to run home to change. Maybe I'll just take another nap. :) So good at sleeping. Which also reminds me- whose a dream interpreter? I've been having more of the dreams where I loose my teeth. They all fall out. It's a recurring theme to dreams that I've been having since at least before going to Thailand four years ago. And the more I get them, the more I know in my dream. Last night I remember thinking, oh man, it's all those crazy dreams coming true. And it's gross, I can always remember spitting out my teeth and stuff. trying to get them to stay in, like dentures, but not being able to get them to stay put. Last night I thought of trying to get polident, never got it though. :) Last time I went to my dentist, he didn't think I was grinding my teeth (I thought that might be it), so, dream interpreters- what does it mean? :)

Until another day. :)

Continued

7) I have REALLY got to remember where my gas light is in this new car. I've almost run out of gas on 3 separate occasions now- mostly because I don't' see that little light, and forget to check how the gas situation is going with all the driving I'm doing. Kiri loves me though, so has had my back every time. :)

8) I also have to remember to manually turn on my headlights- been driving around town without those. (until someone flashes me)

9) Also, note to self: Learn the one way streets in town. Drove the wrong way down one yesterday. Was wondering what the pedestrians were pointing at and why everyone was honking. ;)

10) I really should have bought a car in MI so at least I still had a Michigan plate... then ppl would know to look out for me. :P

11) I lost $13 in the parking lot today. Made someone day I'm sure, but made my kinda suck. I now have no cash until my new account clears! Sad for Caitlin. (Maybe my neighbors will end up calling tomorrow after all for me to babysit, then I'd get some cash.)

12) Turns out I am a job snob. I thought that I was pretty willing to take any tipped server position- but some of these people! (I knew I was too much of a snob to take the untipped positions that are more "cashier" stuff) Tonight's company wasn't bad- BUT nothing special (I wouldn't hire them to cater for me. Only okay food.) but their staff? "Eh, duh" was all I left like saying to them all night. Luckily there were two guys who were also new, and me. We busted butt and it was a decent night. The other two girls- USELESS. And last time it was the woman who ran the temp company that was a flake. Picky Picky Picky. But this company at least sounds like they will have some gigs for me. Keep doing what I'm doing and see how this all turns out. Maybe the casino will have more hours for me, and I can pick up some babysitting shift in my neighborhood to fill in the gaps (then I'd be getting some paid study time to top it off!)

13) I should have made this private and invited ppl to read it. Then I'd speak a bit more freely. Oh well, this way more friends can keep tabs on me! :) Better that way. I was just going to put things like my address on here so that ppl have my new mailing address, but you'll still just have to email me for that one. :) I also have a home phone now, but still have to get that number from Katie.

14) Today's household project. Organizing baby bottles. It's totally insane how many baby bottles one child can have. I think most of them are from Katie's foster children (she had a few infants/toddles at the same time), but thinking back over kids I've babysat for- it always seems that way. A zillion bottles. :) Guess it makes sense since you have to disinfect them, two days worth of bottles could easily be 10. And then you have to have different sizes...

That's all my random thoughts for today. It's actually now tomorrow... but just by 7 minutes.

Night Night.

Home Alone- Saturday Morning.

1) Life here alone isn't so bad. :) I'm getting to run around in my tee-shirt (we have a fenced in yard, so complete privacy.) As I see it, it saves on the a/c bill. :)

2) That southern blood comes back quickly. I've been trying to at least jump in the pool every day. My dip in today was too cold! Couldn't stay long. Such a wose (sp?). Read poolside for a bit though. Nice start to my day. Got LOTS of sleep last night (finally) so feeling much better today.

3) I had to turn down a job offer today. Their training is on the same day as the casino training. Casino ends at 6pm, the other begins (1 hour away) at 6pm. So so sad. And don't think there is a chance in hell that we'll get out of there an hour early. The casino letter says to expect to stay an extra 30-45 minutes. So told them I couldn't make it. Maybe I'll make their next training session. They were looking for staff for the event on Saturday that I am already working (just with another company) so suppose it's not the end of the world. I'd make more money working for this other company is the only bad thing. :( Right now though, work is work!

