Well, here's me signing in for another week. I write to you whilst watching the Oscars live for the first time ever! The dresses are very worthy this year - so stunning.... maybe one day there'll be an event I will go to where someone will drape me in their $10K couture and jewellry - hmmmmm, the televised "annual HR awards"... hmmmmm, maybe not.
So, this week I had the joy of experiencing my first US police station - don't worry, no other incidents, I just had to pick up the police report. I don't have much experience even in Australia with police stations, except maybe Mount Thomas Police Station (...from Blue Heelers), and in the US, well I've watched my fair share of NYPD Blue. So, the police station has the court house down the bottom and the station upstairs - and there's a separate window for everything... and of course the window I need doesn't open until 9:00am. Getting there at 8:30am I was naturally the first in line, and at 9 sharp, the window opened and a lovely old lady on the other side happily met my request. Luckily I didn't have a 'general enquiry', the queue for that section was already 20 deep by the time I got there. So the swarm of desks like in NYPD, I'm assuming they're behind one of the many doors in the joint. So, the next thing on the list that day was off to PSE&G (Electricity & Gas Co.) to set up my account (third attempt - first online, second over the phone, and now face to face). Let's just say third attempt was also unsuccessful, so now I'm back there tomorrow - what a rigmarol (I think that's how you spell it and I'm being too lazy to spell check it...). Issue is because the old owner has an outstanding bill - what that has to do with me is beyond me!
As a Jersey resident, I thought it important that I integrate myself into the cutlture, so I went for some cultural training on Wednesday night... I saw Jersey Boys. I had already seen the show in Melbourne, but I got invited to go again, and hey it's Broadway and it's now my home town! We had the best seats. Judy's husband went to Times Square during the day to get tickets (that's the trick if you're ever visiting - go on the day to the little vendors in Times Square and you get tickets heaps cheaper). So, we were in A section - front and centre about 10 lines back, where the tix are normally $250 plus (!!!), but we got them for $70. It was absolutely fabulous! You know you hear those ads where they say everyone was dancing in their seats, well it happened here. After the encore, they were playing songs and everyone was dancing - so much fun!
Yesterday, was super windy here. I went down to the shops to get a couple of things and when I was walking back, in the required black puffa jacket (staple here as well, not just in NYC), the wind gusts made me lose my footing a couple of times - luckily I managed to remain vertical, but I tell you it was close. My shopping bags were even blowing like they were empty. I think I looked like I had two air socks on my hands, like the ones at the airports. Made it easier once I got home to sit inside and write an assignment all day... wind was gone and the sun was shining today, so that made it hard to sit inside an continue writing said assignment.
I'm back off to Miami tomorrow. Have you heard of Pavlov's dog? This is I think the only psych theory I remember from high school... not my best subject, maybe because of my cow of a teacher - I wonder how Ms Townsend is these days?.... anyway, back to the dog... So, Pavlov (I think his first name was Ivan if I recall correctly) was a scientist who penned association theory. In his experiment, he would ring a bell, and at the same time feed the dog. After a while, the dog would associate the bell with food, so would salivate as soon as he heard the noise, regardless of whether there was food or not (this is all based off memory, so I take no responsibility for any unfactual statements made!). So, what does the dog have to do with Miami? Well, I am not having such positive association with Miami. I hear the word and I want to go to the corner and rock back and forth because all I think of is a whole lot of hard work. I think the only solution is for me go there on a holiday and remove all negative association!... but that would require some spare time...
Anyway, so tomorrow is my birthday, but I'm thinking that it's already my birthday because it is now the 27th in Australia, and I've had some nice calls, emails and cards already.
See you later everyone! I'm being slack on my celebrity sightings, but in Miami who knows - first trip was Dita Von Teese, the second was the mayor of Miami (ok, so no DVT, but he was being filmed)....who will be the third???
Saludos! Cheers! Ciao!....
Michele
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Yo... it's Michele from the Ghetto
Hi All,
Well after last week, I am really happy to say that this week was much less eventful!
