Dear So and So

[OakLeaf]

Well that's pretty unusual, for Apple to admit to a (fairly major IMO!) flaw in their OS before they have a patch for it! Hopefully there'll be a patch soon...

[Owlie]

Dear new bike,

I'd like to love you. I'd like a chance to love you, but as soon as I bring you home the weather turns crappy. Go figure.
However, prepping you to be ridden...AAAAAAAAAAAARGH.

[tulip]

Tulip-

Thanks for the pep talk - I needed it today!

I wonder if you have the 2? When I bought mine in December, the only options were mini, 2 and 4. The 3 had a retina display, the old connector and, from what I hear, worse overheating problems. I wish they would actually differentiate the models a little more to make it easier to keep track of.

DH is going to monitor it - he thinks he can figure out what is causing the problem if it's software. The sucky thing is that Apple basically told me they think iOS has developed issues, and that that's what's causing the problem. So - who knows if it will happen again or not (they say unlikely - but they don't know why it happened this time).

RIGHT!! I have the 2. The guy at the store said the 3 overheats. I can't keep them straight; I'm a late-adopter. So sorry for the confusion. I hope you get it fixed or replaced soon.

[indysteel]

Dear Body, or is it Mind I should be talking to,

will you please just figure it out and start working normally again? This random, unpredictable veering between lots of energy, and not being able to sleep or relax, and being so wiped-out you fall asleep at dinner parties is getting old. It's not that much to ask. Nights are for sleeping, days are for working, late afternoons are for getting a little exercise.

At the risk of projecting my own health problems onto others, you might want to have your thyroid levels checked if you haven't already. Sorry you're not feeling good!

[lph]

Thanks, indy :-) I think it's just a lot of stuff to think about that's doing it. My brain tends to overload... Once I start ticking off the to-do things on my list it usually calms down. But I will keep thyroid levels in mind if this lasts.

[indysteel]

Thanks, indy :-) I think it's just a lot of stuff to think about that's doing it. My brain tends to overload... Once I start ticking off the to-do things on my list it usually calms down. But I will keep thyroid levels in mind if this lasts.

Gotcha. Maybe a bit of nightly meditation or gentle yoga could help you calm down before bedtime.

[emily_in_nc]

Dear real estate gods,

Please let tomorrow bring an offer on our condo.

That's all. Thank you!

[indysteel]

My fingers are crossed, Emily!!

[Pax]

My fingers are crossed, Emily!!

Ditto!

[Crankin]

Thinking good thoughts for you, Emily.

[emily_in_nc]

Got it! We are countering, but we're not that far apart, so I am very hopeful.

Thanks ladies! :D

[Pax]

Once it all goes through, how long until you come home?

[Crankin]

Yay! Keep us posted.

[OakLeaf]

Keeping my fingers crossed for you, Emily!

[emily_in_nc]

Once it all goes through, how long until you come home?

We would be back in the US in March. Waiting for their response to our counter-offer. Hoping!

Thanks for all the well-wishes, friends.

[Catrin]

Ooooh, I just saw this - good luck!!!!

[Blueberry]

Emily-

I just saw this too! Best of luck - crossing my fingers for you:)

[emily_in_nc]

Happy dance!

Our agent just called -- the buyers have accepted our counter with no changes (I knew we were too nice!), so we have a contract! Woo-hoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for your support, all. Of course, it's not over until closing, but I'm feeling really good right about now. :p

[indysteel]

Yippie! Congrats, Emily!!

[Pax]

Happy dance!

Our agent just called -- the buyers have accepted our counter with no changes (I knew we were too nice!), so we have a contract! Woo-hoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for your support, all. Of course, it's not over until closing, but I'm feeling really good right about now. :p

Yay!!! Sending you smooth closing vibes. ;)

[Blueberry]

Congratulations Emily! Don't second guess yourselves - for all you know, they would have walked had you asked more. You have a buyer, you will hopefully have a closing, and you will be able to come back to the US and not worry about owning/renting a condo down there. That's pretty awesome if you ask me. Can't wait to see where you land:)

[jobob]

Congrats, Emily!

[spokewench]

Awesome Emily - Where in the US will you move?

[lph]

Happy dance!

Our agent just called -- the buyers have accepted our counter with no changes (I knew we were too nice!), so we have a contract! Woo-hoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for your support, all. Of course, it's not over until closing, but I'm feeling really good right about now. :p

Oh, wonderful :-) Very happy for you!

[Catrin]

Congratulations Emily!

[Crankin]

Wonderful news!

[OakLeaf]

Yay Emily!

[emily_in_nc]

Awesome Emily - Where in the US will you move?

We'll spend the first couple of months traveling around visiting family, going to doctor's appointments, and getting all our ducks in a row, then we're heading to Kansas. We have friends who are going cruising on their sailboat in late May and offered us a great deal on renting their furnished home if we do some minor house-sitting duties. We can still travel some, and since we'll be right in the middle of the country, it will be easier to travel to some of the places we want to go in the west. We'll be in Prairie Village (Kansas City suburbs, I guess you'd say). It will be interesting cycling in a different part of the country -- hoping to get to the Katy Trail and other bike paths relatively close by.

Thanks everyone for all the support. Crossing fingers it all comes to pass -- a contract doesn't always equal a closing, but we're going back to the US no matter what.

[spokewench]

I lived in Prairie Village when I was a toddler. Last year, when my sister, mom and I went back to visit my uncle and aunt in Kansas City, they drove us by where we used to live in Prairie Village. Of course, I did not remember it since I was too young when we lived there. WHen it was built it was prairie, no trees, etc. Now the trees are so big it is amazing; or is that just showing my age???

[OakLeaf]

Dear running shoe manufacturers,

Is it too much to ask you to make the tongues long enough to extend past the last set of eyelets?

Signed, Already had tendon cysts from the laces on shoes that DID have long enough tongues.

[emily_in_nc]

I lived in Prairie Village when I was a toddler. Last year, when my sister, mom and I went back to visit my uncle and aunt in Kansas City, they drove us by where we used to live in Prairie Village. Of course, I did not remember it since I was too young when we lived there. WHen it was built it was prairie, no trees, etc. Now the trees are so big it is amazing; or is that just showing my age???

I am sure it's changed a lot. The photos of the house we'll be renting show HUGE trees all around. I always think of Kansas as rather desolate and treeless since I grew up on the Wizard of Oz movie, but Prairie Village surely does not look to be that way.

[goldfinch]

Very good news Emily!

[spokewench]

I am sure it's changed a lot. The photos of the house we'll be renting show HUGE trees all around. I always think of Kansas as rather desolate and treeless since I grew up on the Wizard of Oz movie, but Prairie Village surely does not look to be that way.

Wouldn't it be funny if it is the same house?

[emily_in_nc]

Wouldn't it be funny if it is the same house?

It's on Juniper Drive. Yours?

[solobiker]

That is great news Emily!! If you find yourself in CO let me know!!

[emily_in_nc]

That is great news Emily!! If you find yourself in CO let me know!!

Where in Colorado are you? I am sure we'll get there -- it will be much closer than when we lived in NC! Have only been to one little corner of CO so far (Durango area), but what I saw was gorgeous!

[spokewench]

I'd have to ask my Mom, she will remember

[solobiker]

Where in Colorado are you? I am sure we'll get there -- it will be much closer than when we lived in NC! Have only been to one little corner of CO so far (Durango area), but what I saw was gorgeous!

We are in the Denver area but spend most every weekend in the mountains hiking, camping, backpacking, etc. It is a gorgous place to live.

[lph]

Dear co-worker,

please stop putting your husband down whenever you talk about him. It's not funny, it's not a female bonding thing, at least it certainly doesn't work for me, it makes him sound like an helpless idiot and it makes you sound mean. You chose to share your life with this man, at least grant him a little respect.

Dear self,

yes, when you walk in the door at work wearing XC skiing gear, everybody does think you've been skiing already. Even if it's nine in the morning in downtown Oslo, and even though they do know you regularly change to the work clothes you keep downstairs, and regularly ski after work. Really, there is no way of getting through that door without somebody asking if you've skied to work. Just suck it up and smile.

[Crankin]

+1 on both. I've been there, especially with #1. I find it offensive to hear women continually complain about "all men." That's a stereotype no better than "all women..."

[withm]

Dear hot water heater,

FOUR service calls in 9 years???? Seriously? Is it so hard to heat water without your circuit board going crazy? Sheesh.

[Veronica]

Dear District Tech People;

Next time update the report cards when the report data entry window is closed. Maybe that way you won't lose people's work. What moron decided that this was a good time to do an update?

A very disgruntled teacher

[Veronica]

Dear Principal,

Just to clarify, I WILL not be be re-entering my report cards on MY time. I did that once already and I can hold a conference without that little piece of paper if necessary. You're lucky I'm willing to bring in my own computer and hotspot, because if tried to do this work on a district computer, you know the ones that take 30 minutes to boot up, I'd be lucky to finish before spring break!