4) speaking of: I get to work tonight! YEY! :) So off to a short nap before getting in my black and whites.

5) I'm trying to figure out a time to get back up to MI to get my stuff! So many different times I'd like to head up there. I was hoping to beat my parents back to the apartment since I left a HUGE pile of empty boxes in the middle of the living room... don't think Dad will appreciate that much... at least they are empty though! But I'd like to wait till I have the money to load a container to send it out here. And then I wanted to go back around Halloween because my girlfriends and I always have a ball around that time (But that is Katie's 27th and Derrik's FIRST birthday time too) Guess I'll just have to wait until I have some money, and some time, and just get a spur of the moment ticket.

6) Classes start in 3 weeks! WHERE DID SUMMER GO? (Would also be nice to go home before classes start as that and work will keep me VERY busy). So much I wanted to do this summer... like take my GRE! I hate that about summers. At least I got one thing off my list: Move to California. CHECK. :)

That is all.

Love

CG

Another Week in Paradise...

Thank you all for reading! I've loved hearing that people are keeping up with these. Reminds me that I am loved. A special "shout out" to Som, my professional friend in Thailand. She's the best. She called the other night to check in on me, and I missed it! I don't have a phone card, so wasn't able to return her overseas call. :( I MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU SOM!

This week I finally got my gaming liscense! I got fitted for my uniform, and start orientation on Monday! I went for a walk to get my mail one night (community mailboxes) and met a neighbor. I have a babysitting gig for Sunday. Then one of the catering companies called and I am working a wedding on Saturday. That means I get to work Saturday through Tuesday for PAY! :) YEY.

My mom is in Michigan for the weekend- makes me jealous that I'm not home to go and visit with her! She's off visiting grandpa.

Derrik had an interesting baby day today. :) While changing him this evening, he peed on me. In all my babysitting days, I've never had a baby pee on me- only just heard about it. First time for everything! And aparently this morning, he had an incident with Katie! He was playing in the room with no diaper on, to get some air. At one point he stands up on the bed and starts to act like he's giving her kisses. She leans over to get one, and notices somethign on his mouth. She does the "mom mouth swipe" and pull out something brown. She looks over to see what it was, he'd pooped, ate it, and then kissed her. EWW. lol. She'll want me to note the obvious that she's a great mom. He was just getting some air and playing, normal kid stuff. Who would have thunk! :) LOL. Sure you other mom's reading have similar stories!

Other than that just been trying to enjoy the pool, the sun, and applying for some jobs. Well, GETTING some jobs! Katie is deserting me this weekend for Vegas, leaving me all alone at the house for 2 and a half days. luckily I work for some of that time, and have tons of errands to complete tomorrow. I still think I'll be a little lonely, but hopefully will kinda ways to keep myself occupied. Movie nights and some work in my room.

I had one bad day this week, but mom and friends listened to me complain and encouraged me, so felt much better. I miss some home things, but I'll go and visit soon when I go to get all my stuff. And in the meantime, I'll get set up here and make new friends and find things to do!

Classes start in like 3 weeks. Can you believe summer is already over? Where DID it go??? Suppose I did spend the ENTIRE summer on this whole relocation thing. Guess it was a good thing that I gave myself the summer off from classes to do it. Just wish I hadn't had to give myself a month off of work. Suppose it could have been MUCH MUCH worse. And things are heading up again. Work, registering for classes tomorrow, getting a cali bank account, and all that fun stuff!

OH- I got my Cali drivers liscense! It's ugly and a bad photo, but I'M A CALI RESIDENT! YEY!

And, the name of the princess is between Kiri and Kimba. I'm not sold on either for some reason. We like K/C names because we've got Caitlin and Katie... Votes are for Kimba so far. Please send on votes or other ideas! :)

So, again, come and visit. I need some hugs!

Weekend of Children: July 24th and 25th.

Been a nice weekend so far!