So, my burgulars were kind enough to leave behind one stereo, so Sunday was music. The weather was ordinary and I was still a little cagey, so didn't want to venture on out.... and anyway, the shops are closed in Jersey on Sundays...they have what are known as 'blue laws'(????). Can you believe it? You can see NYC, 'the city that never sleeps' over the river, and they don't open their shops on Sundays - how bizarre. So, keeping shacked up in the house and trying to fall back in love with it, I found a great radio station with 80's weekend mix (even included Men at Work Down Under!). I was thoroughly enjoying all the Whitney Houston they were playing, but I did think it was strange that there was an excessive amount of Whitney ....anyway, 2 hours later I discovered why (remember I was completely disconnected) ... very sad. This radio station - "light fm" has a show like Mix 101's love songs and dedications, but I'm sorry, noone can replace Richard Mercer.
So, after being very unreliable the prior week, Cablevision turned up during their scheduled time on Sunday and connected me back with the world - finally I had internet! They also managed to connect my cable in the absence of the stolen televisions. Again, my generous burgulars had left the little television that was mounted in the ensuite, but it's not so great watching tv in the bathroom. So, Sunday was also getting the alarm tested through ADT via the phone. This was no fun exercise - it required testing of the alarm about 10 times for about 60 seconds each time (sorry, did you say something? I couldn't quite hear you), and each of the 'glass breakers' ... did you know you can recreate the sound of breaking glasses by smashing together three spoons?... Talking of those pesky burgulars, can you believe they stole one curtain of a two set curtain? How annoying. I'm sure it did a great job in protecting the tele.... bastards!
Whilst waiting for the internet to be connected I thought I'd test out the oven - what a beauty! I baked some ANZAC cookies for Mary Ann who works in the office. She was a big fan when I made them for the Aussie Day morning tea... Stupid thing is that I forgot she was in Florida for a meeting for the week... Oh well, I found a bunch that would enjoy them!
So the bunch was my team who were here from around the region. Here's a photo of us all - the girls in black...
From left to right: Juliana (Colombia), font - Soledad (Argentina), me, Thays (Brazil), Jimena (Mexico), and Antonella (US from Argentina).
They're a real fabulous team and sooooo full of energy, they make even me tired! We had a great week together, the first since me taking over the team, doing our planning for 2012 and some training. We also managed to enjoy a delicious dinner at Spice Market in the Meat Packing district. This restaurant is Asian Fusion based on Asian street fare, with a real middle eastern decor (the picture below is from the net - the place was packed, but we managed to get our own special booth!). All the food is designed to be served to be shared, which was great because all of the food was so bloody tasty...mmmm.
On Friday the replacement tvs arrived, so on Friday night I settled in for a night of cable, albeit I could only do it in my bedroom because the cable man couldn't connect it downstairs without a tele! But they came back today and I am now enjoying being able to sit downstairs in the loungeroom for the first time to watch a movie - and there's a classic on - Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, such an old favourite of mine and I was strangely just thinking of it the other day... you know Whitney was in Bodyguard with Kevin Costner, Kevin Costner is the star in this movie... I really did have too much thinking time on my hands!
Last night I went out with the Hargrave family for dinner in Bleecker street in Greenwich Village. We were booked for Cafe Espanol after some bubbles at the Hargrave apartment on Madison Avenue. The celebration was a triple birthday, but unfortunately Teena whose birthday is today had to cancel as her daughter was teeting and really grumpy. So the other two birthdays to celebrate was Philip (Judy's husband), whose birthday is on Wednesday and mine, which is next week. Because it was raining the cabs were hard to come by (everyone catches cabs when it's raining whereas when it's not a lot of people just walk), so we arrived at the restaurant 12 minutes late and they gave away our table!!!! We were not too happy, so decided to find another option. Across the street we saw Florencia 13 - a Southern California Mexican restaurant. This place was cool - I felt like I was in a Quentin Tarantino movie, and more specifically a small version of the place in Dusk till Dawn (minus the vampires), and the music matched the scene! The food was great - I haven't had mexican since some Old El Paso back at home - nothing compares with Brett's mexican cooking, but this was a very close second....Here's a picture of us all.
We had all generations covered... from 16 years old to the 50's, but that makes it more fun. Judy was enjoying their famous "flaming margharita", and it does come out flaming. Me, I'm not too fond of the old tequila and that was the only drink on the menu, except for a Caprihani, which is made from Brazilian Cachaca, which is potent stuff.... I stuck with just the two - very sensible of me!
Well after last week, I am really happy to say that this week was much less eventful!
