Music: "Never Say Goodbye"- Hardwell
12:40p
Raise your glasses, folks. It's Monday. Okay, maybe that's not a good thing for everyone, but for me, it's definitely a good thing. Four days off ahead of me to rest after starting my new job this past weekend. This will be a job like no other I've ever done in my life. There's more to it than just walking along and forever scanning labels...
After a bitter-sweet end to my time as a hauler, Saturday met me with so many unknowns. I found out I was actually supposed to start training the day before, but my manager just could not afford to give me up, as we were a little busy, not to mention short-handed (what else is new there). I started training right away on one of the biggest machines in our fleet: the SP. That thing is intimidating at first, but so was the PE when I took my first spin. You're dealing with limited visibility, and therefore, you have to be more careful. Safety is an even bigger issue. I found that the written test for the SP was MUCH easier than for the PE. You can only miss one question to make a 100, and I missed one. So off to hands-on. Yes, they're crazy for putting me on the largest machine in that warehouse. On the SP, you have to be harnessed in, and being so small sometimes leaves you at a disadvantage. My trainer and I took off, and I trained on getting a feel for the machine once again in the open area of D dock. The machine doesn't move fast at all, and like the PE, it takes some getting used to. At least I'm not on production, so for once, speed did not matter. The most nerve-wracking part of the training was going up (and by that, I mean ALL the way UP), into the aisles, so high that I could dust the rafters, and probably see my house. My trainer is telling me 'hey look at this view! You can see everything!' Um yeah, that's cool, great. Can we go down now? The height thing will take LOTS of getting used to. I'm alright with heights, depending on how high we're talking. Anything more than 20 stories, and I'll wave at you from the safety of the ground. Just don't look down.....
I drove for the first time on the main aisle, and all the way to A dock, where we worked on turns. Coming out of a turn, the machine stopped dead in its tracks. Great. First day on the machine, and already I'm breaking them. Well that didn't take long. So we had to walk aaaallll the way back to the QA office and grab another SP (and I actually could maneuver that one better), and we were off again. After lunch, I began learning how to back up, and square turns. Once I had that down, it was test time. My trainer wanted me to pull up along the racks, lift up about the third rack up, show them I could easily reach a box, then come back down and turn into the aisle, and come back up and park. I passed, and I was officially licensed. The SP is a little easier than the PE as far as what tasks you can do (the SP doesn't require you to grab pallets, go into trailers, etc), but my God is it hard to see out in front of you. I went ahead and took my last break, and when I came back, I had a new badge waiting for me. I spent the rest of the day doing small tasks; fixing labels on boxes, and taking cases and dropping them off at their correct slots, which required me to get a PE. After being on the SP all day, the PE felt weird, even though it'd just been 24 hours since the last time I'd driven one. I went home, processing what I'd learned.
Sunday was a little easier. I met one of my managers, and I didn't touch the SP all day. Instead, three of us were shipped across the street first thing. When I walked out to my car, the first light of sunrise was beginning to show. It was beautiful. I was to be taught how to verify freight, and get my first taste of actually working with DTS freight, not just carrying it somewhere. I spent all day with my gun, scanning labels, and helping unloaders when needed, for lack of anything else to do at times. It was so quiet over there. The part that I had to get used to was all the walking required. I'm so out of shape after spending 10 months attached to a machine. So I figured I'd find a PE to get me from one side of the building to the other (we were working in the back), but all I could find was about 50 RR's, and one lone SP. Those words 'good luck trying to find a PE in Phase 1' kept ringing in my head the entire day. What? I was pissed because I had to walk around like a chump. I missed feeling the breeze and not having to walk. haha. I never did find a PE, so I walked around aimlessly, scanning labels. It was super, super hot in that damn building, and we finally got some relief later on when it started pouring down rain. The day was uneventful for the most part, but I learned a lot more. I'm going to be eventually trained how to go into the aisles and do audits, chases and strays (which require mountains of paper work...not looking forward to that aspect), verifying, and working with the handheld doing other tasks. I got off on time, happy to have gotten my hours. I came home and was completely exhausted. I didn't even have the strength to talk. I ended up going to bed early, no use in fighting it.
I'm not sure how much I'm going to like certain aspects of the job, but it is definitely going to have its advantages. Who knows, in six months, I may stay, I may end up going back to hauling. You never know what could change. I'm doing something different, more detailed, and giving my body a chance to rest and heal itself. I hope I find what I'm looking for....
This week I'm going to try to accomplish some minor things, as we head into August. I can't believe it's here again! Planning out the next couple of months is going to prove a challenge, but will be done! And many opportunities await....
Until next time, folks...
Monday, July 29, 2013
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Pwned.
Music: "Sleeping At Last"- Turning Page
9p
You know, Mother Nature is truly a bitch. A nasty, evil bitch.
Ownage of the weekend number one.
And you know, Friday was actually great. Everything was back in balance. My last full weekend as a hauler was off to a great start. Yes, I was tired, but I knew that would only be the start. I could feel the change coming. And this is the pattern my weekends have been following; Friday: great. Saturday: someone kill me. Sunday: it's my Friday, but still..someone kill me. Friday night I came home to the package I'd been waiting for. A good end to a good day, but knew it wouldn't last. I was so right...
Saturday was awful. I was right about the change. I spent the majority of the day in a very bad mood, threatening to run people over who kept getting in my way (which was happening A LOT). I noticed a slew of new faces working for our third party, who had been given the task of cleaning the building in advance of a visit from the head boss. Meaning, a Spring-cleaning, all hands on deck, nothing will be left untouched-cleaning. These guys took to the aisles of all places, and I nearly ran people over who were sweeping behind pallets. Adding to my already growing frustration, I knocked over about 7 pallets throughout the day. Fucking unloaders. I did take responsibility for one because idiot me took a corner too fast (but when don't I do that?). Not only does that kill your time, but your numbers as well. I was in such a sour mood all day, that I took refuge in my car during break times. What is it about sitting in your car for 15 minutes that changes your outlook on things? Maybe it's that little piece of home, that normalcy, the comfort. Each time, I went back with a good attitude (or tried to, anyway), only to get knocked back into a bad mood later on. Blame it on the hormones, and all the events of the day up to that point. Not to mention pedestrians who have absolutely NO respect for machines. Honking my horn three times to let these people know I'm coming, and get right up on them, honk again, and oh! there's a machine there? Where'd you come from?