Saturday:

Let's see. Got two checks out of the four I am expecting- YEY. Spent the morning in the pool with Katie and her "play-date" group (moms and their munchkins), then the afternoon in the pool with Katie and her out-of-town friend that is visiting (with her 3 girls), then got to go to the GROCERY store for the first time since arriving (Major highlight, more later), then had turkey dogs cooked over the campfire in our backyard and made smores and looked at the sky and chatted with friends, followed by a board game, and a movie. A fun filled, but relaxing day. I am QUITE tan- thinking I'll be sorry tomorrow, but still doing ok. I was in the sun for about 6 hours straight. Got a little dark there....

Anyway, as for my first trip to the grocery store. It was a blast. I spent WAY less than I thought I was going too... because ALL my produce was LOCAL. Even my cheese was local! It's amazing. Although, I do need to find the stands because it's SOOO cheap there. I saw a sign, 20 avocados for $5!!!! I had NO cash on the though. I'll find more... but I have all sorts of fresh fruit and veggies. Very excited for lunch tomorrow. :) Still haven't purchased any Cali wine as Katie doesn't drink, so no one to share with yet...

Overall, I'm doing great here, but insanely bored and in need of friends. Need to get out more. Katie and I have great plans for once I start working- lots of shows we want to see and places to go. In the meantime, beaches, kayaking, the pool, chillin with Derrik are keeping us occupied. And for all my boredom, I'm going to be helping my mom with some of her web stuff. Just little things I can do long distance. And helping her find a new computer... something to keep me busy. Been feeling a bit stir crazy and unproductive.

Sunday:

I was up late, unable to sleep, so organized the kitchen this time. :) Tried to sleep in- the cleaning ladies where here this morning; but the girls that were staying with us were up, and screaming all morning. So I didn't get much sleep. Thank god that Derrik isn't in the terrible 2s age yet. :) Even Katie, who raised foster children, was exhausted by the time they left. We had a nice, quite, evening at the house.

Katie and I also had a great talk around the fire how she feels guilty asking for my help, and I worry about trying to help too much. So we promised to just tell each other when that happens. Makes me so happy that we already talk so openly. But being able to help makes me feel useful and not just like a lump on a log- which I would otherwise be. If it weren't for this family, I'd be here, doing nothing. Every day. Literally nothing. Now we play games, and make dinner, and all sorts of fun stuff. So, overall, things are great! This would all be a LOT harder if it weren't for Katie. I just have to get more energy, my job, and back in school. I remember feeling a bit this way last year before I got back into school... it goes away fast. Can't wait for you all to come and visit and meet everyone...

So I've been thinking a lot. Surprise, surprise. I guess I am wishing things were just a bit different. Just with relationships, and such. Trying to figure out if I can get everything done in time to apply to grad school. Trying to figure out if I want to wait another year. Applying to so many jobs again, it's out of control. Wish I would have just gotten a full time job at the casino. Wishing I wanted to exercise more. I get in the pool and don't even feel like doing laps. Tried to make myself the other day, and it wasn't any fun at all- something I used to love doing. I've also been thinking a lot about children and motherhood. Boy, could it have been in my face any more this weekend? Even the movie we watched Saturday was about a woman who lost her son, couldn't have any more, then lost her hubby, and so started an orphanage. Lots of talk today this weekend being a mom. A part of me can't wait to be a mom, and knows I'll make a great one when I am.... but I just have to be comfortable with the fact that today people are having kids older and older, and that's just fine too! It's just that desire to have someone that you love THAT much, and that loves you back. Parenting seems like a pretty cool gig. But then things like this morning... waking up to kids screaming and crying- that sounds fun. ;) Just thinking of my ex who had kids (that's right, close your jaw and move on), and what would be it like to be a step mom? Or how many kids do I want? I can see why people like big families. Things that I don't need to be thinking about, but are creeping into my head. Only time will tell, right? I am starting to understand women my age who's only desire is to get married, and are all about the reproducing thing. I have always kind of thought less of them for that, but part of me now can understand that desire. That desire to start a family. I think my loneliness makes that a bit more intense than it would otherwise be. But my feminist side is really trying to fight off all those thoughts, and I think part of them are natural biological stuff. And I do care about my career and making a difference in the world, but I can also see that there isn't a huge rush for that either. Guess I have to trust my instincts and know they will let me know when it's right for me; and the goddesses and angles watching out for me will help me along my path in the meantime. If only I could find work that I actually enjoyed for in the meantime... And for now Derrik is like a nephew, who loves me. And we play and have fun and Katie lets me "share". :)