Veronica

[Becky]

V- Wait....there was no back-up of all data *before* the upgrade?!? I am so sorry that you have to deal with this!

[Veronica]

I don't know if they backed it up. They're "looking into it." The one e mail I got yesterday said that the update should not have caused data loss. But it did. I had worked on these over a couple of days and the stuff I did the first day was still there the second day. But everything is gone now.

My husband says I should just make all my students read silently for a couple of hours so I can redo everything. I get very annoyed with our administration because I don't think they fully appreciate how much time and money teachers put into their classes. I know my students and their families appreciate it and I'm tempted to do conferences with just my records.

Our computer equipment is so old. I think I got my work laptop in 2003. Yet, they want us doing so much with technology. I'm lucky that we have a travel laptop and a hotspot that I'm going to start taking to work today because so much of what I do is technology oriented and my work computer has become unreliable. I don't know... I want the best for my students. But I don't think I should have to provide it.

Veronica

[Pax]

Dear fed and state govt.

You and your idiot tax structure can kiss my lily white behind.

We both fill out 1040EZ, quick ten minutes and done. Then we start on the state forms, endless, stupid and because we've had a Civil Union we are required to file jointly, meaning we have to fill out a fake (never mailed) third federal form "as married" to get the info for the state form, in addition to a new Form CU.

We would be getting back an additional $336 from the federal government if our marriage was recognized. This makes me very angry! Two straight people can meet, get married five minutes later and get the extra money, we've been together 23 years and we just keep getting screwed.

Signed,

One very disgusted taxpayer

[indysteel]

I'm so sorry, Pax. It shouldn't be like this. It just shouldn't. :mad:

[Blueberry]

I'm so sorry, Pax. It shouldn't be like this. It just shouldn't. :mad:

Me too:( So very frustrating.

[Catrin]

So sorry, Pax and sweetie, this just isn't fair :(

[OakLeaf]

Ugh. So sorry, Pax. Holding out hope that this is the last year you'll have to deal with that on the federal level, at least ... it could yet happen.

[Pax]

Thanks everyone, it just gets so disheartening at times.

[skhill]

Dear Mother Nature,
Will you just make up your mind already? I was wearing my wool long johns when I took the dog on her morning walk, and I'll be wearing shorts for the evening walk. This back and forth is nuts!

Dear Supreme Court,
How about hurrying up and getting rid of that stupid DOMA, so Pax and so many other folks don't have to go through this crap? I'd also really like to see my brother and his partner actually get married some day, after nearly 10 years together it's high time...

[Veronica]

Dear Computer Gods,

You have a sick sense of humor. Ten minutes after finishing reentering all my report data, 29 grades for each student! I get an email from the tech department saying they have recovered my data. Yes, it took them a week.

I could have been riding my bike!

Sick b@stards!


Veronica

[Owlie]

Nooo!

I think your computer people are the same as ours. I locked myself out of my campus self-service thingy (different password than the email/Blackboard system, and I don't use it anywhere near as often), e-mailed a week ago and I'm still locked out. :(

[azfiddle]

Dear Honda sales guy,

I don't know if I'm happy or not that you persuaded us (especially my DH), to trade in our 2010 Honda Fit for a 2013 model while we were in buying 2 new tires. On the one hand, the payments are not that much more and the interest rate is fantastic, we now have a brand new car with 18 miles on the odometer, and the blue matches my bike perfectly. On the other hand....we are going to owe $260 a month for 5 more years, instead of $212 a month for 26 months....

[Blueberry]

Dear [REGIONAL BUS SERVICE OPERATOR]:

You suck. I have been on the phone with you constantly about your operation of a bus you just took over since you took a good bus and made it crappy. Now, we need new parking permits to park in a commuter garage that is the ONLY place to park and ride in a city with very limited bus service going into neighborhoods (so people can't take the bus all the way). There aren't enough of the permits for everyone who wants one (by a long shot), but you sent an email saying they could be picked up as of 6AM today (the new ones - I have one, but you changed your gate system on really short notice). Given that you don't have enough of them, I figured I needed to be early. It seems you can't read or don't know your own hours, since the office doesn't open until 8:30 (after I got up at 5:30 to be there at 6, I discovered this).

You are supposed to be getting an additional sales tax revenue (we have bumped our sales tax to fund you so you can actually provide service that's worth a d@mn). I'm a huge environmental person, and therefore mass transit supporter. But - you've finally frustrated me to the point that I think we should give up on it. You are incompetent and inefficient, and I can only imagine how many new ways you'll find to waste that extra money without actually providing any better service. #FAIL

Signed,

Grumpy to have gotten up this early and now not have time to exercise

[tulip]

Bummer, Blueberry! Can you take the academic scholar bus? Bike to university near you, bus to other one? It's free last I heard.

ETA: I just looked it up and I think you ARE talking about the academic bus. Too bad they messed it up!! Any way you can ride your bike instead of driving to the bus stop to eliminate the parking issues?

(ETA again: I took that regional bus back when I was in grad school, and the service ran once an hour, stopped running at 6pm every day, no direct routes between the universities (I went to two at the same time because my program was a jointly run endeavor--had to make the transfer mid-way) and had vans instead of buses...so it was worse at one point, it really was! Doesn't help you now, but just giving a little context. I hope it gets better).

[Blueberry]

You're right - I've been taking the academic one, but it's been so often late and there are so many safety issues that it's just about not worth it (regularly running red lights, panhandling on the bus). It's being operated by the city agency, not the regional one - and I think that's actually worse. At least I do have a free pass for it - it's now the "express bus" fare, and it's pretty expensive for most people.

I should bike to it - I know I should - but it means having to lug around even more stuff for the day. That and cold rainy weather is why I haven't been. And there aren't bike racks at the most convenient stop (but they are working on that, I think). I don't use the parking permit *that* much, but when the other half is out of town (which he will be for a week soon), it makes more sense for me to do it that way. I know it was worse - I actually remember back in 2000-ish that it wasn't as good. But if you rely on the regional service, the routes that don't take 1.5 hours still end really early. Bleh. I just wish they could get their acts together.

At least I got a permit. The other half went at 8:30 with my old drivers' license, my parking contract, and the old pass. They gave him the new one. I also have the ear of someone who is trying to fix things, I think. I'm hanging in there with it - I just wish we would *actually build* regional rail.

[tulip]

I know! I was taking that bus mid- to late- 1990s and they were talking about regional rail back then, almost 20 years ago! If they had just done it, we wouldn't be having this conversation now! I'm actually trying to figure out how to get to one of those hospitals for an appt on Fri on the regional bus. I'll likely just end up asking my brother for a ride (for an eye appt--can't drive). Such potential for an awesome system, and yet they don't actually do anything to make it happen!

[Blueberry]

PM me if I can help.

[Veronica]

Dear Tech Department:

Really? Your mailbox appears to be unavailable. Try to access it again in 10 seconds. If you see this error again, contact your helpdesk.

But those tickets are suppose to be done by email. Maybe you guys are lonely and you want everyone calling you today.

Veronica

[malkin]

Oh V, I know it is completely NOT FUNNY for you! Still, it makes me laugh a little bit.

One time we got an apology from IT saying that the reason that the spam reports weren't showing up in the inbos was because they were being stopped by the spam filter. (I laughed so hard I about peed my pants).

[lph]

Dear assorted hearing respondents out there,

I know, I know. You hate the hydropower plans. I'm a faceless city bureaucrat and you want to make plenty sure that I know you hate the plans. But honestly, they really are just loose plans, and I need constructive feedback. It would be a lot better if you had done what we asked you to and written specific comments with content instead of spewing out pages of random angry noises. I now have 25 responses out of which 6 make sense.

One of them actually sounds rather like he's threatening the hydropower company (not me) with black magic... :rolleyes:

[redrhodie]

One of them actually sounds rather like he's threatening the hydropower company (not me) with black magic... :rolleyes:

If that's one of the six that make sense, you got your work cut out!

[lph]

Hee-hee. Unfortunately not.

We keep an unoffical record of the more bizarre ravings that get sent our way. There are some doozies in there.

[indysteel]

Dear teeth: Work with me here. I've already invested quite enough in you over the last few years thanks to four years of braces. I really hate having to spend a grand on a crown. :mad:

[emily_in_nc]

Dear teeth: Work with me here. I've already invested quite enough in you over the last few years thanks to four years of braces. I really hate having to spend a grand on a crown. :mad:

Bummer, but unfortunately, sometimes it can't be helped. Just be glad if you don't need a root canal as well. I have a mouth full of crowns and a couple of root canals. And this was after cavities as a child and braces as well. Thank goodness nearly all my teeth have been fixed now, so dental check-ups are a bit easier as they're pretty much just about cleanings and making sure my gums are okay (another fun issue as you age). I get such compliments on how pretty my teeth are, and I think "they should be, they sure have cost me enough!" :D

[Owlie]

Dear car:

I do not need this right now. And I just paid your insurance!

