Out of Commission

 Starting tomorrow morning (at 4:30am) im traveling until late afternoon on Wednesday. I hardly ever travel, but when I do, it seems to all happen at once. Luckily, I will just be going to Atlanta, and I get to stay with my awesome cousin Jana while i'm there. I never get to see her, so this should be fun. So, i'll be off the blogosphere for a few days. Since I need to get some sleep before my waayyy too early wake up call, i'll wait to post about the weekend, which included: kitchen painting, Shutter Island, & Ragtime. It wasnt too eventful, but I do have comments. night.

CURLING!

Been loving the Swedish curling team. unfortunately they just lost the bronze, but it was fun while it lasted.

I know, I know

St. Paddy's is over two weeks away, but here on my blog, we like to celebrate it a bit early. Hence the updated look. Stay tuned for fun Ireland pics over the next few week. Sláinte!

Insert Meredith Brooks Lyrics here:

It's been a long week yall. I am physically and emotionally drained. Physically because I have been going, going, going nonstop. Mentally, because there have been specific issues arise at work when I (once again) have to deal with the fragil egos of my male coworkers. If my work day was a sitcom, my character would be a mix of Veronica Corningstone 

and Peggy from Mad Men.

It's unbelievable to me that certain men think they are entitied to anything and everything because they have a penis. I dont care what you have, it doesnt mean you can treat me as a pushover. You will be glad to know friendly blog readers out there, I did stand my ground this week. But, because of my stubborn feminist nature, i'm sure the word 'bitch' will be mentioned by the watercooler, but I really dont care. I CANT WAIT to be more successful than these complacent assholes.

To make maters worse, as I was leaving work today and got to my car in the parking lot, a very large truck had backed into the spot next to me and left me about a foot to get into my car. In order for him to get out, he had to scratch my car. ICING ON THE CAKE. He couldnt have just readjusted his vehicle? no, too strenuous. And i'm not assuming this was a male. As I backed my car out of the space, I see the car's male owner walk up and wait for me to back out, so he could get in. If i hadnt arrived before him, he would have had to ding my car again just to get back into his car. I'm pretty sure he didnt miss out of my feminist ranting as I tried to get into my car.

In all my male hating anger, I do have positive news about someone that knows better than to assume i'm a weakling of a woman. Jordan has made it to the final round of his interview process for the management training program at Regions. He goes in next Friday for this last round. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers! I might need prayers too. Pray that I dont go Mauy Thai crazy on some people between now and then!

New Blog and bla

Money Saving Madness- I'm getting even more obsessed with couponing, but i'm seriously saving around $200/m at this point, and i'm thinking i can make it more....

Competition update: what competition? I gave up two weeks ago....sad.

Counting Calories: yeah, i need to start doing that again. 3.5 lbs gained. (damn you mardi gras) sigh. This is getting old.

Lent update: one week of no nail biting! (most impressive for me)

Work: making me stress eat because I cant bite my nails  neverending cycle....

Always Sunny update: Dennic & Mac: Manhunters= my fav episode so far

Rotary: a warm fuzzy feeling

I get "warm fuzzy" feelings from various (non sexual) events in life. ie:  smelling burning firewood on the first day of fall, homemade icecream,the touch of sand on my toes on a hot summer day at the beach, holding a  baby, flying into Dublin, and seeing underdogs overcome obstables...to name a few. Another one to add to my list is anything involving Rotary. I feel completely indebted to Rotary for my lifechanging experiences in Ireland, so it was a no brainer to get involved when I got back to Birmingham. Because of my age, I was able to do that by joining Rotaract. During my first year membership, I was able to give back tremendously to my club by strengthening the bond between the club and our parent club, the Rotary Club of Birmingham. If you dont know, the RC of B, is the second largest club in the world, hosting several Rotary International Presidents. Lets just say even my club in Ireland had heard of them. They are kind of a big deal.

So, we started a mentorship program between our club and the RC of B. This has allowed me to meet so many fantastic members of both clubs, and even get the honor of sitting at the head table of the downtown club to talk about this program. WOW, it was cool.

This week I also got to help out as Rotary played host to the National Large Club Conference. Since the club is so large, they have much to teach other clubs about the functioning of a large organization. Sunday night 150 Rotarians from all over the country landed in Birmingham and were driven (by Rotaract members) to Ross Bridge. These Rotarians were overwhelmed with southern hospitality, and that was just the beginning. Sunday's dinner was an introduction to the "tastes of the south" with a family style meal complete with a bbq, fried green tomatoes, black eyed peas, grits, collards, fried okra, chow chow, ect... Chris Hastings even contributed his white bread pudding for dessert. Then they were shown some of the best music the south can provide; from a jazz band, to a world renouned pianist, a gospel choir, and then finally Rubben studdard. That's right, Mr. American Idol himself.

