Guess what I have??

I have an interview set up for this coming Friday AM. 

It is with a small but growing medical software company that provides a portal interface with doctor offices so patients can schedule appointments, call in prescription refills, and ask simple medical questions of the doctor office staff. 

The position I originally applied for was entry level. Upon review of my resume, they are bringing me in for a mid-level position. It still is a lower annual salary than I was making, but at a survival number. They believe the company will continue to grow - and employees will move up in the company - plus create new positions that are not currently envisioned. Which means opportunity for me to move up and earn more money. 

My interview will be Friday morning. Which means this week is turning out to be jammed packed. 

Yesterday I worked on a luncheon that was served today. They had "Un-L.A. Chickpea Salad", green salad w/a raspberry-Dijon vinegarette, lasagna, Italian bread, thyme roasted carrots, and lemon bars for dessert. 

Tomorrow and Wednesday I'll be prepping and cooking for a Chinese New Year dinner. We're having Beef w/Orange segments, Broccoli in oyster sauce, and Longevity noodles. Plus coconut rice pudding for dessert. 

I will be cooking all day Friday after the interview for the annual Valentine's musical event held at our church. Last year I cooked, this evening I'll be acting as the "Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine" - ie: managing the front of the house and delivery rate of the food - while a good friend will be the sous chef. It is his menu and food. I feel honored that he has asked me to carry out this role.

Which is also to say - that I won't be able to tell you anything about the interview until ... late Saturday. Why? Because Saturday morning I'll be working with the men's group from church on our "Kitchen Cleaning Saturday". They've agreed to assist me with a deep cleaning of the entire kitchen. We'll be moving out all the rolling stock (freezers/refrigerators), cleaning the hanging line (ie: where utensil & pots and pans hang), plus scrubbing all the bright-work/stainless steel, work table/equipment legs, and cleaning the ovens/stove tops, refrigerators and freezers! Yee-haw. I can hardly wait to get it all done.   

Any and all prayers & positive thoughts are appreciated.

Show me! Shelly Mann Modern Jazz Performances

Today I was pretty sure I'd be holding a pity party in this letter. My day started off early - at six o'clock getting right on my "To-do" list. 

The first part of that list involved LinkedIn. This is a professional social network community - like FaceBook, but for professionals, and not so fun.

One of the things I keep hearing as I go to all of these networking meetings is how LinkedIn is the "new job search tool" - and how important working it and using it is to finding a job.

Fine. I've had a LinkedIn account for almost two years. It's not a new technology or resource to me. I didn't do much with it in the past, but I did manage to connect with some people from my pre-move away from Arizona days. Now I've been joining different networking groups - and uploading my resume - and seeing who I know out there, and using it to try and find contacts in companies I'd like to work for.

One of the things "they" stress about the LinkedIn community is getting people to "recommend you". It's like an on-line recommendation letter. 

Well - I know there are a lot of clients and collegues out there who think highly of me - and would be more than willing to say kind things about my skills, talents, dedication to getting a job done right, and always looking out for their best interest. 

But are ANY OF THEM ON LINKED IN???? 

Hell no - because this is the cotton industry and computers are still those "new-fangled things you can play solitary on". (I know this isn't really a fair description of everyone, but it IS the way I feel at the moment.)

I also hate how this is like a popularity contest. To see how many people you can get to join "your side" and in essence "vote for you". (yuck)

However, even today - when I am feeling pretty rotten - I am SO MUCH happier than I've been in years. I am getting to do all the things I love. Analyze, learn, synthesize this knowledge into a plan, strategize how I want utilize the information, and best of all BE CREATIVE and appreciated.

Which is NOT to say my clients didn't appreciate all those very aspects of my skills. They did. And I know that. But there were those who did not appreciate these qualities and skills - and spent inordinate amounts of time compressing me into the smallest corner/box they could find to contain me. It was a deadening experience - and I HATED, HATED, HATED IT.

Anyway - so I was feeling all sorry for myself - and not knowing how I was going to cross this hurdle back into positive land ... and suddenly two wonderful things have happen. 

My complaint above is really echoed by the sentiments in these lyrics, 

"Words! Words! I'm so sick of words!
I get words all day through;
First from him, now from you! Is that all you blighters can do?
Don't talk blah-blah-blah;
Show me! Tell me no dreams
Filled with desire. If you're on fire,
Show me! "

Then later on Eliza continues by saying, 

"Sing me no song! Read me no rhyme!
Don't waste my time, Show me!
Don't talk of June, Don't talk of fall!
Don't talk at all! Show me!
Never do I ever want to hear another word.
There isn't one I haven't heard.
Here we are together in what ought to be a dream;
Day one more word and I'll scream!
...

Please don't "expl'ine," Show me! Show me!
Don't wait until wrinkles and lines
Pop out all over my brow,
Show me now!"

Of course, I've edited out the part about love and hugging and all of that - but this pretty clearly expresses my frustration.

Then I got a lovely recommendation on LinkedIn from someone not in the cotton business, but someone who I consulted for on a cotton project. This is what they said, 

"Mit's subject matter knowledge of her industry is unparalleled and she's quick to meet and exceed client expectations, as her communication and interpersonal skills are top-notch." 