So, one more week before real work starts, and a feeling of being back in the real world. In the meantime, Katie and I both need to get out of the house and do something fun. :)

Argh. Thursday 7/24

Well, it's now been 19 days since I've had a job. Guess I did work one night in there and made a whopping $70 or so... so one night in 19. I'M GOING INSANE. Today, for fun, I cleaned my roommates garage. That's right. Garage. We're trying to make some room for my stuff when, and if, it ever comes... so going through and organizing her things. Only, these tasks are kind of hard for her with the kid and the chair, so I did it. To entertain myself. That's how bored I am. I apply to jobs every day. I've applied to at least 25 jobs (I counted all the resumes I emailed so far) since I've been here. And granted, I do have two jobs already, they just aren't enough yet. So I'm still heading out there for more. Think I just got a job with another catering temp agency and a Casino Party company... so between those four maybe I'll actually get some hours in the next week. I'm also just peeved because one guy in MI owes me $600 and one girl $55 and the casino (in MI) $100, and since I'm not there to pressure them for it, I'm not getting paid. Don't you love how that works!

Working in the garage at least made me feel useful and like I got something done. Organizing other peoples stuff is so much more fun than organizing my own. But as we were making piles for goodwill/ebay/garage sale... I realized how much stuff that I still have in that unit that I can get rid of when I go back. So that also made me feel kinda good.

Other than that, things have been nice. Katie and I had a relaxing day at home getting things done around here and having some great conversations getting to know each other. I'm feeling more and more at home here. Now to just meet some people are start getting out of the house (for reasons other than job interviews!). There is a huge comic convention this weekend that an old family friend will be attending for her job, so I might try to go meet up with her and maybe see if I can get in the convention- but tickets I hear are hard to get. :) Hopefully I'll come up with SOMETHING to do this weekend!

Well, I'm off to finish reading my book. It's great! And I'm almost done...

Wednesday July 23rd

I kept thinking of things to write about, and now they've all escaped me.

I have new photos... some from the Jewel concert I worked (venue, my roommate and her friend Kara and I, the view from the place, etc.) and then there is photos of Derrik, Katie and I at Balboa park on my first day here. I love the one of me trying to get Derrik to look at the camera and smile... mom says he's already intuitive. He knows my real state-of-mind. He sees that I'm a crazy lady. :) I love that photo though...

Got my paperwork all finished with the casino and should be getting my gaming license in 7-10 days, and then go to training, and then can start work. In the meantime I'm still applying for one-time jobs and temp catering companies, etc. HOPEFULLY some of these things will come though. As for me, I'd prefer to go back to the barter system. I'm now trying track a few ppl down who owe me money, and they are in MI, so it's pretty ineffective. Could use that cash right about now...

I applied to be a Princess at kids parties today. Now THAT would be a job to add to my resume! LOL. The jobs I've had in my life... they finished this round of interviews, but she said she would call me next week if they did another round of interviews.

I went in the hot tub again tonight. We have a nice view of the night sky out here- can't wait to get my hammock and a light out there so I can just lay and read. So peaceful.

After 4 days the lump on my head is still there, and still hurting. Trying hot compresses to promote my white blood cells to that area (stave off the infection). But looks like it's about time to suck it up and go see a Cali doc- all the glands on the right side of my neck are all flared up too- making my neck sore too. Thank god for Mitch and Nanco though- called on their VACATION to ask for advice (a Dr and a Nurse, and my "udder" family) . :) I've got a great and patient family. :)

What else? Since Friday at about 5pm, I have put 300 miles on my new baby. But she's a trooper and so good to me. I need a name already though! I was thinking Molly, but that MIGHT MIGHT be a name I was willing to name a daughter. And as my sister said, you don't want to name your kid after your car... :) Any other ideas? She's silver and shiny so I want something "sparkly" or "princess-ish"...

