Back to Supervising

Alas, after three wonderful nights (and mornings?) as closing manager, it is now back to "boring" supervising for two nights. It has been a great experience that allowed me to develop that "rhythm" that I was hoping to get. It was great to work with Rosey, who let me "do my thing". We had a nice talk about managing and it made things easier. Everything went well. And now the dream ends for the time being, until my next closing shift (which happens to be on Sunday).

Mr. Pink

Tonight was a lot easier managing, even though it was a bit more busier than the previous night. I think I was so concerned about running the casino smoothly that I really didn't have time to screw up. I didn't even get a chance to talk to my shift manager too much. Either she thinks I'm working hard or I'm a snob.

I even got compliments on my new outfit: salmon/pink shirt, silver tie, navy suit, and dark brown shoes. Four different colors combined into a good outfit. People love the music I play at work (80's tunes of course). Now if only I can do my job a bit more efficiently, things would be perfect.

And now, off to bed....

Who's the Boss?

Yesterday was the first of three nights in a row as closing floor manager. It's quite rare that I get a closing shift, let alone three in a row! There were a few hiccups but in the end everything went pretty well. I had to give one supervisor 30 minutes OT but it could have been a lot worse. Due to the fact that we were 4 dealers short, it was harder to send people home in 8 hours because it was quite busy. But somehow I managed to get everybody out on time (except the supervisor). Let's hope I can do even better tonight.

I Must Be Getting Old

Here's an interesting article from New York Times. Read it, and see if you can listen to the ringtone. Evidently I can't. Johnny? Sam? I bet your kids will be able to hear it.

High-Pitched Ringtone

Work

There are a lot of things happening at work, a lot of which I cannot say at the moment because they are not "official". Suffice to say that in the next while, everything will be hectic for me. As I've mentioned before, it is time to step up and show them what I'm made of.

Meanwhile, it's been a long week, so I'm going into hibernation on my days off. If I'm lucky I can sleep for 48 hours.

Deal or No Deal

I am so bloody hooked on this show now, especially after tonight.

Blak at Last!

Thanks to the casino concession guy Lawrence (who was in Seattle), I managed to get a hold of two bottles of the ultra-rare (in Canada at least) Coca-Cola Blak. Unfortunately I drank both bottles on one break (after downing a can of Red Bull the break before) so I don't think I will sleep much this morning.

Blak tastes pretty good, not as much coffee taste as I'd originally thought. It tastes a bit like those bottled Starbucks coffee drinks. I can't wait for Blak to show up on Canadian shelves this summer.

The Holidays are Over

And so ends my short holiday of four days. At least it ended on a good note with my nice win at Edgewater.

After careful consideration, I'm not going to buy a new car at the present time, but will shop for a decent used car. Financially it will not be feasible for me to put no money down and totally finance a new car. However, I'm still getting a car! To be continued!

Jackpot!

I should stop playing poker. I was having a bad night at the casino (down about $200) until around 4am when I made my way to the automated roulette game. I made a little bit there and then went to the Monopoly slot machine. About 10 minutes in, I hit for 6000 nickels! Before I knew it I had made $500 on the machine. Oh what a night.

X Men: Last Stand

How can I miss this movie? It was awesome, much better than the other May blockbusters (Mission Impossible III, Da Vinci Code). Jean Grey/Phoenix was hot, almost as memorable as when Anakin Skywalker "became" Darth Vader.

And now my vacation continues, when I must sit back and decide on a lot of things for my future.

What I Did on My Vacation

After my original plan of seeing Madonna in Vegas this weekend fell through, I was left without any place to go. As it so happened, Vandy was not well and they needed a relief floor manager, so I spent Day 1 of my 5-day vacation working! It was a pretty uneventful night, things are getting pretty routine now (which is a good thing).

And so my vacation begins... again...

Party

Somehow I found myself at club tonight (Plush, the one that is near the Edgewater Casino). I hadn't been to a club in ages and to be honest, the music sucked. I'm just not into the modern crap except for a few songs. Plus I was a lightbulb (it's a Chinese term) because evidently Christie is interested in some guy that was there. Cross her off the list.

