tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79056972011-06-25T18:36:20.358-07:00Welcome to my world, the Eternal Sit-Com. Thanks for coming by! This version of my life is fiction based on fact, so relax and enjoy!Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.comBlogger981100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-82597153407448721762008-08-19T20:24:00.000-07:002008-08-19T20:25:31.803-07:00

Maybe time to come back...

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-72893006921140898092007-11-02T16:33:00.000-07:002007-11-02T16:52:39.194-07:00

As a supervisor in a call center I get the great job of talking to the very angry customer. This may sound like fun, and it is sometimes. Most of the time though it is just a pain. Think of how many times you've had to talk to and angry, upset person on the phone. Every call I get is one of those.As a phone rep I always hated having to get a supervisor or putting in a callback.That I failed

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-28639524378843110492007-10-30T01:28:00.000-07:002007-10-30T01:40:08.544-07:00

I knew it the moment I saw the preview last spring.Fred, the brother of Santa, never quite measured up to the accomplishments of his sibling.Bad decisions, bad relationships, and just plain bad luck kept him from being the best he could have been. Finally settling in to a life that while not bad, just not great. Couple crazy women, couple nights in jail, couple binders are never erased from the

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1152165237755703962006-07-05T22:51:00.000-07:002006-07-05T22:53:57.766-07:00

My 8 year old daughter bought a McDonald’s Drive Thru playset with money she had saved from her birthday and Christmas. She was very excited. It took me almost and hour to get it all together. It should not have been this difficult. After a little while I realized why it was difficult, I had two right sides (or maybe two left sides, depending how you looked) when I should have had one left side

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1152032518819249032006-07-04T10:00:00.000-07:002006-07-04T10:01:58.833-07:00

Lately I have been feeling small. Insignificant. Not in the “oh woo is me I‘m unloved ” type of way. I have a life, I have loved ones and friends, but beyond that, nothing. Everything out of my reach just seems to not really matter.The only thing the matters is what I do for myself and mine. I’ve been on the emotional trip. Saving the world, doing the right thing by people, treating everyone how

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1151561931641156142006-06-28T23:06:00.000-07:002006-06-28T23:18:51.653-07:00

New post, coming soon. This weekend, ok!In the mean time, go read a book. I am reading "The Position" By Meg Wolitzer. This is a great read. I should review it here. After I finish it. Honestly, I go from one book to like several at a time. So along with the position I'm also reading:two superman graphic novels (light reading done during waits and breaks)It's a bird... by steven seagle (A graphic

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1147967758987636742006-05-18T08:52:00.000-07:002006-05-18T08:55:58.986-07:00

Who wrote this? LOL, driving me nuts!Hey, I have finally put two & two together and have decided that you are just plain WIERD!Mr Underware God. Only YOU could have thought of something like that to write about & make me picture it in my mind.....BAD BAD VISIONS, not sugarplums I can assure you!!Leave it to you, it may take you awhile to post something but by golly, when you put your "mind"(?)

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1147967554845215082006-05-18T08:49:00.000-07:002006-05-18T08:52:34.856-07:00

No to Union in Jackson Michigan!I don’t like people screwing with my good thing. For example.I was working over night at S-Mart (shop smart, shop S-Mart). While it the hours sucked it had its pluses. There were 3 of us in the whole store, we came in, the manager told us what needed to be done, then he left. All that we had to do over the next 8 hours was get our stuff done. No one cared if we

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1146674373312284262006-05-03T09:36:00.000-07:002006-05-03T09:39:33.323-07:00

Yes, I know, been a little while since I posted anything new. In my defense, my new office is boring compared to when I worked for State of Michigan Retirement System. No shadows trying to get you in trouble, no backstabbing, and they like when you do a good job. I have to admit, I like it. If you take a lot of calls, they pay you extra money! I know, unbelievable! When I was working for the

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1144500443762571932006-04-08T05:47:00.000-07:002006-04-08T06:17:02.293-07:00

Back again?Larry's back!Tell a friend!I had to take a alittle break. It wasn't planned, it sorta just happened. You know, sometimes life gives you lemons, and you are expected to make lemon aid. And some times life takes a whole lemon tree, bitch slaps you across the head with it, leaving you broken and bleeding all over the ground, and the ground is covered with red fire ants, and once you get

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1144358985468403562006-04-06T14:26:00.000-07:002006-04-06T14:29:45.483-07:00

Damn this place is dusty!Guess it is time to start cleaning it up.Where the heck is my broom? Do I have a broom?Ok, give me a couple days I reopen.I think this christmas blog I was working on is a little out dated, have to do something new.I got a couple new things i'm working on.Where is that dust rag, and i got to open a window...