He wasnt extremely impressive, but it was neat to see him.

Last night they took the whole group to Highlands (Frank Stitt is a Rotarian) and wined and dined them to death. Tonight, I helped as we bused the 150 Rotarians to 5 (large & impressive) houses on Birmingham's Crest Road which overlooks the city. At each house Chris Hastings (hot n hot), had a kitchen and staff, and prepared an impressive feast. I got to meet so many new people, and I think it was one of the few social events where ive dragged Jordan and he's actually really enjoyed himself. Everyone was so friendly and appreciative for everything. Enter the warm fuzzies. The great part about it is that you dont have to be at a lavish mansion with these people, because they are just as welcoming if you call them on the phone, or see them at a meeting. The ideal of "service about self" is ingrained in them all, and their cup is overflowing.

So, i come back to my main point. This is why I love Rotary. check it out, it will make you happy.

(Huntsville trip below)

Havoc!

Last Friday I got the hell out of dodge and went to visit two of my best friends who live in Huntsville, Liv & Jensi. We hit up our usual mexican restaurant and then went to a Huntsville Havoc game. I have never been to a hockey game in my life, so it was def a first. However, I had a blast. How can you not like grown men with sticks who basically beat each other? Plus, they serve beer, so i'm a fan.

I took lots of pics.

Above and below are halftime where they sling children on a round disks down the ice to knock over large bowling pins. creative and desctructive, i like it.

hey jensi :)

FIGHT!

This is a picture of the "Wolfman" a.k.a: a grown man dressed in a wolf outfit with a flag, chased by small children around the collusium.

SPACE SHUTTLE (my nerd self takes over at this point)

I spy a phallic reference...yay for NASA!

On a side note, the current plan is to head down to Orlando around July 29th to see Endevour, the 2nd to last shuttle launch of the current fleet. Road trip anyone?

Let the season begin

Ive decided that this year I will participate in the Lenten season, and as I said earlier, ive decided to give up biting my nails. I havent had a manacure since my wedding, three years ago next month.. So, we must have before and after pics (mainly to hold me accountable). Spencer decided to help me with my photo shoot. What a helpful kitty.

I hate my hands. My least favorite attribute, so this actually look alot for me to post them. Spence new of my self confidence problem with my hands, and decided to share the spotlight. Such a good kitty.

 Plus he made for a fun picture background.

Note to self: cats dont like camera flashes.

But what Spence does like is playing fetch with his momma. He's done this since he was a kitten. I took a fantstic video of him doing this last night, but i can get it to post. I think its too long. I'm pretty bummed out, because it really highlighted his talents. I'm convinced (if he wasnt 8 pounds overweight) that Spence could be on commercials. Can I be a stage mom for my cat?

Laissez les bons temps rouler

A pic of the house as were leaving for Mobile. I seriously didnt check the weather all week, thinking since I was going south, i wouldnt have any snow issues to worry about. I realized Thursday, when i finally decided to check the weather, that I was oh so wrong on that assumption. The snow only got worse as we headed down I-65.

About 2-3 inches of snow later, we reach a rest area outside of Montgomery.

Yes, thats a "family vacation" type luggage packer on top of their car. We had so much food and drinks, all the suitcases had to go somewhere.

When we arrived in Mobile, we were greeted with open arms by Erin's sister's, their husbands and their five children (all under the age of 7) They had reserved all the rooms on the 5th floor of the downtown Holiday Inn Express, and so when the elevator doors opened we were welcomed to a scene of kids running around like crazy, food and drinks outside almost every door, and a full fledged kareoke party going on. It was crazy. We quickly dropped off our bags, dressed in like 10 layers, grabbed a beer and headed out to the Crew of Columbus parade. It was VERY cold, so catching beads without gloves on would have been painful. Luckily we were prepared in that sense. The rest of the night included more kareoke, rum, late night pizza and king cake.

We woke up to a very sunny (warmer) Saturday for the Kids parade. I thought it was a neat view that all the trees along the route were already covered in beads. We then headed off to a local favorite seafood place, Wintzells.

Ive actually had several clients talk to me about this place. They were right, it was yummy. A pound of oysters, fried fish and a few hurricanes later, we were quite full.

Artie and his favorite waiter.

Nothing like a few hurricanes at lunchtime. I was really loving mardi gras at this point.

The rest of the day was spent walking around, drinking and checking out some of the sights and sounds of Mobile. I really cant remember ever visiting Mobile except for a short time during my childhood to see the USS Alabama during a girl scouts trip. Erin and Artie were great tourguides, and everything was going splendid until Jordan stepped in dog shit.