So, my burgulars were kind enough to leave behind one stereo, so Sunday was music. The weather was ordinary and I was still a little cagey, so didn't want to venture on out.... and anyway, the shops are closed in Jersey on Sundays...they have what are known as 'blue laws'(????). Can you believe it? You can see NYC, 'the city that never sleeps' over the river, and they don't open their shops on Sundays - how bizarre. So, keeping shacked up in the house and trying to fall back in love with it, I found a great radio station with 80's weekend mix (even included Men at Work Down Under!). I was thoroughly enjoying all the Whitney Houston they were playing, but I did think it was strange that there was an excessive amount of Whitney ....anyway, 2 hours later I discovered why (remember I was completely disconnected) ... very sad. This radio station - "light fm" has a show like Mix 101's love songs and dedications, but I'm sorry, noone can replace Richard Mercer.
So, after being very unreliable the prior week, Cablevision turned up during their scheduled time on Sunday and connected me back with the world - finally I had internet! They also managed to connect my cable in the absence of the stolen televisions. Again, my generous burgulars had left the little television that was mounted in the ensuite, but it's not so great watching tv in the bathroom. So, Sunday was also getting the alarm tested through ADT via the phone. This was no fun exercise - it required testing of the alarm about 10 times for about 60 seconds each time (sorry, did you say something? I couldn't quite hear you), and each of the 'glass breakers' ... did you know you can recreate the sound of breaking glasses by smashing together three spoons?... Talking of those pesky burgulars, can you believe they stole one curtain of a two set curtain? How annoying. I'm sure it did a great job in protecting the tele.... bastards!
Whilst waiting for the internet to be connected I thought I'd test out the oven - what a beauty! I baked some ANZAC cookies for Mary Ann who works in the office. She was a big fan when I made them for the Aussie Day morning tea... Stupid thing is that I forgot she was in Florida for a meeting for the week... Oh well, I found a bunch that would enjoy them!
So the bunch was my team who were here from around the region. Here's a photo of us all - the girls in black...
They're a real fabulous team and sooooo full of energy, they make even me tired! We had a great week together, the first since me taking over the team, doing our planning for 2012 and some training. We also managed to enjoy a delicious dinner at Spice Market in the Meat Packing district. This restaurant is Asian Fusion based on Asian street fare, with a real middle eastern decor (the picture below is from the net - the place was packed, but we managed to get our own special booth!). All the food is designed to be served to be shared, which was great because all of the food was so bloody tasty...mmmm.
On Friday the replacement tvs arrived, so on Friday night I settled in for a night of cable, albeit I could only do it in my bedroom because the cable man couldn't connect it downstairs without a tele! But they came back today and I am now enjoying being able to sit downstairs in the loungeroom for the first time to watch a movie - and there's a classic on - Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, such an old favourite of mine and I was strangely just thinking of it the other day... you know Whitney was in Bodyguard with Kevin Costner, Kevin Costner is the star in this movie... I really did have too much thinking time on my hands!
Last night I went out with the Hargrave family for dinner in Bleecker street in Greenwich Village. We were booked for Cafe Espanol after some bubbles at the Hargrave apartment on Madison Avenue. The celebration was a triple birthday, but unfortunately Teena whose birthday is today had to cancel as her daughter was teeting and really grumpy. So the other two birthdays to celebrate was Philip (Judy's husband), whose birthday is on Wednesday and mine, which is next week. Because it was raining the cabs were hard to come by (everyone catches cabs when it's raining whereas when it's not a lot of people just walk), so we arrived at the restaurant 12 minutes late and they gave away our table!!!! We were not too happy, so decided to find another option. Across the street we saw Florencia 13 - a Southern California Mexican restaurant. This place was cool - I felt like I was in a Quentin Tarantino movie, and more specifically a small version of the place in Dusk till Dawn (minus the vampires), and the music matched the scene! The food was great - I haven't had mexican since some Old El Paso back at home - nothing compares with Brett's mexican cooking, but this was a very close second....Here's a picture of us all.
So, back in the ghetto, I'm feeling absolutely fine now. I ventured out yesterday to some shops - there is the most steepest hill between me and the shops, downhill on the way there and uphill on the way back, so I look at it that I need to go shopping to get my necessary exercise! This morning was beautiful so I went to the nearby park and walked a few laps around the lake. The park is great, it has a heap of tennis courts, raquet ball courts, football field (soccer and American), and a proper baseball field. The lake was full of geese and it got me thinking that I don't think I've ever seen a goose before - I think I may be coming out with one of those bimbo questions, but do we have geese in Australia? I'm thinking not. There was also heaps of cheeky little squirrels and because nephew Jack was asking about these last night, I thought I'd send this photo - this little critter let me go up really close to him. This afternoon there was also a big one in my backyard. Happy for the squirrels, but I want to avoid the skunks (luckily I have so far, but I know they're around).