[Catrin]

Dear Shoulder,

For the last 3 months I've given you LOTS of attention. Physical Therapy, lots of stretches, mobility work ... You have been poked, pulled, massaged, X-rayed, manipulated, and an whole host of other things meant to increase your range of motion and strength.

In the end, the only real improvement is you feel better (some days). Sure when PT is done l have full ROM but it does not last. I begin to wonder if this is a hopeless task and I can already hear my Dr tell me that he knew surgery would be required, (he has already implied this several times). Let's prove him wrong already, ok? Please? l do not have the money for it and living alone makes shoulder surgery more challenging than it would be if I didn't. Don't you want to act like a shoulder? That is all I ask...

[indysteel]

That sucks, Catrin. :(

[Biciclista]

what kind of friend sleeps through our paint date? don't answer that. sigh...

[Owlie]

Dear Shoulder,

For the last 3 months I've given you LOTS of attention. Physical Therapy, lots of stretches, mobility work ... You have been poked, pulled, massaged, X-rayed, manipulated, and an whole host of other things meant to increase your range of motion and strength.

In the end, the only real improvement is you feel better (some days). Sure when PT is done l have full ROM but it does not last. I begin to wonder if this is a hopeless task and I can already hear my Dr tell me that he knew surgery would be required, (he has already implied this several times). Let's prove him wrong already, ok? Please? l do not have the money for it and living alone makes shoulder surgery more challenging than it would be if I didn't. Don't you want to act like a shoulder? That is all I ask...

((Catrin))

[indysteel]

That stinks, Mimi. I hate when friends stand me up. I hope she/he makes it up to you somehow.

[Biciclista]

(snort) HE? not in this lifetime...
SHE was late. Someone ELSE made her late.
so instead of 2 hours we had 1 hour. owell.

[indysteel]

(snort) HE? not in this lifetime...


I didn't necessarily mean a "he" in a romantic sense, but many of us have platonic male friends, so I wanted to account for that possibility in my comment.

[Biciclista]

I didn't necessarily mean a "he" in a romantic sense, but many of us have platonic male friends, so I wanted to account for that possibility in my comment.

well, a gay man would be ok. LOL...

[indysteel]

well, a gay man would be ok. LOL...

I like male cats myself! :)

Glad to see you posting more, Mimi!

[snapdragen]

well, a gay man would be ok. LOL...

^^Best "boy" friend ever! ^^ :D

[Crankin]

It makes me uncomfortable that men are being generalized or categorized (just like woman are by men). Not all men are azzholes.

[indysteel]

It makes me uncomfortable that men are being generalized or categorized (just like woman are by men). Not all men are azzholes.

I never said they were. We're just sharing a few jokes here. If you don't find the jokes funny, fine, but I think you're otherwise reading too much into them. Remember that this started because I didn't want to assume that Mimi's friend was a woman. I wouldn't have suggested that possibility if I thought men weren't worth having as friends in the first place.

I should add that I posted about liking male cats because Mimi and I are both cat people and have bonded (I'd like to think) over that shared love. It had nothing, really, to do with what I think of men.

[Biciclista]

I absolutely did not mean to imply that all (or ANY) men were assholes. I am recently widowed and do not want to spend ANY one on one time with males who are not my sons, nephews or cousins... It has nothing to do with THEM.

[Crankin]

Perhaps I did read too much into it.
I've been accused of not having much of a sense of humor, except perhaps, in an "inappropriate" way. And Indy, if a joke has to do with animals, I definitely will not get it.
See, I am an all around too serious person.

[solobiker]

Mimi it is great to see you posting again. I have missed reading your posts. Sorry about your friend...sigh..at least you got 1hour in. From your posts I have found you to be a strong and an amzing women. I wish you and your family all the best. Keep on painting!! :-)

[Blueberry]

Dear Mom:

Tonight was a perfect example of why I don't call you. I called to check on you. I was treated to 59 minutes of what's wrong with your life, why none of my suggestions will work, and your ignoring reality. I barely got a word in. I told you I needed to go fix dinner 35-40 minutes ago (after a reasonable time on the phone). You ignored that and yammered on at me for the remainder of the time. I have things I need to do. It's almost 10PM and I have to go fix dinner now. You are rude and incredibly self centered. I'm sorry your life sucks - but to be candid, I don't remember a time that it didn't suck. Quite frankly, I'm tired of hearing it - particularly for this length of time.

Your very irked daughter

[OakLeaf]

(((((((Blueberry))))))) Sorry you have to deal with that.

[lph]

Aw, I'm sorry Blueberry. Family can truly suck sometimes, and they are the hardest to tune out.

[Catrin]

(((Blueberry)))

[Sky King]

because I am to chicken to post this on their facebook page it is going here.

Dear Assisted Living,
Due to your incompetent staff I get to spend the 3rd Friday in a row taking my Dad to the Wound Clinic. This is a minimum of a 3 hour trip. While I enjoy spending time with him this is not what I had in mind.
Once again, I will be working the weekend to make up for your inability to communicate.

On a positive note, I think I have found the perfect certified home to move him to. The owner has a striking resemblance to my Mom - I am taking that as a sign.

[indysteel]

((((Blueberry, Sky King and Sky King Dad)))). I'm so sorry for your respective troubles.

[emily_in_nc]

((((Blueberry, Sky King and Sky King Dad)))). I'm so sorry for your respective troubles.

Me too! Virtual hugs coming your way.

[azfiddle]

Dear microbes/viruses that have inhabited my respiratory system:

You have so rudely interrupted an entire week of my spring break (so far!). I want to go outside in this perfect weather and ride my bike, maybe plant some tomatoes in the garden and get stuff done that I can't get done while I'm teaching. I have barely been able to get off the couch and I'm tired of coughing up your crud. GO AWAY!

[skhill]

Dear spring pollen,
How is it that you're already bothering me while it's so cold? No fair dealing with allergies on a day while wearing wool long johns!

[snapdragen]

Batten down the hatches, it was reported on the news last night that this is going to be a horrible allergy season.

[OakLeaf]

"Going to be"? Two shots a week, three pills a day, eyedrops morning and evening and I can pretty much get through most days...

[Owlie]

I was hoping that since it was a less-mild winter than last year, that I might be able to function this year.
Time to experiment with different meds...

[azfiddle]

Well.... maybe it was a good thing I was still too sick to ride today with my group today. Apparently, just one block before getting back to the start, the lead rider hit a patch of rough pavement and went down hard, breaking both bones in her left forearm. She was transported by ambulance and had surgery this afternoon. Two other women went down hard enough to crack their helmets, at least one checked for a concussion.

Sorry to hear about all the allergy problems and more serious issues....

[Crankin]

You were lucky, AZ! Hope your friends are OK. Sometimes these types of things make me wonder about "fate."
My allergies have been horrible, too. I barely am over bronchitis after 6 weeks and now am back to taking Claritin daily and I started using Nasalchrom. It seems to get worse after I do outdoor exercise, which is not boding well for the riding season. There's still at least 6 inches of snow on the ground, so nothing is blooming yet. I don't even have any known pollen allergies, but I am definitely reacting to something.

[azfiddle]

Crankin, I think they will be okay. I know one went to the hospital and was released (no concussion), and the other was able to drive herself home and went to urgent care. I haven't heard back from her yet. I admit I was happy not to have to see the accident/aftermath.

[katherine]

Dear Whomever is Building that Enormous F#@k^&g McMansion in the MIDDLE of the damn trail,
I hope you enjoy what is undoubtedly your second home so that you can escape whatever desert you live in and enjoy these lovely mountains. I also hope you realize that your absurdly large house is in the middle of some double track that has been used as trail access for generations. You are a selfish jerk.
Sincerely,
Arizona Mountain Bikers

[tangentgirl]

Dear SadieKate: thanks for inventing this thread! It's a lovely place to vent.*

*Even if, in some cases, that "venting" means typing something out and then thinking, naahhh, that shouldn't go on the internet. :P

[emily_in_nc]

*Even if, in some cases, that "venting" means typing something out and then thinking, naahhh, that shouldn't go on the internet. :P

Been there, done that! Sometimes just typing it out (and then erasing it) helps. :o

[goldfinch]

I've never had an accident. But today it was close. A car turned left right in front of me. I squeezed through a small slot between the left turning car and a car stopped at a stop sign waiting for me before they turned right onto the road where I was traveling. The left turning car slammed on its brakes. I was going about 17 mph. It could have been bad. I shook almost uncontrollably for a mile afterwards.

I was wearing high visibility clothing and had a flashing front light.

