NationStates Jolt Archive

this is a lovely, cheery little thread for all of you crazy NSers to bitch, moan and gripe - just let off steam - about all the shit that's pissing you off right now, be it from your personal life, work, family... whatever.

so, whats up with you?



i'll get us started. i'm pissed off that its xmas and yet we have done nothing xmas-y yet, no tree, no time off (bar last night), and that work is hard, we're not gonna get this contract finished in time for xmas (which we were supposed to do) cos other stuff is getting in the way, so that's gonna be hanging over me on my massive 2 days off, and i also have to be out doing market research fieldwork for 8 hours in the freezing cold tomorrow, on short notice.
plus i'm generally bored with things - with life - again, and just sick of everything. bah. :( wishing amy was about too. missing her already
also feeling more overweight than ever, which doesn't help. because its dark in the evenings and i'm working during the day, i can't seem to find time to go cycling or do any excersise, which is a real shame considering for once in my life i actually have the motivation to do some too :headbang:
in the grand scheme of things and compared to other people's problems, i'm sure thats nothing, but it still pisses me off damnit

ok your turn.

I'm pissed because I asked a coworker about a month and a half ago to write me a reference letter for my law school application...and she still hasn't done it. So now I need to just send everything in or risk missing the deadline. If she hadn't kept me hanging, I'd have asked someone else:(

I'm pissed off that it's Christmas too. Not Christmas per se, I suppose, but the fact that I am obliged to visit my family - with whom I have nothing in common with - on Sunday and pretend to be interested in them, while they pretend to be interested in me. They've even gotten really annoyed because my boyfriend and I are leaving on Boxing Day to go to his father's. Like they're the only fucking people in the world with a family!!! Twats.

Still, at least it's only one day. In the New Year I'll no doubt get highly pissed off with coursework and questionable standards of academia (though to be fair, my Masters course is a lot better taught than my BSc was).

I ate something and it wasn't very tasty. Its annoying, you know.

Pissed off about sex. Haven't had it for three years. Gets kind of depressing.

I'm pissed because the transit strike has forced me to become my mother's secretary the last 2 days and today...and she has some crazyass patients who still get pissed I can't do everything at once even though I'm not even 14 yet...and people keep mistaking me for my sister on the phone....meanwhile, all my friends are lounging at home:mad:

But, I am doing a good deed helping my mom in her hour of need, so it balances out.

People who keep saying that the Christmas holidays are about Jesus Christ.

NO!

The New Year is a holiday which would be celebrated whether Christmas was there or not. Employers would still use the 48 hours of binge-drinking and subsequent hangover to add on some time off and deduct it from everyone's holiday allowance. The presence of Christmas on the calendar during this time is beside the point.

Pissed off about sex. Haven't had it for three years. Gets kind of depressing.

Holy Shit!! Just reading that pisses me off.


I'm pissed off that I still have a headache and short bouts of tunnel vision and a stiff neck after cracking my skull on Sunday.

Other than that, all is well.

Holy Shit!! Just reading that pisses me off.


I'm pissed off that I still have a headache and short bouts of tunnel vision and a stiff neck after cracking my skull on Sunday.

Other than that, all is well.

I've been told I can work just the right amount of "yuck" into the written word.

Did you see a doctor about the skull-cracking thing? Sounds like a mild concussion or something.

im not pissed off at all in fact im extatically happy since im off school until the 9th of january so u can all be pissed off but i'll remain happy:D

I'm pissed off because two dear friends of mine have gotten into a petty argument, and each of them is hurt, defensive, and annoyed, and refusing to speak to the other.

I think one has finally displayed some maturity and made the first move, not that it'll help if the other refuses.

What is with men, and their injured sense of pride? Is it so bad to apologize for something you think was not your fault, and move things along, instead of wasting your time being angry? Why is there such a resistance to "being made a fool of"? why can't they get that sometimes surrounding circumstances that you have no way of knowing about dictate how certain comments will be recieved and reciprocated, and don't represent the ultimate truth of a relationship? why do people give up so easily?

Apart from being hungry and so tired that I'm thinking about eating out (I don't want to, because I haven't decided if I'm too tired for that, too), I'm a bit sad because I made a little girl cry at work today.

She fidgeted while I was using an otoscope to look in her ears and, well, it grazed her eardrum, which can be very painful in normal circumstances, let alone when you have an infection like she did.

Poor kid. :(

I'm pissed off that this month all I'm seeing for job postings is this kind of bullshit-
Award-winning Producer/Director is working on a documentary for PBS/Frontline and requires production interns for January 6-January 12. We will be shooting in the San Francisco and Oakland areas and need talented, reliable interns. Must be available long days. We are looking for interns who can help with lighting and sound as well as with getting around San Francisco. Prior production experience required. A car and knowledge of the San Francisco/Oakland area is particularly helpful. Interested candidates, please respond and include a phone number where you may be reached.
If we're already experienced, why the fuck should we go back to being interns? This isn't some struggling filmmaker, this is an established producer working on a project with distribution. S/he should be able to fucking pay his PAs (yes he's saying 'help with lighting and sound' but he also says 'getting around San Francisco,' this is what PAs (production assistants) do-and on every job we spend as much as our time as we can lampreyed onto the other departments trying to learn thier positions-especially the paid ones).

You can get free PAs, you can get experienced PAs, but you shouldn't get free experienced PAs. I have rent and bills just like anyone else and we work our asses off for these productions working 14-15 hour days back to back. Even the college students who do this have obligations and dammit, it's work-pay for it. I'm tired of seeing this shit looking for serious work.


And I'm bummed I didn't get on the movie filming right over the hill, and all insecury because I don't know why they didn't even call me so I'm second guessing my resume and cover letter (even though I did get a call to do a History Channel episode in January...cool as that is, I would rather be on the movie).

That's what's sticking in my craw right now.

Did you see a doctor about the skull-cracking thing? Sounds like a mild concussion or something.


Thanks for asking- I went to the emergency room because shortly after it happened I was dizzy and nauseous. Sitting in the emergency room wasnt helpful. I talked to the nurse that keeps track of who has what and who needs to be seen first-asked her what they would do-just as I thought, an xray a cat scan. I guess there is no treatment aside from ice unless its severe, so I left. My pupils reacted and were equal and I could function. Here I am.
I've had a few serious blows to the head. And sometimes it shows.

Pissed off about sex. Haven't had it for three years. Gets kind of depressing.