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1132676136245956382005-11-22T08:13:00.000-08:002005-11-22T08:15:36.256-08:00

The economy in Michigan is bad. Jobs are tough to come by, and the pay is low. I’ve even had to take a second job selling food products in the mall. (Hey, baby, want to sample my beef stick?) I don’t like to point fingers, and I know things are tough every where, but I have to think we could be doing better with a different governor. So I am putting in my vote for the one person I know could do

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1132010949221128612005-11-14T15:22:00.000-08:002005-11-14T15:29:09.246-08:00

President George W. Bush and I have had a rather lackluster 2005. I have read the emails and the notes asking where I have been, and when is the next blog. Thank you for the notes, and I will go into my current situation.Currently I am not at the call center; there are plans for me to return in February. Nothing went wrong, no ones fault, just one of those things. If you ask if I’m doing ok, I

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1125846341178930092005-09-04T08:04:00.000-07:002005-09-04T08:05:41.186-07:00

Pierre walks into the classroom Friday morning. Labor Day is Monday and I am looking forward to a nice quiet three-day weekend. The fifteen of us have our books, pencils and paperwork ready. We are eager to be filled with knowledge. Actually while we have all of this stuff, we are also half-awake needing either coffee or a cigarette, or both.“Today,” Pierre begins with his thick French accent. “

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1125616279305095362005-09-01T16:07:00.000-07:002005-09-01T16:11:19.313-07:00

Two days in to training. It has been interesting. I am familiar with the system they use, so that helps a lot. There are 15 of us, from ages 18 through later 30’s. When you add in the 18-year-olds, with high opinions about everything. 20 something’s with enough life experience to dislike the 18-year-olds and the gen x’ers who just stand back and watch the car crashes. Wow, sounds like my old

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1125431910776384712005-08-30T12:30:00.000-07:002005-08-30T12:58:30.820-07:00

It has been a long month. I will try to update more often now!Been at the new job for a week. You start at the entry level with this company. That means (ug!) outgoing calls to people who have not paid their power bill! We had about 3 days training, then we were off on our own. I have done worse work before, just a matter of keeping your mouth shut and doing your job. Oh, the pain of out going

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1122604941494468842005-07-28T19:40:00.000-07:002005-07-28T19:52:39.736-07:00

See! This website is only a little evil! (thanks for the link DM, of course I did notice that your website is just a little more evil then mine!)ANd I thought all that writting I did about the evil idiots I used to work with would make me more evil. Oh crap, it happen.No more shadow talk!

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1122575905237403362005-07-28T11:36:00.000-07:002005-07-28T11:38:25.246-07:00

After several months of interviews, resumes, and bitching, I am glad to say I have found a new place to work. I hate looking for a job. It is like dating, which I also hate. I won’t go into specifics concerning the position, because of rumors that a couple people at my old office have tried to cause me problems. (Interviewer: Larry, I should let you know that someone is talking really bad about

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1119920041764000082005-06-27T17:51:00.000-07:002005-06-27T17:54:01.773-07:00

After months of planning the Island Camp out is finished. Worth every minute. It was a blast. Great companionship, great food, great conversation, and several hearty Ho-Ho-Ho’s.There is no way to cover everything, so we will just hit some of the highlights. There maybe some follow up blogs concerning things (Winston’s visit, Demon Dhary's visit, dog stories, 14 year old boys trying to hook up,

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1119455864280122452005-06-22T08:48:00.000-07:002005-06-22T08:57:44.290-07:00

It is almost time for the campout! We started planning this two months ago! Wow it went so fast! It is hard to believe it has been two months! This were not an uneventful two months either!Everyone I know has faced some large events in their lives over the last 60 days. I of course decided to fight the high cost of gasoline by leaving my job and not having the money to drive. Others on the island

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1118947035864725072005-06-16T11:27:00.000-07:002005-06-16T11:37:15.873-07:00

Yes! I am cheating! I'm posting the same thing I posted on my high school classes website! I've been busy, campout plans and all, keeping the little woman happy, golfing with Ivan. It is time consuming being Firebear! Now just read and enjoy, damn it!I was just getting to that age where I was thinking Pittsford Mendon High could not possibly be as bad as I remembered it. Now I know for sure. Yes!

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1118418932934079852005-06-10T08:53:00.000-07:002005-06-10T08:55:32.940-07:00

We are down to 2 weeks until the island campout. This promises to be lots of fun. Even more fun then last years wading trip down the Grand. At this time we should make an inventory of what we will be needing as a group. I know some have not been camping before and may be a little nervous. That is ok. Even though everywhere you look there are trees, lakes, and other outside thingies, it really is

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1115392126624488022005-05-06T08:06:00.000-07:002005-05-06T08:08:46.630-07:00

I got a rejection letter for one of my stories. “Of Worms and Epitaphs”. A lot of people have read it, and it is a good story. (Yes, I am still working on polishing “Stella”. It’s just too damn long!) You would think that losing my job and having a publisher say no to my stuff would make for a bad week. Actually it doesn’t. The job? The one were I was crying in the parking lot every morning

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1113411824972964902005-04-13T10:00:00.000-07:002005-04-13T12:10:56.886-07:00

The work place should be like a well-organized kitchen. Everything in its proper place. Cups and saucers in the cabinet. Spices in the spice rack. Knives in someone’s back. The people in the well-organized office also fit in their specific spot. After some thought I have finally realized where my notch is at work.See, I originally thought it was top dog, top performer. My numbers are high. Input

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1113340875907224842005-04-12T14:15:00.000-07:002005-04-12T14:22:05.073-07:00