I am sweating just typing this.

[OakLeaf]

Yikes. Glad you're okay.

[indysteel]

Oh man, Goldfinch. How scary. So glad you're okay.

[Catrin]

OMG Goldfinch, so glad you are safe!

[Crankin]

Glad you're OK, Goldfinch. It seems like I've been observing more distracted drivers lately. Always women, always on the phone.

Dear Weather G-ds,
Why is it 47 degrees at 5:30 AM, but raining/thundering? I was planning to take my first "dark" ride this morning. I find these short, early AM rides so peaceful and serene and I need to get back to them. If I can't commute, at least I can do this.

[AppleTree]

Goldfinch, how scary! Yikes! Good thing you were alert and ready to react fast.

[Blueberry]

Dear Bike Company whose bike I own:

This is the facebook status you just posted: "Just when you think you've heard them all . . . .everyone male that ever orders a bike from us always delays it one day in order to get "permission" from the "boss", or the "financial advisor" or the "CFO" or the "general". Kevin just gave us notice that he will "sedate" his wife tonight and get his Silver Series order in!! hahaha, what's your best "let me talk to my wife first" pickup line."

Do I REALLY need to explain to you why this is not an acceptable status? I won't comment on it there, because I don't plan to get jumped for messing with what is "all good fun" in the boys' club. But - you have female customers too. What makes you think this is OK? My relationship is built on mutual trust and respect, and I really don't appreciate this stereotype.

Signed,

The customer who may be removing your decals because she is currently disgusted

[katherine]

Blueberry, that is horrendous. Yuck. Any chance you want to let us know who it was? I'd rather not spend my money with companies that promote creepy jerks.

[malkin]

Now, that's the most offensive thing I've heard all day!

[withm]

That was too easy. I googled "silver series bike" and had 2 likely hits. Gary Fischer and Lynskey. I have to say I was surprised to learn it was on the Lynskey Facebook page....

[OakLeaf]

That's gross. And sad, that a small company thinks they can get away with cr*p like that (and they're probably right). :( :mad:

[Becky]

Along the same lines, I just discovered that one of the LBSes around here offers what they call a "manvoice". Basically, it's a fudged invoice that will show any numbers the buyer wishes... :mad:

I don't understand why people and companies think it's ok to deceive others, especially loved ones, about finances. :(

[OakLeaf]

Along the same lines, I just discovered that one of the LBSes around here offers what they call a "manvoice". Basically, it's a fudged invoice that will show any numbers the buyer wishes... :mad:

I SO hope someone gets burned on an insurance claim because of one of those.

[Blueberry]

Just checking back in - you ladies have figured out the offending company. Last I looked, I was shocked to see that there weren't any negative comments (and some of the comments were from women).

Manvoice - wow. Wonder what the major bike retailers would have to say about that (since they tend to have discount restrictions)? Never mind the possibility of doing a charge back with a credit card. There are SO many things wrong with that.

[Becky]

Just checking back in - you ladies have figured out the offending company. Last I looked, I was shocked to see that there weren't any negative comments (and some of the comments were from women).

Manvoice - wow. Wonder what the major bike retailers would have to say about that (since they tend to have discount restrictions)? Never mind the possibility of doing a charge back with a credit card. There are SO many things wrong with that.

I have no idea how many of these they've actually done and I don't shop there (for so many reasons). But they did mention it on a public forum, which makes me think they're serious. I don't think the manufacturers would care, as long as the actual price paid was in line with their dealer agreements. Never thought about the credit card thing though!

[malkin]

Who knows...guys like that could have wives who fudge receipts for clothing or jewelry.
It's not a system that would work for me.

[Crankin]

I read that stuff to my DH and his comment was, "Wow, those people must have really good marriages."

[Owlie]

Dear Specialized,

What on earth is going on with your women's saddles?

[lgibster]

Dear guy with his ear buds in,

Fat chick cycling and momentum kills!!!

Thank you.

[WindingRoad]

Dear University Scheduling Department,

The next time we have community activities and you cancel it could you let us know so we don't show up at some random school looking like a bunch of suspicious wierdos carrying big cases full of stuff. :mad: Dip$hits.

Dear Professor so and so,

Is it REALLY necessary to wear so much cologne that I can know which entrance you used based on the 'trail' you leave behind. Please stop using the revolving door I am going to choke to death!!!!

OK I'm done. Well. At least for now :rolleyes:

[Biciclista]

Dear Headache
you know, your timing SUCKS

that is all.

[jobob]

Just checking back in - you ladies have figured out the offending company. Last I looked, I was shocked to see that there weren't any negative comments (and some of the comments were from women).

A Lynskey-owning woman friend and I have made our displeasure known on the Lynskey fb page.

FWIW, this isn't the first time Lynskey has lowered themselves to this kind of bs on their fb page ... a year & a half ago they posted as their Pic of the Day -- twice! -- a pic of a pouty well-endowed woman (supposedly a customers wife) in a skimpy bikini in a suggestive pose "modelling" a Lynskey. Lynskey used that as their profile pic, and in the smaller thumbnail image all you could see were the woman's ample knockers. The uproar, egged on by the husband and by whoever maintained the Lynskey fb page, was predictably juvenile & obnoxious.

I wrote directly to Lynskey:
"Is that the image you want your company to portray? Did you think this would attract more guys to your site?
That was incredibly disrespectful to your female customers. My stomach turned when I saw that. I thought the Lynskey company was above that. I was so disappointed to see that was not the case. "

I received an email reply from a sales manager, who claimed he thought long and hard (oh yeah, I'll bet :rolleyes:) before posting the picture, but, gee whiz the customer insisted!!, and he said no-one else complained -- which was not true, the friend I mentioned above posted her objection but she was met with a chorus of "lighten up!"s -- but nevertheless the sales manager apologized profusely in the reply email to me (not publicly on the fb site), and ever-so-magnanimously took down the buxom babe postings and replaced the boob avatar with something more, oh, bike related.

I stopped following the Lynskey fb page when all that happened, so I don't know if they've posted anything else so disrespectful to women in the last year & a half. This could be the first since then.

[Blueberry]

Jobob-

I'm really glad you let them know. I probably should too. I haven't been following them that long, and should probably stop - but I sort of like to know what company I represent when I ride a bike with their decals.

But - honestly - it very likely means that N+1 won't come from them (and we all know there will be n+1). We got a hint of that attitude when we were purchasing (no concept of women's fit issues from our sales guy) - but I brushed it off. Ugh.

[jobob]

Dear Bike Company whose bike I own:

Blueberry, you could always send that message directly to Lynskey via their Contact Us form:

http://www.lynskeyperformance.com/store/contacts

At least when someone else writes back and says "gee, no-one else complained", you'll know they're lying. :rolleyes: :p

[jobob]

Jobob-

I'm really glad you let them know. I probably should too. If you're willing to get catcalls and "lighten up"s. That's why I wrote to Lynskey directly the last time. This time around, I really don't give a rat's azz what the boys say.

[Blueberry]

Blueberry, you could always send that message directly to Lynskey via their Contact Us form:

http://www.lynskeyperformance.com/store/contacts

At least when someone else writes back and says "gee, no-one else complained", you'll know they're lying. :rolleyes: :p

I haven't (and probably won't) jump in on the comment thread. But - I did send them some very pointed feedback directly. We'll see what, if anything, they say. I PM'd you a copy just for fun:)

[Blueberry]

Update: I don't see the offending status anymore. They have, however, posted a very tasteful photo of a female customer actually riding one of their bikes. Hmmm....

[Blueberry]

And another update:

I filled out the contact info with my email address. They responded to my DH (despite having my email address from the contact form - they pulled his from the system - we double checked). Awesome. They didn't even manage to actually contact me - just my DH. Oh, the irony;)

[Owlie]

Classy.

[jobob]

Update: I don't see the offending status anymore. They have, however, posted a very tasteful photo of a female customer actually riding one of their bikes..


And another update:
I filled out the contact info with my email address. They responded to my DH (despite having my email address from the contact form - they pulled his from the system - we double checked). Awesome. They didn't even manage to actually contact me - just my DH. Oh, the irony;)

Wow, one step forward, one step back. Too funny!

[Sky King]

Dear wonderful women on TE,
Last year there were some great book suggestions on Dear So and So suggested for someone leaving a relationship. I can't find the posts (imagine) If anyone has some suggestions on good reads please share. Have a friend attempting to leave a relationship that involves some head trips by the bf and alot of what I would call emotional abuse/manipulating behavior and would love to send some suggested reading.

Thanks, Sky King

[VeganBikeChick]

Dear BF,

I said I wasn't coming over tonight because I thought time apart would make the heart grow fonder (and I have things to do!!). Now you won't respond to my texts or answer the calls. I'm hoping it's just because you're asleep, and not throwing a hissy. I hate that you keep your phone on silent all the time.