Equal to the house, my favourite part is still the view from the end of the street - here's a couple of pics: the first is the view from my bus stop taken one morning this week and the other is from last night.
Before signing off, I wanted to do some congratulations. A lot has happened since I've left...
Firstly on babies -
A big, fat congratulations to Lauren and Brad Wilson on the birth of baby Dylan on Monday this week (otherwise known as Wee Willy). He's sooooo gorgeous.
Another big congratulations to Renee and Trav on being pregnant - can you believe Renee told me via text, whilst I was in a meeting in Brazil!!!! I got all red and hot when I found out because I was in absolute shock! Like everyone else, I never thought this would happen, but we're all super glad it has! I'm glad I can finally say something and I'll come home in August / September to welcome the little one in the world.
And congratulation to Baz and Bianca on also having a baby on the way. Will this little one make it a girl trifecta or will a little fella come along to back up Baz?
Secondly on engagements -
Congratulations Amy and Ben for finally taking the leaps - I'm really happy for you both, and glad that it finally happened! Another excuse for me to come back home.
Anyone else got any news????
Finally, thank you to everyone for your notes of comfort and concern last week - it was a pretty crappy week, but you all made it easier - thank you!
Saludos,
Michele
Saturday, February 11, 2012
"911 Emergency"...
Oh dear, so I jinxed myself when I said I hope there are no dramas this week. Well, the dramas have been a bit too major for my liking... that's saying a lot given I am a somewhat of a drama queen i.e. I like a bit of it my life. Brett even has a special award for me "DQOTY" - Drama Queen of the Year (of who equally deserves the award as frequently as I do!) . So, in this situation I don't deserve the award, the situation deserves the award. Let me take you back to Monday...
So, Monday is move day. It was always going to be chaotic. The plan was: removalists at my apartment gear in the morning 8:30/ 9am, going over to Jersey; back to midtown for a meeting at 10am, and arrival of my rental goods in the afternoon. It was never going to work....
8:00am and I'm checking with the doorman that it's ok for the removalists to start at 8:30... of course no, the garbage run is on in the service elevator and won't be free until 9... oh well, I've packed my boxes, they can be in and out in 10 mins. Anyway, so they arrive and I have the bright idea that maybe I can give them my spare keys and they can take the goods over without me. "Of course we can do that". Excellent, one stress down.
Second task for the morning, confirm the cable / internet / phone connection with Cablenet... "oh, I'm sorry maaam, your order has been cancelled"... "pardon?".... "well, the owner extended his service, so we cancelled yours, you need to speak with the owner". Seriously, what the hell???? Message to owner to find out what's going on...
So I go to my meeting, it finishes on time and I head over to Jersey for my furniture delivery. I arrive, and I can luckily get in and all of my boxes have arrived. Unfortunately, they have left all of my boxes downstairs (even my clothes ones), so I need to take a few trips of heavy boxes up my steep stairs.... oh well, this is the sacrifice for not having to come over and miss my meeting.
The rental furniture crew arrives at about 4, with a full truck full of goods - 4 1/2 later and the house is filled with goods. What a day, but the house now feels like a home, albeit I can't put the tv on because I have no cable. Good time to ring the cable company and get another appointment.
"Oh, I'm really sorry maam, that was a bad mistake by us that shouldn't have happened... we can connect your services Wednesdy between 2 & 5"... "but I have to work tomorrow, so that time doesn't work, I can't do until after 6:30pm, and you know it wasn't my fault that you cancelled my order"... "yes maam, it's okay, I'll leave them a note and make sure they don't come until after 6:30, and even if they come before 6:30, they'll leave you a business card and they'll come back that night and put your services on"... "Excellent! thank you"....