Somebody fucking get me off this machine before somebody dies.I couldn't stand these people's ignorance and lack of respect. I'll run these clowns over before I hit any of my friends, who were walking around as well. I was beyond frustrated.
Later in the afternoon, I hit A dock to up my numbers, and the vet hauler came and gave me the list of old freight, for A dock. Hey, this is cool! I'll gladly take this list, thank you so much. Lots of easy hauls on this list. But...she came back a few minutes later and explained that I was given the wrong list because I'd been on this dock yesterday, the hauler in charge today needs this list. Um, okaaayy..so where's my C dock list (my assigned dock). What did I get? D dock. Um, I'm not responsible for this dock. Oh, are you sure? That's the dock they called out this morning, I'm not deaf, you little vet hauler. Alright, I didn't say that last part but I should have told her off then. What? I'm leaving! What are they gonna do? Not only did I get that list, but the list had long hauls. I'm already not making my numbers for the day....
Now I'm pissed beyond reason. That did it for me. Joe had C dock, he got a C dock list, where's mine? I went to D dock and scoped it out. It was jam packed, but all long hauls. Fuck this shit! The vet hauler found me a while later and gave me yet another list, and asked why I wasn't working it. God dammit, leave me alone! I found Hamilton and asked him to get her off my back. He told me not to worry, just do what I normally do best. After dropping a pallet in the aisle and collecting myself, I finally swallowed my pride and went to my assigned door, the expression on my face probably scaring the other drivers, but I didn't care anymore. I didn't look that hauler in the eye, or give her the time of day, I just did what I could on that door. I was too far gone to care, too pissed off to do anything but make it to the end of the day. I was never more happy when the day finally ended..and on time, too (did I hear someone mention 8'o'clock? HA that was probably the highlight of my day, and I needed a good laugh).
I got my answer to my problem on Sunday, later in the day. My mood hadn't improved by much, and our trailer count wasn't there again, but I did what I could. Tried to better collect myself and not run over people. My last weekend as a hauler was eventful, but not like I thought it'd be. I'm starting my new job this weekend, and I'm a bit nervous. Not sure what to expect, but apparently there's word going around that I won't be able to handle it. Hmm...so let's see, I survived by some miracle 7 months of unloading, dominated hauling, so this should be another thing I can conquer and do it well. I won't be intimidated.....
I'm going to enjoy my week until then. Think I'm going to go watch Breaking Dawn...oh yeah, and it's all John's fault. Yeah, blame John. He's a guy, and...um, yeah..it's his fault. Muahaha.
9p
You know, Mother Nature is truly a bitch. A nasty, evil bitch.
Ownage of the weekend number one.
And you know, Friday was actually great. Everything was back in balance. My last full weekend as a hauler was off to a great start. Yes, I was tired, but I knew that would only be the start. I could feel the change coming. And this is the pattern my weekends have been following; Friday: great. Saturday: someone kill me. Sunday: it's my Friday, but still..someone kill me. Friday night I came home to the package I'd been waiting for. A good end to a good day, but knew it wouldn't last. I was so right...
Saturday was awful. I was right about the change. I spent the majority of the day in a very bad mood, threatening to run people over who kept getting in my way (which was happening A LOT). I noticed a slew of new faces working for our third party, who had been given the task of cleaning the building in advance of a visit from the head boss. Meaning, a Spring-cleaning, all hands on deck, nothing will be left untouched-cleaning. These guys took to the aisles of all places, and I nearly ran people over who were sweeping behind pallets. Adding to my already growing frustration, I knocked over about 7 pallets throughout the day. Fucking unloaders. I did take responsibility for one because idiot me took a corner too fast (but when don't I do that?). Not only does that kill your time, but your numbers as well. I was in such a sour mood all day, that I took refuge in my car during break times. What is it about sitting in your car for 15 minutes that changes your outlook on things? Maybe it's that little piece of home, that normalcy, the comfort. Each time, I went back with a good attitude (or tried to, anyway), only to get knocked back into a bad mood later on. Blame it on the hormones, and all the events of the day up to that point. Not to mention pedestrians who have absolutely NO respect for machines. Honking my horn three times to let these people know I'm coming, and get right up on them, honk again, and oh! there's a machine there? Where'd you come from?
Somebody fucking get me off this machine before somebody dies.I couldn't stand these people's ignorance and lack of respect. I'll run these clowns over before I hit any of my friends, who were walking around as well. I was beyond frustrated.
Later in the afternoon, I hit A dock to up my numbers, and the vet hauler came and gave me the list of old freight, for A dock. Hey, this is cool! I'll gladly take this list, thank you so much. Lots of easy hauls on this list. But...she came back a few minutes later and explained that I was given the wrong list because I'd been on this dock yesterday, the hauler in charge today needs this list. Um, okaaayy..so where's my C dock list (my assigned dock). What did I get? D dock. Um, I'm not responsible for this dock. Oh, are you sure? That's the dock they called out this morning, I'm not deaf, you little vet hauler. Alright, I didn't say that last part but I should have told her off then. What? I'm leaving! What are they gonna do? Not only did I get that list, but the list had long hauls. I'm already not making my numbers for the day....
Now I'm pissed beyond reason. That did it for me. Joe had C dock, he got a C dock list, where's mine? I went to D dock and scoped it out. It was jam packed, but all long hauls. Fuck this shit! The vet hauler found me a while later and gave me yet another list, and asked why I wasn't working it. God dammit, leave me alone! I found Hamilton and asked him to get her off my back. He told me not to worry, just do what I normally do best. After dropping a pallet in the aisle and collecting myself, I finally swallowed my pride and went to my assigned door, the expression on my face probably scaring the other drivers, but I didn't care anymore. I didn't look that hauler in the eye, or give her the time of day, I just did what I could on that door. I was too far gone to care, too pissed off to do anything but make it to the end of the day. I was never more happy when the day finally ended..and on time, too (did I hear someone mention 8'o'clock? HA that was probably the highlight of my day, and I needed a good laugh).