Oh noes. Woe is you.

Apart from being hungry and so tired that I'm thinking about eating out (I don't want to, because I haven't decided if I'm too tired for that, too), I'm a bit sad because I made a little girl cry at work today.

She fidgeted while I was using an otoscope to look in her ears and, well, it grazed her eardrum, which can be very painful in normal circumstances, let alone when you have an infection like she did.

Poor kid. :(

My wife and I bought an otoscope after my first sons 3rd ear infection so we could check . He never flinched nor did my daughter, but we had to hold my middle son still while we looked. He'll never get used to it.

Chances are, Fass,that little girl forgot about it shortly after the examination.

Thanks for asking- I went to the emergency room because shortly after it happened I was dizzy and nauseous. Sitting in the emergency room wasnt helpful. I talked to the nurse that keeps track of who has what and who needs to be seen first-asked her what they would do-just as I thought, an xray a cat scan. I guess there is no treatment aside from ice unless its severe, so I left. My pupils reacted and were equal and I could function. Here I am.
I've had a few serious blows to the head. And sometimes it shows.

Well, be careful, or you'll be turning into the Nationstates version of Eric Lindros.

Well, be careful, or you'll be turning into the Nationstates version of Eric Lindros.

Thanks. I function mainly with my primitive brain and it would take a wrecking ball to damage that.

Oh noes. Woe is you.

Don't mistake being pissed off about something for actual sense of crisis. There's just some things that aren't the same when you have to do it for yourself, y'know?

Don't mistake being pissed off about something for actual sense of crisis. There's just some things that aren't the same when you have to do it for yourself, y'know?

Yes, well, i'm a 19 year old virgin. Suck it down and consider yourself lucky, bub.

My wife and I bought an otoscope after my first sons 3rd ear infection so we could check . He never flinched nor did my daughter, but we had to hold my middle son still while we looked. He'll never get used to it.

More parents should get them to save their kids from people like me, it seems.

Chances are, Fass,that little girl forgot about it shortly after the examination.

I really hope so. Being the guy who sowed the seed to a lifelong iatrophobia is really a thought that bums me out.

i'll get us started. i'm pissed off that its xmas and yet we have done nothing xmas-y yet, no tree, no time off (bar last night), and that work is hard, we're not gonna get this contract finished in time for xmas (which we were supposed to do) cos other stuff is getting in the way, so that's gonna be hanging over me on my massive 2 days off, and i also have to be out doing market research fieldwork for 8 hours in the freezing cold tomorrow, on short notice.
plus i'm generally bored with things - with life - again, and just sick of everything. bah. :( wishing amy was about too. missing her already
also feeling more overweight than ever, which doesn't help. because its dark in the evenings and i'm working during the day, i can't seem to find time to go cycling or do any excersise, which is a real shame considering for once in my life i actually have the motivation to do some too :headbang:
in the grand scheme of things and compared to other people's problems, i'm sure thats nothing, but it still pisses me off damnit
:fluffle:
Sorry to hear about work stuff *hugs* I know it must be stressful and I know it will be hard but try not let it hang over you on Christmas. If you can't do it before Christmas, you can't and you need to try and accept that and just do what you can.
Tomorrow, I'll try and not tease you about being all warm and relaxed at home (;) ). But seriously, I wish I could be there to keep you warm... *hugs* Or you could just not be there and be with me instead... Much more fun. In many way :P

Have you thought any more about counselling? Because it seems like these feelings aren't going away and changing your situation could be hard so you need something to help. You can't carry on feeling like this. And it would be even better if you could change your situation. You're obviously unhappy and you don't need to do something immediatly but you just have to start thinking about how to change how things are. You have to talk to your parents about working with them and do something. I know I'm being vague and annoying and I don't mean to pressure you in any way - I just hate seeing you like this and want to make you see that if you want things to change, you have to do it. *hugs* like I must have said over and over, I wish I could be there...

You know I still think you're utterly gorgeous, and I'm wishing more than ever that I could be there to give you a huge hug and feel your arms round me :fluffle: Anyway, like I said a few days ago, christmas is supposed to be the time for guilt-free eating and a lack of any real exercise! :p Enjoy yourself now and don't bother beating yourself up over it. Don't let it ruin christmas and all the yummy food around! (enjoy that pizza and icecream later :P)
Then, afterwards, you can start on a healthyness kick.

You know you can always rant and ramble, email me or whatever, and I'll do my best to help. Keep smiling because you know I love you and care about you and you'll never be alone with this.

Speak to you later :fluffle:

I'm pissed at being sick and having it not be cold enough to snow ever. Another 80 degree Christmas for me.

More parents should get them to save their kids from people like me, it seems.



I really hope so. Being the guy who sowed the seed to a lifelong iatrophobia is really a thought that bums me out.


We got one so we would have a better idea of whats going on and try to catch an ear infection before it becomes really bad- at 3am on a Saturday night.

Chances are, her ears were already too sensitive and she would have over reacted no matter what.
If you had punctured her ear drum, I'd agree she may remember and fear that forever. I dont think thats the case here. Dont let it get you down.

:fluffle:
Sorry to hear about work stuff *hugs* I know it must be stressful and I know it will be hard but try not let it hang over you on Christmas. If you can't do it before Christmas, you can't and you need to try and accept that and just do what you can.
Tomorrow, I'll try and not tease you about being all warm and relaxed at home (;) ). But seriously, I wish I could be there to keep you warm... *hugs* Or you could just not be there and be with me instead... Much more fun. In many way :P

Have you thought any more about counselling? Because it seems like these feelings aren't going away and changing your situation could be hard so you need something to help. You can't carry on feeling like this. And it would be even better if you could change your situation. You're obviously unhappy and you don't need to do something immediatly but you just have to start thinking about how to change how things are. You have to talk to your parents about working with them and do something. I know I'm being vague and annoying and I don't mean to pressure you in any way - I just hate seeing you like this and want to make you see that if you want things to change, you have to do it. *hugs* like I must have said over and over, I wish I could be there...

You know I still think you're utterly gorgeous, and I'm wishing more than ever that I could be there to give you a huge hug and feel your arms round me :fluffle: Anyway, like I said a few days ago, christmas is supposed to be the time for guilt-free eating and a lack of any real exercise! :p Enjoy yourself now and don't bother beating yourself up over it. Don't let it ruin christmas and all the yummy food around! (enjoy that pizza and icecream later :P)
Then, afterwards, you can start on a healthyness kick.