Golley. I had all these insights about California life this morning on my drive in circles around town, and now they have all escaped me!

OH, I am now officially a California resident! With the worst drivers license photo known. But oh well. That's all set.

Yesterday was one of those insanely unproductive days, every time I tried to do something, I could complete the task for one reason or another. So today felt so much better. And it looks like I have a clear schedule for tomorrow, but may try to go apply for more jobs! If the check I'm expecting comes through, then I'll go GROCERY SHOPPING! WHOO HOOO! WHICH reminds me! Guess what they are doing now in these big hoey-tee-toy-tee cities?! ONLINE grocery shopping. Which is great for disabled ppl like my roommate, and elders who can't get out. But, I want to use it, and THAT my friend shows how unbelievably lazy I am now. I didn't even want to actually swim today. Just didn't feel like using that much energy. Much preferred just sitting in the pool. Time for me to GET MOVING. Do laps. Go for walks. Such a lazy lazy girl. Can't start gaining weight in Cali, that's the opposite of the plan! Soon society will become so you never have to leave your home- tele-commute, socialize on a social networking site, date online, shop online, get your FOOD, meds, EVERYTHING online and have it delivered. Why leave your house? Ever?

Well, on that note, I'm going to relax and read- a real book. Water for Elephants I recommend it!

Night world.

Jewel Live- July 20th.

Have I mentioned.... I'm a spoiled goober! :) And loving it.

Today was the Jewel concert. I was working tables up front, so basically got paid for a front row seat. She was great. The company I'm working for is a joke, but it's money... the rest of the event was nice, fun to watch people donate $10,000 and $25,000 to a good cause; especially in this economy. (Event was for the foster children in SD). My roommate (a former foster mom) and her friend went, so it was super nice to seem them there too! I'll get her photos soon and post them- the concert, our day in Balboa park and me and Derrik!

Anyway, Jewel sang this song, and told us about how she became homeless in San Diego for a bit when she fell on hard times. I remember the song from when I was 15 ish, but today they hold a whole other meaning to me. Thought they were appropriate for me/everyone in this economy, and just about life... So, while i don't believe in God (I believe in god(esses)) I still wanted to share... wish I had a live recording of it!

Hands lyrics

If I could tell the world just one thing
It would be that we're all OK
And not to worry 'cause worry is wasteful
And useless in times like these
I won't be made useless
I won't be idle with despair
I will gather myself around my faith
For light does the darkness most fear
My hands are small, I know
But they're not yours, they are my own
But they're not yours, they are my own
And I am never broken
Poverty stole your golden shoes
It didn't steal your laughter
And heartache came to visit me
But I knew it wasn't ever after
We'll fight, not out of spite
For someone must stand up for what's right
'Cause where there's a man who has no voice
There ours shall go singing
My hands are small I know
But they're not yours, they are my own
But they're not yours, they are my own
I am never broken
In the end only kindness matters
In the end only kindness matters
I will get down on my knees, and I will pray
I will get down on my knees, and I will pray
I will get down on my knees, and I will pray
My hands are small I know
But they're not yours, they are my own
But they're not yours, they are my own
And I am never broken
My hands are small I know
But they're not yours, they are my own
But they're not yours, they are my own
And I am never broken
We are never broken
We are God's eyes
God's hands
God's mind
We are God's eyes
God's hands
God's heart
We are God's eyes
God's hands
God's eyes
We are God's hands

We are God's hands

So, it was overall a nice night- just wish we had made more money... I got home at midnight, exhausted and a bit sore- so, I hopped in our SPA! Even though it was 100 out today, my muscles loved the relaxing hot water and jets. I laid and looked at all the stars (we're far enough from town that you get great star views). Tomorrow is a day of more interviews, the DMV to become a Cali resident, the bank to get a Cali account, and other similar fun and exciting things!