Erin has the picture we took in the park while Jordan was (unknowlingly) standing in the poo. He quickly caught on when his left heel was two inches higher than the right. We laughed all the way down the street bc he would not get it all off. Finally we arrived at our destination, The Battle House Hotel. Apparently, this is one of the more expensive and historic hotel to stay in while visiting the city. Erin's grandfather use to manage the hotel, so it was a stop on our tour. Once we were sure the excremint was off his shoes, we went into the bar and settled in to get warm and observe the elegance of the hotel. It really is a gorgeous place. I made a quick trip to the lovely marble ladies room, only to quickly discover that somehow I also had dog mess on me, but not only on my shoes, but all over the back of my jeans. How did that happen? As i'm recovering from the shock of this, I realized that while sitting in the hotel lounge, I sat with one of my legs under my thigh to get comfy. (There is a reason moms tell you not to put your shoes on furniture.)

So, I come back to the group and tell them that we prob need to finish out drinks and head out. Confussed, since we hadnt been there very long, I pointed to what I knew was located on the nice, fluffy, expensive lounge chair: more dog poo.

We laughed all the way back to the hotel. They decided we cant be taken to nice places. Unfortunately for them, we still had a ball to attend...

Later that night, we went to the Mystics of Time parade. Both of Erin's brother in laws were riding, and her 6 year old nephew was riding on the Queen's float. These floats were very very cool. I couldnt believe the detail that was involved. This is also the best pick of could take of the moving paper mache. After the parade, the guys got dressed quickly and then went out on the town.

We took our time and got ready for the ball in the hotel.

Note the decorations on the window...Erin was so prepared.

We got back together and went to the BALL! I dont have pictures from this event, but i'm hoping Erin will send me hers to post. The most amazing part was the entrance of the Queen of the MOT Ball and the King and Queen of Mardi Gras. Such (unecessary) decadence, it was unbelievable.

The next morning we made out way to Erin's parent's house for some gumbo and much needed non-alcoholic beverages before the trip home. By sunday night we were sleep deprived and in dire need of a detox session, but man was it worth it.

back

from the gluttony of Mardi Gras . However, im way too tired for picture posting and recapping. Today was a LONG day of working and im still not recovered, even though I had yesterday off. Im also pissed that the Olympics have taken my Biggest Loser fix tonight.  Luckily American Idol is new; consulation prize.
Along with our awesome trip to M-town came waaay too many calories, so im kinda back in a weight loss slump. (repetitive blogging theme here) I know I didnt do myself any favors with my eating choices, so ive got to (once again) get myself remotivated. Luckily, I dont have as far to go as I did at the first of this year, but Ive got to get back to the habit. Cristin, thanks for the llifting books, i'm gonna check that out. Sooo, there's that. Also, Ive decided to "do" Lent this year. I am giving up my aweful habit of biting my nails. (stop laughing mom) This is a nervous habit of mine and usually appears during times of stress. Well, stress is as constant component of my life at the moment, so it will be a very difficult task. I just need to channel that stress elsewhere...maybe the gym?
Since ive been writing this, American Idol has actually been entertaining. Thanks god for Ellen.

Momentary Mardi Gras

We are in Mobile at the moment taking in the sights and sounds of Mardi Gras. And there are some crazy sights and sounds. I'll post for real with pictures and such when we get back. Artie and Erin are awesome hosts, and they officially have the coolest neices and nephews on the planet. After the parde last night, we hung out in the hotel for hours, singing kareoke and drinking with the whole floor while all the children ran around like crazy in their cute pj's. Hillarious. It reminds me of St. Paddy's day in Ireland because the parades are really for the kids entertainment. The adults get in on it too of course. Off to more parades, food, and adult beverages :)

Competition & Condi

I'm a month into the competition at my gym (which I have already lost because the stay at home mommas from the club work out like 6 hours a day, and I dont think they eat), and two weeks into calorie counting. So far ive lost 3.5 pounds! I wont know inches lost until the end of the comp which is in 6 weeks, but i'm not sure i'm down much in that area yet. Yesterday's SuperBowl snacking really wasnt good for the healthy eating.  Ashley & Kevin had the best game day food (Chili, wings, cheese fries, rotel, king cake, ect...), so cheating ensued. But today I was back on the wagon. It will be a busy week of night activities between client dinners, events and more dinners, but i'll try and check in at some point.

The exciting part of the week is on Thursday when we are going to hear Condoleezza Rice speak at Birmingham-Southern. Every since she joined Greystone ive been wanting to play golf with her, but haven't known the right way to go about getting in touch. I'm sure a former Sec.of State doesnt come to Fun Friday at the club bar. However, my husband, with his street smarts vs. my books smarts, just went to the club website, got her email address, and emailed her! (I realize now that was the obvious route, but i really thought there was no way her personal email was listed, wrong.) What's crazy is that she emailed him back! She told him she would let him know when she was in Birmingham next and free to play. WHAT?!?!?  Of course I asked if I could be in on the game, and I got totally shot down. He found her first, fair and square. Like Condi is a prize out of a cereal box. We'll see about that one, I will get into the golf game if I have to ask her myself on Thursday.