But luckily I had an OK night at Edgewater. The money I wasted on the cover and a few drinks was recuperated and then some.

37 more days until this oldtimer hits 40. I need a party.

Sleep

After the movie, I went to the casino for a few hours and made a little bundle. I came home at 6am and went to bed, and slept... and slept... and slept. When I woke up, the 6am had become 6pm. I feel refreshed and ready for the coming week. I only have to work two days before my 5-day holiday. Even if I'm not going to Vegas as previously planned, I look forward to my days off.

Da Vinci Code

I never read the book, but went to see the movie last night. After seeing the movie, I have no plans to read the book, because I HATED the movie. It was boring, bland, and too confusing. Tom Hanks looked like he wanted to go home. All this hype about one book and the movie pretty much destroyed the hype. Avoid.

New Beginnings

Yes, the proverbial "eternal flame" will still burn for Jack, just as a little flame still burns for my past relationships and failures. But it's time for a new start now. I look forward to new challenges.

No More

I had a rare shift as closing manager at work, something I hadn't done in over 3 months. As a result, I knew I had to concentrate and try not to screw things up "royally". Overall it went well. The casino was pretty much dead all night so it wasn't too hard to keep track of.

And of course, everybody is still wondering about the other thing. Well, I sent her home early and I had a great time at work. You know what, I can hope and wish all I want, but it's just not worth it. So, for better or for worse, it's over. Maybe things will change in the future but this is the present. There are much better prospects to set my sights on.

I would like to think all my friends who helped me through this. Your advice has not been forgotten.

Hopelessly Devoted to You

Guess mine is not the first heart broken, my eyes are not the first to cry
I'm not the first to know, there's just no gettin' over you

Hello, I'm just a fool who's willing to sit around and wait for you
But baby can't you see, there's nothin' else for me to do
I'm hopelessly devoted to you

But now there's nowhere to hide, since you pushed my love aside
I'm not in my head, hopelessly devoted to you
Hopelessly devoted to you, hopelessly devoted to you

My head is saying "fool, forget it", my heart is saying "don't let go"
Hold on to the end, that's what I intend to do
I'm hopelessly devoted to you

But now there's nowhere to hide, since you pushed my love aside
I'm not in my head, hopelessly devoted to you
Hopelessly devoted to you, hopelessly devoted to you

Hopelessly Devoted to You -- Olivia Newton-John

Who Reads This?

There's so much I want to say on this blog but I've worried that the wrong people will read this and then I will get myself into trouble. There is so much going on at work and I know if I say the wrong thing then all hell will break loose. I know many of my "non-work" friends read this and to them I say hi. Thanks for keeping up with my so-called life. I don't believe anybody at work reads this blog but with the Internet who knows. I've suspected that somehow, some way, there are people who read this. Well even if that were true, so be it. There is something I want to write and it's quite obvious who I'm writing about. But it's time I got something off my chest.

How do you know when you're truly in love? Can you still be in love even if the other person does not reciprocate the feeling? And even if you know that she is not interested in you, do you simply give up? At what point can you truly say, "I surrender"?

I haven't felt this way about someone in a long time. True, there have been people that I thought I was in love with, but those quickly faded away. But there is something special about . I know she is not interested in me right now. Part of me knows that she is not interested in a serious relationship right now with anyone. But it's more than that lately. My intuition, my sixth sense, my feeling is that there is something more to her avoidance of me lately. Is there something --or dare I say, some one-- else? I wish I could get through to her. At some point I know I have to, for my own sake.

So Jack, if somehow you are reading this, please talk to me. Put me at peace at least.

The Phoenix Rises

I promised myself to forget the past week and I did. Overall it was pretty much back to normal, but after all that's happened, I still have unanswered questions that I have to deal with. I never did have that talk with Jack. And once again I refer back to the words of one Olivia Newton-John:

My head is saying, "Fool forget it"; my heart is saying, "Don't let go". At what point do you give up? But if everybody gave up at the first rejection, nobody would be successful. It's plain and simple, we have to have a heart-to-heart talk. But at least I'm ready for it.