I hope that I remember to enjoy the spa, pool, and stars once I'm working 2-3 jobs and going to school full-time. :) Remind me, will ya?

First Sunday...

My first Sunday! :) Was going to go buy my black pants and white shirt for work, but was just unproductive all day. I got to talk to lots of important friends today. Boy, do I ever miss them! I went swimming after I got up, played a cored game with my roommate, and just relaxed. Pretending to get work done.

My head still hurts from the bite yesterday, and I'm just very tired- even though I slept. This is just my "back to reality" week, and it's starting to take it's toll. :) I'm trying to fill out my 15 year history for the casino- they want to know everywhere I've lived in those years. I couldn't even tell you all that info! Oh boy.

Well, nothing else for today I suppose. Just needing a hug. :)

Bug Bite 7/18

So the other day when Pat and Katie brought home the lawn furniture, Pat had to kill some spiders- a black widow in particular. YUCK.

So tonight, I feel asleep on the couch and when I woke up, found I had a pea-sized bump on the side of my head (behind my ear, right by my hairline towards the bottom). It was hard, and (still is) kinda painful. There was another smaller lump next to it; the swelling extended under my hair. It was 8:30pm, and I was home alone here. I thought for-sure it was a black widow and I was going to die. OK. so didn't think I was going to die, but did want someone to reassure that I wouldn't. And maybe tell me why my head was swelling up. So what did I do like any logical child, home alone, with no friends near by to call to come look? Called and woke up Mom- at midnight her time- while she was on vacation- ALLLL the way across the country, where she could not see, feel, or exam the wound for which I was inquiring. Freaked her out since she had no idea what it was either, and successfully ruined her night of sleep and relaxation. Wow. Am I a good daughter or what? :) Well, a few hours later and the pain is still there, but the swelling is going down. Katie came home and checked it out- no bite marks like a spider, but seems too far up to be a gland, and too firm to be from a mosquito (and doesn't really itch).

So. There ya go. Mysterious bites from the creatures of San Diego to welcome Caitlin.

Oh, other than that: orientation for the Jewel Ball job was a total waste of time, as orientations often are... but was fine overall. I don't expect it to be too hard of a job. :) And made it to the beginning and end of the Art Group. Fun. Neat lady leading it. Guess what? I'm more of an extrovert than an introvert. Who would have thunk! ;) (We took the Myers-Briggs). And the new ride is AWESOME. Had the sunroofs- yes "s"- open all day! :) She still needs a name though.

Well that's another day in Paradise!

Night all!

Late night rant...

So I need to learn better time management. Think I'd have that down by 24. But when it comes to moving, and meeting new people, and building friendship- no good. I should have gone to bed hours ago. My boxes came tonight, so I should unpack those as well. Tomorrow I have to be in two places at the same time- more of that time management stuff. Want to go check out what this art therapy thing is about, and meet the woman- but it's out on the coast. Have to leave around 8:30am. Then I have to go to my orientation in town. At 11:30. They are 30 minutes apart. So driving in circles tomorrow, after little sleep, because I wanted to play board games and watch a movie with my roommate. :) Oh well. I'll survive. Sleep on Sunday... :) It's 2am here. Which means my body still thinks it's around 5am. Blah. I'm on a border between the times still....

Ah. Home.

Today was another big day. I had the house to myself for the first time last night. And had nothing original to do. Vegged in front of the TV- would have done that if Katie and Derrik were home! But I searched for jobs online, sent in a few more resumes, and played around online. Oh, and I ordered enough PizzaHut to feed an army because I couldn't decide what I wanted for dinner and had no food at the house. :) Classic Caitlin.