I got my answer to my problem on Sunday, later in the day. My mood hadn't improved by much, and our trailer count wasn't there again, but I did what I could. Tried to better collect myself and not run over people. My last weekend as a hauler was eventful, but not like I thought it'd be. I'm starting my new job this weekend, and I'm a bit nervous. Not sure what to expect, but apparently there's word going around that I won't be able to handle it. Hmm...so let's see, I survived by some miracle 7 months of unloading, dominated hauling, so this should be another thing I can conquer and do it well. I won't be intimidated.....
I'm going to enjoy my week until then. Think I'm going to go watch Breaking Dawn...oh yeah, and it's all John's fault. Yeah, blame John. He's a guy, and...um, yeah..it's his fault. Muahaha.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Counting down....
Music: Thunder
3:30p
It's been an interesting week. Where I last left off, I was about to face the second jury summons in 5 years. I went in, spent all day waiting, only to be told that my group wouldn't be needed, as the court reached a verdict without the need for us. Awesome! I'm free! I went home, shedding off my dress clothes as I went. Freedom! No, I wasn't happy at all. :P
I managed to spend the last of my vacation with friends, adding to all the stuff I did while on vacation. And I wish it would have lasted longer: going back this weekend was really tough. My body was happy to be back on its 'normal' schedule, but once again, the weirdness that only I can conjure up made sure I knew that I was truly back at work. Friday left me totally exhausted after 11 days of rest, and of course we got off late. I hit my numbers with what strength I had left, and just could not drive any more. Saturday was a strange day. After not having enough freight to haul on the docks (bad enough we had 'extra help' from Shipping, taking all our very little production), I was sent across the street. I had forgotten just how empty, dark, eerie, quiet, and backwards Phase 1 was. The last time I was there was a year ago, training as a hauler, then coming right back a couple weeks later to see for the first time what the building is like when it's actually full, during peak season. I was completely lost then, and that didn't change. After finding the only PE amongst the row of machines, I took off for B shipping. After asking for directions with where the freight was going, I was set. Most everything went to the same spot, making hauling *very* boring. So quiet, and dark, but not having to worry about other traffic! For that part, it was nice.
Things were going good, and I was happy to be making production (thanks to double-stacked hauls). DTS had started over there, and the freight was all easy hauls. I pulled in to grab a single pallet, and the PE started tipping. Whoa...so I dropped the forks, and stared down the pallet. What the hell? The pallet was fine! Even with the ground, nothing loose, no wood. A fellow hauler passed by then, and pointed down. I looked down..and followed the cord to my scan gun...it wasn't where it should be, tucked safely in my box, but...
I'd just run over my scan gun. Not just run over, but smashed. Congratulations, Jamie Lynn, you're having an awesome day! Glass from the gun covered the floor, and the gun was done for. I'd run over guns before, but caught them before I could do much damage. I'd never seen something so totaled like the gun was. It was twisted and mangled, and obviously not going to see the light of day again. I ran up to the office, and they had to fill out a report. I'd just destroyed a $250 dollar scan gun. Way to go, idiot. What was worse, I had to wait for my manager to come back to the building to sign off on the report, before they could let me have another scan gun. After last break, we finally got a hold of him, and when he found me, he joked that maybe that was my sign I shouldn't be leaving. I got a new gun, and found a safer place for it this time. After a couple more bumps, I managed to hit my numbers, but just barely.
Sunday was an awful day for numbers; the trailer count just wasn't there, and that means no freight. I didn't even pull 175. I was super disappointed, and I tried all afternoon to get out, to save myself the stress of finding production, but I kept having to do housekeeping. Why he didn't just let us leave, I have no clue. After this weekend, I'm glad I got the QA job, and I've been told all weekend just how hard it is to get in to QA. I believe it, but I'm just glad I had the seniority. So many things I won't have to worry about, but hoping I just get to verify and scan freight. Feeling hopeful. :)
This will be my last full weekend hauling, so I have to get my kicks in one last time! A new chapter awaits....
For now, I'm off to go wreak havoc in Cypress with my family. Until next time....
3:30p
It's been an interesting week. Where I last left off, I was about to face the second jury summons in 5 years. I went in, spent all day waiting, only to be told that my group wouldn't be needed, as the court reached a verdict without the need for us. Awesome! I'm free! I went home, shedding off my dress clothes as I went. Freedom! No, I wasn't happy at all. :P
I managed to spend the last of my vacation with friends, adding to all the stuff I did while on vacation. And I wish it would have lasted longer: going back this weekend was really tough. My body was happy to be back on its 'normal' schedule, but once again, the weirdness that only I can conjure up made sure I knew that I was truly back at work. Friday left me totally exhausted after 11 days of rest, and of course we got off late. I hit my numbers with what strength I had left, and just could not drive any more. Saturday was a strange day. After not having enough freight to haul on the docks (bad enough we had 'extra help' from Shipping, taking all our very little production), I was sent across the street. I had forgotten just how empty, dark, eerie, quiet, and backwards Phase 1 was. The last time I was there was a year ago, training as a hauler, then coming right back a couple weeks later to see for the first time what the building is like when it's actually full, during peak season. I was completely lost then, and that didn't change. After finding the only PE amongst the row of machines, I took off for B shipping. After asking for directions with where the freight was going, I was set. Most everything went to the same spot, making hauling *very* boring. So quiet, and dark, but not having to worry about other traffic! For that part, it was nice.
Things were going good, and I was happy to be making production (thanks to double-stacked hauls). DTS had started over there, and the freight was all easy hauls. I pulled in to grab a single pallet, and the PE started tipping. Whoa...so I dropped the forks, and stared down the pallet. What the hell? The pallet was fine! Even with the ground, nothing loose, no wood. A fellow hauler passed by then, and pointed down. I looked down..and followed the cord to my scan gun...it wasn't where it should be, tucked safely in my box, but...