Been a tough couple of weeks. Some know why. I will explain to others later. I have to get the Portugal story blogged soon before a couple someones leave the country!New right write exercise is posted now.We lost another island person, which is bad because who will wear the green go-go boots now? Winston tried, but no, did not work.4 new island mates, and they all seem to fit in. And no, we did

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1112971605579864442005-04-08T07:43:00.000-07:002005-04-08T07:46:45.580-07:00

In the town where I workedWorked a man who answered phonesAnd he told us of his lifeIn the island of CSR’s.So we walked into the cubesTill we found the perfect chairAnd we work beneath the buzzOn our playdough island.We all work on a playdough island,Playdough island, playdough islandWe all work on a playdough island,Playdough island, playdough islandAnd our friends are all aroundMany more of

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1111782460015646562005-03-25T12:20:00.000-08:002005-03-25T12:27:40.016-08:00

Monday - Another Job interview. I have never had this much problem getting a job. Doctor's appointment, I am still alive, Doc thought I was looking depressed.Tuesday - Work pissing me off. Putting out fires because of idiotic things done by co-workers.Wednesday - Job interview in morning. Got the job, don't know if I'm taking it yet. Money is great, hours suck. Did not finish in time to go into

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1110908536670679432005-03-15T09:40:00.000-08:002005-03-15T09:42:16.670-08:00

I took some time off from work. I really needed the break. Like an actor, I am seeking my motivation. I keep going back to money. Money is the reason I stay at my job. I do not know if that is good enough to keep me going.New blog soon!Larry

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1109698584581423012005-03-01T09:34:00.000-08:002005-03-01T09:36:24.586-08:00

A guest blog! By Steve!(It's about damn time!)As I was sitting taking calls the other day I was thinking. Wouldn't it be great to have Jedi Knight powers of suggestion. It would make all the calls go SOOO much smoother.Example one: Grumpy caller.Me: Thank you for calling, can I get your member number?Caller: Yeah its uh… 555Me: Thank you Mr. Caller, what can I help you with today?Caller: I think

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1109621958968536962005-02-28T12:17:00.000-08:002005-02-28T12:20:30.523-08:00

Steven seems to be a nice, calm, balding man. Sometimes the truth slips out. This half heard quote is one of those times…Steven: Well, ma’am, I’m beating a dead horse with a hammer…The weapon of choice for the majority of people looking to beat a dead horse is a whip. That Steven, always going that extra step…Oh hi Steven… didn’t see you reading over my shoulder…No it doesn’t bug me, much… Uh,

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1109265481929663932005-02-24T08:58:00.000-08:002005-02-24T09:18:01.933-08:00

Our island shrank another person this week. Briggette left. No one can blame her; in fact that is what I’ve been hearing.Brig quit? Wow. You know though, I don’t blame her.The office atmosphere for some of us has gotten tough. End of December, management removed the last of our illusions. We now know with out a doubt that working hard and taking that one step beyond what is expected of you will

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1108493394761452572005-02-15T10:36:00.000-08:002005-02-15T10:49:54.766-08:00

Warning: This post contains bitching pertaining to my work place. These are my opinions and anyone with half a brain would agree to them. I have not done one of these shadows and grey blogs in a while. It is overdue.While Tuesday morning usually is not as bad as Monday morning, the email waiting for me as I powered up my computer set the days path on a very Monday-ish temperament.To all Phone

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1108141105571557042005-02-11T08:57:00.000-08:002005-02-11T09:11:02.573-08:00

I was wishing I had something to post that was more positive concerning my workplace. My wish was answered when Leroy sent me this email. With his permission I reprint it here, making him my first guest blogger!(Leroy lets his hair down on casual day)Little story about last night.I left work last night knowing I finally had to do something I was putting off for a dangerously long time. Getting an

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1108055944528357842005-02-10T09:14:00.000-08:002005-02-10T09:19:04.526-08:00

So you are having a problem. You call the help line and they tell you things that you do not want to hear. Things like: “No, we can not do that.” “You do not qualify.” “I am sorry your wife left you and took the dog and you want your dog back, I can not help you.” “You did this to yourself. There is nothing I can do to help you.” “I cannot reverse those charges, you knew you did not have the

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1107969732743606422005-02-09T09:19:00.000-08:002005-02-09T09:22:58.010-08:00

Half Heard Quote of The Week This was over heard by Briggette and me, but she was the one who thought it was funny right off the bat. Winston: Yes, ma’am. I’ll release now. She has a dirty, dirty mind. In fact her husband says that is what first attracted him to her! In other news: There was a big apartment building fire in our city yesterday. No one was hurt, thankfully. Watching the event

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1107462701785827882005-02-03T13:28:00.000-08:002005-02-03T12:31:41.786-08:00

Call Center Service Rep: (Talking to resource for help on a call) Yes, I have a member on the line. She is very upset because she has been a supervisor in a school cafeteria for 27 years. Resource: Well, that sounds like more of a career choice problem, then our problem.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1107404968667810812005-02-02T20:25:00.000-08:002005-02-02T20:34:02.203-08:00

