"He's not a stalker he's helpful." I think that is now one of my new favourite quotes. Some of you may be aware (or maybe not) of my stalker situation. If not well it all started back in 2003 when I made the mistake of being friendly with someone at work. He seemed to assume that it meant I wanted him when I was being nice. 3 relationships (with other men obviously since dating the president of your fan club is not a good thing... oh wait I did that too with a different guy but that's another story) and he still didn't get the hint that I wasn't interested. He'd follow me to the bar and what not. I pretty much stopped going out. But since he wasn't going away I would make use of him. Trying to make the best out of a bad situation.
Skip ahead to recent events. He has been more negative then usual and I didn't want it around me. More importantly he was on an escalation path. Left nasty voicemail when I didn't immediately call him back. It was all about guilt and manipulation. Would show up randomly. A couple of weeks ago though it hit an all new low. He showed up here with a package. This one I was expecting. I was having issues with the other computer. I made the mistake of telling him that. Now I was trying to just relax and not deal with it. But suddenly he was throwing his jacket on the ground and was cursing. I don't think I had ever seen him so angry. And he was about to rip the computer apart thinking it was hardware. Now I had figured that it wasn't but he just wouldn't let it go. I had my back to him and was starting to think something was going to come flying at me. And I really didn't want to troubleshoot.... or have him here. So I said not to worry about it (well I repeated that numerous times while he was here) and said that I was going to bed shortly. So he stormed off. For the first time in a long time I was afraid in my own place. I was pretty shell shocked actually. And I did not get an early night. Even had a friend get really concerned about my well being.
So since then I have not answered his calls or answered when he has shown up here. I ended up missing 2 days off work largely because of stress (not just about that but it certainly hasn't helped). I've felt anxiety with the thought that he's checking to see if the lights are on. I have no idea when he will show up or contact me next.
I was trying to tell mom about the experience and she said, "He's not a stalker, he's helpful." Being helpful is his way in. It's how he keeps control over me. And when I said that he shows up randomly she just said that some friends do that. Yes and real friends don't abuse that privilege. Real friends don't use manipulation... power... and control.... Real friends don't take advantage of the situation when you're drunk... Real friendship doesn't come with strings attached. So just to continue on the other day I asked mom to take me out shopping since I don't drive. She asked if I was talking to him. I said no, that I was ignoring his calls. She told me not to because he's helpful and is such a good friend. Yeah great friend... with friends like that you don't need enemies.
I don't understand it.... I don't understand why she would defend him and not be out to protect me. But there are a lot of things there that I don't understand.... and I am not about to delve into that relationship since this is a public blog. I'm just going to shake my head and keep repeating, "I don't understand..."
Saturday, August 23, 2008
New Pet Peeve
I have a new pet peeve. My pet peeve is with all those companies that think it's fantastic idea to have their phone number spell something. UPS number is 1-800-PICK-UPS, for instance. Now I have never been all that crazy about having to locate the letters on the keypad, even though they're in order. Just give me the numbers. But now I have a BlackBerry. I can already hear the so what? The keypad is QWERTY so 1-800-PICK-UPS suddenly becomes 1-800-_376-3__ which as you can tell is not their number.... especially since 3 of them do not contain numbers. Last night I had to do a Google image search for a telephone keypad just so I could call Visa. Ugh.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Tales from the Mundane
Some days I get so caught up in life that I forget that others may not know what's going on in my world. Now for the most part it's uneventful. Was on a bit of a long stretch at work. I wound up calling in sick at one point just to get a day off. Fortunately, this weekend I had 3 days off. It makes it much more tolerable to go back to work tomorrow. Then in for 3 days and off for 1. No idea what I'll be working the following week. I am hoping for two things: No long stretch, and either weekends off or at least consecutive days off... The consecutive days are much more likely on that one.
Not that long ago I was writing an email and the S key fell off the keyboard. Now how does that happen? So I had to take the MacBook Pro into the service provider. The good news was that it was a 5 minute fix. I was freaking out thinking that I was going to have to leave the computer there for a few days while they get in a new keyboard. Instead he had a spare keyboard that he uses to replace individual keys. So I was in and out in no time.
What made it more critical is that the other computer was in for repair at the same time. Not sure if I had mentioned before that when I installed Vista on it I had a nasty screen flicker. I thought I was going to have a seizure. If I left it long enough for it to go to sleep when it woke up it was fine. Eventually, I got sick of the flicker so I reinstalled Windows XP on it. Too bad it had the same issue. So we took it into Future Shop. They replaced the motherboard and it still had the same issue. In the end they decided to replace it. Now I must say getting a replacement was good news with a touch of bad news. It's always nice to get a new computer. Since they don't sell Gateways any more that meant they were replacing it with a different brand. Future Shops replacement policy is that they will replace it with similar features. So even though we spent $1000 on the computer in the first place they were giving us one that was selling for like $600. Something just seems wrong about that... Or maybe it's just because my MacBook Pro was replaced with the current model... so I didn't feel like I was getting screwed in the process.
Get the new computer home and go to install the wireless card... Back to this dejection over the experience. I knew that the features they were going by was the key components... Processor, RAM, and hard drive space. There was only one PCI slot. And many people wouldn't think that was a big deal except that I did have both a wireless card and an added sound card. It also didn't have as many USB ports. So the replacement did have some drawbacks.
I turned on the computer and it wasn't long before I had the blue screen of death. Things really weren't looking good. Spent 2 hours troubleshooting and even went as far as trying to reinstall the OS. Too bad even that failed with the loveley blue screen. So then the new computer had to go back. When Steve went in he mentioned the lack of an extra PCI slot. While they were deciding what to do he left the store since he had to go to work. Gave me the receipt in case I wanted to deal with it. I did my homework. None of the HPs fit my needs but there was an Acer that cost only about $50 more then the HP they gave us but it was a HUGE upgrade and one I would actually be happy with. And it had the extra USB ports and the PCI slot. I call in and initially he was going to give us the same model we had before... But I take the gamble and mention the Acer. He calls back about 15 minutes later to tell me I'm getting the Acer and to ask for the modem back. Oops... guess they wanted ALL the components back with the system. My bad.
When I went in I learned how useless some of the staff there are. I knew there was another Acer that was even worse then what they had offered the day before and I wanted to make sure that wasn't the one I was leaving with. So I ask the guy. He seems to think that he needs to actually open the box to find out. Just ignore the big sticker on the side.... And it was the wrong one. So then the guy I had actually been talking to comes out. It was supposed to be the upgrade but someone grabbed the wrong one. So now the one that has been opened is supposed to be sold as an open box system. Good job buddy. get the right one and I can go home.
Now I am happy.... This one works much better and really is an upgrade from the system that I had. Who cares that it's not an HP? You're really paying for the brand there any ways. Besides any PC still takes a backseat to my Mac. Would've been even nicer if they had been willing to replace it with a Mac. No luck there though.