So I get home on Tuesday knowing I'll have no tv... that's ok, I can deal with it, at least the stereo works. Get home Wednesday and there's no card in the door. That must be good news, they haven't been yet... time goes on and it's getting to quarter to 8, why is there no cable man? Give Cablevision a call "yes maam, a technician went there at 4:40pm and tried to call you, but didn't leave a message"... "can he come back tonight?"... "no maam, technicians won't come out after 5 for connections".... "then why did they tell me they'd come after 6:30pm?"... "well, that was an error maam, and I'm sorry for that".. " I understand it's an error, but it's not my fault, so can someone come tonight and fix it?".... "No maam".... "Ok, so when can be the next appointment?".... "The only time we can do it 2-5 tomorrow, otherwise next week".... "Given the mistake was yours, can you please come after 6 tomorrow because I can't do during business hours?".... "No maam, sorry, we can't".... "(hysterically)Do you realise that you are leaving me with no internet or tv services because of your mistakes?"... "I'm sorry maam for these issues, but I can only offer you these times"... "I can't do that time"..... "I'm sorry maam, but I can only offer you these times"... "FINE! I'll take 2-5 tomorrow".
So the next day comes, I'm planned for leaving work early (with some reshuffling), but before I do, I think I should call them to confirm... "I'm sorry maam, there's no appointment recorded for that time"... "WHAT?"..."No, it just says you were very upset and that you'd find another supplier, but not that you would have an appointment at this time"... "But I confirmed it with a man at 9:20pm, I have the call log on my phone"... "I'm sorry maam for all the trouble, but I can't help you"... "So, when can I get an appointment, Saturday morning?". ... "No maam, the only time available is Friday from 2-5". ... "FINE! I'll take that and just work it out ".
So, I go home Thursday evening and the garage door is open a bit with the light on... that's strange, maybe the old owner is still getting some stuff out (we'd been coordinating to make this happen). The front door is unlocked.. the owner must be in the house. I go inside, look to my right and the big 55 inch tv, stereo and blu ray player are all gone... holy f!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I run upstairs, my bedrooms disturbed, the tv's gone, the drawers are all open.... holy f!!!!!!!!!!! again!.... I've been robbed and it's only my 4th day in this house! 911, "what's your emergency?"... "my house has been burgled"... "Pardon?"... "my house has been burgled"... "I'm sorry maam, I don't understand you".... "SOMEONE HAS BROKEN INTO MY HOUSE!".... "oh, you've been burglarized"... "yes!".... "ok, don't touch anything, I'm sending around a patrol car".
5 minutes later and arrives the police officer. He asks a lot of questions, comments that "this never happens in this street.... it's such a lovely and quiet street... it's a nice part of town... this is so strange". It was just like the movies. He asks "do you know if anyone is still here?". I said of course I don't know. "Stay here maam", as he pulls his gun out checks all of the floors of the house. "Is there a security system in the house?"... "Yes (with a look of embarassment on my face)".... "Why wasn't it on?"... "I only moved here on Monday and I was going to get everything sorted out this weekend".... "Mmmmm".
About 10 minutes later the detectives and their dust kits arrive ... more questions. I realise that not only is it the electronic rental goods, but also my new personal laptop, and the house's small tv in the kitchen thatIi was so looking forward to watching whilst I bake. The worst thing is that my spare set of keys is missing, same as the garage opening clicker. I think it's best to stay at a hotel....
So, I stayed in a hotel on Thursday and Friday night, whilst the house got new locks. But the question is, what have I learnt from this experience?:
1: fix is my lax approach to security - use the security system, the dead locks, etc. etc, don't give strangers keys to my house - you know the basics.. & most importantly realise I'm no longer in an apartment with a 24 hour doorman or in Narre Warren North with dogs.
2: put more focus on me - don't put off important things because I'm too busy...
....(you always have to learn from these types of experiences)
So, last night, lovely Judy and Teena from work put on some friendly bubbles (champagne style) for me, which helped put a smile on my face. My head's a little heavy today, but oh well.
So, I'm going back to the house soon, I've got the security system working and registered for monitoring, the locks are changed and internet should be getting connected tomorrow... fingers crossed!
Let's hope that's the drama over and done with and I can now settle in....
Signing off!
Michele
So, Monday is move day. It was always going to be chaotic. The plan was: removalists at my apartment gear in the morning 8:30/ 9am, going over to Jersey; back to midtown for a meeting at 10am, and arrival of my rental goods in the afternoon. It was never going to work....
8:00am and I'm checking with the doorman that it's ok for the removalists to start at 8:30... of course no, the garbage run is on in the service elevator and won't be free until 9... oh well, I've packed my boxes, they can be in and out in 10 mins. Anyway, so they arrive and I have the bright idea that maybe I can give them my spare keys and they can take the goods over without me. "Of course we can do that". Excellent, one stress down.