[redrhodie]

[QUOTE=Sky King;674037]Dear wonderful women on TE,
Last year there were some great book suggestions on Dear So and So suggested for someone leaving a relationship. I can't find the posts (imagine) If anyone has some suggestions on good reads please share. Have a friend attempting to leave a relationship that involves some head trips by the bf and alot of what I would call emotional abuse/manipulating behavior and would love to send some suggested reading.

Thanks, Sky King[/QUOTEl

This isn't TE, but you might find this helpful. Lots of great advice to all kinds of questions here: http://ask.metafilter.com/tags/relationship

[Irulan]

Dear so-and-so
What part of "I only see appointments during business hours" do people not understand?
What part of "I have two locations in town that are open 7 days a week including evenings so you can pick up your stuff whenever you want" do people not understand?
What part of just because I work from home doesn't mean you can come by whenever you want do you not understand?

Must vent somewhere. Thank you.

I.

[redrhodie]

Dear so-and-so
What part of "I only see appointments during business hours" do people not understand?
What part of "I have two locations in town that are open 7 days a week including evenings so you can pick up your stuff whenever you want" do people not understand?
What part of just because I work from home doesn't mean you can come by whenever you want do you not understand?

Must vent somewhere. Thank you.

I.

Yeah, those people are so annoying. I work for an artist and when we do retail shows, it's really common for people to want to set up appointments in her studio. It's so frustrating because the work is all there in front of them, ready for purchase, and there won't be as much of a selection at her studio. Plus she then has to clean her space and set up what she does have, which is really a time waste.

I am pretty good at discouraging this, but she still gets calls from people "on their way over right now!" Like she's a 7-11.

[Irulan]

I used to see customers here, especially if they were neighbors. Then, a guy (dad of a kid's classmate, not that it matters) showed up at 9 PM, without calling. I was in my PJ's fercryinoutloud. I was so stunned I was speechless. I then called him that Monday at his office, as I knew he was a lawyer in town, and told him off... essentially that I'm sure he doesn't appreciate law clients showing up unannounced at non business hours, and that he can pick up his completed repair at X location just like everyone else.

Now I do make exceptions for friends of course but it's totally my perogative.

[Melalvai]

Dear Left Ovary, I'm not impressed. When Right Ovary ruptured a cyst, it had me on the floor unable to move and sweating. When you ruptured a cyst last Thursday, it took me 2 days to figure out what had happened. You call THAT a ruptured cyst? Please.
Dear Left Ovary, I know I said I'd be happy if I got just one more year out of you when I got rid of Right Ovary. Yet after 8 years I find I had begun to dare hope we'd be together through natural menopause.
Dear Left Ovary, you disproved my theory that not eating sugar would prevent these inflammatory type problems. I guess I should have tried the extreme diet (no sugar, no dairy, no red meat, no wheat) after all. Maybe I could have saved you. Is it too late?

[Catrin]

(((Melalvai)))

[Catrin]

Dear Shoulder...please improve. I've spent a small fortune in PT and training to help you get stronger and you won't cooperate. Why? Your companion on the other side of my body is perfect, well, as perfect as a 53 year old shoulder can be. Pretty please?

[indysteel]

(((Melalvai))) and (((Catrin))). I sure wish it were easier to get our bodies to cooperate.

[Catrin]

I've considered an MRI on that shoulder complex, but that seems a pricey tool. Part of me sees those scans as something you do to evaluate the need for surgery, and frankly, my shouldn't isn't THAT bad...not compared to others with jacked shoulders.

[OakLeaf]

(((((((Catrin & Mel)))))))

[Crankin]

Dear weather,
You've been pretty good up until today. Why is it now 39 degrees and drizzly at the end of April?
Please, tomorrow is my day to ride.

[malkin]

Dear Neck:
Whatever it was, get over it!

[SheFly]

Dear Doofus Rider in Rush Hour Traffic:

You know, three of us were riding up the right side of the STOPPED line of traffic correctly. Having YOU decide to pass the SAME line of traffic on the LEFT put us all in danger of getting hit. Oh, and the slalom show you put on riding down the street past them irritated them even more. People like you, who are DOOFUS' (doofi?) are the reason that people like ME are the ire of drivers. Stop being a dumb-a$$.

SheFly

[Owlie]

SheFly-- I happened to be walking up a hill coming out of one of the main residential and entertainment areas of an urban neighborhood (in Cleveland). I saw two spandex-clad cyclists (probably in the university's club) without helmets weave their way through traffic stopped at a light. Ugh. Rage.

Dear self:
Go to sleep. Finish reading this presentation, take your meds, then go to bed. You're presenting in the morning. You need sleep!

[Crankin]

Ugh, SheFly. Where was this?
I've already had a few "you are ruining it for other cyclists' moments in the past 2 weeks.
Especially when there was a whole group of "doofii" stopped and blocking the intersection of Strawberry Hill and Pope Rd. I mean at least 20, standing with their bikes in the road.

[SheFly]

Crankin - coming into Concord Center on rte 62 where it backs up by the cemetery. We barely had enough room on the right, and this doofus was going into the oncoming lane to pass on the left. All it would have taken was one of those cars to move right seeing him in their mirror, and we were done for.

The warmer weather is here, and lots of people are out doing stupid things.

SheFly

[Veronica]

Dear Testing People:

Why do you wait until allergy season to test students? It's really disgusting to have to listen to my students snort and snuffle over their tests. At least when I am teaching I don't hear it as much.

Also, why is it you wait until the first really hot week?

Disgruntled in the classroom

[Crankin]

Dear Self,
You wanted more free time and you got it. Now, you better scramble to get 2 more clients. And why are you getting antsy? About 8 weeks until you can send that license application in. You didn't exactly do well with no job, so why do you want to just quit now?
I'm fine when I am doing my work. It's just the thought of it.
I really tired of driving so much and going to people's houses. I now realize how small my world was when I was teaching. Work, errands, and a lot of socializing within a 15 sq. mile area. Sure, I enjoy going into the city, but on a daily basis, I want to be able to ride my bike to work (or drive) no more than 10-15 miles and stay in an office. I've managed to configure my schedule so it meets my needs, but other clinicians don't... my boss said she knows I need this structure, but the nature of the program I work with is that it meets the needs of the clients when they want it. I have my appointments scheduled at the same time every week, except for, of course, when people need to do something else, or an emergency.
I am choosy about which referrals I take in terms of geographic areas, but I may have to relax this if stuff doesn't change in the next week or 2. Not sure if I will make my productivity goal for April.

[MelC]

Dear fellow bike commuter. It isn't that I don't appreciate that you are making the effort to cycle to work or that I want to discourage you from doing so. However, when you are cycling at a leisurely pace and someone on a bike passes you on a busy street (or any street really) it is better etiquette to not ride into a not yet changed red light further along thereby passing said cyclist who is waiting at the red light so that they then have to trundle along behind you until they find another safe opportunity to pass you all over again.

[lor]

Congrats on the new bike! Glad you were able to get dibs on it first!

[Blueberry]

Dear Drivers:

Please, please be careful. Another sad news story. (http://www.wral.com/pedestrian-killed-in-raleigh-crash/12406954/)

Dear People Commenting rudely on the story:

Screw you.

Dear self:

You know better than to read the comments. Now study.

[Owlie]

Dear Ten O'clock. Hurry up and get here already! I can't call the bike shop and make a deposit on that very cool cross unless you cooperate. Please? The shop opens at ten, and apparently no one comes in early. I can't concentrate except for the words bike bike bike bike, bike bike bike bike, BIKE BIKE BIKE-IDEE-BIKE BIKE. Want Bike!

If someone else already bought it, I may lose 'it.'

Edit: 10:12 AM. Done!!! Put half down. Almost. So now I owe $550.00. Whoo hoo! A 2012 CAADX with 105 upgrade for $1050.00. Can't wait!! Well, I guess I can wait since I do have the entire amount, but I'm making myself make payments so as not to deplete savings.

I'm a good girl. ;)

Woohoo! Pictures when it comes home!

[skhill]

Dear woman I was behind for the first mile of today's 10k/5k,
Did you know that your black capris were so worn/stretched-out that everyone could see that you were wearing orange underwear?

[OakLeaf]

That's why she was wearing underwear at all ... ;)

[MelC]

Dear skhill, I don't know you but I just spent the last five minutes bending over in my capris in front of a mirror.

[Veronica]

Dear woman I was behind for the first mile of today's 10k/5k,
Did you know that your black capris were so worn/stretched-out that everyone could see that you were wearing orange underwear?

Maybe it made her run faster. :D

Veronica

[skhill]

Orange is a fast color, that's why my lucky race-day bra is orange. And I had gotten dressed and then changed my shirt after I realized just how visible it was through the old tee I was wearing!