I'd just run over my scan gun. Not just run over, but smashed. Congratulations, Jamie Lynn, you're having an awesome day! Glass from the gun covered the floor, and the gun was done for. I'd run over guns before, but caught them before I could do much damage. I'd never seen something so totaled like the gun was. It was twisted and mangled, and obviously not going to see the light of day again. I ran up to the office, and they had to fill out a report. I'd just destroyed a $250 dollar scan gun. Way to go, idiot. What was worse, I had to wait for my manager to come back to the building to sign off on the report, before they could let me have another scan gun. After last break, we finally got a hold of him, and when he found me, he joked that maybe that was my sign I shouldn't be leaving. I got a new gun, and found a safer place for it this time. After a couple more bumps, I managed to hit my numbers, but just barely.
Sunday was an awful day for numbers; the trailer count just wasn't there, and that means no freight. I didn't even pull 175. I was super disappointed, and I tried all afternoon to get out, to save myself the stress of finding production, but I kept having to do housekeeping. Why he didn't just let us leave, I have no clue. After this weekend, I'm glad I got the QA job, and I've been told all weekend just how hard it is to get in to QA. I believe it, but I'm just glad I had the seniority. So many things I won't have to worry about, but hoping I just get to verify and scan freight. Feeling hopeful. :)
This will be my last full weekend hauling, so I have to get my kicks in one last time! A new chapter awaits....
For now, I'm off to go wreak havoc in Cypress with my family. Until next time....
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
8,101
Music: "Clarity" by Zedd
11p
I'm not a hauler anymore.
As I write this, I'm still not sure what to feel. As much as I'm saddened to say those words, because I feel like I'm giving up something I fought so hard for, I'm also proud of what I have done looking back. Unlike when I got the job as a hauler, and I felt the weight of the world lifted off of my shoulders after so long, this time...is very different. I wasn't fighting for my life. I wasn't worried where my future with the company would end up. I wasn't at the end of my rope in every way you could ever imagine. This time, I simply needed a break. The title above refers to different numbers during my time as a hauler. On the 8th day of the month, marking my 10-month anniversary, and what was then my one and only shot of getting out of the hell that was unloading. I've more than proven myself; I fought for it and I won. Even though I didn't make a year like I thought I would, fate had other plans. I'm simply burnt out, and an injured arm did not help matters. Oh, I could still go on and haul another 10 months if I wanted to, but I'm opting out to test the waters and also give my arm a chance to heal and rest. Oh, and you're probably wanting to know the good news! I'm transferring into a quality control associate. I'm playing with the big guns now. I won't be on production for the first time in a year and a half. I get to actually take time and interact with people, instead of having to speed away to grab this or make my numbers. Waiting for that damn phone call drove me batty.
I woke up yesterday morning, anxious to get the dentist out of the way, and on to the next thing: the phone call. But when I got home, and the call never came, I figured it wasn't meant to be. Well, sorry arm, but you're just gonna have to keep going until I have to saw you off. With learning about what I have to do next with my teeth, plus not seeing John, and the other stuff (still not satisfied), I was depressed. What is it about Mondays that make me so down? The morning wore on, and still no phone call. So, at my sister's request, I packed an overnight bag, and drove myself out to Cypress to see my sister and the kids. The kids are nothing but spoiled brats, and I didn't see half of them until that night, when we went bowling. They didn't even come out to say hi to me. Not long after I got to the house, my sister and I were looking at stuff on her computer, when my phone started ringing. Here we go with the idiot telemarketers again! Sound familiar yet? Once again, it was the DC. 'You got the job, you still want it?' The hell do you guys always ask me that? Okay, I know it's probably their protocol, but whatever. So I accepted, and was told that everything would be drawn up by the time I return to work on Friday. So after screaming and giving my sister a big hug, I was finally able to wipe away another worry, and finally announce to the world I had the job. I didn't tell anyone about it this time around, mostly because I didn't want to get my hopes up, and for the element of surprise, the fun part.
I suck at bowling, and just when I found my inspiration for knocking down pins (yeah, I imagined the pins as being his head *muttering* stupid friends....), the games were over, and people were packing up. That's when John called me. I talked to him on the way back to the house, and told him about the job. Always nice to talk to him when he gets a free moment. Lets me know he's thinking about me....unlike some people....
I kept thinking back about how the events had played out. I'm glad I got the job, but now the nervous part sets in all over again. They gonna teach me to drive the big machines now? Oh, God, might want to evacuate the building for a day. Or better yet, put me in Phase 1. Yeah, nothing to destroy over there. If in six months I decide I don't like QA, it will be the first of the year, and I can always go back to hauling if I so choose. I'll even get to play on the new machines by then hopefully. It's a quiet victory (unlike when I got the hauler position, and I cried for a week). I'm excited for the opportunity. I think I can handle a couple more weeks tearing around the warehouse. I'm losing some things, like I won't have my same manager anymore. I won't get to tear around the warehouse with the other haulers, but I won't have to worry about going into those blasted aisles where people try to kill you.
I have another hurdle to jump over, and that's jury summons tomorrow. I'm off to quietly celebrate another victory, and pray they let me go tomorrow. THAT will be a victory in and of itself!
Until next time....
And on a side note, while driving home from Cypress today, fighting rain and real traffic for the very first time, I remembered the last time I celebrated a victory, and when I was able to, plugged in my iPod and searched for the song. Yes, THAT song. If you don't remember, you might want to re-read my blog titled "One word: wow". Yes, I played the song..twice in a row before I'd finally made it home. If the day was gonna do it, might as well do it all the way, right?
"There's nothing to crowd my mind..." And with that, I'm saying goodnight.
11p
I'm not a hauler anymore.
As I write this, I'm still not sure what to feel. As much as I'm saddened to say those words, because I feel like I'm giving up something I fought so hard for, I'm also proud of what I have done looking back. Unlike when I got the job as a hauler, and I felt the weight of the world lifted off of my shoulders after so long, this time...is very different. I wasn't fighting for my life. I wasn't worried where my future with the company would end up. I wasn't at the end of my rope in every way you could ever imagine. This time, I simply needed a break. The title above refers to different numbers during my time as a hauler. On the 8th day of the month, marking my 10-month anniversary, and what was then my one and only shot of getting out of the hell that was unloading. I've more than proven myself; I fought for it and I won. Even though I didn't make a year like I thought I would, fate had other plans. I'm simply burnt out, and an injured arm did not help matters. Oh, I could still go on and haul another 10 months if I wanted to, but I'm opting out to test the waters and also give my arm a chance to heal and rest. Oh, and you're probably wanting to know the good news! I'm transferring into a quality control associate. I'm playing with the big guns now. I won't be on production for the first time in a year and a half. I get to actually take time and interact with people, instead of having to speed away to grab this or make my numbers. Waiting for that damn phone call drove me batty.