You know you can always rant and ramble, email me or whatever, and I'll do my best to help. Keep smiling because you know I love you and care about you and you'll never be alone with this.

Speak to you later :fluffle:

That was really nice. Its good to see a person that cares and offers encouragement and support. ;)

Now-I'm not pissed off about anything.

Pure Metal- you've got someone good here. Pay attention to them.

We got one so we would have a better idea of whats going on and try to catch an ear infection before it becomes really bad- at 3am on a Saturday night.

Your kids were one of those. I hear ya.

Chances are, her ears were already too sensitive and she would have over reacted no matter what. If you had punctured her ear drum, I'd agree she may remember and fear that forever. I dont think thats the case here. Dont let it get you down.

No puncture (god, I don't even want to think about if I had!), just, umm, something. I'm guessing it grazed it, even though I wasn't that far in at all, if I recall correctly, and I'm trying not to let it get to me, I really am, but her tears - like knives through my heart. I'll go get something to eat, and hope a full stomach lessens its bleeding. Thanks for the support.

Yes, well, i'm a 19 year old virgin. Suck it down and consider yourself lucky, bub.

I didn't get any until I was 21. Rejoice in your youth.

I didn't get any until I was 21. Rejoice in your youth.

Heh. Oh well, we're on the same level then.

Oh yes; and since this is a bitching thread, I hate my job.

Life sucks. Let's get drunk. :D

I'm peeved currently because our church Christmas Eve program is starting off by singing "It's begining to look a lot like Christmas" and I HATE that song. I mean, I HATE that song with a burning passion. It's just a stupid song, in terms of it being in the church thing, but in terms of my husband wants me to go to the thing, and I'm supposed to be all Christmas Spirity and stuff, and it offends every sensibility and sense of decency I have to have to sing that song. And it really probably wouldn't go over to bring ear plugs. Freakin' annoying "Christmas Spirit" and junk. Whatever. I think I'd rather be a Scrooge.

Your kids were one of those. I hear ya.



No puncture (god, I don't even want to think about if I had!), just, umm, something. I'm guessing it grazed it, even though I wasn't that far in at all, if I recall correctly, and I'm trying not to let it get to me, I really am, but her tears - like knives through my heart. I'll go get something to eat, and hope a full stomach lessens its bleeding. Thanks for the support.


Good luck, Man. And another thing to consider-kids can whip up tears much easier than you or I could.
Clear that image from your mind- kids use tears like a pre-emptive strike.

Bon-apetite.

I'm peeved currently because our church Christmas Eve program is starting off by singing "It's begining to look a lot like Christmas" and I HATE that song. I mean, I HATE that song with a burning passion. It's just a stupid song, in terms of it being in the church thing, but in terms of my husband wants me to go to the thing, and I'm supposed to be all Christmas Spirity and stuff, and it offends every sensibility and sense of decency I have to have to sing that song. And it really probably wouldn't go over to bring ear plugs. Freakin' annoying "Christmas Spirit" and junk. Whatever. I think I'd rather be a Scrooge.


Two Christmas Songs I wish never to hear again- "Rocking Around the Christmas Tree" and "I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus"- not that they'll be in church, but on the radio and in stores.
They both anger me.

Will some of the egotistical and immature males in this thread please assure me that forgiveness is possible, and that reason can prevail?

Will some of the egotistical and immature males in this thread please assure me that forgiveness is possible, and that reason can prevail?

Um. I guess I count. Maturity aside, I have a penis, anyway.


What is with men, and their injured sense of pride? Is it so bad to apologize for something you think was not your fault, and move things along, instead of wasting your time being angry? Why is there such a resistance to "being made a fool of"? why can't they get that sometimes surrounding circumstances that you have no way of knowing about dictate how certain comments will be recieved and reciprocated, and don't represent the ultimate truth of a relationship? why do people give up so easily?

And behavior like this is exclusive to men since what point of time?

Will some of the egotistical and immature males in this thread please assure me that forgiveness is possible, and that reason can prevail?

I'm afraid I'm missing your point and wondering if you're talking about me.

Um. I guess I count. Maturity aside, I have a penis, anyway.
And behavior like this is exclusive to men since what point of time?Thanks for counting. It isn't exclusive to males, but I have found them to be by enlarge more stubborn, and less willing to yield in situations of silent attrition. I know I have trained myself to be capable of apologizing, or at least talking about some conflict when I'm convinced I did nothing wrong if it will smooth things over - it is hard to convince many boys that such a move is justified or even worthwhile.

I'm afraid I'm missing your point and wondering if you're talking about me.No, it has nothing to do ith you...just a general inquiry.

Thanks for counting. It isn't exclusive to males, but I have found them to be by enlarge more stubborn, and less willing to yield in situations of silent attrition. I know I have trained myself to be capable of apologizing, or at least talking about some conflict when I'm convinced I did nothing wrong if it will smooth things over - it is hard to convince many boys that such a move is justified or even worthwhile.

No, it has nothing to do ith you...just a general inquiry.


I re-read the thread and now understand your question.
I'm 38 yrs old and I've been married 13 years. I have a lot of experience dealing with women. I've found that stubbornly holding out-wether you think or KNOW you're right, doesnt always contribute to an ideal outcome. My wife can be very stubborn-unfortunately-even when she knows she's wrong. I often wont assert myself unless I'm certain I'm right.

Most often, I've found it doesnt matter. I've learned to diffuse situations fast. How often do we argue about things that are largely meaningless? its not worth it.
I appologize, show some affection and next thing I know, I'm having some passionate sex with her.
Did I win or lose that arguement?

Who the fuck cares?

I get pissed off everytime my neighbour calls round. He is an old guy with a beer gut who ALWAYS wears tight t-shirts which shows of his fucking hernia!!! He smells bad, swears often and is abaout as sociable as a gangraped annorexic.

The only upside is that he's thick as shit on ice and always gives me money whenever I fix a REALLY basic problem on his computer.

I'm pissed off, but I'm not quite sure how to phrase just exactly why I'm pissed off.

Pure Metal- you've got someone good here. Pay attention to them.

I like this guy... ;)
And listen: "you've got someone good here". So smile! because I'm not going anywhere anytime soon :fluffle: :)

[QUOTE=Pure Metal]this is a lovely, cheery little thread for all of you crazy NSers to bitch, moan and gripe - just let off steam - about all the shit that's pissing you off right now, be it from your personal life, work, family... whatever.

so, whats up with you?