Service Category: Technical Expert
Year first hired: 2007

Top Qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity"

What a lovely recommendation, eh?

And then just about 40 minutes ago, I got an eMail inquiry from someone at church. It had been passed onto them that I was interested in a specific Medical Technology/Records Management company. AND THEY WORK FOR THE COMPANY!! And they wanted to know if I'd looked a the job opportunities and if there was something I was interested in!

This is the same company that I talked about when I went to the job fair. I've learned a few things about resume design since that first week of unemployment - so I changed around my resume to incorporate those ideas and shot it off to him. Nothing may come from this - but for me, this is God actively SHOWING ME that he's listening and out there.

I know he's not going to make anything easier for me - or happen any quicker for me. But boy did I need that shot of "show me" today.

Finally - in honor of "Food Wednesday" I'll give you the recipe for the OUTSTANDING pork carnitas I made in the crock pot yesterday.

1 crock pot

1-2 lbs country style spare ribs (or you can use a Boston Butt pork roast)

1/2 c. orange juice

1 tsp. cumin

1/4 c. cilantro sprigs

salt/pepper

corn tortillas

Condiments:

cotija cheese

minced cilantro

sliced red onion

avocado sliced or mashed

jalapeño rings 

Generously salt/pepper the pork. Place in crock pot. Add OJ, cumin, cilantro sprigs. Turn on high and cook for six hours. (if you're home, you can move the pieces around from time to time). Both these cuts of meat should produce plenty of cooking liquid. If however, you are concerned - or it starts to dry out - add beer. I would suggest Negra Modelo or Bohemia.

At the end of six hours, meat should be tender, moist and shred-able/cut into chunks-able. Do so - and place in a fry pan that can go into the oven. Put oven on broil and place meat in pan and pan in oven. Watch meat caramelize. Turn so it caramelizes on all sides.

While meat is caramelizing take another small skillet - add tiny bit of fat from crock pot (there should be a lot of juice/drippings in the crock pot) and fry tortillas in pig drippings.

Serve with condiments. 

If you don't have a crock pot, you can do this in the oven or on the stove top. It must be a covered container - and cook on low heat - about 225 in the oven and Med/Low on the stove top. A very low simmer - but no boiling. Time should be just about the same.

It was FABULOUS - and I only have 40 minutes until it's lunch time and I can warm up some more!

Happy Food Wednesday everyone! 

Early Morning Mood

Today my "Early Morning Mood" (by Chet Baker) is much better than my "last night mood". (although you won't believe that when you get to the end of this eMail)

I went to writing class last night. I thought I had a 3-step process for dealing with critiques (when they don't go well)  - but when I told my friend about "my three steps" ... it morphed into SEVEN STEPS. (ops!)

Step One: Sit and listen and say "I won't cry, I won't cry, I won't cry"
Step Two: Continue to sit and listen and say, "I won't be defensive, I won't be defensive, I won't be defensive"
Step Three: Get the hell out of dodge (or class)
Step Four: eMail Jason and assorted other friends - and act like a small overly sensitive cry-baby
Step Five: Go to bed
Step Six: Wake up in the morning with plans to tackle the re-write
Step Seven: Re-write carefully evaluating the suggestions and implementing most of them

I guess the 3 steps should really be:

1. Hold it together
2. Complain
3. Get to work! 

So - I woke up this morning ready to tackle the day. The first piece of business was signing my Letter of Acceptance for the temporary position I've been offered.

I thought I'd do that - just so I have it out of the way. Then I could get to my writing. 

DO YOU KNOW WHAT TIME I  FINISHED?? (9:30 am ET) I started on this "quick" project at 7:00 am ET. Holy Cow!  Two and a half HOURS to fill out all the paperwork? *shudder*

Part of it is tracking down all the info. 

Besides the letter of intent, there was the ok for a background search, the actual application which wants to know where I've lived for the past 10 years (like I keep track of all those addresses???), where I've been employed for the last 3 jobs (again with the addresses and phone numbers and supervisor names!) - which is extra challenging when the companies are no longer in business, or everyone has gone back to Japan/Australia or to work for other companies.

Then they want a list of the churches I've attended (this is the south). Thankfully I do have a list of churches (excluding my heathen-loving time in Az) - but still - do YOU know the phone number and address of YOUR churches ... possibly back to childhood? If I didn't I it would reflect negatively, I think I'd just write "atheist" just to save some time.

A list of my educational past (once again addresses!!!) And universities are the WORST - because their addresses are always PO Boxes with some horrendous code for a department and there is no such thing as a "general" phone number.

And my high school now has a name (I refuse to use it). It was always (I think) just plain old City Name High School. Now it's got some (dead, I assume) person's name attached to it.

PLUS A HOMELAND SECURITY release. ??? I guess it's a good thing I've never lost my temper in an airport.

And then the banking info - for paycheck deposit. Which is GREAT since I bank out of state - BUT - once again - not so easy since I don't bank at the main branch and trying to find the phone number and routing number (why is this such a big freakin' secret?) is a TIME CONSUMING hassle. 