Not that long ago I was writing an email and the S key fell off the keyboard. Now how does that happen? So I had to take the MacBook Pro into the service provider. The good news was that it was a 5 minute fix. I was freaking out thinking that I was going to have to leave the computer there for a few days while they get in a new keyboard. Instead he had a spare keyboard that he uses to replace individual keys. So I was in and out in no time.
What made it more critical is that the other computer was in for repair at the same time. Not sure if I had mentioned before that when I installed Vista on it I had a nasty screen flicker. I thought I was going to have a seizure. If I left it long enough for it to go to sleep when it woke up it was fine. Eventually, I got sick of the flicker so I reinstalled Windows XP on it. Too bad it had the same issue. So we took it into Future Shop. They replaced the motherboard and it still had the same issue. In the end they decided to replace it. Now I must say getting a replacement was good news with a touch of bad news. It's always nice to get a new computer. Since they don't sell Gateways any more that meant they were replacing it with a different brand. Future Shops replacement policy is that they will replace it with similar features. So even though we spent $1000 on the computer in the first place they were giving us one that was selling for like $600. Something just seems wrong about that... Or maybe it's just because my MacBook Pro was replaced with the current model... so I didn't feel like I was getting screwed in the process.
Get the new computer home and go to install the wireless card... Back to this dejection over the experience. I knew that the features they were going by was the key components... Processor, RAM, and hard drive space. There was only one PCI slot. And many people wouldn't think that was a big deal except that I did have both a wireless card and an added sound card. It also didn't have as many USB ports. So the replacement did have some drawbacks.
I turned on the computer and it wasn't long before I had the blue screen of death. Things really weren't looking good. Spent 2 hours troubleshooting and even went as far as trying to reinstall the OS. Too bad even that failed with the loveley blue screen. So then the new computer had to go back. When Steve went in he mentioned the lack of an extra PCI slot. While they were deciding what to do he left the store since he had to go to work. Gave me the receipt in case I wanted to deal with it. I did my homework. None of the HPs fit my needs but there was an Acer that cost only about $50 more then the HP they gave us but it was a HUGE upgrade and one I would actually be happy with. And it had the extra USB ports and the PCI slot. I call in and initially he was going to give us the same model we had before... But I take the gamble and mention the Acer. He calls back about 15 minutes later to tell me I'm getting the Acer and to ask for the modem back. Oops... guess they wanted ALL the components back with the system. My bad.
When I went in I learned how useless some of the staff there are. I knew there was another Acer that was even worse then what they had offered the day before and I wanted to make sure that wasn't the one I was leaving with. So I ask the guy. He seems to think that he needs to actually open the box to find out. Just ignore the big sticker on the side.... And it was the wrong one. So then the guy I had actually been talking to comes out. It was supposed to be the upgrade but someone grabbed the wrong one. So now the one that has been opened is supposed to be sold as an open box system. Good job buddy. get the right one and I can go home.
Now I am happy.... This one works much better and really is an upgrade from the system that I had. Who cares that it's not an HP? You're really paying for the brand there any ways. Besides any PC still takes a backseat to my Mac. Would've been even nicer if they had been willing to replace it with a Mac. No luck there though.
Friday, July 04, 2008
Inadequacies of the English Language
Really this goes along with my last post but I felt it deserved it's own space. The other day I was having a great conversation with a friend of mine about friendships. We were discussing close friendships but then there are always people that don't quite make the grade. They're "friends" but not in the best friends forever sense. They're not really acquaintances either. So I went on the hunt for a word that was between friend and acquaintance. I really couldn't find one. It seems that in English the word "friend" means anything above and beyond an acquaintance.
In my search (God bless the internet and Google *lol*) I came across this article that compared the Russian word "Droog" to the English word "Friend." Or should I say that it compared the cultures, more so then just the words that were being used.
I look around and I think of North Americans as being soliary... It's all about the "me." And that shows in our behaviours and our interactions with others. It's the iPod culture where we just tun everyone else out. Most of my conversations now revolve around IM and email and not over the phone or in person. Now I know that I am guarded so I can't possibly extend my reluctance to be close to someone and share all the details with my life to society as a whole... Having said that, I certainly believe that the nature of friendships that we have in North America is quite different then those being described of the Russian culture.
So I think the word "friend" is often overused and I believe there really needs to be an English word between acquaintance and friend... or a word more like the Russian word "droog" to represent that inner circle of friends... those people that we truly let in... if we let anyone in at all.
In my search (God bless the internet and Google *lol*) I came across this article that compared the Russian word "Droog" to the English word "Friend." Or should I say that it compared the cultures, more so then just the words that were being used.
I look around and I think of North Americans as being soliary... It's all about the "me." And that shows in our behaviours and our interactions with others. It's the iPod culture where we just tun everyone else out. Most of my conversations now revolve around IM and email and not over the phone or in person. Now I know that I am guarded so I can't possibly extend my reluctance to be close to someone and share all the details with my life to society as a whole... Having said that, I certainly believe that the nature of friendships that we have in North America is quite different then those being described of the Russian culture.
“The intensity of Russian relationships surprises Americans. Russians share everything with their closest friends. They share each other’s sorrow. They commiserate and help each other. A male friend is a brother, a drinking companion, a soul mate, and a bulwark against the outside world... To a Russian woman, a girlfriend is a confidante with whom she shares things she may not share with her husband or mother. The women see each other as comrades in arms against weak men and a hostile world. Russian émigrés are even closer because they have their own problems and difficulties in coping with life in their new country... In Russia, friends were there to help you when the system got in the way, to help you get a job, to fix your car, or lend you money. Few Americans have the time or patience for relationships requiring such commitment and loyalty. These relationships are very demanding.”
I think back to my last post about Facebook and the "friends" that are on the list. Certainly when I think of the comrade in arms and sharing everything with these people I think no way. The closeness just isn't there.So I think the word "friend" is often overused and I believe there really needs to be an English word between acquaintance and friend... or a word more like the Russian word "droog" to represent that inner circle of friends... those people that we truly let in... if we let anyone in at all.
Why I Hate FaceBook
Really it could apply to any social networking site but I don't use any of the others. I already know that some people who read that are going to go on the defensive because they love FaceBook.... Good thing it's my blog and my point of view then. :)
I look at my "friends" (and I use that term loosely) list and see 153 names. But then I click on someone else's profile and maybe they have 200 names. Suddenly I start to feel a little inadequate. The comparison begins. It's like being back in high school again... where you want to be one of the cool kids with all the friends. In reality though I look at the list of names and some of them are family members, some of them are acquaintances, some of them little more then acquaintances, and then there are the gems.... These are the people that I truly call friends. So while I am lamenting about how someone else might have 200 names on that list I am still blessed to have at least 1 true friend. Some people don't even have that.
Lately I have been reminded to cherish those people that you truly call friends and don't ever take them for granted. I am going to end this post with a forward that someone sent to me...