I woke up yesterday morning, anxious to get the dentist out of the way, and on to the next thing: the phone call. But when I got home, and the call never came, I figured it wasn't meant to be. Well, sorry arm, but you're just gonna have to keep going until I have to saw you off. With learning about what I have to do next with my teeth, plus not seeing John, and the other stuff (still not satisfied), I was depressed. What is it about Mondays that make me so down? The morning wore on, and still no phone call. So, at my sister's request, I packed an overnight bag, and drove myself out to Cypress to see my sister and the kids. The kids are nothing but spoiled brats, and I didn't see half of them until that night, when we went bowling. They didn't even come out to say hi to me. Not long after I got to the house, my sister and I were looking at stuff on her computer, when my phone started ringing. Here we go with the idiot telemarketers again! Sound familiar yet? Once again, it was the DC. 'You got the job, you still want it?' The hell do you guys always ask me that? Okay, I know it's probably their protocol, but whatever. So I accepted, and was told that everything would be drawn up by the time I return to work on Friday. So after screaming and giving my sister a big hug, I was finally able to wipe away another worry, and finally announce to the world I had the job. I didn't tell anyone about it this time around, mostly because I didn't want to get my hopes up, and for the element of surprise, the fun part.
I suck at bowling, and just when I found my inspiration for knocking down pins (yeah, I imagined the pins as being his head *muttering* stupid friends....), the games were over, and people were packing up. That's when John called me. I talked to him on the way back to the house, and told him about the job. Always nice to talk to him when he gets a free moment. Lets me know he's thinking about me....unlike some people....
I kept thinking back about how the events had played out. I'm glad I got the job, but now the nervous part sets in all over again. They gonna teach me to drive the big machines now? Oh, God, might want to evacuate the building for a day. Or better yet, put me in Phase 1. Yeah, nothing to destroy over there. If in six months I decide I don't like QA, it will be the first of the year, and I can always go back to hauling if I so choose. I'll even get to play on the new machines by then hopefully. It's a quiet victory (unlike when I got the hauler position, and I cried for a week). I'm excited for the opportunity. I think I can handle a couple more weeks tearing around the warehouse. I'm losing some things, like I won't have my same manager anymore. I won't get to tear around the warehouse with the other haulers, but I won't have to worry about going into those blasted aisles where people try to kill you.
I have another hurdle to jump over, and that's jury summons tomorrow. I'm off to quietly celebrate another victory, and pray they let me go tomorrow. THAT will be a victory in and of itself!
Until next time....
And on a side note, while driving home from Cypress today, fighting rain and real traffic for the very first time, I remembered the last time I celebrated a victory, and when I was able to, plugged in my iPod and searched for the song. Yes, THAT song. If you don't remember, you might want to re-read my blog titled "One word: wow". Yes, I played the song..twice in a row before I'd finally made it home. If the day was gonna do it, might as well do it all the way, right?
"There's nothing to crowd my mind..." And with that, I'm saying goodnight.
Monday, July 8, 2013
"Blue"
Music: Two Steps From Hell
9:45a
I didn't get the chance to tell him goodbye. To hug him one last time. Tell him how much I was going to miss him. I wanted to look into his eyes once more, and see what I hoped would be sadness, as he didn't want to leave my side. The words "I don't want to break your heart" are understandable, but still sting nonetheless. I miss you already. I didn't feel the ache when you were around. I felt cared for and appreciated, the way it should have been before. I never got to tell him goodbye....
Coming off such an incredible weekend, Monday has met me with more bad news than I can stand. I'm an emotional wreck. Why is it that I keep falling so many steps back, when it feels like I've just caught up? I get my hopes up, only to be shot down and pushed back. I can't find the happiness I've been after for so long...
Why do I get the bad news as soon as I wake up on Monday mornings? Someone I really would like to get to know more has now gone back 'home' and I don't know when we'll see each other again. I didn't even get to tell him goodbye. He was just too far behind schedule (but I know that seeing me as well as his family made up for his bad weekend). The other, just-as-important person has left, too, and this will be a very long weekend. I want to confront him, too, ask every question that has been on my mind these past couple of months. I'm probably the last person in the world he wants to see, and the most annoying, but I just need that reassurance that it's probably just all in my mind. I care, too, but sometimes I don't feel that notion is returned. As much as I just want to run everyone over, I'm also letting emotions of another worry spill over into this one.
I'm still waiting to hear about what my future holds. And funny how today is 10 months since I started the hauling job. I just don't know. I didn't tell anyone about what my plans were, but maybe I should have. I'd know I have people on my side telling me and re-assuring me that everything would go well. How much confidence (I'm beginning to LOATHE that word) they have that I'd get the news I've so longed to hear. I'm frustrated, unsure, confident, worried, hopeful, and everything else wrapped into one. Please God let that phone ring.
I'm keeping up with the medical end of things, but things keep popping up, deterring me. I'm about to be set back another few hundred dollars with yet another issue that popped up today, but it's just a speed bump. Next month, I'll have the surgery done. Not like we'll be getting any overtime at work, so you can just forget that right now. Getting your hopes up gets you nowhere, like me. Two years (give or take), and I'll finally have what I want. This is only the beginning...
I just really want things in the present to get better. That phone needs to ring first.
9:45a
I didn't get the chance to tell him goodbye. To hug him one last time. Tell him how much I was going to miss him. I wanted to look into his eyes once more, and see what I hoped would be sadness, as he didn't want to leave my side. The words "I don't want to break your heart" are understandable, but still sting nonetheless. I miss you already. I didn't feel the ache when you were around. I felt cared for and appreciated, the way it should have been before. I never got to tell him goodbye....
Coming off such an incredible weekend, Monday has met me with more bad news than I can stand. I'm an emotional wreck. Why is it that I keep falling so many steps back, when it feels like I've just caught up? I get my hopes up, only to be shot down and pushed back. I can't find the happiness I've been after for so long...
