Awkward Moment

Yesterday I was setting up my voicemail and ran into an issue where I could change the name of the previous user. I leaned back and asked my co-worker to assist me, but when I told her it was Larry K. the entire office went silent. Her voice cracked, she stopped working, and with a pale look on her face asked if his voice was still on there. I confirmed it was, and before I knew it I had 4 people hovering around me listening to this guy’s voice. Everyone was getting teary eyed, and I was completely lost on exactly what was happening.

After things settled down my co-worker explained who and why they were so happy to hear Larry’s voice. Turns out that he was the ‘social lube’ of the office and everyone loved him. She said that he always had a positive attitude, super friendly, cool with everyone, and a true social master. She went onto tell me about a time when he made her feel better about being late to work. I would have to agree, because even though I never met the guy I can hear the smile in his voice.

Sadly, this past summer he had a heart attack, at age 36, and died in an alley near his home. According to my co-workers the office was devastated and the mood hasn’t been the same.

In a way, I felt a little weird about changing his name and taking over a dead guy’s voicemail. However, I’m looking at this as a good omen, because it’s someone that everyone cared about and respected. Maybe Larry’s spirit will look over me in my new position at Getty and bring me tons of success.

In the stars...

My horoscope from today:

Hidden emotions can create ripples that build into waves, so it's best not to have secrets now. Although you may be trying to find your center of balance after a couple of high-energy weeks, avoiding difficult issues is not the best course of action. Take a slow and steady approach, knowing that healing can occur once your feelings are exposed.

First Week

Today ended the first week of my training, and everything is going great. I like the people, the work seems challenging enough to keep me interested without burning me out. I even like my new location. Next week is when they throw me in to see how well I can swim...it's amazing how much my attitude has turned around and how positive life feels. I feel awesome!

Water Logged

After an extended hiatus due to a knee injury I finally returned to water polo this week. The team welcomed me back with open arms, and it felt good to get back in the water. It’s almost as if no time had passed and I quickly picked up where I left off. Granted I still have some conditioning to do in order to get back into shape, but for the most part I’m feeling good in the water. There are the occasional times when I’m swimming and I get a mouth full of water or someone’s elbow, but that’s all apart of the game. I love it!

Probably the most alluring aspect of being on a team like the Chicago Riptide is the camaraderie. These folks just know how to have a good time, whether in the pool or out. I know the next few months are going to be a challenge as we get closer and closer to the Gay Games, but having teammates like the Riptide is going to make it all worth it.

And yes, I wear a Speedo!

I Accept

After months of sending out countless resumes, interviewing, and persistently searching for employment opportunities I have finally come to an end. Earlier this morning I accepted an offer with Getty Images in their corporate sales department. My training starts in just a couple of weeks, but my new life has already been swung into motion.

I would like to thank all my friends and family who supported me through this trying period in my life. Your positive re-enforcement gave me the strength to keep my chin up, even when I was frustrated. I would especially like to acknowledge Chris Gloede for his guidance and advice…my friend, you helped me more than you know and I sincerely appreciate it.

Although this is the end of my unemployment, I anticipate I will continue with this blog (for the two of you who read it). =)

*Dolly Parton "9 to 5" plays in background*

From my friend Christy: http://www.hallmark.com/ECardWeb/ECV.jsp?a=5340811661597M88611876Y

The Battle of Troy

Getty-up, because a battle over Troy is brewing and it’s turning out to be one Monster of a ride. It started last week with a hectic schedule of interview after interview, which was wrapped in between the holiday celebrations. While others started their New Year with a kiss, I sat back with a bottle of champagne and chocolate fondue thinking about the year ahead. Little did I know at the time that fait had already started putting the pieces into place that would help me complete my #1 New Years resolution. In my heart of hearts I knew this year was going to be my year, so what better way to kick it off than to have a job offer…hell…let’s make it two!

Yes folks, the wind of change is coming, and it’s blowing straight down Michigan Ave.

Most Excellent, Dude

From: Fast Company Now

Yesterday I was helping out at the salon and one of the stylist brought in their new video iPod. As I played with it I couldn't get over how something so small and compact could produce such high quality video and sound. Then I started looking at its sleek black shell and how comfortably it fit in my palm. It truly is a work of art, but just with a flash memory card.

Well, apparently I'm not that only one that thinks the designers at Apple have done an amazing job of fusing design and technology. According to Fast Company, Jonathan Ive, Apple's lead designer, has earned the title Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. The Fast Company master of design was recently named to the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List. I wonder what kind of music the Queen has on her iPod? Maybe Mozart, or Elton John. Maybe I'm way off and she's pimpin' with Snoopy Doggy Dog?

Read more about Jonathan Ive

What exactly is the Most Excellent Order?
According to Wikipedia, King George V founded the Order to fill gaps in the British honours system wishing to honour the many thousands of people who served in numerous non-combatant capacities during the First World War. Originally, the Order included only one division; soon after its foundation, in 1918, it was formally divided into Military and Civil Divisions.