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on. Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season. LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant. Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.
I look at my "friends" (and I use that term loosely) list and see 153 names. But then I click on someone else's profile and maybe they have 200 names. Suddenly I start to feel a little inadequate. The comparison begins. It's like being back in high school again... where you want to be one of the cool kids with all the friends. In reality though I look at the list of names and some of them are family members, some of them are acquaintances, some of them little more then acquaintances, and then there are the gems.... These are the people that I truly call friends. So while I am lamenting about how someone else might have 200 names on that list I am still blessed to have at least 1 true friend. Some people don't even have that.
Lately I have been reminded to cherish those people that you truly call friends and don't ever take them for granted. I am going to end this post with a forward that someone sent to me...
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on. Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season. LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant. Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Health & Well Being
Been meaning to post this for a little while. I was reading Therapy Doc's blog over at "Everyone Needs Therapy" like I usually do. There was a post on ADHD and the need for a family assessment before prescribing medication. Now I am not going to comment on ADHD or the treatment options. The only part I want to comment on is the closing line which was, "Of course, medication is so much easier, right?"
It has really made me think about the health care system, the medical model, and what we are willing to accept. Let's face it therapy is work. It is not an easy process. It involves taking a chance... and opening yourself up.... being real. Deep down I am sure that most people would say that if they could just take a medication and skip the hard work of therapy they would. We're prone to go with what's easier. Let's face it this is part of the reason that some people self-medicate.
We seem to have embraced the fact that medication is the be-all and end all. In some circumstances it is warranted but I can't help but wonder if there is an over reliance on medication and a negligence on anything that doesn't fall under the medical model. If it can't be prescribed then it may get overlooked.
I can say, for sure, that the insurance company whole-heartedly embraces the medical model and this may be at the detriment of the patient. Take my Fibromyalgia for instance. I am on Trazodone to help me sleep but this does nothing for the pain. My doctor even admitted that medications wil largely be hit or miss. I go to the chiropractor and this helps tremendously. There's two problems. For one, I have to pay up front and be reimbursed. Compare that to medications where they just swipe my card and deduct the 80% automatically. Secondly, they only cover $200/year. That's only 3 months worth of visits. Then I'm on my own. I don't want to rely on medication when there is a holistic approach that helps. So in the end I feel like I am getting screwed by the health care system. After all I have something that works but affording it is a little more challenging. At least with my old job it was $500 which would cover me for 7 months.
Chiropractic care is just one example.... Therapy is another good example. My company will pay up to $200 to see a psychologist and then you're on your own. You would think by now that people could really get the help they need. But no.... I just wonder if things will ever change. I wonder if we will ever have a situation where people can get the help they need and not just be locked into the medical model where pharmaceuticals rule.
It has really made me think about the health care system, the medical model, and what we are willing to accept. Let's face it therapy is work. It is not an easy process. It involves taking a chance... and opening yourself up.... being real. Deep down I am sure that most people would say that if they could just take a medication and skip the hard work of therapy they would. We're prone to go with what's easier. Let's face it this is part of the reason that some people self-medicate.
We seem to have embraced the fact that medication is the be-all and end all. In some circumstances it is warranted but I can't help but wonder if there is an over reliance on medication and a negligence on anything that doesn't fall under the medical model. If it can't be prescribed then it may get overlooked.
I can say, for sure, that the insurance company whole-heartedly embraces the medical model and this may be at the detriment of the patient. Take my Fibromyalgia for instance. I am on Trazodone to help me sleep but this does nothing for the pain. My doctor even admitted that medications wil largely be hit or miss. I go to the chiropractor and this helps tremendously. There's two problems. For one, I have to pay up front and be reimbursed. Compare that to medications where they just swipe my card and deduct the 80% automatically. Secondly, they only cover $200/year. That's only 3 months worth of visits. Then I'm on my own. I don't want to rely on medication when there is a holistic approach that helps. So in the end I feel like I am getting screwed by the health care system. After all I have something that works but affording it is a little more challenging. At least with my old job it was $500 which would cover me for 7 months.
Chiropractic care is just one example.... Therapy is another good example. My company will pay up to $200 to see a psychologist and then you're on your own. You would think by now that people could really get the help they need. But no.... I just wonder if things will ever change. I wonder if we will ever have a situation where people can get the help they need and not just be locked into the medical model where pharmaceuticals rule.
Facts About Fibromyalgia
I keep seeing the ads for Lyrica and for the web site MyFibroRelief. Now the second web site is really just a way to introduce you to the disorder and to try and get you to ask your doctor for Lyrica. Generally I prefer I web site that is not quite as biased and not presented by a pharmaceutical company but it was still informative and I wanted to pass on some of the information.
Fibromyalgia Facts
- Fibromyalgia is one of the most common chronic widespread types of pain in the U.S. The condition affects millions of people.
- Fibromyalgia pain is widespread and persistent. There is often muscle tenderness. Plus soreness or burning pain. Which often causes a lack of sleep. Sometimes, patients also have stiffness in their muscles or flu-like aching.
- Fibromyalgia is thought to result from neurological changes in how a patient perceives pain.
- To be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, patients must have widespread pain lasting at least three months. Plus pain in at least 11 of 18 parts of the body known as "tender points" (according to the American College of Rheumatology).
- Women are much more likely to report having fibromyalgia than men. 80% to 90% of those diagnosed are women. Although both men and women can experience fibromyalgia.
- The outlook for people with fibromyalgia has never been better. Exercise, diet and rest can help manage this condition. So can counseling and medication.
- Several types of health care providers are available to help manage fibromyalgia. These include rheumatologists, primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, neurologists, psychiatrists, physiatrists and pain specialists.
- Fibromyalgia may place large financial costs on patients and society. It may cause lost work days. And lost income and disability payments.
- As with other chronic pain conditions, fibromyalgia is not a psychological condition, it can impact mood and cause distress. In that way it is similar to other chronic pain conditions. However, the majority of sufferers do not have mood-related disorders.
Never Enough Time
I have decided that there are just not enough hours in the day. My blog quite often is what gets neglected in the process. I'm starting to wish there was a way to telepathically create a post. It would make my life much easier and I'd be more productive that way too. Or even using talk-to-type software.
At the moment I am enjoying my days off... At least I am not sick. The plague is gone. After walking about 27k this week I am taking it easy and not wandering very far. Plus the sky is currently grey and we're under a severe thunderstorm warning. Doesn't exactly make me want to venture outside. I'd much rather just spend the time with Azrael who is currently showing off his belly.