And THEN - Federal AND State tax forms!!! More numbers - more adding - more decisions to make.

I have now entered all this information into a document that I can print out if I need to - in the hopes that sooner (or later) I'm going to need to do this again.

And then there's the personal reference info: 3 people from your past. I thought it would be wise to do one from NC, one from AZ, and one from CA. Except who do I know in CA who I still keep in touch with - who'd be a good reference for me - that isn't also a "friend" or "family member" ????

I have written to several business acquaintances prior to this time asking if I could use them as professional/personal references - but for this particular job - most of those people wouldn't be very good.

Well - with that all done - it was off to eat breakfast, take a shower, and get busy on the day. Would you believe I was behind on my schedule all day? 'Cause I was. Ah well, the plans of mice and men, eh? 

Happy drippy, frustrating Tuesday everyone! 

Ella Fitzgerald - Stormy Weather

It's fun what you can track on a website. How many people visit you - where they're from - what they read. A new reader from Memphis joined us in the beginning of September - and I just want to say "Hi" - hope you're enjoying lurking here! :)

It's a good thing I got all that yard work done on Saturday and Sunday - as we have stormy weather today.

As I complained to a friend this weekend - I am not so fond of God's creation - the green things and the blood sucking things and the clinging vine and itching things - I think we could do without them.

After a weekend out among them I am sore and scratching. I have one place on my arm - I can't tell if it's mosquito bites - or poison "something". I guess another 4 days and I'll know. The last time I got poison "something" it took a week to burst forth in oozing goo (you're welcome for that lovely visual).

Since it's raining this morning - that means the walk is either this afternoon before class or not at all. Maybe because I have a barrel (that's now filling up with water) of pruned branches and seven bags of leaves - it's okay if I don't walk today?

I went to the faith based career seeker meeting this morning and once again - it was so energizing - and now my "To Do" list has a few more strategies on it. I love how I can see all these connections between interests and skills - and how they can work for me and also be helpful to others.

It's also interesting to me how HAPPY I am to face most days. As you know, here and there, are days of frustration - and struggle  - but over all - God continues to be so good to me. It makes me happy - because I know there are some out there who thought this change in circumstance would weaken me. In actuality - it has freed me and will strengthen me. HA!

Now that I'm home and my to do list has lengthened - for today, this week, this month - and for my 12 month plan - it's time to start in on it before class this afternoon.

Plus - I have some travel plans to work on. Along with the theme of God is so good to me is my upcoming consulting trip. I cannot wait to get out there. I have so many great things lined up.

Happy Monday everyone!

Etta James - Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying

How have I missed talking about Ms. James? This morning I heard, "Don't Let the Sun Catch ..."  and was drawn into the coffee rich voice. I zoomed all over the internet trying to figure out who was singing this song. 


First I found a Ray Charles rendition, but he didn't have the lyric credits. All roads kept leading back to the British group Gerry and the Pacemakers. Surely these Beatles rivals in the early 60s weren't the originators of this soulful blues song? I was gobsmacked to find they were.


No crying here today. And the sun is out. We had a storm blow in late yesterday evening. I made it home from my day "out on the town" just before the deluge started. There were weather announcements about hail and high winds - which ratcheted up my fear about another tree falling in my yard - but the storm blew in and out fairly quickly. And left no damage behind at Chez Mit.


So - a beautiful day here and once again no reason to avoid exercise. Although I have. I got up this morning, showered and ate breakfast thereby putting off the exercise portion of my day. I think I'll do it mid-afternoon - to take advantage of this glorious 70 degree weather.


Yesterday was eyeopening at the job seeker group. I don't think it will be a waste of time - it certainly was energizing. Since it was my first time, I went through the orientation process and we were given some specific things to do to increase our viability and networking success. In fact - they say networking is the key to job placement these days. 


Anyway - I am signed up to get their yahoo-group notifications (some employers seek prospective clients directly from the group), joined their LinkedIn group, and ordered business cards.


Remember me ordering business cards back in July? Those cards are for writing and meeting internet contacts. They are great cards - I totally love my line "Internet Lurker" listed below "Writer, Chef, Jazz Enthusiast". But don't list my name - or my professional contact information - and I'd never hand them out to a potential job contact. So I went back to VistaPrint and ordered 250 "free" cards (after paying the $5+ shipping charge for the very slow (and thereby cheapest) 21 day delivery option).


These new cards list my name, eMail addy, and cell phone number - but in the company name place I wrote Analyzing ~ Strategizing ~ Implementing. Originally I had a first line listing "Project Management/Training" - but I realized it made me kind of nervous to have that specific of a job title or goal listed. I mean, if I meet a potential job connection contact, I don't want to restrict my opportunities to project management or corporate training. I think listing the three skills is great eye catcher though. No matter what type of job I get - that's what I want to be doing and the skill set I want to be using. I also decided those skills should be the first thing people see, my "brand" if you will, even before they focus on my name.


Then - down at the bottom of the card, where there's room for a web address or message I put the line "Meeting Customer Needs Ahead of the Curve; Not After the Fact" I think that says a lot about my attitude, style, and modus operandi.