Island mate Rufus recently reached that magic number in bowling; a 300! We are all impressed and congratulate him. We know that it takes lots of practice and the right equipment to accomplish this. As a tribute, I have collected comments from friends and family concerning his skill and his two bowling balls. These are straight from the hip, so that Rufus can feel the love. Rufus's Mom: Even

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1107366091842103612005-02-02T09:40:00.000-08:002005-02-02T09:41:31.843-08:00

Half heard quote of the week, heard through hearing aid feedback, comes from Winston. Remember that we take calls from retirees, state workers and school teachers. A very high class of people! Winston: Baked beaver? Oh, is this some type of road kill thing? Winston is always thinking with his stomach.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1106883317201795292005-01-27T19:27:00.000-08:002005-01-27T19:35:17.200-08:00

So I have been away for a couple days. To answer any questions that may come up: 1) Yes, everything went well, I think. One of those interviews where you just don't know. 2) 43 words per minute. You would think as some one infront of a key board daily, I wouldn't worry about my WPM. 3) She is doing good, everything went well, now I get to baby her for a couple days! Something I don't hate doing,

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1106166346772238322005-01-19T13:24:00.000-08:002005-01-19T12:25:46.773-08:00

This week’s half heard quote of the week belongs to Steven. Steven is being slowly put back on the phones (it is like management is expecting to lose a couple phone reps soon! Go figure!) so he is a little rusty. That of course does not stop us from joking with him! Steven: You aren’t understanding me ma’am. Let’s try it this way. Imagine you and your mother are in an awful car accident. Not to

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1106166277955296242005-01-19T13:23:00.000-08:002005-01-19T12:24:37.956-08:00

I heard this from a call center person yesterday, I shall call her Velma. Velma works for a company the supplies natural gas to homes. Most of these calls are run of the mill, billing questions; service turn on's (Strawberry Ice Cream, and mullets) and turn offs (nipple piercing and mullets). Once and a while she gets a gas leak call. Now Velma is a very calm person, never loses her cool. She

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1105555559882343192005-01-12T10:44:00.000-08:002005-01-12T10:45:59.883-08:00

I know people have been waiting for my vant on the situation at work. I think this is it so sit back, relax and enjoy this look into the life of a Michigan State contract/temp employee. I will warn you, this is as egocentric as it gets. This is about my island, and me. I really am not worried about people outside of this circle. Currently in Michigan there is a hiring freeze. Budget stuff. So

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1105388965456200152005-01-10T13:28:00.000-08:002005-01-10T12:29:25.456-08:00

Something that is always in the back of my mind is the chance that the wrong person will take offense to my blog and what I say about work. That is what happen to this gentleman at his blog The Woolamaloo Gazette. Give it a read and show your support. -bear

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1105128227146749922005-01-07T11:58:00.000-08:002005-01-07T12:03:47.146-08:00

I can not stand liars. When you are president or a governor or a supervisor in a call center or the spouse of a member trying to get information, just tell the truth! You may not get the response you want, but I will be a lot more willing to deal with you. Of course if you are going to lie, then at least be alittle creative about it. By all means, use a little common sense people! My example

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1104272159688266032004-12-28T14:14:00.000-08:002004-12-28T14:17:34.683-08:00

I remember when a good paycheck was not enough to keep me at a job. Over the last two weeks my pay is what has kept me coming to work. My work ethic is what keeps me doing my job at more then a minimum level. If I have to come into work at this office, I am at least keep my numbers 2 and 3 times higher then the majority of the call center. That is an average of 80 to 100 calls on a normal day.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1103163293231136972004-12-15T18:10:00.000-08:002004-12-15T18:25:14.656-08:00

It has come to this. I figured I should do a little explaining concerning the next post. Very simple really, Just follow along! a) This was done in fun. b) No one should be insulted. If you see yourself in this story, then laugh. c) In this post and all past and future post, the people are mostly made up or combinations of people. d) Our call center is not adding another division to handle these

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1103162990508363692004-12-15T17:56:00.000-08:002004-12-15T18:33:21.830-08:00

To help balance the state budget, the governor has come up with a great plan. The plan will be put in effect very quickly. This new idea uses the already existing retirement phone center so there was no added cost. The training is mixed, some will have no problems learning the new info, and some may have a little problem with getting into the right mind set. As usual I expect my island, which is

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1103063503695591472004-12-14T14:15:00.000-08:002004-12-14T14:31:43.696-08:00

I have changed my focus at work. I focus only on the people of my island. These are great people, and really the only people I trust in the office. While before I tried to add suggestions, throw out my thoughts, now I do not. I have our newest manager to thank for that. (Thanks, Maude for helping me develop an "I don't care" attitude!) And walking around turns out, that I am not the only one.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1102647013449003612004-12-09T18:32:00.000-08:002004-12-09T18:59:30.803-08:00

I don’t know, maybe it is the weather. In the call center this week I have had several frustrating conversations with members that all seem to be going the same way. Here is an example. Anything in italic is what I am thinking. Me: Yes, Steven, I am the snake to your Eve. (RING) Me: Good afternoon, thank you for calling, this is Larry -bear, may I have your member number please? Since you

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1102473633901919342004-12-07T18:39:00.000-08:002004-12-07T18:40:33.900-08:00

So I am driving down the road, feeling that life is tough. That everyone is against me. That I am just tired of the crap that seems to keep piling up. Then I drive past a farm with a fairly good size barn. An older gentleman is standing out front with a calm look on his face. I instantly feel better. That life is not bad. That if this man can look out at his troubles and still be calm, then I

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1102266225071784842004-12-05T09:00:00.001-08:002004-12-05T09:08:50.130-08:00

Well it is not here! I have guest blogged over at http://www.moronmouth.blogspot.com/ It is titiled "Paging Dr. Firebear". I liked the orginal title though "Staying Regular in the Call Center". Damn editors! (J/K DM!) Check it out and browse around. There is some very funny stuff over there! I will be back here in a day or so!