At the moment I am enjoying my days off... At least I am not sick. The plague is gone. After walking about 27k this week I am taking it easy and not wandering very far. Plus the sky is currently grey and we're under a severe thunderstorm warning. Doesn't exactly make me want to venture outside. I'd much rather just spend the time with Azrael who is currently showing off his belly.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Raw End of the Deal
I was really enjoying my days off. I was just resting and taking it easy. Or should I say I really enjoyed my first day off. Then on Monday I woke up at about 4:00 a.m. to a really sore throat. It got to the point where I was having trouble swallowing. As a result I was dry heaving. I got to the point where I almost wanted to vomit in the hopes that it would help. So Tuesday I was concerned that it would continue. I woke up and was relieved that I could swallow again. However, I was really congested. I knew that work was going to be really busy as we had been closed for the holiday the day before. And I wanted to at least try to make it through the day. So I stumbled off to work. I went through a pocket pack of Kleenex before lunch. My eyes were watering and I felt lousy. People wanted me to stay away from them so they didn't get sick too. For most of the day I was debating whether or not to call in sick on Wednesday.
At the end of the day I asked the supervisor about the ramifications of calling in sick. We are no longer doing the in class training so one would think that it wouldn't be as serious if I missed a day. The answer shocked me. He threatened to give me a written warning if I called in sick. Now that seems a little harsh. His claim was that in orientation we all would've received the equivalent of a verbal warning. Now I realize that the contract does not allow you to miss more then 16 hours while in training and if you do then say goodbye to your job. But so far they haven't held to that. The supervisor even admitted to me that he is behind on handing out disciplinary action. Last time I checked it was supposed to be done in a timely fashion. If he gave me a written warning though that stays with you and it means no chance of promotion. All that because you missed one day.
I have a couple of problems with this. First of all, no one else was given a written warning. Brian had showed me the letter he received after missing a day. It was a verbal warning and not a written one. So I'd like to see them try to give me a written warning. I'd be having a few words with HR if that happened.
The second problem I have is that in over 6 months I had not missed a single day of work. Had I still been on the old contract nothing would have even been said to me. Had I gotten sick a week later nothing would've been said. But because it was while in training I am being severely penalized for it. Something just doesn't seem completely fair there.... It's not like I wasn't legitimately sick either.
I must say I am not a big fan of their attendance policy in general. After 6 months you start earning 1 sick day per quarter. Maybe it's just me but when I get sick it's usually for more then 24 hours. So instead of really being able to recover you have little choice but to return to work. I get that they don't want so many people using up their sick days right at the beginning of the year.... especially since some of them may not be around all that long. But as anyone that has worked in a call center can attest to when one person gets sick it spreads like a wildfire. It's not like they pay us enough to miss any time. Definitely not an environment that promotes health and well being.
But getting back to my own illness here... Tuesday I got home and just got progressively worse. Didn't take long before I had a fever of something like 100.5. It was at that point when I made the decision that despite the threats I was not coming into work the following day. I called the sick line that night. It was not terribly reassuring when they couldn't find me in the system. Is this Office Space? I'll be moved around randomly and just not be paid for my work? Then I had to call the actual supervisor and leave a message. Pretty sure I was rambling at that point. Then off to bed I went and slept for 12 hours. I went to my doctor on an unrelated matter and he said that it was viral and to get better it was going to take fluid and rest.
So today I was back to work. In an ideal situation I would've taken today off as well to rest. But had I done that I would've been guaranteed a written warning and would've been out money. So back to work I went.
Update: I am sure you are wondering why there is an update when I hadn't even posted it yet. Well I wrote most of it before leaving for work since I couldn't sleep and was up early this morning. I had been told that if I wanted to be paid the sick day then I would have to tell a supervisor that I wanted to be paid. Now why does it have to be so complicated? Can't they just assume that I want the money and pay the day? But no... They seem to love making things difficult. I should point out that the answer did not come from anyone official and I actually have not received an official answer. But first I was told that I hadn't been there long enough. Okay so they didn't realize that I was on a different contract and was switched over. Then I was told that it wouldn't be paid because I was in training. No one ever told me that there were stipulations. Finally, I was told that I would need a doctor's note. Now I was at the doctor's yesterday. I did not get a doctor's note. I did not think I was going to need one. And it costs me $10 to get a doctor's note. Furthermore, if I want to see my doctor I have to book the appointment well in advance. Plus my doctor is out of town. What do they expect me to do? This time okay I can call the office and get a doctors note since I was there... but in future.... Once again I feel like I am getting the raw end of the deal here. I feel like I have to jump through hoops to get something that they promised. Not like that seems to be anything new. And someone admitted to me that the company makes their own rules. So will I get paid for the day.... who knows. Nothing I can really do about that now since I already took the day off. I just feel like I am getting screwed again...
At the end of the day I asked the supervisor about the ramifications of calling in sick. We are no longer doing the in class training so one would think that it wouldn't be as serious if I missed a day. The answer shocked me. He threatened to give me a written warning if I called in sick. Now that seems a little harsh. His claim was that in orientation we all would've received the equivalent of a verbal warning. Now I realize that the contract does not allow you to miss more then 16 hours while in training and if you do then say goodbye to your job. But so far they haven't held to that. The supervisor even admitted to me that he is behind on handing out disciplinary action. Last time I checked it was supposed to be done in a timely fashion. If he gave me a written warning though that stays with you and it means no chance of promotion. All that because you missed one day.
I have a couple of problems with this. First of all, no one else was given a written warning. Brian had showed me the letter he received after missing a day. It was a verbal warning and not a written one. So I'd like to see them try to give me a written warning. I'd be having a few words with HR if that happened.
The second problem I have is that in over 6 months I had not missed a single day of work. Had I still been on the old contract nothing would have even been said to me. Had I gotten sick a week later nothing would've been said. But because it was while in training I am being severely penalized for it. Something just doesn't seem completely fair there.... It's not like I wasn't legitimately sick either.
I must say I am not a big fan of their attendance policy in general. After 6 months you start earning 1 sick day per quarter. Maybe it's just me but when I get sick it's usually for more then 24 hours. So instead of really being able to recover you have little choice but to return to work. I get that they don't want so many people using up their sick days right at the beginning of the year.... especially since some of them may not be around all that long. But as anyone that has worked in a call center can attest to when one person gets sick it spreads like a wildfire. It's not like they pay us enough to miss any time. Definitely not an environment that promotes health and well being.
But getting back to my own illness here... Tuesday I got home and just got progressively worse. Didn't take long before I had a fever of something like 100.5. It was at that point when I made the decision that despite the threats I was not coming into work the following day. I called the sick line that night. It was not terribly reassuring when they couldn't find me in the system. Is this Office Space? I'll be moved around randomly and just not be paid for my work? Then I had to call the actual supervisor and leave a message. Pretty sure I was rambling at that point. Then off to bed I went and slept for 12 hours. I went to my doctor on an unrelated matter and he said that it was viral and to get better it was going to take fluid and rest.
So today I was back to work. In an ideal situation I would've taken today off as well to rest. But had I done that I would've been guaranteed a written warning and would've been out money. So back to work I went.