Why do I get the bad news as soon as I wake up on Monday mornings? Someone I really would like to get to know more has now gone back 'home' and I don't know when we'll see each other again. I didn't even get to tell him goodbye. He was just too far behind schedule (but I know that seeing me as well as his family made up for his bad weekend). The other, just-as-important person has left, too, and this will be a very long weekend. I want to confront him, too, ask every question that has been on my mind these past couple of months. I'm probably the last person in the world he wants to see, and the most annoying, but I just need that reassurance that it's probably just all in my mind. I care, too, but sometimes I don't feel that notion is returned. As much as I just want to run everyone over, I'm also letting emotions of another worry spill over into this one.
I'm still waiting to hear about what my future holds. And funny how today is 10 months since I started the hauling job. I just don't know. I didn't tell anyone about what my plans were, but maybe I should have. I'd know I have people on my side telling me and re-assuring me that everything would go well. How much confidence (I'm beginning to LOATHE that word) they have that I'd get the news I've so longed to hear. I'm frustrated, unsure, confident, worried, hopeful, and everything else wrapped into one. Please God let that phone ring.
I'm keeping up with the medical end of things, but things keep popping up, deterring me. I'm about to be set back another few hundred dollars with yet another issue that popped up today, but it's just a speed bump. Next month, I'll have the surgery done. Not like we'll be getting any overtime at work, so you can just forget that right now. Getting your hopes up gets you nowhere, like me. Two years (give or take), and I'll finally have what I want. This is only the beginning...
I just really want things in the present to get better. That phone needs to ring first.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
So many questions...
Music: the hum of my laptop
9a
The waiting game continues. I did my part yesterday as soon as I saw the opportunity. About time they actually let me know something. I'd been waiting for two weeks to get a spot in line, so to speak, so now...I wait. A year ago at my job, I was nearing my 6-month 'probation' period as an unloader, just waiting to get my hands on something, anything, and get out of that God-awful position that very nearly killed me. I had so much doubt that getting out would be so easy, and when I finally saw a hauling position open up, I knew it couldn't be that easy, because I just don't have that kind of luck. My family was on pins and needles, and friends had no doubt I'd get that job. I served my time and paid my dues, and blood, sweat and tears finally paid off. Now, I'm 10 months in, and I couldn't be more proud of myself for going this long. But it hasn't been without struggle; my arm has been bothering me this week. If I have to stay on this path, then I'm going to have to go see my doctor. Not looking forward to that, but it would be nice to have some feeling come back to my hand...
And now, (and I still haven't told anyone else about what I'm doing), I'm trying to branch out and keep all my options open. IF I were to choose to transfer at my current job, I have no steps against me, and I've served my 6 months. So I'm good on that. As far as transferring out of walmart altogether...that's going to be interesting. Whatever happens...I'm ready.
And still so many questions about other things going on in my life. But so much is about to happen:
I turn 30 in 3 months. I'm scared, I'm excited, I'm happy, but most of all...I think I'm going to throw up.
I'm about to pay off my car...FINALLY! Then I can either decide if I wanna sell it, or coast without the added bill of a car note for a while. Hmmm lemme think about th- I WANT A NEW CAR! :D
My medical bills are being paid off, and I'm still progressing along. In August I'm going to have the surgery done, then probably have them start the process of straightening my teeth sometime in September, just before my birthday. I'm so excited and I can't wait to get my life back. I'm still so uncomfortable around other people...
The moving out scenario is creeping back into the equation. I'm moving to Baytown, ya'll ready for me?? *everyone gets in their cars and speeds away not looking back* YES! FREE STARBUCKS!
If I remain at the warehouse, peak season will start soon, and can I please PLEASE get some overtime already?? It's not fair!
I can't believe how fast this week has gone by, it's been fun, frustrating, and productive. I'm taking a much needed break this weekend from the warehouse, and taking advantage of the time while everyone else has to drag themselves in to work at the ass crack of dawn. I'll be laughing, until next Friday morning when I have to go back, annoyed and tired as fucking hell.
Until then, Happy July 4th everyone, stay safe. I'm drinking at home today.
9a
The waiting game continues. I did my part yesterday as soon as I saw the opportunity. About time they actually let me know something. I'd been waiting for two weeks to get a spot in line, so to speak, so now...I wait. A year ago at my job, I was nearing my 6-month 'probation' period as an unloader, just waiting to get my hands on something, anything, and get out of that God-awful position that very nearly killed me. I had so much doubt that getting out would be so easy, and when I finally saw a hauling position open up, I knew it couldn't be that easy, because I just don't have that kind of luck. My family was on pins and needles, and friends had no doubt I'd get that job. I served my time and paid my dues, and blood, sweat and tears finally paid off. Now, I'm 10 months in, and I couldn't be more proud of myself for going this long. But it hasn't been without struggle; my arm has been bothering me this week. If I have to stay on this path, then I'm going to have to go see my doctor. Not looking forward to that, but it would be nice to have some feeling come back to my hand...
And now, (and I still haven't told anyone else about what I'm doing), I'm trying to branch out and keep all my options open. IF I were to choose to transfer at my current job, I have no steps against me, and I've served my 6 months. So I'm good on that. As far as transferring out of walmart altogether...that's going to be interesting. Whatever happens...I'm ready.
And still so many questions about other things going on in my life. But so much is about to happen:
I turn 30 in 3 months. I'm scared, I'm excited, I'm happy, but most of all...I think I'm going to throw up.
I'm about to pay off my car...FINALLY! Then I can either decide if I wanna sell it, or coast without the added bill of a car note for a while. Hmmm lemme think about th- I WANT A NEW CAR! :D
My medical bills are being paid off, and I'm still progressing along. In August I'm going to have the surgery done, then probably have them start the process of straightening my teeth sometime in September, just before my birthday. I'm so excited and I can't wait to get my life back. I'm still so uncomfortable around other people...
The moving out scenario is creeping back into the equation. I'm moving to Baytown, ya'll ready for me?? *everyone gets in their cars and speeds away not looking back* YES! FREE STARBUCKS!
If I remain at the warehouse, peak season will start soon, and can I please PLEASE get some overtime already?? It's not fair!