I'm actually relatively chirpy. Finished working for a well-earned Xmas break; aint got to listen to any of my bosses idiotic demands for a spell, and I have a full bottle of scotch and a big bag of tasty bombay mix to look forward to. Happy Xmas folks, I is commencing an evenings vacation to the beautiful, swampy and pleasantly warm planet of Drunkeness ;)

I anger at many things. Too many to list without crashing the server.

I like this guy... ;)
And listen: "you've got someone good here". So smile! because I'm not going anywhere anytime soon :fluffle: :)

I felt I needed to let you know I admired you for your kindness and support of someone that seems like they could use a boost.

I re-read the thread and now understand your question.
I'm 38 yrs old and I've been married 13 years. I have a lot of experience dealing with women. I've found that stubbornly holding out-wether you think or KNOW you're right, doesnt always contribute to an ideal outcome. My wife can be very stubborn-unfortunately-even when she knows she's wrong. I often wont assert myself unless I'm certain I'm right.

Most often, I've found it doesnt matter. I've learned to diffuse situations fast. How often do we argue about things that are largely meaningless? its not worth it.
I appologize, show some affection and next thing I know, I'm having some passionate sex with her.
Did I win or lose that arguement?

Who the fuck cares?This is of course the best way...it isn't about "winning" it's aobut functioning. Unfortunately, I think the key words here might be "38". Thanks though

More parents should get them to save their kids from people like me, it seems. You're being too hard on yourself Fass. And I bought one too, though we just call it an 'ear-looker' because that's what my daughter calls it, not to avoid doctors, but to avoid bothering doctors and clogging up the emergency room with non-infections.


I really hope so. Being the guy who sowed the seed to a lifelong iatrophobia is really a thought that bums me out.
Some kids hate going to the doctor no matter what the doctor does. Some are weird, like my kids, and adore going to the doctor. She'll be fine.

but her tears - like knives through my heart. I'll go get something to eat, and hope a full stomach lessens its bleeding. Thanks for the support.
Oh, I see the problem. You're just not used to kids crying is all. It cuts through you at first, but eventually you get used to it. Tears don't always signal unbearable pain. :fluffle:

I felt I needed to let you know I admired you for your kindness and support of someone that seems like they could use a boost.
Well thank you. Your post made me smile :) But when I can help him in any small, silly way or cheer him up after a crappy day or just let him know he's cared about, that's a reward in itself.

Nowdays it's amazingly common to go to a library to read and concentrate on a good book only to notice that some I-don't-understand-written-text-or-even-pictures-let-alone-care-about-them -idiots keep their cellphones on, let them ring and even start talking to them? Argh! Is it so damn friggin' difficult to understand that libraries are meant to be silent and that "turn your cellphone off" actually applies to everyone?

Well thank you. Your post made me smile :) But when I can help him in any small, silly way or cheer him up after a crappy day or just let him know he's cared about, that's a reward in itself.


I agree. Good for you. And-good for him.

Well, I don't really know where to start, so I'll try to find some point to do so, and try to get to the core of it all.

Firstly, a great concern of mine. The last two years I have greatly developed my self-control. First, I figured out how to silence my thoughts instantly, and can now do it whenever I want to. (altought if I stop focusing on it, the thoughts soon return)

Then, I figured out how to control my emotions. (control the thought patterns that trigger and maintain them, or, for permanent effects, modifiy the associations that lead to the thought patterns in the first place) I still cannot do it if I suffer a full, emotional "meltdown", but otherwise, I can quickly suppress any emotion I am feeling. (I can also now trigger emotions at will, but it takes far more effort, and can be very hard at times)

I also permanently got rid of one of two useless feeling, guilt. The thought patterns that trigger feelings of guilt are incredibly stupid. I suggest to all that have some measure of self-respect, and/or are intrested in becoming atleast somewhat rational to get rid of them as soon as possible. Also note that to want to feel guilt is to want to harm yourself emotionally without having any rational reason to do so, while feeling sorry for yourself. Makes no sense at all, and is completely useless. The other useless feeling is shame. I'm currently working on permanently killing it.

However, while I can control my emotions, I cannot control my physical response to them. If for example I feel intense sadness and then supress it after a few seconds, that still won't stop the tears for some time. The best I can do currently is to make myself feel a different emotion instead of the one I suppressed. If I replace the sadness with a mild (the best I can do spontaneously) feeling of joy, that will make things go quicker.

This is a problem. A problem that could prove dangerous. If the wrong kind of person would find anything un"normal" in my outward appearance, only that person's fantasy limits the kind of false rumors that would spread soon after. As people already not only have begun talking behind my back once again (if they ever stopped, something I doubt. it likely merely spread from one place to another), but sometimes openly ridiculing me, (something also not new to me, but for a period of time, I had the amazing privilege to be free from that sort of thing. which made me lower my guard a little, sadly) it would be a great risk to let anyone I do not know throughoutly see any kind of weakness. What if someone ends up hearing it who then decides to go beyond merely making fun of me? Anything at all that the common kind of moron finds worth ridiculing could, when noticed, make things go (more) awry. I am relatively weak physically, so things could end up pretty nasty, something I do not want to risk.

I suspect that the only way I could ever be completely at peace in this society (not that I think it is limited to where I live. from what I know, a large majority of the world's population concist of those useless morons) is to kill all the morons that not only haunt me, but could potentially do so. But even if that would have been possible, it would not be worth it, as it would screw up my life even more. Which is something I find have begun to find enraging. WHY CAN'T I KILL THEM, DAMNIT? THEY MUST DIE! The sooner the better. Most people. All the useless morons that dedicate their lives towards blindly following moronic, irrational social norms and making themselves popular by prosecuting everyone they find is un"normal" even in the slightest, no matter how harmless and insignificant their individual differences are. They throw away nearly all of their personality in order to be popular amongst the other morons. I can't think of anything more to type that would make much sense here. How I often wish I could eradicate all of humanity. Free the world from the existance of human stupidity forever. If there was a button that, when pushed, would cause every person in the world to drop dead, I would push it without hesitation. It would be the best improvement imaginable to the world. Not only to the world, but to humanity.

That will have to do for now. I came close enough. Not nearly to the center of it all, but relatively close, at least.