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1102039063924674442004-12-02T17:53:00.000-08:002004-12-02T17:57:43.930-08:00

I wanted to write something today far removed from the complications of past relations, or current relations, or even future relations. Just trying to touch different emotions. A couple years ago I had been talking to a woman who I went to high school with. Someone I had not talked to in over 12 years. She searched me out. Not sure why, because as we talked, it turned out that she had been mad

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1102038215460744192004-12-02T17:40:00.000-08:002004-12-02T17:43:35.460-08:00

Looking across the Internet for a Big Wheel for my 4-year-old today. This should not be as hard as it is turning out to be. Of course while doing this, I can not help but think back to my first bike. I was around four also. The bike was red and white, banana seat, and "gorilla" handle bars. I rode that bike for years. I never once had training wheels on it. My Mother taught me how to ride it,

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1102019066829911362004-12-02T13:21:00.000-08:002004-12-02T12:24:26.830-08:00

Most that know me understand that I have a thing for Hooters. Nothing gets me more excited then that rubbing that flesh across my lips. Some find it odd, but I like my Hooters naked and hot. Must be the southern in me. Before anyone gets too excited, (down shadow people!) I am talking about Hooters Restaurant and Chicken Wings. I have been visiting these places for years, every time I find a new

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1101846841506213122004-11-30T13:32:00.000-08:002004-11-30T12:34:01.506-08:00

I am writing this in hopes that I can help my fellow men out there. Winter is coming so this is the worse time of the year for this. No matter how much we try to avoid it, eventually we end up having to watch the dreaded “Chick Flick.” Recently it has happened to me. After I had the love of my life watch “Trekkies 2” I was informed that I will now have to sit through 3 (three) “Chick Flicks”.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1101248295104165822004-11-23T14:16:00.000-08:002004-11-23T14:18:15.103-08:00

Last week I had decided I would hold off on the work-related blogs. I was just getting burned out with them. It was brought to my attention today, that by doing that I am disregarding a part of my reading audience. So that the shadows and grays have something to read I offer this reading list. It has been painstakingly put together during my lunch and break times. I hope this helps you get

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1101163932453238662004-11-22T14:50:00.000-08:002004-11-22T14:52:12.453-08:00

I watched the movie “Elf” this past weekend with the kids. I found it funny and it brought back thoughts of the Christmas season that I spent as Santa. This was about 10 years ago. I was not one of the high class Mall Santa’s. I worked at one of those chain department/grocery stores. It was part time, about 20 hours a week for 4 weeks, plus the employee Christmas party. I do not remember the pay,

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1100743593024147902004-11-17T18:02:00.000-08:002004-11-17T18:06:33.023-08:00

I pulled into the local smoke shop. A specialty store that I pass everyday on my drive to and from work. I would not say I am a regular at the establishment, I average a visit there about once every two or three months. They have in stock a flavored clove cigarette that I like. More expensive then a regular pack, and if rumors are to be believed, a more dangerous type. I justify both of these by

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1100636650974068682004-11-16T13:17:00.000-08:002004-11-16T12:24:10.973-08:00

Wow! A grilled cheese sandwich with the Virgin Mary on it! and it is on ebay! (ok, I wrote this to increase my blog hits today!)

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1100557588215041752004-11-15T14:21:00.000-08:002004-11-15T14:26:28.216-08:00

Mr. Wizard: … and by that, Timmy, we increased our call volume on our island. Timmy: Wow, Mr. W! I don’t believe it! How could five people, answer so many calls in one day! 550 calls! There were only 925 taken that day! Golly gee whiz! Makes my head hurt. Mr. Wizard: You know Timmy, it’s a good think you big sister is cute and puts out, other wise I would tell you what to do with your golly,

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1100124476721457982004-11-10T14:04:00.000-08:002004-11-10T14:07:56.720-08:00

Because the office is not going to pot fast enough, we get this email today. Along with a constant background noise that is not in the background at all. Good Morning CSR’s! For those wondering why it sounds like a waterfall above us, it is the White Noise Machine. It has been inoperable since a lightning strike earlier this year. The purpose of this machine is to restrict our voices from

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1100107086738842272004-11-10T09:15:00.000-08:002004-11-10T09:18:06.740-08:00

The shadow people at work seem to have run away and hidden. I am not surprised. They seem to disappear when a light is shown on them. Like cockroaches. When I was growing up in Florida I once found a cockroach at the back of a bookshelf at school. It was white, like an albino. I was in forth grade so finding an albino anything was cool. I put the bug in a jar and proudly put it on my desk.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1099532934487684132004-11-03T17:42:00.000-08:002004-11-03T17:48:54.486-08:00