Of course, I had to choose from their stock designs. There was a great one with curves in it, but the placement of info didn't work with my eMail address or tagline - and although I loved the look for it's color (chocolate brown and lime green) and creativity (the swooshing curls) I was worried maybe it wasn't professional enough - or too "girly". I finally went with a layout that is a two-tone blue design on a white background. 


In the center of the card, on the left-hand side are three small blue circles intersected with a parallel line running across the card left to right. In the upper right corner (yes, I am making my "finger L" to figure out if it's on the left or right side) is "Analyze ~ Strategize ~ Implement" in the largest font.  Just above the line, is my name, in the bottom right is my eMail addy and phone number. Originally I had my address listed - and thankfully I woke up and thought - "No one needs to know where I live!" and removed my physical address. If they want to contact me, they can eMail or call. I am so happy I had that realization. I can't believe I was almost ready to print cards with my address on them. Talk about asking for trouble!


Then centered at the bottom - the catch phrase, "Meeting Customer Needs Ahead of the Curve; Not After the Fact". I think it's a very clean uncluttered looking card.


Another thing I found out yesterday - lots of businesses are only listing jobs for 8-24 hours before pulling the listing. This means you need to be looking daily at your target businesses. And if you caught that - I said "targeted businesses". Universally they've found few real placements happen via Monster, Career Builders, and recruiters. Which has always been my hunch. So - time to develop a list of who I'd like to work for ... which sounds very time consuming. I'll still make sure I have a strong/up-to-date resume on those other places - but I don't want to expend the majority of my energies there.


In passing they mentioned that job searching was the same as being asked by your former employer to make a business plan. It needed to be the top priority (although balanced with other commitments/responsibilities) and set short-term and long-term goals. I like that idea (Of course! Strategizing! Analyzing! Planning!). So in addition to my daily "To-do" list I'll make a weekly one - then a monthly one - and then one for where I intend to be in 3 months. I think this will help me focus on my long term and short term goals and use my time most wisely.


Some things to consider for long term are returning to school for an MBA, working towards a Project Management certification - and ... I dunno. I am not convinced at all about these two long term considerations. However, this is the year of "consider" - and so I shall.


Finally - writing class went well. Although we didn't review what I'd written I was happy with the work I'd done. After class I mentioned maybe trying to put together a couple of freelance articles on cooking/agriculture/environmental stewardship - and the instructor and another classmate were very encouraging. So - that is another thing to consider. 


Do I want to spend time pitching writing ideas? Yes and no. Yes I want to write. Yes I want to get better. Yes I'd like to submit so I can begin "building a platform" or writing credentials. But - I want this to come after the job search and after the novel writing. I've been so busy so far, I am hesitant to add something else on my plate. However - if it brings in money ...
 
Okay - that's it from me today. (I guess that's quite a little bit, isn't it?) Onto lists and research and job search logs.

The Clayton Brothers - On the Trail

As you can see by the list below, I am "On the Trail" today.

I left the house early and attended a church based job search group that meets at 8:30 am every Monday. Last night I was trying to convince myself to get up extra early and walk first - but it is really DARK at 5:30 am - and so now I have told myself it's okay to wait and walk when I get home tonight. Of course, if I'd REALLY wanted to work out I could have gone back to my 4:40 am routine and gone down to the Y. *sigh*

There are two different "mega churches" in Cary that host job seeking groups. This one has a networking time, small group breakout sections, and then a guest speaker every Monday. It goes 'till 11 am - which sounds like a long time - and a loss of good productive hours. BUT networking and accountability are key for me, so off I go. 

I am keeping in the back of my mind that I only need check each one out (this one today, the other meets on Thursdays) and then decide how this fits into my overall plans.

After, I have 101 errands to run  (turn in cable box, deposit severance pay, and writing class) and I can do them all on that side of town. So I've decided to spend the day out. After I get the errands done - and spend money on lunch (not something I'm looking forward too) I'll go to the library on that side of town and use their wireless until my class starts. That way I don't have to drive across town twice in one day - and waste gas.

And before you go commenting on how "busy" I seem - and how "great" I am doing, let me assure you - Friday and Saturday were two huge days of procrastination (lots and lots of reading) and feeling sorry for myself. Well, not really feeling sorry - but just kind of "How do I tackle the next step?" and the only things on my "to do" list were icky. (Housework, yard work and errands). Plus it was rainy and gray outside.

But yesterday - I left for church in the rain - and by the end of the second service - it was a beautiful fall day! Metaphorically too. We had a guest speaker at church - and his message was good for me to hear. He is the president of the "Scripture Union" (which kind of makes me giggle) - and they are the group behind "The Essential Jesus" and the "Essential 100 or e100" challenge.  His topic was "Meeting with Jesus Daily". He had some great scriptures out of the Psalms that talk about refreshing our relationship with God - and some basic steps to accomplish this goal.

In "Big People's" church, his scripture was based on 2 Chronicles 34:14-21 and 29-32 .... which just happen to be about King Josiah! It just seemed like there was so much great stuff being shoved in my direction - about my spiritual walk - AND MY STORY. 