[OakLeaf]

Heh. My lucky race-day lei is orange, too. Maybe there's something to this. :p

[Becky]

Dear USAC-

I need a $60 annual license to compete in a single event that, as a Cat 3 racer, I don't even need to qualify for? How does that build grassroots racing?

Signed,
Confused and conflicted

[SheFly]

Becky - as a Cat 3, you should be able to purchase a 1 day license onsite for $10.

SheFly

[Becky]

Becky - as a Cat 3, you should be able to purchase a 1 day license onsite for $10.

SheFly

Not for Nationals. That single event requires an annual license even if you're a Cat 3. I've been doing the one-day license thing for my other races. Nationals won't be this close to home for awhile and it would be really cool to experience it once while it's within a few hours' drive....but as I read more, I'm increasingly failing to see the point of it all.

Racing rules make my head spin....

[SheFly]

Ah - didn't realize that was THE event. I also have to qualify to race at MTB Nationals. And yes, the rules are a challenge to get through, I agree! It is nice that they are close to home this year, and we will likely be making the trek as we both qualified by finishing well in our state championship races last year. I have the added question of eligibility given that I am not a citizen, but this is one of the first years you can race as a master if you are a permanent resident (which is also the case for CX), which I am.

Sorry to hear that this has you so bummed. And it is puzzling that you have to have an annual license if you don't have to qualify for the event.

SheFly

[Catrin]

Dear Right Shoulder,

Were you jealous of all the attention my left shoulder has received? You got the same amount of work most of the time...so why are you suddenly acting like my left shoulder. IT is strong, now you are all painful and irritated. I know your rotator cuff needs strengthening, I can rehab you but this is frustrating. Both of you were doing so well until we did bench presses the other day - and I did NOT overdo things...sigh. Apparently my efforts to prevent imbalances between my two shoulders failed - I am thankful I know what you need. I've been down this road before.

Signed,
Frustrated

[Owlie]

Dear Catrin's shoulders:

Behave!

[malkin]

Dear HR Department:

Thank you for not using the word "empowered" to describe how you think I should feel about having our new health insurance out of pocket EXCEED THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CONTRIBUTION TO AN HSA, although it might have been appropriate for you to at least mention that fact in your presentation.

[jobob]

Well, look at the bright side -- you probably don't have to foot the full cost of the monthly premiums as well.

[Becky]

Ah - didn't realize that was THE event. I also have to qualify to race at MTB Nationals. And yes, the rules are a challenge to get through, I agree! It is nice that they are close to home this year, and we will likely be making the trek as we both qualified by finishing well in our state championship races last year. I have the added question of eligibility given that I am not a citizen, but this is one of the first years you can race as a master if you are a permanent resident (which is also the case for CX), which I am.

Sorry to hear that this has you so bummed. And it is puzzling that you have to have an annual license if you don't have to qualify for the event.

SheFly

Congrats on qualifying! I may go do the PA State Championships at Bear Creek on a single-day license, just to check out the course, and then make my decision from there.

[luvmyguys]

Dear Motivation -

I have a lot to do this week. Would you mind showing your happy self up so I can get it done?

Sincerely,

Me

[NbyNW]

Dear Ears, Nose and Throat:

It's been three weeks. Please clear up already.

[OakLeaf]

Ugh. I have fired actually *two* doctors, one of whom I really liked, because their staff made it impossible. Not having me in the book when I showed up for my appointment, calling me for "missed" appointments that I didn't and wouldn't have scheduled, billing weirdness that I'm pretty sure was some kind of insurance fraud... Hope you can get things worked out with your vet!

[Becky]

Nevermind.

[withm]

Dear Poison Ivy,

Please stop itching. Please stop oozing. Please just go away.

[marni]

cold tea and teabag compresses help, especially if it gets on you face.

[Sky King]

Dear DH, Okay,after five days of over 100 degrees, I will be more open to the idea of a visit to west Texas where the high is 92...

[skhill]

Dear grass waterers,
Surely you noticed that we had nearly 2 inches of rain over the past two days? So why were your sprinklers going this morning, watering grass of all things? I'm sure they are programmed but come on, take some responsiblity here. And why water grass anyway? Sure, it'll go brown if we get a prolonged dry spell in the summer, but it'll green right back up as soon as the rain returns. It's a yard, not a golf course, for pete's sake!

[Owlie]

Dear mom--
Yes, I realize you want me to clean stuff out of my old room, and that I'm not home very often and you're trying to be helpful. However, no one touches my books. I've already taken what I want to get rid of to Half-Price Books. The rest of them are either books that I enjoy reading multiple times (I know you don't quite get that), books that I'm attached to (and those I think you agree with me on), or a couple that I haven't read yet. Hands off the books!

[OakLeaf]

Dear kinesiology tape manufacturers,

How many applications call for 5-strip fans? (not too dang many.) How many call for either a "Y" or a half strip? (lots) So how come the backing is marked only in 1-cm strips? Folding in half and cutting is a PITA.

Brand loyalty to the first one of y'all who puts a line down the center of the backing...

[Sky King]

Dear Self

When are you going to start listening to the sage advice from your brain!!! You know participating in any sort of side to side activity is recipe for disaster. So here you sit with leg in the air and a bag of ice and probably a week off the bike. At least it is the week of over 100 temperatures but still WTH were you thinking

[marni]

dear One hour ac,

On Tuesday you came and did a yearly routine check on both ac systems and marked everything as good. By thursday it was getting warm and the outside fan quite on Friday. We just spent the hottest weekend (for us) of the year in a house that we managed, just barely , to keep at 89 degrees by dint of non stop running of fans. So much for your warm reassuring words about service members getting priority service since when we called Saturday early, you scheduled us for a Monday afternoon appointment which you have just infomred me will be "sometime on Tuesday" instead. Can I also suggest that you guarantee of "competent professional drug free service technicians" is a bit suspect when the technician shows up on Tuesday, does his thing and the ac starts to go out a day and a half later whereas it had been functioning and cooling perfectly before the check. Obviously somebody forgot something, like sealing off the coolant, or fixing the possible puncture or whatever.

Call me a nasty customer if you will but I think I want my money back, after you fix the ac and don't charge me that is.

hot and definitely grumpy

[thekarens]

Someone would have to die Marni!

[katluvr]

Dear everyone or anyone that cares,
I know I don't have HUGE problems but the past few months all the small things have added up. No one wants to hear me list the things so I'll just do it here!
So mom completed her chemo for her BC reoccurrence, but the resulting neuropathy and mobility issues are really not fair. She was difficult enough to deal with before all the added issues. Just a bit more stress for me (and poor dad).
April our beloved bird Shakey died, although we knew it would happened it still seemed sudden when he died in our hands in the few hours after we returned from vacation. Miss that noisy bird. Oh then my SO lost her job. Financially we are ok, but the emotion of getting laid off, fighting with unemployment, applying for jobs and trying to figure out what she wants to do was tough. To do what you love doesn't pay, getting back into the IT world again--is that the right thing for her to do? Wish we could retire now!!
On trip with my parents to my niece's graduation with some bumps and stress only to be called my pet sitter that our beloved Pepper (cat) was refusing to eat (never happens). By the time my SO gets home he is very sick, I make it home to spend one night with him before he passes the next day. This was devastating. He was such a presence in our house.
Lastly (maybe) I have never had an issue with my boss. But my current supervisor is horrible. She has no idea what me and the other members of my team do, really no concept. Nor does she ever come to see us, check in to see how we are doing. But she will f*&% with our schedule! I love my co-workers and what I do, but she is making me think about looking for a new job!
So lots of little stressors that at times weigh on me. I know things could be worse but I really hate it when people say that to me!

[Sky King]

Dear everyone or anyone that cares,
I know I don't have HUGE problems but the past few months all the small things have added up. No one wants to hear me list the things so I'll just do it here!
So mom completed her chemo for her BC reoccurrence, but the resulting neuropathy and mobility issues are really not fair. She was difficult enough to deal with before all the added issues. Just a bit more stress for me (and poor dad).
April our beloved bird Shakey died, although we knew it would happened it still seemed sudden when he died in our hands in the few hours after we returned from vacation. Miss that noisy bird. Oh then my SO lost her job. Financially we are ok, but the emotion of getting laid off, fighting with unemployment, applying for jobs and trying to figure out what she wants to do was tough. To do what you love doesn't pay, getting back into the IT world again--is that the right thing for her to do? Wish we could retire now!!
On trip with my parents to my niece's graduation with some bumps and stress only to be called my pet sitter that our beloved Pepper (cat) was refusing to eat (never happens). By the time my SO gets home he is very sick, I make it home to spend one night with him before he passes the next day. This was devastating. He was such a presence in our house.
Lastly (maybe) I have never had an issue with my boss. But my current supervisor is horrible. She has no idea what me and the other members of my team do, really no concept. Nor does she ever come to see us, check in to see how we are doing. But she will f*&% with our schedule! I love my co-workers and what I do, but she is making me think about looking for a new job!
So lots of little stressors that at times weigh on me. I know things could be worse but I really hate it when people say that to me!
That is alot of not so little things. Be kind to yourself and your SO. Be sure to communicate with those around you, even your boss. It is much easier to shut down but do remember to say to others that there has been quite a bit of change in your life recently (you don't have to do the details) and that you are doing your best to grapple. That way if you fly off the handle, etc. they will hopefully be a bit more compassionate and not just assume you are being a B**** - been there more than once :)

[OakLeaf]

((((((((kat)))))))) You have every right to be sad and upset. I don't know where people get off comparing your problems to other people's as if it's supposed to make your pain less. Take the space you need to grieve, and I hope other things get better for you and your family very soon.