As Steven and I were leaving the office this evening we ran into Wanda. Wanda, who not only is a member of the Thursday Night Penguin Club, She is also a top grade, heavy-duty babe. On top of that she is a top grade, heavy-duty person. Have known very few better people then Wanda. We ventured a query on whether she will be joining us at the Penguin on the pre-planned Thursday ritual. This has

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1099433823425328002004-11-02T14:15:00.000-08:002004-11-02T14:17:03.426-08:00

I was walking to the bathroom, when I ran into Wendy. (damn, I make a lot of code names starting with “W”! Go figure.) She was heading out for the rest of the day, it was kinda early. “My daughter has lice, have to go pick her up from school. I will be doing laundry all night.” “Yea, and buying a bottle of “RID”. “ I said, “With that little comb!” “Oh no, I use my grandmother’s old remedy.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1099442273929228232004-11-02T14:12:00.000-08:002004-11-02T16:37:53.930-08:00

I hate weasels. I can not explain it. I just do. All weasels. I do not care if you find them cute. I hate them. See, I can respect a reptile. They do not think like us. Totally different. Weasels though. Ug! I do not want to see them. I do not want to see them in a movie or someone walking them on a cute little leash. I do not like them Larry I am! Maybe it goes back to an ex-girlfriend. I was

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1099419850258675822004-11-02T10:16:00.000-08:002004-11-02T10:26:25.496-08:00

MBR: I had a question about my Social Security. ME: We are not Social Security. I would suggest calling Social Security. MBR: Well, I called Social Security and they told me my Social Security would be reduced a third. Is that true? ME: I have no idea, Ma’am. I do not work for Social Security. MBR: It does not sound right. Is there someone there who can help me? ME: Not on Social Security.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1099062102192499252004-10-29T07:59:00.000-07:002004-10-29T08:18:06.426-07:00

I must have been on another planet, because it just came to my attention that the is a very important election going on! I am of course talking about the Nick-at-Night’s 20th Anniversary of The Cosby Show! It is time to vote for your favorite episodes. The Cosby Show was one of those shows my family and I watched together. It really had an impact on my life. I tried to vote for my favorite

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1098896091557652512004-10-27T12:51:00.000-07:002004-10-27T10:03:56.023-07:00

When you telephone a call center, there are many things going on . Not only are we helping you, we are keeping current with info from all sources. Recently we added instant messaging to our system. This enables us to help each other to the fullest of our ablities. Let’s take a look at the top 5 producers in our call center. Their IM’s give you a behind the scenes look that few every see. Remember

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1098841115525288592004-10-26T18:34:00.000-07:002004-10-26T18:38:35.526-07:00

Warning me ahead of time, she tells me that she is working over night Saturday. So instead of being away all weekend, it is just that 12-hour period. Good, means we can do more together this weekend. Except… I hate sleeping alone. Hate it, and she knows it! That is why she is warning me! I will sleep. Not very well. I will probably go rent a video game to keep busy all night. She has done this

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1098740828620294412004-10-25T14:40:00.000-07:002004-10-25T14:47:08.620-07:00

Halloween, in the distant past. I was single and had gone through a hell of a summer. Beat up and dumped into the river of hard knocks by two different women, both who I felt I loved. One I learned to hate, the other the final nail in the coffin that convinced me never to date any woman whose name starts with an “M” again. (Why? My friend Ivan asked. You are closing up options! Yea, this coming

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1098383343471089032004-10-21T11:21:00.000-07:002004-10-21T11:29:03.473-07:00

I was told yesterday by a co-worker, who I will call [NAME REMOVED FOR LEGAL REASONS], that I have chosen to put myself on the sidelines at work. This was in response to me telling her that I would not be donating any money to her current charity. I was working side by side with [NAME REMOVED FOR LEGAL REASONS] and she had had several other “gems” of knowledge to pass on to me. These included

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1098305643708823022004-10-20T13:50:00.000-07:002004-10-20T14:13:34.773-07:00

This week’s half heard quote of the week! I am still laughing about this one. Many people in call centers just read the info on the screen, not really comprehending what they are saying. CSR: Yes ma’am, to confirm your current address, you are still living on His Cock? (pause) CSR: Oh I am sorry, there isn’t a space? It is Hiscock. There is a space on it here, I will get this corrected right

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1098212150425573212004-10-19T11:38:00.000-07:002004-10-19T11:55:50.426-07:00

Thursdays after work we go over to the nearby bar, which here, I will call the Penguin. We do not make every Thursday, nor is it always the same people. We always have fun, and it is a good release when work gets tough. All it takes is a mass email with a picture of a Penguin, and everyone knows we are on for 5 PM. Those who do not know what the Penguin means, and never ask, probably are not the

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097927689692877792004-10-16T04:50:00.000-07:002004-10-16T04:54:49.693-07:00

When I got out of the US Navy in 1993 I started on a chain of different jobs. Even spent 3 and a half years with a temp service. You name some odd job; chances are good I’ve done it. I have become multi-talented in my life. Always wandering. I believe the term would be vagabond. I also did a lot of dating. Which is weird because in high school I could not get a date to save my life. I have