Update: I am sure you are wondering why there is an update when I hadn't even posted it yet. Well I wrote most of it before leaving for work since I couldn't sleep and was up early this morning. I had been told that if I wanted to be paid the sick day then I would have to tell a supervisor that I wanted to be paid. Now why does it have to be so complicated? Can't they just assume that I want the money and pay the day? But no... They seem to love making things difficult. I should point out that the answer did not come from anyone official and I actually have not received an official answer. But first I was told that I hadn't been there long enough. Okay so they didn't realize that I was on a different contract and was switched over. Then I was told that it wouldn't be paid because I was in training. No one ever told me that there were stipulations. Finally, I was told that I would need a doctor's note. Now I was at the doctor's yesterday. I did not get a doctor's note. I did not think I was going to need one. And it costs me $10 to get a doctor's note. Furthermore, if I want to see my doctor I have to book the appointment well in advance. Plus my doctor is out of town. What do they expect me to do? This time okay I can call the office and get a doctors note since I was there... but in future.... Once again I feel like I am getting the raw end of the deal here. I feel like I have to jump through hoops to get something that they promised. Not like that seems to be anything new. And someone admitted to me that the company makes their own rules. So will I get paid for the day.... who knows. Nothing I can really do about that now since I already took the day off. I just feel like I am getting screwed again...
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Shock Doctrine
Normally I wouldn't do a book review... especially for a book that I haven't even read. So I guess this really isn't a review. I am looking forward to the release of Naomi Klein's new book called "Shock Doctrine." Back when I was in university I read the book No Logo for one of my classes.
In a nutshell it challenges the idea that democracy and the free market actually go hand in hand. The argument is made that politicians exploit times of crisis and disasters to pass bills that might not get passed otherwise. It's called disaster capitalism. It's hard to argue with some of the examples that are provided. Take for instance the aftermath of the Tsunami that hit southeast Asia. Immediately following the beaches were auctioned off to tourist resorts. There are many examples following Hurricane Katrina. Housing projects wiped out. Corporations capitalizing on the plight of others.
In a nutshell it challenges the idea that democracy and the free market actually go hand in hand. The argument is made that politicians exploit times of crisis and disasters to pass bills that might not get passed otherwise. It's called disaster capitalism. It's hard to argue with some of the examples that are provided. Take for instance the aftermath of the Tsunami that hit southeast Asia. Immediately following the beaches were auctioned off to tourist resorts. There are many examples following Hurricane Katrina. Housing projects wiped out. Corporations capitalizing on the plight of others.
Free Gift With Purchase
As you may be aware I really like Yahoo news. And some days I come across some real gems there. This one left me scratching my head. It seems sales are soaring at a Missouri car dealership where they offer a free handgun with purchase. Customers can choose either a $250 credit at a gun shop or $250 for gas. Seems all but two people have opted for the gun. Maybe it's just me but I don't get the connection between a car and a gun. Is that for road rage?
Okay I have been to Missouri and I must say that there was a gun shop on every corner. It was a bit of a culture shock for me. After all here in Canada I'm not sure I've ever even wandered by a gun shop. I mean I probably have but it wasn't as prominent. Their gun shops are like our liquor stores. Definitely a different culture and a different mindset. Apparently one that sells cars.
Okay I have been to Missouri and I must say that there was a gun shop on every corner. It was a bit of a culture shock for me. After all here in Canada I'm not sure I've ever even wandered by a gun shop. I mean I probably have but it wasn't as prominent. Their gun shops are like our liquor stores. Definitely a different culture and a different mindset. Apparently one that sells cars.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Early Mornings Do Not Agree With Me
I realized today that I am missed... and people notice my absence. Now that to me seems a little odd since I am right here. I am still online. Or can be reached by phone. But my Blog has not been updated and my status on Facebook has been non-existent. So in many ways it is like I don't exist. But don't worry I haven't completely fallen off the face of the earth.
I would like to be able to say that a newfound relationship has been taking up all my time.... But that is more wishful thinking. More like those super early mornings really do not agree with me. Let me tell you at 5:45 am I do NOT want to be getting out of bed and preparing myself for the long walk to work. The job really doesn't help that but that's a whole other story.
I have now recovered from working midnights, I think. Took quite a while but now even on my days off I am up in the morning. Maybe not quite as early as before work but still in the morning. I'm sure a few people are now wondering if I have a fever since I was always the one going to bed late and waking up late. Not any more. I guess I did a good job of resetting my sleep patterns.
Other then that my life has been pretty uneventful. Getting plenty of exercise walking to work. Had a friend suggest that I join the military. Not sure how he figured I was going to manage that with the Fibromyalgia or with the thought of carrying 50+ pounds on my back. Or even the fact I'd be without Azrael for an extended period of time. Somehow I just can't see it.
Speaking of Azrael I have an addict for a kitty. I am back to having catnip all over the floor at the moment. I put down the bag of catnip instead of putting it away. So he got into it. And now I really have nothing else to say. Enjoying the peace and quiet and am about to go back to it.
I would like to be able to say that a newfound relationship has been taking up all my time.... But that is more wishful thinking. More like those super early mornings really do not agree with me. Let me tell you at 5:45 am I do NOT want to be getting out of bed and preparing myself for the long walk to work. The job really doesn't help that but that's a whole other story.
I have now recovered from working midnights, I think. Took quite a while but now even on my days off I am up in the morning. Maybe not quite as early as before work but still in the morning. I'm sure a few people are now wondering if I have a fever since I was always the one going to bed late and waking up late. Not any more. I guess I did a good job of resetting my sleep patterns.
Other then that my life has been pretty uneventful. Getting plenty of exercise walking to work. Had a friend suggest that I join the military. Not sure how he figured I was going to manage that with the Fibromyalgia or with the thought of carrying 50+ pounds on my back. Or even the fact I'd be without Azrael for an extended period of time. Somehow I just can't see it.
Speaking of Azrael I have an addict for a kitty. I am back to having catnip all over the floor at the moment. I put down the bag of catnip instead of putting it away. So he got into it. And now I really have nothing else to say. Enjoying the peace and quiet and am about to go back to it.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
A Great Big Thank You
As many of you are aware I lost my bracelet. So today I want to say a big thank you to my friend Derren. He knew just how much that bracelet meant to me and so he went out and made one for me. It even has a clasp making it much harder for me to lose. So thank you for that! :o)
Pause, Stop and Think
Ever since I got my cable fixed I have been subscribed to the military channel. I have such eclectic tastes I tell you. Hours of viewing pleasure. Any ways I was watching one show not that long ago called Combat Zone. It looks at specific battles that have occurred in history. This particular episode was on the "Triangle of Death" in Iraq.
What stood out to me wasn't the attacks by the insurgents or the changing face of modern warfare. The main focus was on the first ever democratic election. The US soldiers were protecting the polls allowing people to vote. They would not allow cars for fear of car bombs. So people had to walk in. And still they came. The insurgents continued to attack.. with mortar fire and live rounds. And still they came. These people risked their lives to come out and vote. 70% turned out to vote. In spite of it all these people had the courage to get out and vote.