Second task for the morning, confirm the cable / internet / phone connection with Cablenet... "oh, I'm sorry maaam, your order has been cancelled"... "pardon?".... "well, the owner extended his service, so we cancelled yours, you need to speak with the owner". Seriously, what the hell???? Message to owner to find out what's going on...
So I go to my meeting, it finishes on time and I head over to Jersey for my furniture delivery. I arrive, and I can luckily get in and all of my boxes have arrived. Unfortunately, they have left all of my boxes downstairs (even my clothes ones), so I need to take a few trips of heavy boxes up my steep stairs.... oh well, this is the sacrifice for not having to come over and miss my meeting.
The rental furniture crew arrives at about 4, with a full truck full of goods - 4 1/2 later and the house is filled with goods. What a day, but the house now feels like a home, albeit I can't put the tv on because I have no cable. Good time to ring the cable company and get another appointment.
"Oh, I'm really sorry maam, that was a bad mistake by us that shouldn't have happened... we can connect your services Wednesdy between 2 & 5"... "but I have to work tomorrow, so that time doesn't work, I can't do until after 6:30pm, and you know it wasn't my fault that you cancelled my order"... "yes maam, it's okay, I'll leave them a note and make sure they don't come until after 6:30, and even if they come before 6:30, they'll leave you a business card and they'll come back that night and put your services on"... "Excellent! thank you"....
So I get home on Tuesday knowing I'll have no tv... that's ok, I can deal with it, at least the stereo works. Get home Wednesday and there's no card in the door. That must be good news, they haven't been yet... time goes on and it's getting to quarter to 8, why is there no cable man? Give Cablevision a call "yes maam, a technician went there at 4:40pm and tried to call you, but didn't leave a message"... "can he come back tonight?"... "no maam, technicians won't come out after 5 for connections".... "then why did they tell me they'd come after 6:30pm?"... "well, that was an error maam, and I'm sorry for that".. " I understand it's an error, but it's not my fault, so can someone come tonight and fix it?".... "No maam".... "Ok, so when can be the next appointment?".... "The only time we can do it 2-5 tomorrow, otherwise next week".... "Given the mistake was yours, can you please come after 6 tomorrow because I can't do during business hours?".... "No maam, sorry, we can't".... "(hysterically)Do you realise that you are leaving me with no internet or tv services because of your mistakes?"... "I'm sorry maam for these issues, but I can only offer you these times"... "I can't do that time"..... "I'm sorry maam, but I can only offer you these times"... "FINE! I'll take 2-5 tomorrow".
So the next day comes, I'm planned for leaving work early (with some reshuffling), but before I do, I think I should call them to confirm... "I'm sorry maam, there's no appointment recorded for that time"... "WHAT?"..."No, it just says you were very upset and that you'd find another supplier, but not that you would have an appointment at this time"... "But I confirmed it with a man at 9:20pm, I have the call log on my phone"... "I'm sorry maam for all the trouble, but I can't help you"... "So, when can I get an appointment, Saturday morning?". ... "No maam, the only time available is Friday from 2-5". ... "FINE! I'll take that and just work it out ".
So, I go home Thursday evening and the garage door is open a bit with the light on... that's strange, maybe the old owner is still getting some stuff out (we'd been coordinating to make this happen). The front door is unlocked.. the owner must be in the house. I go inside, look to my right and the big 55 inch tv, stereo and blu ray player are all gone... holy f!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I run upstairs, my bedrooms disturbed, the tv's gone, the drawers are all open.... holy f!!!!!!!!!!! again!.... I've been robbed and it's only my 4th day in this house! 911, "what's your emergency?"... "my house has been burgled"... "Pardon?"... "my house has been burgled"... "I'm sorry maam, I don't understand you".... "SOMEONE HAS BROKEN INTO MY HOUSE!".... "oh, you've been burglarized"... "yes!".... "ok, don't touch anything, I'm sending around a patrol car".
5 minutes later and arrives the police officer. He asks a lot of questions, comments that "this never happens in this street.... it's such a lovely and quiet street... it's a nice part of town... this is so strange". It was just like the movies. He asks "do you know if anyone is still here?". I said of course I don't know. "Stay here maam", as he pulls his gun out checks all of the floors of the house. "Is there a security system in the house?"... "Yes (with a look of embarassment on my face)".... "Why wasn't it on?"... "I only moved here on Monday and I was going to get everything sorted out this weekend".... "Mmmmm".