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097863747160762812004-10-15T11:00:00.000-07:002004-10-15T11:59:05.286-07:00

For those who have not heard, there is a Dukes of Hazzard movie currently in production. This is going to be a modern update of the classic television show. None of the original cast is reported as participating; except for the General Lee will still be a ’69 Charger. Most of us fans know this will not be the same, especially as the cast list starts to come out. I believe it will be interesting

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097851074061981312004-10-15T07:21:00.000-07:002004-10-15T07:37:54.060-07:00

After only two hours at work: Me: May I have the member's Social Security number? Member: You need what? Me: The member's Social Security number. Member: My number? Me: Are you the member? Member: Yes. Me: Then yes, your social security number. You burnt your pop tart? No, I broke my pop tart. But I have burnt them before. You want some tea? This week I stopped drinking coffee and switched to

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097787103149526182004-10-14T13:11:00.000-07:002004-10-14T13:51:43.150-07:00

This week is credited to Briggette. Double whammy this week! "Well sir, the actuarial chart is based on actuarials." Oh, I understand now! And my favorite: "Ma'am I didn't create the calendar!" Actually she may have. Her husband tells us she is a goddess, so it is a very good chance she did. And she keeps telling us she wants October 46 off.

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097695715693578862004-10-13T13:22:00.000-07:002004-10-13T12:28:35.693-07:00

I tend to notice things, especially when someone thunks me in the head with a hammer! I am referring to A Plug for other Blogs. So here I go! I few of my favorite places (on the web) Out of the Mouth of Morons - I cannot say enough good things about these ladies. They are smart, fun, and very real. I learn from their site(s). Just today, after reading one of the post, I realized the plural of

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097605991470897142004-10-12T11:29:00.000-07:002004-10-12T11:33:11.470-07:00

In the navy I spent lots of time out at sea. Lots of over night, 8 hour watches. Usually running from midnight to 8 AM. I was part of CIC, which is where you find navigation, radar, and other “brains of the ship” activities. It was mostly dark, with a red light to see by. As you can imagine, coffee was a very important part of this watch. Coffee was drink by the cup full, usually a very large

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097529990851875182004-10-11T14:23:00.000-07:002004-10-11T14:26:30.850-07:00

It was the winter of 1978. I had to look that up. It was raining and nighttime, I remember that. We lived somewhere in Daytona Beach, Florida. Rain could mean anytime of the year in Florida. I was 9 years old. That would make my brother about to turn 8 I believe. He was still my best friend at that time. That I wish had not changed. My sister was still about 14 months from being born. We hardly

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097264638623031502004-10-08T13:42:00.000-07:002004-10-08T13:02:00.510-07:00

Ok, here is a rant! When you telephone a call center, and the person tells you they can not do that or that they do not have that information, its probably because they can not do that or they do not have that information! You see, as someone working a call center, I want to get through the call as quick as possible, with the least amount of hassle. That means it is easier to give you what you

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1097249443045106492004-10-08T08:22:00.000-07:002004-10-08T08:30:43.046-07:00

Co-worker know as Brady-lover (BL) was over heard on the phone saying this: "Yea, because if you don't they will sell him to the Korean eatery in the morning." Do we really want to know the reason this was said? We work with senior citizens, so it just brings to mind images of "Soylent Green ".

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1096624298668983032004-10-01T02:37:00.000-07:002004-10-01T02:51:38.666-07:00

A year has past since I returned to the call center. I had left for 11 months, and sooner or later I will blog "The Adventures of Larry: Hot Tub Salesman", but not today. In many ways the year has seemed to pass slowly, others very quickly. It is a good office, otherwise I never would have returned. There is still that high school factor. I do not know why we can not get passed that. I know I

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1096388459948743692004-09-28T09:19:00.000-07:002004-10-01T02:52:12.326-07:00

I have tried to ignore it, but I cannot anymore. It gives me the willies! I am refering to the Burger King “Wake Up With The King” ad. To summarize if you have not seen it: This man wakes up and sitting next to him is a man dressed as the old 80’s Burger King mascot. Dressed in the BK colors and wearing a very freaking head that sports a grin that I cannot describe. I guess, imagine you are

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1096310131246968782004-09-27T11:33:00.000-07:002004-09-27T13:11:37.226-07:00

I am intelligent, out going, open-minded person. I am well read but I also enjoy my television shows. The new TV season has begun. So far, nothing that has thrilled me. Most of my favorite shows are gone. Buffy, Angle, Firefly are gone. (All Joss Whedon shows, but I still have his monthly X-Men comic) Smallville tends to be monster of the week. Charmed is ok. (Yeah like my arm really has to be

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1096129469973061922004-09-25T09:23:00.000-07:002004-09-25T09:24:29.973-07:00

In a call center, you tend to only hear half the conversations. So in honor of his birthday this week, I present Winston’s quote of the week, as over heard by Steven and I: "One moment ma’am, I’m pulling out my tool."