((((((Muirenn)))))) just ugh ...

[malkin]

...Wheat belly.

This made me laugh!
My parents can be like this too.

[Owlie]

Dear grad school:
I hate these orientation "icebreaker" questions. I can never think of an answer that's appropriate, especially when you want an "interesting fact."

[Fredwina]

my new car. so close and yet so far:
16496
Looks like I'm going rack shopping

[luvmyguys]

Dear local cycling club,

I checked Facebook this morning to find a picture that a friend took of you guys on your Saturday morning ride, with the caption, "Only when I'm running late." Please stop. You're making it harder for the rest of us. State law says no more than two abreast - bunching up like you're riding the race of the year, three and four abreast, on a two lane road such that no one can safely pass you is not cool.

[HillSlugger]

my new car. so close and yet so far:
16496
Looks like I'm going rack shopping

Before I bought my current car I brought my bike to the dealer to make sure it fit.

[Fredwina]

I figured that going in. Also figured saving gas is better than hauling around a bunch of Air. Besides, Mimi twisted my arm into buying it :)

[katluvr]

Dear friends on TE,
Glad I could come here and vent. :)
Glad I have laced up my running shoes again.:)
Feeling a bit better...maybe it's my 3-day weekend I am starting!:D

K

[goldfinch]

I love my old dog but I am so frustrated with her.

Failing kidneys means she needs to drink lots of water. Drinking lots of water means pee accidents.

Collitis means poo accidents.

And she doesn't much want to have anything to do with us.

[aviatrix58]

Dear breast cancer:

Now that you've been cut out of me and burned out of me, I not so respectfully ask that you leave me and my family the heck alone and never show your face around here again!

Signed,

Celebrating because today was my last radiation treatment :)

Dear Bacchetta and hubby:

Thank you for my Corsa. I love her and I can think of no better way to celebrate being cancer-free than with a new bicycle. :p

Signed,

Cancer-free me

16550

[luvmyguys]

CONGRATULATIONS DEB!!! Enjoy your well deserved end of treatment toy!

[Fredwina]

+1, Deb

[OakLeaf]

((((((Deb))))))

Enjoy the new bike! It's beautiful. :)

[indysteel]

((((Deb)))). Congratulations on your new bike and on completing treatment. Many good wishes as you pedal forward!

[AppleTree]

Beautiful photo and lovely new bike! Enjoy!

[Sky King]

Dear other LBS,
When helping a rider make a new bike purchase a good rule of thumb is to ask several questions about what type of bike riding they plan on doing. Oh yeah and perhaps quit spouting mis information. Drives me nuts when people spout untruths about bikes and riding styles. No wonder people get confused

[marni]

deb, been there done that except for the bike,. Congratlations for beating it. May yo live and ride long and prosper.

[OakLeaf]

:d :d :d

[Crankin]

Dear Weather,
Please hold off on your "spotty showers" until at least 4 PM, particularly between Boxborough, MA and Hollis, NH. This is my favorite local ride, and one of the hilliest, but prettiest. However, I do not want a repeat of having to call Ayer taxi, almost getting struck by lightening, and my friend shivering with hypothermia, as happened in 2006.

[spokewench]

Deb - so glad things are going well! congrats on the bike too!

[Fredwina]

Dear O'Hare: Thanks so much for the souvenir - it was the strongest cold I ever got :rolleyes:

[lph]

Dear large, friendly. but not very professional kayak store,

no.

It is not ok for you to start a blog, and then just pinch content from other places without giving credit. Especially when you just get it badly translated. Apart from the obvious ethical and probably legal issues, it makes you look like sexist morons when you have a site chock full of lengthy info and excellent tips on how to choose a kayak, and then post a (pinched) article on how women should choose a kayak, which consists of all the same tips (for beginners, of course) only in a chatty, dumbed-down version.

That article was probably fine standing alone on paddler.net, which is where I stumbled over the original. On your site it looks like "oh, sorry ladies, here's something even you can understand. See, it's written by a woman. Gotta be good."

Puh-leaze.

[indysteel]

Grrrr, lph. I can understand your irritation!

[malkin]

Dear Doctor's Office where my friend is a patient:

It was incompetence to tell my friend that she would get a call regarding her breast biopsy on Monday and then to make no contact with her. It was an epic fail to respond to her call on Wednesday afternoon with a statement containing the words "the radiologist needs to talk to the cancer specialist."

Please go back to customer service school.
And have some good news when you do get in touch with my friend, ok?

[Blueberry]

Dear University:

Is it really necessary that I purchase 2 different clickers (http://www.turningtechnologies.com/) that work on different frequencies for 2 different classes? I would just opt out, but these #$%^ things and my responses on them form part of my grade. Can't your head talk to your a$$ and at least agree on one brand for the whole school? This is ridiculous - and a waste of money and natural resources!

Signed,

A grumpy student who just spent enough on books without having to buy 2 clickers

[redrhodie]

Dear Doctor's Office where my friend is a patient:

It was incompetence to tell my friend that she would get a call regarding her breast biopsy on Monday and then to make no contact with her. It was an epic fail to respond to her call on Wednesday afternoon with a statement containing the words "the radiologist needs to talk to the cancer specialist."

Please go back to customer service school.
And have some good news when you do get in touch with my friend, ok?

That is awful. She should find a new doctor. Hope she's okay!

[indysteel]

Wow; malkin. That's shameful. I hope your friend is okay...

@Blueberry. That's ridiculous! Have you formally complained?

[redrhodie]

Dear Indy,

Hi! I didn't want to hijack the other thread. I have been riding just 3x per week, slow to boot, so I haven't had much to write about here! But I'm good. I'm finding the right balance of exercise, where I feel good and still have energy left, but it's not very exciting compared to the adventures on te! It's been hard to learn that my body can't handle the kind of miles I used to do without feeling wiped out, because I'm stubborn. But I am making progress, though I still get twinges of guilt for not riding more.

How are you?

[indysteel]

Dear Indy,

Hi! I didn't want to hijack the other thread. I have been riding just 3x per week, slow to boot, so I haven't had much to write about here! But I'm good. I'm finding the right balance of exercise, where I feel good and still have energy left, but it's not very exciting compared to the adventures on te! It's been hard to learn that my body can't handle the kind of miles I used to do without feeling wiped out, because I'm stubborn. But I am making progress, though I still get twinges of guilt for not riding more.

How are you?

Honestly, that sounds a lot like where I am, too. I don't know if it's my thyroid, marriage or what, but I haven't had the desire or ability to ride like I used to for a while. So, I don't. DH and I are generally content to ride 2-3 times a week, maybe 2-3 hours at a time at most. I'm otherwise taking some exercise classes at a local rec center, where I've been lucky to meet some really friendly people. That's taken the edge off my discomfort with the town we moved to in September of 2009. It's funny how something so seemingly minor can help make a place feel more like home. I'm doing yoga twice a week and working out with a personal trainer twice a week, once in a group setting and once on my own. So, while I'm not riding, I do feel like I'm really active and fit.
We've otherwise had a great summer. We went to Hawaii in April and are headed to Tennessee next month. Married life is good. We're like two peas in a pod!

My thyroid is still sort of all over the place. I took a small dose of Methimazole from November until late June. I was able to keep my TSH at a good level, but it had started to creep up to close to 3, so he took me off the drug. My latest test indicated that it was at 2.37, which is closer to abnormal than I'd like, but I feel mostly good, so I'm just not going to stress over it. I do think the doctor is right that I likely have both Graves' and Hashi's, which explains all of my fluctuations. I don't know the best path forward if that's the case. Maybe I should just nuke it and be done with it. If I don't do that, Graves will probably burn it off over time, and I'll just go hypo at that point anyway.

But I don't want to complain too much. I've felt more like myself this year than I did last and, like I said, I've had a really good summer.

It's so good to see you on the forum, Red! Stick around a while; you've been missed!