So - with all of that, my spirit was truly refreshed. Plus I had an eMail from someone who hasn't been very accessible - and just a few words really made all the difference.

Let's hope all of us have a busy and productive week!

ps: Here's something more about the Clayton Brothers. 

Glenn Wilson Four to Six

Glenn Wilson appears to be a quiet man, but I like the sound he makes with the bari sax!

Today we tried a new route out in my hood. I think there are about six segments that are uphill and then four segments on the last little bit that are, thankfully downhill. Today is a hot (88) and humid (95%) day. I'm glad we started out early - because by the end I was puffing like the little engine that could - and was drenched in sweat. Jazz (Beth's Belgian Sheepdog) had his tongue out - and I think he was happy when we got to the park and flat "we're almost home" segment!

Yesterday, my experience at the job fair was just about what I expected. Although they did have a resume review service - and that was nice. For the most part mine is in good shape. A few things I can tweek here and there. Like listing my job title first - and have that be the only thing in bold.

My friends was disappointed - as she thought she was going to be actually MEETING people - and be able to show her portfolio (she's a graphic designer) - but mostly they were looking for "skilled hourly labor" - and kept saying "if you go to our website our current openings are listed". Which I already had done - and knew they were labor pool type jobs.

However - I did make one very good connection related to a Sr. Implementation Manager position - thanks to my neighbor - and feel good about that.

Tuesday night the good doctor and I ended up eating out instead of in, so I made the Fusilli with Roasted Eggplant Sauce yesterday. THIS IS A KEEPER!

I don't know about you - but sometimes I "know" I like something - but at the same time I think I might not like it ... and it's not until I've cooked the dish that I think I was crazy for being so hesitant in the first place.  

Eggplant is like that for me. I know I like eggplant Parmesan. I like baba ganoush, and of course I like fried eggplant (but not to cook).  So why was I worried I wouldn't like this? I dunno. Anyway it's SUCH a quick and easy recipe, I'm sharing.

• 1 1/2 pounds dark purple, slender Italian or Japanese eggplants. (I just happened to have one of all three)
• 2 Tblspn extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup "summer" tomato sauce
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 Tblspn minced parsley
• 1 lb dried fusilli (bow tie pasta)
• 2/3 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese

Preheat oven to 450. Prick eggplant(s) with a sharp knife in a couple of places, then place on a baking sheet or in a low-sided baking dish.

Roast until tender when pierced, 45-50 minutes.

Remove and let cool.

When cool enough to handle, cut in half length-wise, scrape the pulp away from the skin with a spoon and chop pulp until reduced to a near-puree.

In a 12-inch skillet combine chopped eggplant, olive oil, tomato sauce and salt and pepper. Cook over moderately low heart, stirring often. for 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Stir in 2 tablespoons parsley.

While sauce is saucing - Start salted boiling water for pasta. Cook fusilli until tender. 

Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.

Drain pasta & transfer to warm bowl. Add sauce and toss to coat. Add 1/3 cup cheese and toss again, adding a little of the reserved cooking water if needed to thin the sauce. 

Serve immediately, topping each portion with remaining cheese and parsley.

Here's what I did differently. I had some frozen stewed tomatoes in my freezer. I defrosted them, then used the immersion blender to make them into sauce. I also added some chopped garlic. But I think the garlic was a little too much - (quantity) - so next time I'm going to sliver the garlic and put it in the pricks in the eggplant as it roasts.

Anyway - I cannot say how sweet and delicate and yummy this sauce was. And HOW QUICK and very little mess (two pans!).

Today Beth and I are going to the huge Asian Market - and then we're having our "women in the hood" dinner over at her house. She's making cream-of-corn ravioli's (using wanton wrappers for the ravioli skin) in a heavy cream sauce. I had a sample last week. I was LICKING THE PLATE it was so good. I'm going to do a bleu cheese apple salad (something I'm going to make up) and someone else is bringing fresh green beans - and then some sort of brown-sugar apple dessert. I cannot wait!

Hope you all have a great day too!

Kyle Eastwood - Live for Life

Kyle's album Metropolitain (which I've now referenced three times now) "... has one track with lyrics. "Live for Life" allows vocalist Camille to express a poignant message of wishes fulfilled; take interest in yourself and live life as you please. She also raps a chorus in the song's midsection, emphasizing the central thought forcefully. Eastwood's music allows impressions to exist clearly, with a full-body experience that lives on through his jazz ideas."

These words are the words that speak most to me, although I have to disagree about the "live life as you please", part. I think God wants our lives to be joyful - but within the scope of His goodness and commandments.  

"Through the myst'ry and wonder

Of a world you've never known before
Share the splendors to be shared
Magic places to explore
There the dangers to be dared
Life is all of this and more
This and more

I met with the non-profit team to discuss the idea of "Food Service". I gave them my 3 proposals which outline three different scenarios from very small - to medium - to HUGE & EXCITING.