About 10 minutes later the detectives and their dust kits arrive ... more questions. I realise that not only is it the electronic rental goods, but also my new personal laptop, and the house's small tv in the kitchen thatIi was so looking forward to watching whilst I bake. The worst thing is that my spare set of keys is missing, same as the garage opening clicker. I think it's best to stay at a hotel....
So, I stayed in a hotel on Thursday and Friday night, whilst the house got new locks. But the question is, what have I learnt from this experience?:
1: fix is my lax approach to security - use the security system, the dead locks, etc. etc, don't give strangers keys to my house - you know the basics.. & most importantly realise I'm no longer in an apartment with a 24 hour doorman or in Narre Warren North with dogs.
2: put more focus on me - don't put off important things because I'm too busy...
....(you always have to learn from these types of experiences)
So, last night, lovely Judy and Teena from work put on some friendly bubbles (champagne style) for me, which helped put a smile on my face. My head's a little heavy today, but oh well.
So, I'm going back to the house soon, I've got the security system working and registered for monitoring, the locks are changed and internet should be getting connected tomorrow... fingers crossed!
Let's hope that's the drama over and done with and I can now settle in....
Signing off!
Michele
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Touchdown!...
Hi All!
So, it's Superbowl Sunday and this blog is taking me much longer than normal to write as I am continually distracted by the ads... oh yeah, and the football match :)
At this point the Giants are down 12 v 17 in the 3rd, but they have been pretty successful at coming back the past few matches.... and let's be honest they have to win. I mean, the empire state building is even lit up in blue and red lights. I want them to win, not only because I am now a NY resident and I am known to jump on the sporting bandwagon at every opportunity, but I have a theory. The Giants are known as the Big Blue, and well, I am a Carlton supporter. So my theory is that if they win, then my Blue Baggers will also win the grand final this year. Before the Giants even made it into the Superbowl, I was convinced the Blues would make the Grand Final this year, purely for the fact that I won't be there. Madonna was half time entertainment and her performance was at least better than Meatloafs - she had the help of LMFAO, Cee Lo Green, a couple of rappers, and about 50 odd dancers.... no comparison really, except that at least with Meatloaf you knew that he was definitely singling live, Madonna on the other hand, I'm not so sure.
Still on the sporting theme, I just discovered this week that the NYC F1 track that will be on the calendar next year is right near my new house! Put it this way, the track goes along the boulevard up to 65th street, and I'm just off the boulevard on 75th street. Don't worry about the fact that the track is actually in New Jersey, but hey that's just geography.... at least they will have a marvellous view of NYC in the background. So, that is very exciting. I hope I can get some tickets for the pure fact that I am a resident that will be 'disturbed' by the event.
I picked up my keys tonight to my new house and I have the joy of moving tomorrow. Without a car, this is no joyful experience. To add to the joy, I have to go to work for a critical meeting. So the plan is for the removalist company to pick up the boxes picked up from my apartment at 8:30am, go over to NJ, get them to literally just dump them there, then I need to get to the office for 10am until 1:45pm, then back over to NJ for 2pm furniture delivery and cable, internet and phone connection! Not fun.
It was nice to be in Miami last week to defrost. I got back last night at midnight! I was supposed to get back at 9pm, but my flight got cancelled, so then I was allocated to another flight, but they didn't actually register me on the other flight, so then I got allocated to another flight, which was then delayed right at the time of boarding because the plane was broken (who needs flight instruments to tell you where the horizon is anyway?), so then I had to change gates and then finally on a flight - good old American Airlines at their best. At least I didn't have to stay another night. Miami was super busy, but very successful work wise. The hotel this time was a little more real. No "Kikki" greeting me in the morning (refer to blog number 2), no Sunday pool party, and more plastic in wallets than elsewhere. But on the other hand there were no "Dita Von Teese" launch parties this time either.
So now the Giants are winning 21 v 17 with 32 seconds to go. It's a close one and it's New England's play, so it could still go against the Giants. From my shoe box apartment I can hear screams and yells from everywhere! They've just won - the town's going wild!