Pure Metal- you've got someone good here. Pay attention to them.
i know that (and i do!), and i'm holding on to her too :fluffle:
she's great isn't she?

We got one so we would have a better idea of whats going on and try to catch an ear infection before it becomes really bad- at 3am on a Saturday night.

Chances are, her ears were already too sensitive and she would have over reacted no matter what.
If you had punctured her ear drum, I'd agree she may remember and fear that forever. I dont think thats the case here. Dont let it get you down.
you have an email :) :fluffle:

Oh, I see the problem. You're just not used to kids crying is all. It cuts through you at first, but eventually you get used to it. Tears don't always signal unbearable pain. :fluffle:

Yeah, you get used to it... but only sort of. I guess to me it's more that I've learned to interpret the crying better. If it's just a stubborn "I don't want that so I'm going to scream now and see if I can get out of it" kind of cry, I'm ice. But if it's pain, sadness or fear, it still rips my heart up to hear my little girl cry.

(Like just now she popped her balloon by poking it with a pencil, and with tears welling up in her eyes started whimpering "broken! broken!"... awww...)

My acting teacher cast roles for the annual spring play without holding auditions. Not only that, but he let his spoiled, ditzy favourite pick most of the spots. (He's got to be the most evil man in the world, being that he always fools me into thinking that he's going to cast me by gushing about how gorgeous my voice is or telling my mother that I'm a genius, and yet gives me roles like "Triangle Player," Pillberrybush," and "Grandmother." It's frustrating.) When a couple people suggested that this was unfair, and asked that they at least be given a chance, favourite was quoted as saying "You'll have a chance when I'm gone. Also, we're looking for talent."

And I can't find a boyfriend, which is probably because I look like a 14-year-old and have no skill when it comes to approaching guys. I just sort of wait for them to approach me, but those who do tend to make better friends than boyfriends.

To make matters worse, my sister is watching a movie with William Shatner, and it's making me think of fibre.

But I can't really be mad about anything right now, as in 48hrs, I will be on a plane to Mexico.

~~snip~~
I also permanently got rid of one of two useless feeling, guilt.
~~snip~~


You come across as more than a little bat-shit insane, you know that?

Ooh, time for my chance to bitch about the world. I have no real problems but feel the need to bitch anyway.
OK first - I haven't had a girlfriend in aaages. It's not that I've been completely incompetent about it, either, just that the only girl I'm currently interested in isn't interested in me (I think). So I go out with friends and, once in a while, get off with some random girl in a dark club. It doesn't mean anything, though. I'll admit, the night is always better if something happens, but it bugs me that it can't really ever go anywhere - I'd rather date a girl I know and like, as opposed to the stranger in a dark and crowded room. To sum it up - my love life sucks, and I can see no way of dealing with that problem.

Second - my course. It's really wierd; sometimes I'm sat there thinking 'yes I understand, but do you have to have to hammer home that point so much?' and then, only one or two lectures later it's as if the lecturer is speaking Greek. I've done no real work this term and it's showed - I have exams in less than a month and I've done no revision.

Third - me, in general. I have severe confidence issues. I have trouble becoming friends with new people unless they really make an effort - this problem seems to be doubly so with girls, even if I'm not especially attracted to them. Conversation doesn't seem to flow as easily, or something. Anyway, it sucks.

Finally - just at the moment, I have no friends. OK, so I have friends, but none that I can particularly see. All of my friends from college appear to be spending this Christmas either away or with new uni friends at different universities (hence they also may as well be away), so I have no-one nearby to contact. People I know at university have all gone home to their various friends around the country, so I can't talk to them (don't ask me why, it's just that I can't). I'm stuck at home, alone, until new years. And there's nothing to do.

So yeah - I'm crap with women, uni is bugging me, I suck and I've got no friends.

Screw it, I'm putting all this down to SAD and getting pissed on egg nog. Anyone needs me, I'll be in the toilet with some alcoholic friends.

Anyone needs me, I'll be in the toilet with some alcoholic friends.

See, you do have friends!

See, you do have friends!
Jack and Jim don't count - they only talk to me in the dark times...

Jack and Jim don't count - they only talk to me in the dark times...

It's when things get rough that you learn who your real friends are.

Third - me, in general. I have severe confidence issues. I have trouble becoming friends with new people unless they really make an effort - this problem seems to be doubly so with girls, even if I'm not especially attracted to them. Conversation doesn't seem to flow as easily, or something. Anyway, it sucks.



I've got the same trouble with guys. I can only really open up to them if I'm sure that we'll never date. Like, if they're gay, or if we've been friends for years.

I just sort of wait for them to approach me, but those who do tend to make better friends than boyfriends.

this is where i really don't understand women. i mean can't a guy be both? or a guy who's a great friend...surely he'd make a good boyfriend too? :confused:

Ooh, time for my chance to bitch about the world. I have no real problems but feel the need to bitch anyway.
OK first - I haven't had a girlfriend in aaages. It's not that I've been completely incompetent about it, either, just that the only girl I'm currently interested in isn't interested in me (I think). So I go out with friends and, once in a while, get off with some random girl in a dark club. It doesn't mean anything, though. I'll admit, the night is always better if something happens, but it bugs me that it can't really ever go anywhere - I'd rather date a girl I know and like, as opposed to the stranger in a dark and crowded room. To sum it up - my love life sucks, and I can see no way of dealing with that problem.
hah well at least you get some action. some people had to go to clubs with friends and just sit there like a lemon while they got off with random chicks.
of course, meaningful relationship = a million times better, but still, count yourself lucky for that at least dude! :p

Second - my course. It's really wierd; sometimes I'm sat there thinking 'yes I understand, but do you have to have to hammer home that point so much?' and then, only one or two lectures later it's as if the lecturer is speaking Greek. I've done no real work this term and it's showed - I have exams in less than a month and I've done no revision.
the fun that is uni. my advice: never miss a lecture. ever.
once you miss one or two (in a row), its all greek after that and you'll never catch up. stay on top of it or things will go from bad to worse.

Third - me, in general. I have severe confidence issues. I have trouble becoming friends with new people unless they really make an effort - this problem seems to be doubly so with girls, even if I'm not especially attracted to them. Conversation doesn't seem to flow as easily, or something. Anyway, it sucks.
haha you really are me... :D
i found the same thing. i forgot how to make friends with people in my second year of uni (new course)... somehow just did it in the first year but second year, i just couldn't.
no advice here cos i just took up (more) drugs and ran away from it all, heh. inadvisable.