Kind of puts us to shame. The last election I did get out and vote... but it wasn't because I really felt inspired to do so. I only voted because I was walking right by the polling station any ways. I still felt like it was an inconvenience and it was right down the street. Not like I had to contend with gunfire or anything. It was apathy. I didn't feel like it mattered. Political parties to me equal corruption and none of their platforms really seemed relevant to me. Stories like these really make me stop and think. I take for granted the fact I live in a democratic society and the freedom that comes with it. Perhaps it would be good to keep this in mind the next time there is an election.
What stood out to me wasn't the attacks by the insurgents or the changing face of modern warfare. The main focus was on the first ever democratic election. The US soldiers were protecting the polls allowing people to vote. They would not allow cars for fear of car bombs. So people had to walk in. And still they came. The insurgents continued to attack.. with mortar fire and live rounds. And still they came. These people risked their lives to come out and vote. 70% turned out to vote. In spite of it all these people had the courage to get out and vote.
Kind of puts us to shame. The last election I did get out and vote... but it wasn't because I really felt inspired to do so. I only voted because I was walking right by the polling station any ways. I still felt like it was an inconvenience and it was right down the street. Not like I had to contend with gunfire or anything. It was apathy. I didn't feel like it mattered. Political parties to me equal corruption and none of their platforms really seemed relevant to me. Stories like these really make me stop and think. I take for granted the fact I live in a democratic society and the freedom that comes with it. Perhaps it would be good to keep this in mind the next time there is an election.
Cat's Best Friend
In a previous post I mentioned that I went grocery shopping the other day. I was at Zellers and decided to pick up some catnip for Azrael. I hadn't bought him any treats or toys in a while. And my paycheque was higher then expected. So why not? I was putting away the groceries and normally he loves to play with the shopping bags. This time he could smell the catnip. So he was trying to get into it. I had to go down to IGA as well. I debated taking it away from him but he had not been able to open the package and I wasn't going to be long.
I am sure that you can see where this is going. I come home and Azrael greets me at the door like usual. As I pet him I am wondering why he's dirty. Then I see the carpet. He got into the catnip all right. It's now spread all over the floor.
I was sitting down and trying to figure out what to do. I didn't want to just vacuum it all up but it's not like cat nip is all that easy to get off the carpet. I was watching and instead of going after what was already on the floor Azrael was trying to get the remnants out of the bag. Eventually I had to get up what I could and put it out of his reach.
He really enjoyed it and I am glad that I could do that for him. I am wondering though how bad it is that I am my cat's drug dealer and am promoting him getting stoned. *lol*
Public Holidays
Back in February was Family Day.... the newest public holiday in Ontario. Initially, I had been banking on getting double time and a half for the day since when asked my supervisor said that they don't give lieu days for any of the holidays. So imagine my surprise when I find out that they are going with a lieu day this time. It does cost them less because it's a day off with pay, rather then 1.5x your wages plus the pay for working the day.
So I requested that my lieu day be a Saturday in March. I was hoping that this would guarantee I wouldn't be working on the anniversary of when I was fired from Minacs. My days off had consistently been Thursday and Friday but it was always possible that the scheduler might do something other then copy & paste for the schedule. Plus it was the only way I was ever going to get a Saturday off. Then Bill got a note saying that they were going to assign the day off. What he said is that he had already submitted the request so we would just be waiting to see if it was given. Now when the schedule was released it wasn't on there. That really didn't mean anything since as I mentioned whoever does the scheduling just copied and pasted the schedule from the week before. So I asked Bill and the next thing I know I have the day off. So at this point I was assuming that it was being used as the lieu day.
Have I mentioned the guy that does scheduling really likes to copy and paste? The following week my schedule still had 3 days off. Now the week before had been the Easter weekend so I knew I had an extra day's pay there. I knew that getting an extra day off.... when my paycheque would remain th same size... was not an opportunity that presented itself very often. So I decided to capitalize on it. Then the following week I still had three days off... I wasn't going to take it... and then with the contract loss I got the time off any ways.
Get paid and low and behold it wasn't on there. Now when I first found out I was at home and not about to go all the way to work to get my pay stub and confirm what I already suspected. First day of training I went down to HR and was reminded that to work in HR (at least here any ways) people skills are not a job requirement. They couldn't find the pay stub and the person that would have it had called in sick. So the next day I was back... and got my pay stub. Sure enough I wasn't paid. When I tried to ask I got cut off and told to talk to Bill. When I went to ask Bill he said that he had told me I might not get paid for the day and that it was a personal request day. Talk about BS and covering his own ass. He never said that. He told me that they were assigning the days off but also said that it might go through since he put the request in before he got that memo. Then he said to let him know if they hadn't paid it out within the 3 months.
At that point I gave up. Since they hadn't paid it out I figured I might as well just enjoy the fact now they owed me yet another day off. If they pay it out it has to be with the shit premium. Otherwise they have to give me the day off with pay. No complaints there. Now you would think that since Bill is a supervisor (and was my supervisor) he would be looking into what they are going to do since it has to be given to me by May 17. That's coming up pretty quickly. Otherwise, it's a violation of the employment standards act. Having said that, it's not like the Ministry of Labour is all that speedy. Took 8 months for them to open my last investigation with my former employer. The real issue is that we will still be training until then. Granted we will be on the floor before the date passes. T-Mobile has a policy that if you miss more then 16 hours then you're out. I'm not sure if that is just in class hours... and I don't think that I will be missing that but if you take away the 8 hours for the lieu day then I really can't miss any time.
It's not like I haven't given them outs. I booked the day off a month after the holiday. Even gave them the chance to correct that and just pay for the day (not the premium wages) knowing that we were going to be in training until their time runs out. Even asked them about paying out the lieu day as one of the days I missed instead of vacation time. That was more for their benefit then mine. I was getting paid for the day regardless... but thought it would be easier for them.
Now I am half tempted to just do nothing... After all I can pretty much guarantee that the 3 months will come and go and I won't get the day off. But at the same time I just want what I am entitled to and don't want to fight for it. I am concerned that if I don't hound them for it I'll get lost in the shuffle and lose the day completely. After all I was switched to a new contract in there.... Or if I leave I'll end up fighting them for the pay. When Heather comes back from vacation I am going to ask her to look into it. If there is still no answer then I am just going to leave it.... until the 3 months has gone by. Then I'll be asking what happened to my day off. See what they say then.
So I requested that my lieu day be a Saturday in March. I was hoping that this would guarantee I wouldn't be working on the anniversary of when I was fired from Minacs. My days off had consistently been Thursday and Friday but it was always possible that the scheduler might do something other then copy & paste for the schedule. Plus it was the only way I was ever going to get a Saturday off. Then Bill got a note saying that they were going to assign the day off. What he said is that he had already submitted the request so we would just be waiting to see if it was given. Now when the schedule was released it wasn't on there. That really didn't mean anything since as I mentioned whoever does the scheduling just copied and pasted the schedule from the week before. So I asked Bill and the next thing I know I have the day off. So at this point I was assuming that it was being used as the lieu day.