It was an amazing experience to talk to them. I think ... God is really making himself visible to me - which has been my prayer - because so often I don't seem to get his messages. Anyway - they were blow away with my vision - and the insights I offered. I have no idea what it will turn into. But at the very least, they have a weekly cooking opportunity for me until I find a "real" job. 

I've also promised to continue to help them "brainstorm" about the whole picture - and help them come up with the design/organization that will meet their needs. I don't know if God's idea is a career change for me - or this is just a way to tithe to God with my talents while I don't have an income.

The dream job proposal looks something like an Events Coordinator/Food Service Manager. It would center on meal/activity planning, ingredient procurement, and educational outreach. I foresee opportunities for a community garden, high school/college age cooking classes, congregational cooking classes, frozen meal prep to assist in a Stephan Ministries type program, and exploring ways to link earth/health stewardship to local/sustainable foods and cooking practices. I also think there's an area to work on food history in context of Christianity and the South. 

Another great thing about yesterday is that it totally validated my ability to layout things in terms big and small - to catch an idea and really make it blossom. It required money and time analysis and talent coordination. All things I've been feeling haven't been utilized or appreciated in the past.

If you pray or talk to a higher power or some great "overseeing deity(s)" please  pray for me to have discernment - and be mindful of all the things I should be doing. I am still moving forward with looking for a different career (not cooking) that utilizes my organization/planning/analytical/writing/speaking skills> I am not really sure what shape that career looks like - but I know those are the components that need to be present. 

Now - onto this weekend and Atlantic Beach. I got some great sharp cheddar cheese at the Farmer's Market - and 6 different types of apples for this weekend: Mutsu, Jonathan, Rome Beauty, Winesap, Liberty and Gala. This cheese and apple taste test will be my contribution toward our afternoon snack. Breakfast will be the Grits/Sausage Casserole and a fruit salad (with apples!).

I hope you all have wonderful weekends. I got to get busy if I'm going to be out of here at 1:15pm. See you all on Monday!

Eumir Deodato Almeida - Also Sprach Zarathustra

Recognize the song title? I bet you don't. Yet if you click onto this link I bet you will know the song within two notes at second 26.

The original was by Strauss. This version by Deodato brings a very Latin Jazz beat to the piece, which is no surprise since Deodato is a Brazilian musician, arranger and composer.

I know many of you (or at least two of you) are science fiction fans. So this movie has a lot of meaning/context for you. Me - not so much. The only thing I know about the movie is this song and the Urban Legend surrounding HAL's name. Many believe it came into being by a one letter shift from IBM. But Kubric and Arthur C. Clarke say this isn't true. However, this device is exactly how I derived my blog's name.

Anyway - I feel like I'm on this big Odyssey. And I feel kind of lost in space - and I want to KNOW ALL THE ANSWER RIGHT NOW - and how it all works - and what I'm supposed to do.

Of course - this has been a constant component in my Christian walk. I rarely feel like I know what I should be doing, what my call is, and if I'm doing it right or not. And discerning God's voice is just pretty darn difficult. I really think it sucks that God got out of the burning bush business. (Although - I guess out west in wildfire land, they are pretty happy that He did - and it would be even more barren if God continued to employ that communication system.)

So - I have had several thoughtful comments from a few close advisers who know the full extent of Opportunities 1-4. I am feeling slightly irritated right now because they have brought up some wise thoughts for consideration - and I really don't want to have to deal with those issues. I just want it all to be easy peasy and be able to do the first thing that comes along because it is all "perfect" and the universe (ie: God) is being extraordinarily kind to me. Of course - this is not realistic.

In other news, I still hate driving in North Carolina. I've never been to UNC Chapel Hill before - but you know. Maps - and directions - and what can go wrong, right? Thankfully I left plenty early. I think it should be AGAINST THE LAW to allow streets to have MORE THAN ONE NAME. One name the WHOLE TIME - FOREVER AND EVER AMEN - UNTIL YOU COME TO A DEAD END. (heh - that rhymes). And maps should never be able to leave off "the unimportant bits" like surrounding streets/buildings so that unless you are exactly where you're supposed to be - you don't have any other physical features to guide you back to WHERE YOU WANT TO BE. (which by the time I finally FOUND the parking garage the place I wanted to be was decidedly not in a lecture hall - but in a bar somewhere drinking heavily on SOMEONE ELSE'S dime.)

The speeches by Kathy Reichs, creator of "Temperance "Tempe" Brennan" and producer on the TV show "Bones" which is inspired by her life and writing, and John Grisham (no links or explanations needed) were great.

However - once again - I failed to check (or turn off) my "oddball" magnet before I left home - and it was clearly ON - and allowing them to enter into my orbit. I know that when you arrive early for things you'll often encounter fanatical fans. And the truly clueless. I try to keep my distance. REALLY I DO. I guess the "best part" of last night (if you like irony) is even before I parked and picked up my tickets from Will Call window - I'd already spotted one of them on the steps of Memorial Auditorium and made a mental note to avoid all eye contact with this person.