Finally - just at the moment, I have no friends. OK, so I have friends, but none that I can particularly see. All of my friends from college appear to be spending this Christmas either away or with new uni friends at different universities (hence they also may as well be away), so I have no-one nearby to contact. People I know at university have all gone home to their various friends around the country, so I can't talk to them (don't ask me why, it's just that I can't). I'm stuck at home, alone, until new years. And there's nothing to do.
woe is you... i've been in that exact situation (friends between 30 and 200 miles away) since the fucking summer, and will be for the rest of the year at least. why do you think i got so many posts here since then? :p
it'll pass and you'll be back getting drunk with your buddies in no time. don't let it get you down... :)

Nothing really....

I'm irritated that this is the first christmas I won't be spending with my mom in all of my 31 years. We haven't put up our christmas lights yet, but at least the tree is up. I still have to go do all of my christmas shopping and I know it's going to be crazy. Even worse, it's raining like crazy and I know there are going to be psychotic idiots on the road to deal with on the way to a shopping center that is going to be insanely crowded with even more psychotic idiots. I hate shopping. :(

this is where i really don't understand women. i mean can't a guy be both? or a guy who's a great friend...surely he'd make a good boyfriend too? :confused:
I don't get that either. And I am a woman.

this is where i really don't understand women. i mean can't a guy be both? or a guy who's a great friend...surely he'd make a good boyfriend too? :confused:



Not always. I mean, I would like to befriend a guy before I date him, but most guys that I've befriended are not my type. Most of them have girlfriends, are into someone else, are gay, or have known me for long enough that a relationship would be plain weird. Truth is, guys aren't really into me in a romantic way, so I settle with being "just friends" with the nicer ones while the others call me various names and make-out with random bimbos.

I'm irritated that this is the first christmas I won't be spending with my mom in all of my 31 years. We haven't put up our christmas lights yet, but at least the tree is up. I still have to go do all of my christmas shopping and I know it's going to be crazy. Even worse, it's raining like crazy and I know there are going to be psychotic idiots on the road to deal with on the way to a shopping center that is going to be insanely crowded with even more psychotic idiots. I hate shopping. :(

That'll teach you to leave it so late.

I don't get that either. And I am a woman.

But apparently one of the less weird ones.

That'll teach you to leave it so late.

True, but you know, paydays and all. That and I am an incurable procrastinator.

But apparently one of the less weird ones.
good, innit... good for me anyway :D :p

But apparently one of the less weird ones.
Well, just weird in different ways. Weird in the random insane rambling way. Not in the fucked up double-standards, manipulating, mind-game playing, strange relationship way that so many women* seem to be and therefore end up tarring me with that brush.

*though men can be just as bad actually

Well, just weird in different ways. Weird in the random insane rambling way. Not in the fucked up double-standards, manipulating, mind-game playing, strange relationship way that so many women* seem to be and therefore end up tarring me with that brush.

*though men can be just as bad actually


Woah. There is a huge difference between not wanting a relationship with one's mostly homosexual/already-taken group of male friends and manipulating guys. It's a totally different issue.

Woah. There is a huge difference between not wanting a relationship with one's mostly homosexual/already-taken group of male friends and manipulating guys. It's a totally different issue.
manipulating guys was just one of the points you've picked up on. the real issue (as i see it) is the whole 'double standards' thing...

good, innit... good for me anyway :D :p

yeah, for you. lucky bastard:p :)

Woah. There is a huge difference between not wanting a relationship with one's mostly homosexual/already-taken group of male friends and manipulating guys. It's a totally different issue.
Oh, no. I wasn't saying they were the same thing. I was just going off on a rant about how "the typical woman" (whatever that is) seems to act really strangely - the point I replied to being one of the strange behaviours.

edit: also, the original mention was about a single, straight guy who a girl is friends with, not a "homosexual/already taken" guy.

BTW, I see no problem with a woman liking a guy as a friend but not liking them romantically. But I don't get why woman (well, people in general) seem to split the opposite gender into two categories: friends and prospect dates. Grr.

yeah, for you. lucky bastard:p :)
mwuhahahaha :D
*is indeed lucky*
:fluffle: for amy!

mwuhahahaha :D
*is indeed lucky*
:fluffle: for amy!
And I'm lucky that I have a guy who appreciates it ;) :p
:fluffle: for you too!

manipulating guys was just one of the points you've picked up on. the real issue (as i see it) is the whole 'double standards' thing...

Of course I have different standards for boyfriends than I do for friends. Not that I don't love my friends. I just pick friends based on slightly different standards (eg: for me, being physically attracted to my boyfriend would be important. As for my friends, they're all beautiful in their own way, but I don't nessacarily find them "hot".)

Of course I have different standards for boyfriends than I do for friends. Not that I don't love my friends. I just pick friends based on slightly different standards (eg: for me, being physically attracted to my boyfriend would be important. As for my friends, they're all beautiful in their own way, but I don't nessacarily find them "hot".)
I don't know about PM, but when I say double standards I basically mean being hypocritical - having one set of "rules" for yourself, but expecting other people to play by a whole other set of "rules". For example, being utterly shallow but criticising other people for being shallow and moaning about how awful it is.

edit: I'm not making much sense (perhaps my mind is distracted... hmm, Huw? :P)
And I'm losing track of what the hell we're talking about. So I might be quiet now.

mwuhahahaha :D
*is indeed lucky*
:fluffle: for amy!

yay for you

**is sad because he has no fluffles**

yay for you

**is sad because he has no fluffles**
Have a fluffle for yaying Huw! :fluffle: :)

Have a fluffle for yaying Huw! :fluffle: :)

Woohoo!!!

Yay for you, too!

cos I really wanted a fluffle off PM

You come across as more than a little bat-shit insane, you know that?A fact that I find somewhat amusing, in a maniacal way, now that I am in an overall good mood.

That you specifically quoted that part makes me think you don't fully understand what I mean, so here is a more extensive explanation of what I find most likely that you lack understanding of: Lack of guilt doesn't make you uncapable of "feeling for" someone. To simply feel for someone in itself is not emotionally painful. (it can often be combined with sadness, however) Feeling guilt, which is a distinct feeling in itself, is, however. Not feeling any guilt doesn't prevent you from following some sort of moral system either, unless the guilt (ie, emotional pain) would otherwise be the only motivation for doing so.