I can't believe how fast this week has gone by, it's been fun, frustrating, and productive. I'm taking a much needed break this weekend from the warehouse, and taking advantage of the time while everyone else has to drag themselves in to work at the ass crack of dawn. I'll be laughing, until next Friday morning when I have to go back, annoyed and tired as fucking hell.
Until then, Happy July 4th everyone, stay safe. I'm drinking at home today.
Monday, July 1, 2013
Playing the waiting game.
Music: Above and Beyond- "Liquid Love" (BEAUTIFUL song!)
12p
When I woke up this morning, a song came to me, complete with a beat and lyrics. That was my sign that it's going to be a nice couple of weeks. I needed this break, and after this weekend, I more than earned it.
No day this 'work week' was as interesting, or as exhausting, as yesterday was. After everything from working with an injured arm, bad freight, waiting for this and that, breaking machines and the heat, I knew I had to make it that day. When I heard the words "D shipping," my heart and my spirits fell. Well, there went my week. I'm screwed. Oh, well. It was nice while it lasted. I got my gun and headed that direction, anticipating every door opening, and being as busy as it was the last couple of days (and with 40 trucks, what else would a hauler expect?). Upon getting to the dock, it was pitch black, silent. Not one door had opened. I started cautiously scanning the dock at the freight from the day before, and deciding I'd do whatever it took to make 220 for the day, no matter what. Thankfully, most of the freight went to the same dock. I started clearing out the short hauls, separating the long hauls for me to come back to later when I had time. That's where I spent the first two hours. Not one door ever opened, I didn't ever see a single hauler. It was quiet, and I was alone. I was happy. After clearing out the short hauls, and still not seeing any doors open up, I realized that I now had the freedom of 'floating' the docks, as I was technically not tied to any specific dock any longer. I decided I'd come back to the dock from time to time, and keep an ear out for pages for pallets. I oriented myself on C dock (where else?), grabbing what I could when it became available (kudos to QA for keeping up their pace), and watched my numbers go up and up. Now this is the way it should be everyday!
I kept my eye on the shipping dock, and still no doors had opened. My manager actually did me a favor by putting me on that dock. Around lunch time, I had around 140. I came back, ready to go again and get ahead. But my battery decided that now would be a good time to die. Great. I'd just passed the damn station when I saw the stupid light blinking. So I made a U-turn and headed back. There was a long line, and the guy changing batteries wasn't the regular guy, and that slowed things way down. I was beyond frustrated. I was doing so good! I had another four hours of production before I hit my goal. And when it was all said and done and I finally got a battery, I was an hour behind. I waited a freaking hour. So when I was finally able to take off, I again shut my mind off and concentrated on nothing but production. I tore down the docks again, quickly finding short hauls, and finding two pallets with the same locations. I was shaking, I had so much adrenaline coursing through my veins. I managed somewhere around 30-35 hauls from that first hour alone. At break time, a friend informed me that he'd just tagged about 65 pallets of freight on my dock, but they weren't verified. I'd known about the 'live' unloads from earlier, but there were that many?? Before he told me that, I wasn't sure if I'd be able to pull the 220, and after watching people from different areas trickle out the door, heading home for the week, I just knew that my time was ticking down, and I felt depressed. I instead used that to drive me to do whatever it took to hit that goal. I needed this, and I knew I wasn't only doing it for myself.
I hit C dock again, and I grabbed two pallets heading to D dock. I passed a QA who told me that there was someone on shipping verifying the live unloads. This could be just the break I needed. After dropping off my load, I turned onto the dock, and closed my eyes. On the opposite end of the dock sat an RR. Yes! And not one hauler in sight. You know what saved my ass? Pasta sauce. Yes, I said pasta sauce. 65 pallets of freaking pasta sauce. I went after them, starting with the rows furthest from the location first (if you work at the warehouse, I don't have to tell you where they went), not caring how many times I had to go back and forth, or how bored I got. Production, production, production. I wasn't counting anymore; I simply wrote them down and ran. Every once in a while, I'd catch another hauler taking a few, and I started to get mad, but they were simply back-hauling. They'd take a couple and head back to receiving. It took me a good hour and a half to clear them out, and thankfully the other haulers that were taking the pallets were keeping up with my system I'd set up (lining up four pallets together, leaving some space for the putaway driver, four pallets, space, and so on), and even setting them very neatly off to the side when the isle got full. I had eight pallets left on the dock. I was finally able to look at my tally. I had four trips left, equaling eight pallets. Eight pallets on the dock. i just made production for the day. I was so happy...after a good four weeks of not making my goad, I saw 220. I did my happy dance and took off. That little pesky hauler though came back and took two of my eight pallets. You son of a bitch. :P I went and scanned the last four pallets. You're going to have to pull these from my cold, dead hands. I dare you. But he never came back, figuring I had the rest. Ha! I wasn't worried, as I went back to receiving and grabbed my last two to make my numbers, and my hourly production on top of that.
My manager had given me a list of the old freight, and most of them were long hauls, but I didn't care, you guys had my numbers, you can have whatever you want from me now. I took the first two on my list, and still had 30 minutes left of my hour. I ran back to shipping, grabbing one of those carts the orderfillers use. I think that was the first time I had one of those on my forks. My God, how the hell do they stand that noise? I'd have to wear some damn earplugs. I started grabbing trash cans off my dock, to get those out of the way. I was getting exhausted. I got my cans sorted and emptied, and ran and put them back, and dropped off that stupid cart on a module. I took the rest of the bad wood for the dock support guy, and when I hit C dock again, my mouth dropped. C dock had exploded something crazy. What did I miss? Plenty of production, and nearly every QA had come out of the woodwork and were now walking the docks. Holy crap look at all this freight! After taking my last two long hauls on my 10am list, I was done, and totally exhausted. My arm was getting very sore and uncomfortable, my feet were screaming, and I couldn't see straight, much less focus anymore. I had my numbers though. I'd just pulled in to grab a couple of pallets, running on fumes at this point, and really in no hurry, when our day was called. What a day, but I did what I needed to do, and hopefully that will be a good total for the week, as yesterday was my last day.