Cryptic

My posts in the last week have been quite cryptic. As much as I want to say everything that I want to, I must refrain because there are a lot of damaging things that I know. Sometimes even the Internet has ears and I must be wary of what is written on this page.

To those who have emailed asking if I'm OK, yes I am. I'm like the male version of The Phoenix in X Men. I will rise above the ashes. Oops, there I go again being cryptic. But I'm fine.

Feeling a Bit Better

After a long talk with Bon Bon, I do feel a lot better. I've written a lot of strange shit in the last few days but that was because I felt a lot of strange shit. It's still going to be hard going to work knowing what I know but I must prove myself capable of doing so.

All by Myself

When I was young
I never needed anyone
And makin’ love was just for fun
Those days are gone

Livin’ alone
I think of all the friends I’ve known
But when I dial the telephone
Nobody’s home

All by myself
Don’t wanna be
All by myself anymore
All by myself
Don’t wanna live
All by myself anymore

Hard to be sure
Some times I feel so insecure
And love so distant and obscure
Remains the cure

All by myself
Don’t wanna be
All by myself anymore
All by myself
Don’t wanna live
All by myself anymore

All by Myself -- Eric Carmen

So Now What?

These upcoming two days off will be very reflective for me, as I have to decide what I want to do. I am feeling so confused, disappointed, angry, sad, depressed, and many other emotions that I am not thinking clearly.

Nice guys finish last. How sad but true.

Intuition

I should have known.

Blues Part 2

So many things seem to be happening at the same time; some good, some bad. As a result I've been pretty much moping at work looking all depressed and sad. It doesn't help that a lot of my friends at work have been further depressing me with their various problems. I guess my 40th birthday isn't going to come without some fanfare and excitement. I just hope that in the end I can be happy.

Blues

Why am I so depressed?

On a lighter note, the perfect license plate for my new car would be JACK FM (think about it).

Life, Love and a Car

The following week will be very important in more ways than one. I know it's time that Jackeline and I have our talk about our relationship and see where things stand. We are definitely getting closer and unless my intuition is totally wrong, at least she feels a little something for me. It was strange that somebody at work said he thought Jackeline likes me. Wow, if it were only that easy. Let's see what fate has in store for me this time.

And then there is the business of the car. Hopefully I get the financial aspect of the purchase taken care of so I can take my honey out. Even if Jack and I don't end up together it's been one hell of a ride.

Audrey Hepburn

Happy Birthday to the most beautiful woman that ever lived.

Car Shopping Part 2

I have an appointment with the business manager at Granville Toyota tomorrow. I know what car I want, I know what accessories I want, now it's time to play "Let's Make a Deal". Or rather in this day and age, we'll be playing "Deal or No Deal". Let's see what happens.

Meanwhile, I hope my Honey feels better from her little flu.

The New Month

And so another week and another month begins. I feel somewhat refreshed with a better outlook. I still have a lot of problems and matters to deal with but after talking with Bon Bon I feel better at least. She's become a really good friend who seems to understand everything.

Is it Time?

Something tells me in the next month I'm going to be making a big decision in my life romantically. I hope in the end there is somebody instead of nobody. May I make the right decision.

Fighting Fire With Fire

Did I just set up a date with two women on the same night?

Is it Over Yet?

One more day until the end of a pretty shitty week for me workwise, and otherwise too. I guess it can't always be a bed of roses.

The Sentinel

Two days off, two movies. This one wasn't too bad, but it reminded me way too much of the series 24 which of course also stars Keifer Sutherland. And I don't even watch the TV series. Nevertheless, Michael Douglas does his usual fine acting job, and I can't complain about them casting Eva Langoria. Yowza.