Have I mentioned the guy that does scheduling really likes to copy and paste? The following week my schedule still had 3 days off. Now the week before had been the Easter weekend so I knew I had an extra day's pay there. I knew that getting an extra day off.... when my paycheque would remain th same size... was not an opportunity that presented itself very often. So I decided to capitalize on it. Then the following week I still had three days off... I wasn't going to take it... and then with the contract loss I got the time off any ways.
Get paid and low and behold it wasn't on there. Now when I first found out I was at home and not about to go all the way to work to get my pay stub and confirm what I already suspected. First day of training I went down to HR and was reminded that to work in HR (at least here any ways) people skills are not a job requirement. They couldn't find the pay stub and the person that would have it had called in sick. So the next day I was back... and got my pay stub. Sure enough I wasn't paid. When I tried to ask I got cut off and told to talk to Bill. When I went to ask Bill he said that he had told me I might not get paid for the day and that it was a personal request day. Talk about BS and covering his own ass. He never said that. He told me that they were assigning the days off but also said that it might go through since he put the request in before he got that memo. Then he said to let him know if they hadn't paid it out within the 3 months.
At that point I gave up. Since they hadn't paid it out I figured I might as well just enjoy the fact now they owed me yet another day off. If they pay it out it has to be with the shit premium. Otherwise they have to give me the day off with pay. No complaints there. Now you would think that since Bill is a supervisor (and was my supervisor) he would be looking into what they are going to do since it has to be given to me by May 17. That's coming up pretty quickly. Otherwise, it's a violation of the employment standards act. Having said that, it's not like the Ministry of Labour is all that speedy. Took 8 months for them to open my last investigation with my former employer. The real issue is that we will still be training until then. Granted we will be on the floor before the date passes. T-Mobile has a policy that if you miss more then 16 hours then you're out. I'm not sure if that is just in class hours... and I don't think that I will be missing that but if you take away the 8 hours for the lieu day then I really can't miss any time.
It's not like I haven't given them outs. I booked the day off a month after the holiday. Even gave them the chance to correct that and just pay for the day (not the premium wages) knowing that we were going to be in training until their time runs out. Even asked them about paying out the lieu day as one of the days I missed instead of vacation time. That was more for their benefit then mine. I was getting paid for the day regardless... but thought it would be easier for them.
Now I am half tempted to just do nothing... After all I can pretty much guarantee that the 3 months will come and go and I won't get the day off. But at the same time I just want what I am entitled to and don't want to fight for it. I am concerned that if I don't hound them for it I'll get lost in the shuffle and lose the day completely. After all I was switched to a new contract in there.... Or if I leave I'll end up fighting them for the pay. When Heather comes back from vacation I am going to ask her to look into it. If there is still no answer then I am just going to leave it.... until the 3 months has gone by. Then I'll be asking what happened to my day off. See what they say then.
Small Ray of Sunshine
I am still adjusting to the day shifts. It's so odd to see daylight again. This morning I slept in until Azrael jumped up on the bed any ways. He was my wake up call. I must say that the timing of it all was actually not such a bad thing. In winter there isn't a whole lot of sunlight and it was so cold that I didn't want to be outside. Now it's gorgeous weather outside. On Friday after work I took a long walk down to Chapters and the grocery store. It's also good because I am walking to work. I am not a fan of the cold and would much prefer to hibernate in the winter.
Monday payroll went in. The question had been raised about using vacation days to cover the 2 days that we lost. There was no response from HR. I guess, much like with everything else, they were still working on it. So we asked Heather, the trainer, about it. When we went on lunch she went to HR. The initial answer was no because they don't pay out the vacation pay. But then Heather realized that it wasn't that we were asking to pay it out... but to cover the days that we had missed. So back to HR she went... In the end she contacted the site director and after about an hour and a half had been told that we would all get vacation time for Monday and if we were scheduled to work Saturday then we would also get vacation pay for then as well. I was able to breathe a sigh of relief. That's a difference of $160. And with that pay cheque I had to cover my tax return.
Then on Wednesday we got our pay stubs. I am now cautiously optimistic. They kept us at our original rate... Well the shift premium was obviously excluded but that extra 75 cents is an extra $30 a week. That adds up pretty quickly and makes the difference between being able to pay bills and not being able to. I am scared that on the next pay cheque they will say that it was an error and take it away. I'm pretty sure if they try that there will be a cry of outrage. But we'll see. I wouldn't put anything past them at this point. Either way I did get paid the extra and am hopeful that it will continue.
Monday payroll went in. The question had been raised about using vacation days to cover the 2 days that we lost. There was no response from HR. I guess, much like with everything else, they were still working on it. So we asked Heather, the trainer, about it. When we went on lunch she went to HR. The initial answer was no because they don't pay out the vacation pay. But then Heather realized that it wasn't that we were asking to pay it out... but to cover the days that we had missed. So back to HR she went... In the end she contacted the site director and after about an hour and a half had been told that we would all get vacation time for Monday and if we were scheduled to work Saturday then we would also get vacation pay for then as well. I was able to breathe a sigh of relief. That's a difference of $160. And with that pay cheque I had to cover my tax return.
Then on Wednesday we got our pay stubs. I am now cautiously optimistic. They kept us at our original rate... Well the shift premium was obviously excluded but that extra 75 cents is an extra $30 a week. That adds up pretty quickly and makes the difference between being able to pay bills and not being able to. I am scared that on the next pay cheque they will say that it was an error and take it away. I'm pretty sure if they try that there will be a cry of outrage. But we'll see. I wouldn't put anything past them at this point. Either way I did get paid the extra and am hopeful that it will continue.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
What a Day, Part 2
So yesterday was fun.... today didn't start off much better. I didn't go to bed until 4. I couldn't completely give up the night shift routine quite yet, especially since I have plans first thing in the morning. I woke up at about midnight but didn't want to get out of bed yet. So I went back to sleep.
I woke up to an argument. Now I live in an apartment building so it's not that uncommon. But what jarred me awake was when I heard "Don't hit me." And then "I think you just broke my nose." I was suddenly awake. Not the way I wanted to start my day. So then I was trying to figure out what apartment it was coming from... or if it was outside. And the more I listened the more violent it seemed to become. Time to call the police. Now from the sounds of it I got the apartment wrong since I wasn't the only one that called.
Talk about the adrenaline rushing. I don't want to be a witness to this. I just don't want it to happen at all. 2 hours later and I am finally calm again. Not a good way to start the day.
I woke up to an argument. Now I live in an apartment building so it's not that uncommon. But what jarred me awake was when I heard "Don't hit me." And then "I think you just broke my nose." I was suddenly awake. Not the way I wanted to start my day. So then I was trying to figure out what apartment it was coming from... or if it was outside. And the more I listened the more violent it seemed to become. Time to call the police. Now from the sounds of it I got the apartment wrong since I wasn't the only one that called.