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1096044061634505882004-09-24T09:39:00.000-07:002004-09-27T09:27:03.596-07:00

Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a canoe trip. That started from Eaton Rapids, aboard a canoe not a ship. The leader was an ex-navy man, his intentions brave and sure. Seven customer reps set off that day, in three metal canoes, three metal canoes……… The weather was very nice, but the tiny boat got tossed. If not for the speed of Steven's crew the canoe would be lost; the

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1095868849757349002004-09-22T09:00:00.000-07:002004-09-22T09:40:40.680-07:00

Halloween 2003 CAUSE MY LADY WON'T LET ME SHOW THE "FIREBEAR DRUNK IN A DRESS, HALLOWEEN 2001", ANYMORE. (EMAIL ME, I'LL FORWARD IT TO YOU!)

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1095814376258240842004-09-21T17:44:00.000-07:002004-09-21T17:57:07.026-07:00

Another request from the acient past. In short, Twisty is still one of my bestest friend, and we have been through everything together. Still the wildest person I know. If she would just gain that 50 lbs for me! WoooHooo! La Vida Twisty She's into cyber chatting Mlive and private messangers I feel a premonition That girl's gonna chat all night She's into new chat names New kicks in the monitor

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1095800937578677202004-09-21T14:06:00.000-07:002004-09-21T17:37:07.120-07:00

I was approached by one of our managers, Maude Flanders. Now Ms. Flanders is a new manager in our office. Been here about 6 months. I like her, very gong-ho. Opened minded and ready to take input. Don’t let that scare you though, I am sure this office will kill all of those delusions within a year! Ms. Flanders wanted me to write a little blurb concerning the Negative Nickels game currently in

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1094915327965094552004-09-11T08:05:00.000-07:002004-09-11T08:08:47.966-07:00

It seems a whole lot longer then 3 years ago. Closer to a life time ago. 11 Sept 01. Tuesday morning I had taken a 2-day job working on a golf course. I forget the technical term for what they were doing to the greens. Once a year they take a machine to the grass that takes plugs of grass out of the ground, then fill the holes with sand. This keeps the grass from getting too tight and allows

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1094757983543014502004-09-09T13:25:00.000-07:002004-09-09T12:26:23.543-07:00

Skittles and me don’t get along. I am talking about the candy, not some dog or cat named skittles. This is why. When I was about 15-16 my mom bought a big bag of skittles and put them in the candy jar in the living room. Picture me coming in. Young, studdly child of the 80’s. Mullet with a rat-tail in the back, waking up before you go-go, not caring what Frankie says. I grab a big handful of the

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1094591843149988002004-09-07T14:14:00.000-07:002004-09-08T11:45:34.846-07:00

This was my first year going to the company Golf Scramble. I was promised it would be fun. (No one told me how much fun it would be.) I am not the world’s best golfer, I average about once a year. I enjoy it, fresh air and beer. Usually a good combination. So as soon as the date of the event was announced I started procedure to be at there. I mean, I am always up for a good time. Step 1: Get the

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1094383649417833662004-09-05T04:21:00.000-07:002004-09-05T04:27:29.416-07:00

This is old. Was posted on the Mlive message board (that no longer exist) in 3 parts. It was too big to be posted in one. So by request I'm putting it here! And yes, I'm pretty sure I was drunk when I wrote this. 2 addicted chatters go round the outside/ round the outside, round the outside Guess whos back, back again/ Firebear’s back, tell a friend/ Guess who's back, guess who's back, gruess

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1094336776208248982004-09-04T15:24:00.000-07:002004-09-08T11:16:33.506-07:00

As we prepare to go out, she turns and ask me, "How do I look?" After a brief second, she laughs at herself. It s that little laugh that makes my stomach do a flip. "You look wonderful." I reply with complete honesty. She knew what the answer would be. It is always the same answer. She never looks bad. At 6:30 AM, 9:00 PM, sleeping, cooking, driving, watching TV. She always looks wonderful. No

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1093555615060834862004-08-26T14:26:00.000-07:002004-08-26T14:26:55.060-07:00

To start the day off grand, in our weekly meeting it was announced that Wally, the best Resource in the office to go to for information and help, has been removed from the position of Resource. I knew this was coming. I was good, did not say a word about it in the meeting. (I’m still not in the clear from the mess I made last week.) I almost spoke up, but I asked myself, do I say something or do

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1093539977435902562004-08-26T10:04:00.000-07:002004-09-08T11:42:23.943-07:00

I think we learn how to react to others in High School. That theory comes from not just my current office envirement, but also my 20 years of adult work places. The high drama, backstabbing, and clichés that are part of going to High School are always blamed on hormones. If that is true then there something in the coffee at work, because everyday I see adults ranging from 20 through 60 years of

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7905697.post-1093456434079973602004-08-25T10:44:00.000-07:002004-08-25T10:53:54.080-07:00

Here I sit, facing a blank page. Not the first time in my life for this. I plan on filling this space with different stories, things at home: The 7 year old comes into the kitchen, starts looking in the drawers, very intent. I ask "what are you looking for?" "Nothing." He replies, then leaves. things at work: Retiree on the phone, "My husband is presently deceased." Oh, are you expecting him

Firebearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16333231801433866980noreply@blogger.com1