A working girl's weekend

And I thought my weekdays were busy. I stayed in tonight because I was exhausted from this week, and beacuse I needed to catch up on what I needed to get done in my life. Its been two weeks of basically just buying milk, bread, and perscriptions needed because I havnt had time to coupon. Tonight, I fixed that. I just spent the past 5 hours scouring the internet, southern savers, and my own coupons to get my lists ready for this weekend. And tomorrow wont be very restful:

(I usually have agenda's at my client meetings, so why not for myself?)

Agenda Saturday, Feb 6th
8:30am- Meet running group at St. Vincents 119. Run at least 5 miles, might get convinced to do 3 more. (i'll need these extra burned calories for my evening activities)

10:30am- Hit up Ann Taylor with Kimberly and use this gem. Also, visit new thrift store by Lee Branch called Vapor. (oddest name for a thrift store ever. This is where all the Greystone people drop off the stuff they dont want. It is a thrift store, but not what you would typically expect.)

12:00pm- Lunch at some point, then get my shopping done at Publix & CVS

2:00pm- Jordan gets back from playing with some golf simulation toy that a rich alum donated to BSC. Clean house time.

6:00pm- Jordan's family arrives for Prosecco and cheese to "pre-party" in celebration of Jordan's mom's bday.

7:15pm- Dinner at Standard Bistro to celebrate aformentioned birthday.

Crash.

Leggo my Ego

I stared this here blog to talk about my life other than working girl Jeris.  However, lately, my work is directly affecting my mood, actions and general sanity. I preface this post with the fact that I do love what I do for my clients. Do I love my current work environment? Who knows?


When I started looking at careers for a historically savey, type-a, feminist people person, several options came about. Marketing, legal, non-profit work, but the financial sector fit me best. I love meeting, cooresponding with, and helping all types of people. In the first two years, the culture at our office was youthful and hardworking. We were all fairly young and were learning and trying to "make it" in the business. Some of us have come out the other side, others didnt. However, as most large organizations do, the culture at our office has changed over time. Since the financial crisis of 08, the lay of the land in our industry is drastically different. If you had spoken with an advisor from Merrill Lynch two years ago about moving to Ameriprise, they might have laughed at you. Mostly because we were a company struggling to spin off from American Express, and they had a long rich history with a very familiar and well established name. Now they are Bank of America and all has changed.

They are not the only financial institution affected by this crisis. Morgan Stanley is MS-Smith Barney.  Wachovia is now Wachovia-Wells Fargo. We have aquired HR Block FAs, Threadneedle, Seligman, and recently a large portion of Columbia fund's assets. Change brings uncertaintly, and now advisors from each of those firms, that two years ago scoffed at the idea of working for a planning firm and not an investment bank, are scurrying in our doors by the masses. We have four new advisors this year alone. (We had 5 all of last year). They are currently adding more offices onto ours.  Suddenly Ameriprise looks fantastic.

This, as you can imagine, drastically changes the office enviroment. All of these new advisors are men and over the age of 45. There is a saying in our industry that you work very hard for little pay at the beginning of your career and work very little for much more later. I'm not saying these "newbies" arnt hard workers, because at one point they were starting out too, but they are def no longer in the struggling stage of this business. This brings with it attitudes of entitlement, and dare I saw it....Egos.

Now, I think having somewhat of an ego is actually alright. It, combined with brass confidence, has helped me as a female in this business. However, at some point, it gets out of control, and has to be checked. I'm afraid my office is about to become so engulfed in a variety of swirling egos and testosterone, that it might become difficult to function. Luckily, the two guys I work with are very down to earth, so i'm less concerned for our business, but more worried about office moral as a whole. For me, especially as a female, I have to keep my head down, keep working hard, and try to ignore these annoying outside influences. Luckily I have a blog to vent, and an internet full of very relavant ego cartoons to explore and share.

In other news. Jbg heard back from Regions, and didnt get the job he was going after. We really though this one would happen. Keep thinking of us as he pretty much starts the search over tomorrow. This is such an awful time to have graduated from law school, but I am confident he will find something, even if it isnt in law or exactly what he wants right now. Sometimes I wish some of the Egos I work with could be humbled by unemployment. Not that I wish it on anyone, bc it is not just difficult financially, but also psychologically. However, I think to empathize with it would would be the ego check that some people desperately need.

In a TOTALLY unrelated topic. Tonight on Biggest Loser they featured my new favorite snack: Yoplait Smoothies! Bob said they were a great snack. BOOYA!