Waiting in line to enter the lobby of the auditorium I picked out three others. My whole goal for the evening (besides getting a good seat) became NOT SITTING NEAR THEM - nor making conversation with them. I was working on my "I love" list and feeling rather proud of myself for avoiding conversation (because unfortunately, I am a COMMENTER whether I'm invited to participate or not) ... only to sit down in the auditorium (while the 4 odd balls were still swarming all over the place to find THE BEST BEST SEAT EVER THAT WAS NOT RESERVED) ... and have them decide I have exquisite taste. *sigh* All four. Two to my left - two in front.

Of course - the cap of the evening came at the end - when the floor was opened up for questions. One of the four sprang from his seat and approached the microphone while the rest of the crowd was wondering if they really wanted to ask such august personages a question.

His question? "Mr. Grisham - I have a draft of my novel that I'm working on - and I really think it's done - and I was wondering - if because I admire you so much - and I am such a big fan of yours - and you know what it's like to start out - if you'd read it and then represent it - or find an agent for it?"

I'm sure it's the nightmare question of all authors/publishers/agents 'round the world. The auditorium held its collective breath. Mr. Grisham was very forthright and honest - and yet nice. He told the young man that until the novel was completely done and perfect, he was putting the cart before the horse. Finish the novel, make it perfect - start on the next one - and then look for representation. Wise advice.

Today there is of course a huge "to-do" list staring me in the face. I want to get a good way through it since I'm going to play at the Literary Festival all day Saturday and Sunday. Lots to get done before class on Monday - response to Opportunity #4 on Tuesday - and proposal submission for Opportunities #-1-3 on Thursday.

Have a good weekend everyone!

Dave Tull - I just want to get Paid

Man o man! Talk about lots to do and not much time! Jason commented at some point, "See, being home or not working doesn't mean just sitting on your butt." That is SO true, I cannot believe it. AND I am so hopeful this will keep up until "the right thing" comes along. 

However, it's kind of making me nervous at the same time. I'm afraid I'm moving too quick, maybe focusing on the wrong things - or not putting things on the list with the right priority. I know so much of finding a job is a "timing" thing.

So - here's kind of the deals available to me "in a nutshell".

Opportunity #1 - I have an opportunity for a cooking gig one night a week total of 10 hrs week, pay fits the unemployment criteria and there are no benefits. They are willing to let me do this until I find a "real" job. This will/would start the first week in October. I think it sounds kind of fun and interesting. They are willing to let me be as creative as I want (provided I stay within the budget) and I could really focus on local/fresh produce/products. I see little/no reason to not take this offer. 

Opportunity #2  - Includes the option above - but adds cooking for another segment of a faith based business until they hire someone to do this job, because it involves working with children. So it would need to be VERY short term for me because:

1. we know how I feel about kids - and what boring cooking    
2. the added hours would qualify it to offer benefits AND take up enough of my time I couldn't look for a "real" job. (or write)

Opportunity #3 - Is designing a "full out" Food Ministry for this organization. It would include cooking on-site for the organization PLUS other groups. Overseeing the upgrade of the current facilities, community outreach - maybe in the form of a community garden/cooking component, and allow me to do cooking classes/catering/cookbook development on the side. It would have a huge management component - and once it got "big enough" other staff would be hired so it could grow the ministry accordingly. This too is very appealing to me, despite me saying I didn't want a career in food. My concerns are:

1. How quickly could we grow it so I could hire additional staff?
2. Do I have the right vision - and is it sustainable? 
3. Am I biting off WAY MORE than I can handle/I am skilled to do?

I have promised them 3 proposals by next Thursday. Most of all, they are looking to get some ideas on how to structure things - even if I'm not involved or only involved part-time. Of course - this is right up my ally and I am as excited as all get out to be thinking about this/organizing it.

Opportunity #4 - TOTALLY OUT OF THE BLUE (or at least to me), I received a call for a 2-4 weeks of playing if I want. All expenses would be paid - plus something that would meet the unemployment guidelines. This too is very attractive - and if I didn't have Opportunities 1-3 listed above, I would have immediately said yes.  

I need to have a time line of when I could be available the interested party of Opportunity #4 by next Tuesday. I realize this is BEFORE I submit proposals for Opportunities 1-3, but it would give us/me something to work towards. I can also tell the parties in 1-3 about Opportunity #4 - and see if we can't get things moving a little quicker.

I want to repeat my concerns at the top of this. That this is all coming at me really fast - and I am afraid of going "too-fast/not fast enough". I know it's important that I use my time wisely. That I make good LONG TERM decisions about my life and future and career. Except for Option #3, all of this is short-term stuff - and just hinges me on trying to get everything in the right order. I don't want to waste the best job search time (between now and Thanksgiving) and not do everything possible to get find a new career that focus on corporate education/writing/public speaking components to it.

And now I've spent far too much time on this - and have Dr. Whiney yapping in my ear - and I need to get going so I can get a few more things done before I leave to hear John Grisham. 

John La Barbera - Cloth of Silver, Threads of Blue

This is a fast pasted "jazzy number". Kind of how my life feels at the moment. I cannot believe how busy I am - and all the things I am trying to get organized and do. I keep telling myself "sooner or later" it's going to slow down. But right now things are moving 100 mph and I don't feel like I'm getting 50% of the things done each day.