[redrhodie]

Honestly, that sounds a lot like where I am, too. I don't know if it's my thyroid, marriage or what, but I haven't had the desire or ability to ride like I used to for a while. So, I don't. DH and I are generally content to ride 2-3 times a week, maybe 2-3 hours at a time at most. I'm otherwise taking some exercise classes at a local rec center, where I've been lucky to meet some really friendly people. That's taken the edge off my discomfort with the town we moved to in September of 2009. It's funny how something so seemingly minor can help make a place feel more like home. I'm doing yoga twice a week and working out with a personal trainer twice a week, once in a group setting and once on my own. So, while I'm not riding, I do feel like I'm really active and fit.
We've otherwise had a great summer. We went to Hawaii in April and are headed to Tennessee next month. Married life is good. We're like two peas in a pod!

My thyroid is still sort of all over the place. I took a small dose of Methimazole from November until late June. I was able to keep my TSH at a good level, but it had started to creep up to close to 3, so he took me off the drug. My latest test indicated that it was at 2.37, which is closer to abnormal than I'd like, but I feel mostly good, so I'm just not going to stress over it. I do think the doctor is right that I likely have both Graves' and Hashi's, which explains all of my fluctuations. I don't know the best path forward if that's the case. Maybe I should just nuke it and be done with it. If I don't do that, Graves will probably burn it off over time, and I'll just go hypo at that point anyway.

But I don't want to complain too much. I've felt more like myself this year than I did last and, like I said, I've had a really good summer.

It's so good to see you on the forum, Red! Stick around a while; you've been missed!


Thanks Indy. I'm glad you're feeling better!

What are the risks of nuking it?

[indysteel]

As I understand it, thyroid ablation can increase the chance of thyroid eye disease. Since ablation doesn't eliminate the root cause of the disease, the antibodies that once attacked your thyroid can move onto the eyes, their other primary target. I'd rather try to bring the disease into remission through drug therapy, but if I'm just going to yo-yo, then I may have to rethink it.

My latest labs show a TSH of 2.3. I've been off meds for 7 weeks. It's higher than I'd like, but I feel relatively good. I have a few hyper symptoms, which is weird, but assuming I have both dieases, not unheard of.

[redrhodie]

That's a bummer. I think waiting seems reasonable. You have a good handle on how you feel, so you'll know when the time comes.

Dear former upstairs neighbor,

I am so glad you're gone. I can finally sleep! Without earplugs! I kind of understood your need to go to the gym every day at 4 am, but if it were me, I would have made an effort to be quiet. You marched around, ran up and down the stairs, slammed doors, dropped and crashed things constantly. No one else was ever so loud. You were so self centered that if it occured to you that others may be sleeping, you didn't care. You were also just generally inconsiderate and unpleasant. And getting rid of your cats really sealed my feeling that you are not a good person, but at least I'm sure they are better off.

Your for sale sign in the yard was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. It belongs in a museum. Your good fortune at selling so fast is the best thing that's happened to me in a long time. I wish you the best, but I will not miss you.

[Owlie]

Dear credit card company--

Seriously?

Lesson learned, I guess. But you still suck.

Me.

[emily_in_nc]

red -- what WONDERFUL news! I remember when you wrote about this terrible noisy neighbor before, and I so felt for you, having lived on the first floor under loud folks before myself. I know you must be to the moon!

I love a happy ending... :D

[redrhodie]

red -- what WONDERFUL news! I remember when you wrote about this terrible noisy neighbor before, and I so felt for you, having lived on the first floor under loud folks before myself. I know you must be to the moon!

I love a happy ending... :D

I'm very happy! I can hardly hear the new neighbor, so it wasn't just me being overly sensitive. Even the movers, who were big guys, carrying heavy furniture, were more quiet than my old neighbor. And she was tiny.

[OakLeaf]

Yay for quiet neighbors!

[HillSlugger]

Hon,

I love you, but if you want to drive, please drive your own car.

[OakLeaf]

Dear everything,

Just chill for one day, please? Just one day, so I can have two neurons to rub together and make a coherent thought?

[Pax]

Dear OakLeaf,

Amen ma sistah.

Pax

[indysteel]

Hi Pax! It's always good to "see" you. I hope you're well!

Oak, I hope you get your wish!

[Pax]

Hi Indy!

Been busy lately, sold the house and moved to an apartment, we are MUCH happier!! My mom is holding on, still living on her own and doing peritoneal dialysis at home every day.

Great to "see" you too.

[Catrin]

Oak - I hear you!

Pax, it is great to see you :)

[indysteel]

I'm so glad to hear you'd happy, Pax. Your mom sounds like a strong woman, as are you. Stick around a while; we always miss you when you're away.

[snapdragen]

Waving madly at Pax...

[Pax]

Hey Snap!!

[OakLeaf]

Good to see you, Pax. Thinking calm thoughts for both of us.

Dear person who is supposed to be coordinating the bike tour next weekend,
It's too !#@@#$^@^%!~ late to bail. It's nobody's fault but yours that you didn't advertise or do any preparation, but we have an obligation to anyone who does show up.

Dear person in the club leadership who made an agreement with the above person in spite of warnings from myself and other club members that he was untrustworthy,
I TOLD YOU SO!!! AND NEXT TIME don't make an agreement that involves ME doing something, without my agreement, especially when you're the only one in the club who wants to keep this thing going, especially when you're not even planning to be in town the day of the ride or the three weeks before.

[indysteel]

Ugh, Oak. That sounds like a giant cluster. I stopped leading rides because of stuff like that. I hope the ride goes well despite the problems.

[Pax]

Dang, Oak, what a mess!

[Crankin]

Oak, I feel for you. I only lead 2-3 rides a year now. They are set routes (by me!) that are annual events for one of my clubs. We became friends with a guy who was a new leader a couple of years ago and he has become a prolific leader for AMC. But, he always wants to eat dinner and socialize afterwards and I do not prefer to be hanging around in sweaty bike clothes for hours. We did a trip to Mystic, CT with him early in the summer and everyone else made fun of our "camping" shower we brought along in the car. He leads rides every weekend and I just don't want to do that. It seems like the rides are being overpopulated by a bunch of whiny women from the city.

[skhill]

Dear neighbor,

There's never a good reason for using a weed whacker at 4:20 AM. Really. So you wanted to clean up the yard before setting up for the yard sale, should have done it last night, before 8pm.

[malkin]

Dear immune system:

Stop over reacting; it is just pollen.
Snot I understand, and can deal with; muscle aches, joint pain and fever are not useful.

[Owlie]

Dear university:
I am pretty sure you are screwing me over. I don't have proof, but the numbers don't add up. Argh.

[skhill]

Dear guys who had a gunfight on my block yesterday,

A. this is Kentucky, we haven't been the western frontier in about 200 years. So knock it off!

B. before you try this again, please spend some time at a shooting range, actually learning to shoot. More than 20 rounds and only one hit what it was aimed at, apparently. Y'all are lucky stray rounds hit houses and cars and garbage cans and not the kids coming home from school.

Of course, when the cops catch the 2 of you who aren't in the hospital, you won't be shooting anything for quite a while.

[indysteel]

Oh my gosh, skhill? What the _____? I have come to expect that kind of thing in Indy, but not where you live! That's nuts! What a miracle that no innocent bystanders were hurt.

[OakLeaf]

Oh, man, skhill. :( :( :mad:

[Pax]

Dear Indy,

Happy Birthday! :D

Pax

[indysteel]

Thanks, Pax!

[azfiddle]

Hey Owlie- are you in Tucson now? Sorry to hear the U is a problem.....

[Owlie]

Hey Owlie- are you in Tucson now? Sorry to hear the U is a problem.....

I am! We got it sorted out. Apparently it happened to everyone in my class.

[Sky King]

Dear Mom,
Please take note. After this weekend it really is time for you to come get Dad and take him off to go dancing in the sky. The entire family, kids, grandkids, great grandkids will be here to celebrate Dad's 88th birthday. As everyone will have a chance to visit and wish him well perhaps your spirit can take that into consideration? His "quality of life" on this planet is pretty low and me thinks he would much rather be with you dancing and enjoying whatever else you are up to. Love Your Daughter who has really, really filled your request to take care of him.

[indysteel]

((((Sky King)))). That's one of the most touching things I've ever read in this thread. Peace to you and your family.

[Blueberry]

(((((Sky King))))) + 1 to Indy's comment. That brought tears to my eyes.

[OakLeaf]

(((((((Sky King & dad)))))))

[Pax]

Sky King, what you wrote echos on my own heart. I wish my dad would come and take my mom home with him, she misses him with every breath she takes, and her health has made her a prisoner in her own body.

[Veronica]

Sometimes reading what others write here helps give me perspective on my "issues." I was going to come and whine about something at work, but instead, after reading Skyking's beautiful post, I realized I am so lucky. My life is good and the things that are annoying are just pesky mosquitoes in the grand scheme of things.

Veronica