Talk about the adrenaline rushing. I don't want to be a witness to this. I just don't want it to happen at all. 2 hours later and I am finally calm again. Not a good way to start the day.
What a Day, Part 1
Remember how I said I was going to Blog about life shortly? It really had not been dramatic until I said that. Well work had involved some drama.... Then it all just hit the fan.
Yesterday night it started like any other day. Woke up at 9:30 when the alarm went off. Stayed in bed. Fell asleep again. Then got woken up by the alarm. Azrael came bounding into the room and up onto the bed. Nice to know he's my secondary alarm clock. Figure I've got some time to give him attention I curl up with him and then look at the clock. Discover it's 10:30. Oops, time to get up. Okay so that part wasn't as normal. Get up, get dressed, and head off to work.
At midnight it's time to login like usual. Except that there are no managers on duty. For some things I am sure that you could do the job without a manager but not tech support. We need someone to answer questions and authorize escalations. So we all logged in and went into Aux. Around 1 Stu and I had been discussing things and decided that we should go talk to the team leaders for the other contract before they left at 2. It's all about CYA. I was under the impression that we were not allowed to take calls without a supervisor on duty to approve escalations and in case of emergency. So we wander downstairs and leave while they try to reach our team leader... or really anyone that can make a decision and hopefully get someone in. One of the team leaders comes upstairs to find out if we had any idea who was supposed to be here. We just work here. The other team leader was calling the site director after not being able to reach Bill. So at about 1:30 the two team leaders come upstairs with word from the site director that we are to take calls. The question comes up about escalations... We're told to use Bill's name which I still think is fraudulent. The approval is supposed to be based on someone being there to answer questions if necessary about it.... Any ways they call Montreal to confirm but never get back to us. I should also mention that when told to take calls it turned into a confrontation. Some of us scattered so as not to be associated with it. I got pulled off the phones for having the most technical ability. I was just there to answer questions. Immediately I had 3 people that refused to take calls without a supervisor. So 2 people were logged in and another was rolling the queue to avoid calls. Then I had Montreal call wanting me to tell them to take calls. Now they had been told and I can't force them. For the next hour I had to listen to them justify their decision not to take calls and bitch about the whole situation. Had one of them playing mini-lawyer threatening to take the company to the human rights commission. For what? I was pretty happy when they decided to leave. They left at 3... going by the 3 hour rule. Now the 3 hour rule in the Employment Standards Act refers to you being sent home in less then 3 hours. They were not sent home... They left voluntarily. So I'm not sure how the 3 hour rule even applies here. Any ways they left and then at 5 Mr. Negativity finished his shift and left as well. That left 2 people taking calls for the rest of the night. The shift couldn't end soon enough.
I should've known something was up when the Ops manager showed up at about 7:30.... and then one of the team leaders who had been MIA also made an appearance.... Seems he had called the acting supervisor and no one knows what happened there. Then the HR generalist showed up. They sat the 3 of us down and told us that with all the issues we've had with the tools and the fact the call volume just isn't there they are closing down the Sympatico contract and moving it all to Montreal. Last day here will be April 4. How is that for notice?
So what does that mean? Well there is a T-Mobile training group starting on Monday. So they're offering us a job with them. I am not going to lie and say that I am happy about it. Rotating shifts.... Less pay... Billing issues with a cell-phone.... No more emails at night/You Tube/Facebook... About the only good thing is the 6 days off before it starts. That and the fact training is 8 weeks long. Training is always the easy part. But it's from 7 - 3.... not exactly a nice shift for me. I'm still processing the whole situation and where we go from here.
Yesterday night it started like any other day. Woke up at 9:30 when the alarm went off. Stayed in bed. Fell asleep again. Then got woken up by the alarm. Azrael came bounding into the room and up onto the bed. Nice to know he's my secondary alarm clock. Figure I've got some time to give him attention I curl up with him and then look at the clock. Discover it's 10:30. Oops, time to get up. Okay so that part wasn't as normal. Get up, get dressed, and head off to work.
At midnight it's time to login like usual. Except that there are no managers on duty. For some things I am sure that you could do the job without a manager but not tech support. We need someone to answer questions and authorize escalations. So we all logged in and went into Aux. Around 1 Stu and I had been discussing things and decided that we should go talk to the team leaders for the other contract before they left at 2. It's all about CYA. I was under the impression that we were not allowed to take calls without a supervisor on duty to approve escalations and in case of emergency. So we wander downstairs and leave while they try to reach our team leader... or really anyone that can make a decision and hopefully get someone in. One of the team leaders comes upstairs to find out if we had any idea who was supposed to be here. We just work here. The other team leader was calling the site director after not being able to reach Bill. So at about 1:30 the two team leaders come upstairs with word from the site director that we are to take calls. The question comes up about escalations... We're told to use Bill's name which I still think is fraudulent. The approval is supposed to be based on someone being there to answer questions if necessary about it.... Any ways they call Montreal to confirm but never get back to us. I should also mention that when told to take calls it turned into a confrontation. Some of us scattered so as not to be associated with it. I got pulled off the phones for having the most technical ability. I was just there to answer questions. Immediately I had 3 people that refused to take calls without a supervisor. So 2 people were logged in and another was rolling the queue to avoid calls. Then I had Montreal call wanting me to tell them to take calls. Now they had been told and I can't force them. For the next hour I had to listen to them justify their decision not to take calls and bitch about the whole situation. Had one of them playing mini-lawyer threatening to take the company to the human rights commission. For what? I was pretty happy when they decided to leave. They left at 3... going by the 3 hour rule. Now the 3 hour rule in the Employment Standards Act refers to you being sent home in less then 3 hours. They were not sent home... They left voluntarily. So I'm not sure how the 3 hour rule even applies here. Any ways they left and then at 5 Mr. Negativity finished his shift and left as well. That left 2 people taking calls for the rest of the night. The shift couldn't end soon enough.
I should've known something was up when the Ops manager showed up at about 7:30.... and then one of the team leaders who had been MIA also made an appearance.... Seems he had called the acting supervisor and no one knows what happened there. Then the HR generalist showed up. They sat the 3 of us down and told us that with all the issues we've had with the tools and the fact the call volume just isn't there they are closing down the Sympatico contract and moving it all to Montreal. Last day here will be April 4. How is that for notice?
So what does that mean? Well there is a T-Mobile training group starting on Monday. So they're offering us a job with them. I am not going to lie and say that I am happy about it. Rotating shifts.... Less pay... Billing issues with a cell-phone.... No more emails at night/You Tube/Facebook... About the only good thing is the 6 days off before it starts. That and the fact training is 8 weeks long. Training is always the easy part. But it's from 7 - 3.... not exactly a nice shift for me. I'm still processing the whole situation and where we go from here.
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