If you are capable of behaving the same way without feeling any guilt, then clearly there is no point in feeling any guilt. And as guilt is an intensely painful feeling, it would not only be useless, but stupid to feel guilt if you do not need to.

Also note how often people irrationally feel immense amounts of guilt over something, even when it, according to their own, more-or less irrational morals, shouldn't be anything to feel guilt over. Following a basic, "normal" moral system, if you consciously harm someone without it being justified, then that is "bad". (or "evil", according to some people) However, people frequently end up involuntarily harming someone without having had any choice and therefore possibility not to do so, and then go around wallowing in guilt (ie, torturing themselves) for no reason. You probably know yourself of some cases where this have gone quite far. Clearly that is not merely pointless, but incredibly stupid.

And then, there is the issue of the point and rationality of morality, but that is besides the point. This point, at least.

yay for you

**is sad because he has no fluffles**
you can have fluffles from me! :fluffle: (and amy it seems lol)

amy gets special fluffles on msn tho ;) :p

Well, my parents have been redoing my room with new floors and my mom wanted to paint it beige (blech) and yes, I know I don't live in this house most of the year, but it's still my room. So I picked a purple colour that still goes with the blanket.
She also insisted that I pack away a lot of my stuffed animals.


So my room's a mess, everything's everywhere and my mom has spent all day nagging me to do one thing or another.

Oh well, two weeks from now I'll be back in school.

you can have fluffles from me! :fluffle: (and amy it seems lol)

amy gets special fluffles on msn tho ;) :p

You, sir, can keep your "special" fluffles. Or spread them with your ladyfriend, your call.

"whats up wit you?"

Well, let's see ...

* Although I'm eagerly looking forward to Christmas with my children and grandchildren, right now I'm pretty lonely, but meh.

* Very worried about Zooke. She's a really good friend and I hate what she's having to go through. :(

* Still recovering from that frakking operation. They seem to have rewired all my "circuits" and now I'm having to relearn what the signals are and how to make the controls function properly. Groan.

* Finances are getting better each month. Sometime this coming Summer, I hope to be completely debt free and what a relief that will be!

* The cold weather we've been having in NC lately ( below freezing. Hey! Here, that's cold! ) makes me irritable, but not much I can do about that.

* Got a bit of a cold just now, but mine are usually few and far between and don't last long.

* Should soon have enough money to buy my estranged wife a new car. She says she wants a minivan, but I was thinking about being mean and buying her some tiny lil hybrid thang. Hehehe! :D

That's about it for now.

I'm actually pretty happy right now.

I've knocked off work for Christmas & won't be back until Wednesday the 28th.

It's pretty hot here now (35C), so I'm drinking a cold beer & eating a nice salad for lunch.

My family's coming around on Christmas day to have roast lamb (amongst all the other good food) & few decent bottles of red.

On Boxing day I'll go to the MCG to watch the cricket and most likely enjoy a few more beers there.

Not too shabby. :)

Very worried about Zooke. She's a really good friend and I hate what she's having to go through. :(
you aren't alone.

Anyway, I'm quite pissed right now because my best friend seems to have it in his mind that I did something, but won't tell me, so I don't have the option to even defend myself. Not to mention, as a result, he has been avoiding me and lying to me. All 3 of these things are huge pet peves, and getting me really really fucking mad.

"And now I know I want to kill you
like only a best friend could"
oddly fitting right now.

And I'm at a loss for what to do (which also bothers me)

And just want to go back to school (yes, I enjoy running from my problems sometimes)


However, on the plus side, I will be on a cruise in a few days. to the caribbean. w00t!

I have a terrible feeling in my stomach.

I don't really have much to whine about at the moment cause things are mainly okay...

I do agree with PM's forst post though bout Christmans. It doesn't feel like Christmas. We don't have a tree (unless you count a skicker that my brother but on a piece of paper and stuck to the wall) and I don't know, it just doesn't feel like Christmas is in two days...

btw, good idea for a thread though cause when things are going wrong, be sure I'll pop up in here again


:fluffle: Merry Christmas and I hope you all feel better soon

I have a terrible feeling in my stomach.
:fluffle: I hope it gets better soon

:fluffle: I hope it gets better soon
It's not a sickness but it feels like something is missing(No it isn't my Liver)

It's not a sickness but it feels like something is missing(No it isn't my Liver)

Missing? Like what?

Missing? Like what?
Ovaries perhaps even a pancreas?

It's a sadness.

It's not a sickness but it feels like something is missing(No it isn't my Liver)

You need a prostitute!

You need a prostitute!
You aren't too far from the truth.

But i am against that lifestyle.

My kind of thread.

Things I'm tired of.

"We gotta finish the job" as an excuse for occupying Iraq for the next 50 years.

"Love it or leave it" mentality.

Border-control freaks and the "Mexicans steal our jobs" idea.

People who oppose outsourcing because it gives jobs to evil foreigners instead of purebred Americans.

Moral vegetarians who are self-righteous.

Nazis.

Commies.

People who try to rewrite history so that the USSR had nothing to do with communism.

People who try to rewrite history so that the USSR was actually capitalist or "state capitalist."

People who say that Stalin wasn't so bad. (Yes, there actually are such people.)

Hawks in general.

People so afraid of cancer they want to ban cigarettes... but are apparently perfectly happy breathing in auto pollution on a daily basis.

People who quote Marx or Engels in the same way zealots quote the Bible.

The Great Big Republican vs Democrat Pissing Contest.

The adage, "Rape is a crime of power, not sex."

Bad drivers.

Oh yeah. And political parties. *Including* the Libertarians and Joseph "Video Games R teh Evil" Lieberman.

You aren't too far from the truth.

But i am against that lifestyle.

Aww. *hugs* Wish I could help.

Aww. *hugs* Wish I could help.
Oh:fluffle:

I dont know what you Women see in retail therapy i just bought the complete C.S. FORESTER'S HORNBLOWER SERIES staring Ioan Grufford and it only worked a bit.
*Grabs some Icecream*

However, on the plus side, I will be on a cruise in a few days. to the caribbean. w00t!
woot!