So, in celebration I thought I would share with you my pick of Superbowl ads (there's lots of animal ones in there). I hope you enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/user/samsungmobileusa?v=CgfknZidYq0
http://www.youtube.com/fiatusa?sid=1037056&KWNM=fiat+car+commercial&KWID=3109902963&channel=paidsearch
http://www.youtube.com/user/MandMsCommercials?blend=15&ob=0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEq74TCDGtc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-9EYFJ4Clo (I need to get some inspiration from this guy)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STb6ZSo5CPw
.... and my favourite - Mr Quigley
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kevvVMQWkfQ
Well, there's not much else exciting to report this week. Hopefully the move goes well tomorrow so you don't need to hear about my trials and tribulations next week, but on the other hand, drama makes for entertainment!
Signing off from the town of mad celebrations!
Michele
So, it's Superbowl Sunday and this blog is taking me much longer than normal to write as I am continually distracted by the ads... oh yeah, and the football match :)
At this point the Giants are down 12 v 17 in the 3rd, but they have been pretty successful at coming back the past few matches.... and let's be honest they have to win. I mean, the empire state building is even lit up in blue and red lights. I want them to win, not only because I am now a NY resident and I am known to jump on the sporting bandwagon at every opportunity, but I have a theory. The Giants are known as the Big Blue, and well, I am a Carlton supporter. So my theory is that if they win, then my Blue Baggers will also win the grand final this year. Before the Giants even made it into the Superbowl, I was convinced the Blues would make the Grand Final this year, purely for the fact that I won't be there. Madonna was half time entertainment and her performance was at least better than Meatloafs - she had the help of LMFAO, Cee Lo Green, a couple of rappers, and about 50 odd dancers.... no comparison really, except that at least with Meatloaf you knew that he was definitely singling live, Madonna on the other hand, I'm not so sure.
Still on the sporting theme, I just discovered this week that the NYC F1 track that will be on the calendar next year is right near my new house! Put it this way, the track goes along the boulevard up to 65th street, and I'm just off the boulevard on 75th street. Don't worry about the fact that the track is actually in New Jersey, but hey that's just geography.... at least they will have a marvellous view of NYC in the background. So, that is very exciting. I hope I can get some tickets for the pure fact that I am a resident that will be 'disturbed' by the event.
I picked up my keys tonight to my new house and I have the joy of moving tomorrow. Without a car, this is no joyful experience. To add to the joy, I have to go to work for a critical meeting. So the plan is for the removalist company to pick up the boxes picked up from my apartment at 8:30am, go over to NJ, get them to literally just dump them there, then I need to get to the office for 10am until 1:45pm, then back over to NJ for 2pm furniture delivery and cable, internet and phone connection! Not fun.
It was nice to be in Miami last week to defrost. I got back last night at midnight! I was supposed to get back at 9pm, but my flight got cancelled, so then I was allocated to another flight, but they didn't actually register me on the other flight, so then I got allocated to another flight, which was then delayed right at the time of boarding because the plane was broken (who needs flight instruments to tell you where the horizon is anyway?), so then I had to change gates and then finally on a flight - good old American Airlines at their best. At least I didn't have to stay another night. Miami was super busy, but very successful work wise. The hotel this time was a little more real. No "Kikki" greeting me in the morning (refer to blog number 2), no Sunday pool party, and more plastic in wallets than elsewhere. But on the other hand there were no "Dita Von Teese" launch parties this time either.
So now the Giants are winning 21 v 17 with 32 seconds to go. It's a close one and it's New England's play, so it could still go against the Giants. From my shoe box apartment I can hear screams and yells from everywhere! They've just won - the town's going wild!
So, in celebration I thought I would share with you my pick of Superbowl ads (there's lots of animal ones in there). I hope you enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/user/samsungmobileusa?v=CgfknZidYq0
http://www.youtube.com/fiatusa?sid=1037056&KWNM=fiat+car+commercial&KWID=3109902963&channel=paidsearch
http://www.youtube.com/user/MandMsCommercials?blend=15&ob=0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEq74TCDGtc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-9EYFJ4Clo (I need to get some inspiration from this guy)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STb6ZSo5CPw
.... and my favourite - Mr Quigley
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kevvVMQWkfQ
Well, there's not much else exciting to report this week. Hopefully the move goes well tomorrow so you don't need to hear about my trials and tribulations next week, but on the other hand, drama makes for entertainment!
Signing off from the town of mad celebrations!
Michele
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