While I was at the beach, a friend checked up on me - and asked if I was interested in a possible part-time job.

I said yes, and that I knew it couldn't be for more than the "wage allowance" for unemployment - but what did she have in mind?  I told her my current "job" at this point is to stay open to all possibilities.

She wrote back - that would include cooking. I thought about that for a long time. I'm not really interested in cooking as a second career. I think at this age I have little/no desire for standing on my feet all day, working long hours - often nights and weekend in a restaurant or a catering business.

However - part-time? The idea was kind of intriguing. 

I saw her yesterday for just about an hour - and got a better idea of what she's talking about. I'm having lunch with her today to ask more questions and do more brain storming. 

Speaking of food and cooking - today is Food Wednesday. I'm going to share two recipes with you that I made last night with the planning team from my Sunday School class. We cooked together then decided what curriculum we want to use for September/October/November/December. 

The routine with this group of friends is I send the hostess several different menu options that are mix/match. She decides what she wants - and the agrees to do all the grocery shopping! (yay for two reasons: I don't have to shop - and little/no expense for me). Then I show up - and she (and anyone else who is invited) become my sous-chefs. 

I thought last night's meal would be good (of course), but THEY thought it was FABULOUS. Even the male member of the group who isn't a very adventurous eater complimented me several times.  It was a total score!

Our main course was Indian Butter Chicken. I have made several different version of this recipe. So far, this has been the easiest and quickest to make (although it isn't a "quick" recipe). And has a real great flavor.

It got rave reviews. We served it over coconut chicken.

For dessert, I did this very simple parfait. It and the chicken tied for "best dish" of the night and has been requested for "Father's Day" dinner I usually cook for the host couple. I really loved the blueberry/maple syrup combination. And it looked stunning in the parfait glasses. So if you're looking for a quick spectacular dessert - try this Maple Blueberry Parfait!

Okay - that's far too much rambling from me. Lunch meeting to prepare for, writing class tonight, and then tomorrow starts the North Carolina Literary Festival.

I told you, right? I got a ticket to go see John Grisham tomorrow night? And Elizabeth Stroud of Olive Kitteridge fame on Saturday - and Clyde Edgerton on Sunday? Plus it looks like lots of other great authors and speakers too. I'm going to see Rick Bragg and Michael Malone too! I think I'm going to be spending a lot of time in Chapel Hill for the next four days!

I think there are a lot of "silver linings in my current blue cloth!

Dizzy Gillespie - Blue 'n' Boogie

Well - for a "blue" piece, this certainly moves right along.

I made some good headway on Tuesday and Wednesday. One thing surprised me - when I called to remove the TV and stop the land-line, I kind of lost my drive. I ended up going with just the cheapest packages - which is still not in the new budget. So - today with resolve I need to call back and just get it stopped.

It was kind of funny - I was on the phone with the phone company - getting ready to stop the service - and my other line was trying to beep through. Aggghghg. Turns out it was my brother calling me.

So today - I'll call back and get the phone switched off and totally have the TV turned off.

This morning I got about an hour's worth of writing in. Only about 350 words - but I like the direction it's going. So - hopefully I'm on the right track.

I think everyone has been notified that I've been laid off. But haven't done anything on FB besides removing my company affiliation. I just don't feel that connected to FB as I do some other places - so don't feel the need to comment one way or the other.

Monday night I was thinking one of the good things about this was I wouldn't have to put on makeup each day. Not only would it be better for my complexion - but a way to conserve makeup/save money. And then as I got dressed/brushed my teeth ... guess what I did? Yep, put on makeup. Aghghghg! I thought about wiping it off - but figured that was wasteful - so it stayed on. But TODAY - I didn't put it on before my walk - and I didn't put it on when I got dressed! Yay! Go me!

Tuesday I got all of my internet accounts that had my business eMail linked to them changed over to my other eMail address. This is something I should have done long ago - but I knew it would be time consuming - and I just never quite took the time to get it done.

My friend and I walked for a half-hour yesterday in my neighborhood. This morning we met in her neighborhood. We have two three-mile tracks laid out. I don't feel as I'm working as hard as I did on the elliptical - but I am walking further - and because Raleigh is not flat I am still getting some up hill/down hill exercise too. I'm really glad she and I are able to do this together. She is also looking for a job - and has been unemployed for about two months. So she has pushed a lot of good information my way. Stuff that I don't know if I'd be persistent enough on my own to search out. I REALLY, really hate talking on the phone - and so I'm glad of all the leg work she's done.

This morning when I returned from our walk, I had a message from another friend. They are leaving today for their beach house at Myrtle Beach. She wanted to know if I'd like to join them. I have two minor commitments to see if I can rearrange. If I can get them resolved, I should be on my way to the beach around four o'clock this afternoon! I hope it all works out.

So - just in case I don't have internet down there - I hope everyone has a great Labor Day weekend. And since I missed Food Wednesday yesterday - here's the link. "Way Worth the Work" - five things worth making from scratch on an occasional basis. I love the idea of freezing whipped cream in dollops!