* Finances are getting better each month. Sometime this coming Summer, I hope to be completely debt free and what a relief that will be!
another woot!
and don't worry about lonliness - we're here to keep you company ;)

(in the spirit of festiveness i'm only concentrating on the good stuff :D)

ok new one for me... i'm feeling far more festive and my work worries have gone away for the time being, but i've had a bit of a painful neck for the last few days...
woke up this morning with searing pain in the muscle on the left side of my neck and i couldn't move my head without screaming in pain. took loads of ibuprofen and got through the day but the pain is still there. hoping it goes away before xmas day :(
if it doesn't i'm going to the doc about it... stupid neck always bad

ok new one for me... i'm feeling far more festive and my work worries have gone away for the time being, but i've had a bit of a painful neck for the last few days...
woke up this morning with searing pain in the muscle on the left side of my neck and i couldn't move my head without screaming in pain. took loads of ibuprofen and got through the day but the pain is still there. hoping it goes away before xmas day :(
if it doesn't i'm going to the doc about it... stupid neck always bad
have glitz rub it. And Motrin (better anti-inflamitory med than ibprofen). And heat.

have glitz rub it. And Motrin (better anti-inflamitory med than ibprofen). And heat.
she lives an hour away :( :(
hahaha "rub it" :p

but if its still there tomorrow i'll get something better for it, yeah (motrin...)

have glitz rub it.
don't tease me! I wish I could be there to do so...

And Huw, I've already given you kisses on msn but *extra kisses for neck*
I've been told I'm good at massages... you'll have to test that out one day ;) have to try some new massages too... full body ones... hehehe :P

Well, since I last posted things have taken a very slight turn for the better. I'm not saying how (considering how tenuous the changing is, and that even a jinx might destroy it) but it involves what I said about confidence. Aand possibly women.

Suffice to say: random new friends rawk.

don't tease me! I wish I could be there to do so...

And Huw, I've already given you kisses on msn but *extra kisses for neck*
I've been told I'm good at massages... you'll have to test that out one day ;) have to try some new massages too... full body ones... hehehe :P
oooh thats great... i could go for a massage right about now :D (a nekkid one :P)

I have another complaint...

It's the day before Christmas and I'm freezing cold... that would be fair enough if I lived somewhere where the weather is always cold for Christmas, but I'm in AUSTRALIA. I wanted a hot christmas day so I can go for a swim when I'm at my cousins place tomorrow... :(

so what if it seems like not a big deal... I always hate being cold it makes me grumpy and for Christmas it's even worse... *grumbles*

Well, since I last posted things have taken a very slight turn for the better. I'm not saying how (considering how tenuous the changing is, and that even a jinx might destroy it) but it involves what I said about confidence. Aand possibly women.

Suffice to say: random new friends rawk.
in what way does it involve what you said about confidence?

but woot anyway if things are looking up :fluffle:

I have another complaint...

It's the day before Christmas and I'm freezing cold... that would be fair enough if I lived somewhere where the weather is always cold for Christmas, but I'm in AUSTRALIA. I wanted a hot christmas day so I can go for a swim when I'm at my cousins place tomorrow... :(

so what if it seems like not a big deal... I always hate being cold it makes me grumpy and for Christmas it's even worse... *grumbles*
how "cold" is it? cos i bet its not as cold as it is here... i mean its your summer, and our winter FFS!

ok today it was like 9 degrees (freaky for this time of year) but its gonna be back to between 4 and below zero soon enough.


i've always wanted to have xmas in australia... have bbqed turkey with beer on the beach, decorate a palm tree, etc... don't ruin my fantasy damnit! :mad: :p

in what way does it involve what you said about confidence?
I wasn't drinking at the time :p

I have another complaint...

It's the day before Christmas and I'm freezing cold... that would be fair enough if I lived somewhere where the weather is always cold for Christmas, but I'm in AUSTRALIA. I wanted a hot christmas day so I can go for a swim when I'm at my cousins place tomorrow... :(

so what if it seems like not a big deal... I always hate being cold it makes me grumpy and for Christmas it's even worse... *grumbles*

Yeah, it's sucky, but better than being all hot and humid I guess. I find that worse. I can deal with cold, but humid can go kill itself with a rusty knife.

i
how "cold" is it? cos i bet its not as cold as it is here... i mean its your summer, and our winter FFS!

ok today it was like 9 degrees (freaky for this time of year) but its gonna be back to between 4 and below zero soon enough.


i've always wanted to have xmas in australia... have bbqed turkey with beer on the beach, decorate a palm tree, etc... don't ruin my fantasy damnit! :mad: :p

Haha. You can still have your fantasy. In Melbourne, it's slightly under 20 degrees by my reckoning. Still cold for summertime, though.

Haha. You can still have your fantasy. In Melbourne, it's slightly under 20 degrees by my reckoning. Still cold for summertime, though.

Should be ok tomorrow though. Forecast is for about 25C, then getting up to 35C by Tuesday.

Should be ok tomorrow though. Forecast is for about 25C, then getting up to 35C by Tuesday.

Nice! Good beer drinkin' weather. :D

I have another complaint...

It's the day before Christmas and I'm freezing cold... that would be fair enough if I lived somewhere where the weather is always cold for Christmas, but I'm in AUSTRALIA. I wanted a hot christmas day so I can go for a swim when I'm at my cousins place tomorrow... :(

so what if it seems like not a big deal... I always hate being cold it makes me grumpy and for Christmas it's even worse... *grumbles*

Heh. Hate the cold this time of year, eh? How about spending a few weeks in Minneapolis in the Winter months? :p

My girlfriend went away yesterday, so don't get to spend Christmas with her/see her at all. She doesn't really trust me so she is always texting me asking me what I'm doing, who I'm with etc. That pisses me off. Christmas day is going to be boring. It's really windy. I hate wind unless it's nice wind, this isn't. My iPod is broken, so when I go away for New Years on the bus, I'll be bored for 6 hours. Unless an interesting person sits next to me. My friends don't really like me too much anymore. So I'm stuck at home alone with not much to do. I should be trying to keep fit but havent been bothered to do anything lately. Slowly putting weight back on which I tried so hard to get rid of. Each day means getting closer and closer to going back to school. I don't want to go back to school. School's going to be hard this year and I'm going to actually have to work hard which I haven't needed to yet.
Pretty hard to come up with any positives.. Yea.

Heh. Hate the cold this time of year, eh? How about spending a few weeks in Minneapolis in the Winter months? :p

Yeah,, I know that... it just bothers me cause it's Australia and I wanted a really hot Chrissy day...

Sorry bout that PM...

And, Potaria, I got Candy Apple Grey for Christmas and so far, I'm loving it..:)

That isn't cold.

nothing whats up with you?