During the day yesterday I went to the casino to fill out all my paperwork. I left feeling rather down as the woman told me I wouldn't get my meeting with the Gaming Commission to get my liscense (and start working) until the end of the month (so know KNOWS when I'd be able to start working...). And the letter of hire they gave me only had my base rate-and I needed it to have my anticipated tips for the car guys. The HR ppl told me I couldn't get THAT kind of a letter until after I'd worked a bit, then could talk to payroll. Ugh. Well, in the end, they got my fingerprints back quickly and squeezed me into next week for an appointment. And the car guys said the paperwork I had was fine. Still just have to get them something from the college, but told me I could go ahead and take delievery of my car!

...My friends have convenienced me to join a few different sites to help me meet people out here. OkCupid (dating) and MeetUp.com (social networking). I found an art therapy group on MeetUp, and am supposed to go to a workshop tomorrow, but have to cancel (more on that later). As far as OK... the jury is still out, but I have friends who have had sucess- lots of sucess at meeting friends or dates. So I'm giving it a shot. :) It is a bit strange at times... and you meet some real creeps. :) But might be a fun way to meet ppl!

So, last night was a late night playing online; then of course overslept a bit. Got up and made a lunch for the road. And headed out to a day of interviews for a second job, and some general errands. Aparently all the DMVs in CA are closed on Fridays now due to the CA budget crisis. So, a MI resident for another weekend!

I headed to an open interview for a banquet server position first. And got the job in about 5 minutes! I'm working on Monday at a fundraiser/private concert with Jewel. Then a huge Gala on the 8th. I can't go to my art thing tomorrow though because training is tomorrow.Some links about these parties below. The real, big city, kinda stuff. The Silk and Spice thing looks huge- there are banners ALLLLL over town for it. Must be big time black tie! But check out the silent auction list for the first concert- there is a vacation with Tom, Kate, and Suri in Turk and Caicos. So, anyway, exactly one week after I get here, I get to meet my first celebrity! Oh, and my roommate and her friend are going to the first dinner, so that'll be fun to see them there! AND, the woman who owns the company is super sweet and says she'll be able to use me more (told her that I'm new and looking for work). (Links to check out these events)

http://www.laspatronas.org/jewelball_current.html - the second, bigger one

http://www.promises2kids.com/userfiles/file/AuctionSneakPreview.pdf -the first, private concert.

But then I have my resume in at a few other places, and have an interview in a week for ANOTHER banquet server position. That means I'll be working for at least 3 different banquet companies. For a while at least.... And I'll be at all the High Society parties in SD in no time! Only, as the help. LOL. But working banquets will be nice when school starts, gives me flexibility during exam week and such. Although, I think I'll only have classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays- for 12-14 hours! We'll see how that turn out... while trying to work full-time or more. :)

Also, at this interview, I chatted with some other women who seem lots of fun. I was planning on getting a haircut today, and one was a stylist! So I met her after our interviews and got a great deal on a haircut- and made a friend. YEAH.

And finally, the really fun part of the day! I went and GOT MY NEW CAR! WHOO HOO. I own a car. And she's a cutie. Katie and I havent' had a naming ceremony yet. I need name ideas. But definatly a girl. And I'm not sure what car naming ceremonies entail. I think breaking a champagne glass on the front would dent the car (the boat tradition...) So, send on the ideas.

When I got home, Katie and her friend Pat had brought over their patio furniture from another house. So we spent the early evening setting up our patio. It's going to be WONDERFUL. She's getting outdoor speakers, we're going to plant gardens, get lights and some torches. Her pool lights change colors too! and the spa water-falls into the pool, and there is a spout fountain... it's insane. I'm so freakin spoiled. Photos of that later after we get this more set up.

So, life is grand. I'm one happy camper today. I've been rather lonely lately, and desiring my own bed. My old bed. And my own friends to chat with.... but thank goodness for the internet and plane tickets! But nothing like hugs from loved ones. (Leslee, the hairstylist, did give me a hug today!)

So, that's day 4 (and a recap of 3). :)

Boring stuff for the most part. I'll work on making this Blog more entertaining!

The First Email...

This is just a copy, for those of you that read the original...