Note to self: when you come home and start hallucinating that you're hearing a horn honk, and you turn to look down an aisle, but you find you're really looking down your hallway, and no PE in sight, it *might* be time to go to sleep.
And now that I'm recharged and full of energy, I'm ready to enjoy this break. I needed it...bad. Until next time, and have a good holiday!
12p
When I woke up this morning, a song came to me, complete with a beat and lyrics. That was my sign that it's going to be a nice couple of weeks. I needed this break, and after this weekend, I more than earned it.
No day this 'work week' was as interesting, or as exhausting, as yesterday was. After everything from working with an injured arm, bad freight, waiting for this and that, breaking machines and the heat, I knew I had to make it that day. When I heard the words "D shipping," my heart and my spirits fell. Well, there went my week. I'm screwed. Oh, well. It was nice while it lasted. I got my gun and headed that direction, anticipating every door opening, and being as busy as it was the last couple of days (and with 40 trucks, what else would a hauler expect?). Upon getting to the dock, it was pitch black, silent. Not one door had opened. I started cautiously scanning the dock at the freight from the day before, and deciding I'd do whatever it took to make 220 for the day, no matter what. Thankfully, most of the freight went to the same dock. I started clearing out the short hauls, separating the long hauls for me to come back to later when I had time. That's where I spent the first two hours. Not one door ever opened, I didn't ever see a single hauler. It was quiet, and I was alone. I was happy. After clearing out the short hauls, and still not seeing any doors open up, I realized that I now had the freedom of 'floating' the docks, as I was technically not tied to any specific dock any longer. I decided I'd come back to the dock from time to time, and keep an ear out for pages for pallets. I oriented myself on C dock (where else?), grabbing what I could when it became available (kudos to QA for keeping up their pace), and watched my numbers go up and up. Now this is the way it should be everyday!
I kept my eye on the shipping dock, and still no doors had opened. My manager actually did me a favor by putting me on that dock. Around lunch time, I had around 140. I came back, ready to go again and get ahead. But my battery decided that now would be a good time to die. Great. I'd just passed the damn station when I saw the stupid light blinking. So I made a U-turn and headed back. There was a long line, and the guy changing batteries wasn't the regular guy, and that slowed things way down. I was beyond frustrated. I was doing so good! I had another four hours of production before I hit my goal. And when it was all said and done and I finally got a battery, I was an hour behind. I waited a freaking hour. So when I was finally able to take off, I again shut my mind off and concentrated on nothing but production. I tore down the docks again, quickly finding short hauls, and finding two pallets with the same locations. I was shaking, I had so much adrenaline coursing through my veins. I managed somewhere around 30-35 hauls from that first hour alone. At break time, a friend informed me that he'd just tagged about 65 pallets of freight on my dock, but they weren't verified. I'd known about the 'live' unloads from earlier, but there were that many?? Before he told me that, I wasn't sure if I'd be able to pull the 220, and after watching people from different areas trickle out the door, heading home for the week, I just knew that my time was ticking down, and I felt depressed. I instead used that to drive me to do whatever it took to hit that goal. I needed this, and I knew I wasn't only doing it for myself.
I hit C dock again, and I grabbed two pallets heading to D dock. I passed a QA who told me that there was someone on shipping verifying the live unloads. This could be just the break I needed. After dropping off my load, I turned onto the dock, and closed my eyes. On the opposite end of the dock sat an RR. Yes! And not one hauler in sight. You know what saved my ass? Pasta sauce. Yes, I said pasta sauce. 65 pallets of freaking pasta sauce. I went after them, starting with the rows furthest from the location first (if you work at the warehouse, I don't have to tell you where they went), not caring how many times I had to go back and forth, or how bored I got. Production, production, production. I wasn't counting anymore; I simply wrote them down and ran. Every once in a while, I'd catch another hauler taking a few, and I started to get mad, but they were simply back-hauling. They'd take a couple and head back to receiving. It took me a good hour and a half to clear them out, and thankfully the other haulers that were taking the pallets were keeping up with my system I'd set up (lining up four pallets together, leaving some space for the putaway driver, four pallets, space, and so on), and even setting them very neatly off to the side when the isle got full. I had eight pallets left on the dock. I was finally able to look at my tally. I had four trips left, equaling eight pallets. Eight pallets on the dock. i just made production for the day. I was so happy...after a good four weeks of not making my goad, I saw 220. I did my happy dance and took off. That little pesky hauler though came back and took two of my eight pallets. You son of a bitch. :P I went and scanned the last four pallets. You're going to have to pull these from my cold, dead hands. I dare you. But he never came back, figuring I had the rest. Ha! I wasn't worried, as I went back to receiving and grabbed my last two to make my numbers, and my hourly production on top of that.
My manager had given me a list of the old freight, and most of them were long hauls, but I didn't care, you guys had my numbers, you can have whatever you want from me now. I took the first two on my list, and still had 30 minutes left of my hour. I ran back to shipping, grabbing one of those carts the orderfillers use. I think that was the first time I had one of those on my forks. My God, how the hell do they stand that noise? I'd have to wear some damn earplugs. I started grabbing trash cans off my dock, to get those out of the way. I was getting exhausted. I got my cans sorted and emptied, and ran and put them back, and dropped off that stupid cart on a module. I took the rest of the bad wood for the dock support guy, and when I hit C dock again, my mouth dropped. C dock had exploded something crazy. What did I miss? Plenty of production, and nearly every QA had come out of the woodwork and were now walking the docks. Holy crap look at all this freight! After taking my last two long hauls on my 10am list, I was done, and totally exhausted. My arm was getting very sore and uncomfortable, my feet were screaming, and I couldn't see straight, much less focus anymore. I had my numbers though. I'd just pulled in to grab a couple of pallets, running on fumes at this point, and really in no hurry, when our day was called. What a day, but I did what I needed to do, and hopefully that will be a good total for the week, as yesterday was my last day.
Note to self: when you come home and start hallucinating that you're hearing a horn honk, and you turn to look down an aisle, but you find you're really looking down your hallway, and no PE in sight, it *might* be time to go to sleep.
And now that I'm recharged and full of energy, I'm ready to enjoy this break. I needed it...bad. Until next time, and have a good holiday!
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