Hi Everyone! So, the first of these mass emails I’ll be sending giving my updates on my Cali move. This one is much about nothing, as I just arrived. But excited to be here, so blabbering in true Caitlin style. Enjoy. Or just skim and email me back pretending you read it, and I’ll never know! :P

So the touch-down email! I made it! Flights were sort of… hell. First leg sat next to a crying- but very cute- baby. So no sleep. Next leg sat next to the MOST ADHD child I have EVER encountered. He and 2 siblings were flying- unaccompanied minors. FUN. The two people sitting next to me and I were ready to strangle them. They never stopped- for 5 hours. So again. No sleep. J Then got home late and spent the evening chatting with my roommate. More no sleep!

BUT, yesterday was great! Woke up, had breakfast with Derek and Katie, then we all went swimming. Katie and I got a little burned in just 90 minutes outside. Yeah Cali sun! Then Derrik and I took naps here at the house while Katie ran to an appointment. When she got home we all headed to Balboa park. It’s BEAUTIFUL. Katie has some images from it that I’ll send soon. We went to the dome theatre and the science center. Very fun outing with a 7-month-old! Everything was so exciting to him! I ended up getting really sick last night- threw up from a bad headache and went to bed super early. From the time-change, lack of sleep, and finally starting to relax, most likely!

Katie and I really seem to enjoy each other- we are very similar! I think we’ll make GREAT roommates- and friends! But our fridge will be exploding with leftovers and food that normal people might no longer eat, but we both will! J Gross. It’s nice to have someone to play in the pool with, and someone who will go to shows and eat dinner with me. Plus I get to play with a cute baby who loves to smile and finds everything entertaining. (For those of you who don’t know: Katie is 26, single mom, in a wheel-chair from a car accident a few years ago. She’s full of energy and has an amazing son. She has rental properties in Escondido that she cares for and was a foster mom for 3 years. Derrik her son is almost 9 months now.)

Tomorrow is my big day. I have a morning appointment with my new employers to fill out all my paperwork and get all that stuff started. Hopefully I’ll even get an idea of a start date! And then they’ll give me a paper showing intent to hire and anticipated wages, and I’ll take it over to the car ppl, and hopefully come home with my BRAND NEW CAR tomorrow! Then no plans for Friday yet, but Laurel (a college friend originally from Esco) told me about a fun car festival like thing that they have on Friday evening in the spring and summer in downtown Escondido that I think I’ll go to. Saturday I am going to an Art Therapy workshop on the beach! I’m so excited. Sounds really cool. Get back into doing some art! (Or at least pretending!) And meet some local women. A win-win. The lady doing the workshop is doing a work-study thing for me, so I’m only paying for art supplies. Yeah! So, in the Caitlin spirit, I’m go-go-going. Or at least trying. Today I was home alone all afternoon and got rather lonely and bored. Unpacked and organized, and then had nothing to do. :/ So trying to keep myself busy busy! Oh- and I did register for Fall classes. It’ll be great! I’ll either have a MW or TTH schedule, and will be considered a full-time student! (Good for aide and residency and stuff) So I’ll have 5 open days for work! Also means that I’ll save some in gas since I won’t be working and going to school on the same days. (Work is north of me, school is south. So only one trip per day). AND, I can go to the campus that is 10 minutes close than the one I was anticipating attending. So that all seems to work out super well. I’ll be taking one course online hopefully and 2 or 3 on campus. The days will be looonnnggg, but worth it I think! Then hopefully working 30-40 hours a week at the casino! I’m also looking for a part-time job at least for the summer until I get more steady hours at the casino. Something I’ll work on this weekend/early next week.

Well, I’ll stop my chattering and send more updates later!

Thanks to everyone for helping me get here! Couldn’t have done it with out all your help and support- and I mean it! Come and visit, I’m turning the guest room into my den eventually- with a fouton or Murphy bed for my company!

Love from Sunny CA!

KT

Rather than emails...

Hi everyone! So I decided to just create a blog to keep track of my Cali adventures! Rather than send you silly mass emails. This way, when I cross your mind, you can check in a see "how it goes" in SoCal!

Seems silly, and a bit cliche, but a good way to keep in touch I suppose....

So. :)