The Rocket

As a Canadian citizen, it was my duty to go watch the movie The Rocket, about the career of the greatest hockey player of them all, Maurice Richard. Nothing like watching the Habs on the big screen!

Free Money

We got our profit sharing cheques at work today. As announced, it was less than usual because the company did not meet their financial expectations due to the fact that they were buying everything in site. Nevertheless, it was great to get a nice bonus. I love my job.

Enjoying the Playoffs

Wow, it's the hockey playoffs and I didn't join any pools! I had to work as relief floor manager today so I couldn't attend the one held by school friends. And the casino one was cancelled. Oh well, that's OK, I can enjoy my beloved Habs trying to get their 25th Cup. Go Habs Go!

Lucky Number Slevin

Good news: The delicious Lucy Liu is in it
Bad news: Everything else about this movie sucked

Brokeback Mountain

Did I mention that I watched Brokeback Mountain two nights ago? Now there is no plausible or logical explanation why I would see this, unless I was at a girl's place and she wanted to rent the video, right?

Work Rules

I'm settling into my job now. I'd probably posted the previous statement before but now more than ever it's true. I had two consecutive relief shifts this week and things went smoothly. There were a few hiccups, but that comes with the territory. I think I'm getting thr respect that I was worried about in the beginning of my journey.

That being said, there is still so much more to learn but that's the fun and excitement of it all. Onward and upward!

Just Another Week

Nothing much happened this week, except I'm STILL looking for the new Coke. Is it even in Canada yet? Work has been boring, but I'm getting two relief shifts next week. In the words of the great Madonna... time goes by, so slowly.

Coca Cola Blak?

They better sell it in Canada. Coca Cola is coming up with a new beverage, Coke and coffee! Here's the link, enjoy! Coca Cola Blak!

Spring Break Party

A bit too much to drink. My head is pounding like hell. I'm going to bed. Good night.

Inside Man

I finally got the chance to see this movie, starring Clive Owen, the man who SHOULD have become the next James Bond (instead of what's his name). The movie was very good... for the first 90 minutes. Then it veered into some mishmash story (no spoilers here). I went from being very impressed to very disappointed.

Car Shopping Part 1

It looks like my search for a new car is over. I test drove the 2007 Yaris Hatchback today and fell in love with it. I was surprised at how much legroom it has. And being that the legroom was my only reservation about the car, I want one! The only thing is, the 2007 Yaris Sedan comes in a gorgeous olive mist metallic that is not available on the hatchback. Damn. Now I must decide which model I want. Part 2 will be to find the best price from the many connections I have.

Movies

I can't believe I haven't had the chance to see my girlfriend Natalie Portman in V for Vendetta. Maybe on the weekend. But I also want to see Inside Man, with Clive Owen. It looks like a cool movie.

Surprise Surprise

So much for my Sunday off. I was called into work at 11:30pm...in Coquitlam! It was overwhelming once again to be floor manager of a casino I'm not really familiar with. The challenge was trying to figure out where each table was and to put faces to names. Somehow I managed to make it through without too many major hiccups. By the way, the casino is huge and beautiful, perhaps the nicest in BC!

Good Day, Bad Day

A couple of days after having a nice relaxing time managing, I went through one of the most hectic days as a manager. People were calling in sick left and right, and I had to spend over two hours as a spare supervisor; these two hours could have been much better spent trying to fix some of the problems with dealers not showing up. Somehow I managed to make it through, even though I stayed beyond my 8 hours. I could not leave my relief manager with a mess.

Time goes by... so slowly...

WTF?

I had a great night managing at work, one of those nights that went by perfectly and without any problems. I wish they were all this easy.

Now I'd like to know why the hell it's snowing in Vancouver in MARCH.

4 Days Off

After the amazingly busy month of random days off, I finally have 4 days off in a row. Time for rest and relaxation. AHHHHHH!

Back to the Grind

My stint as HR Support will end next Thursday, as they have already hired someone internally. I will have one day to train him and then I'll be back to supervising for a bit, as the managers are not going on a lot of holidays. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted.

Be a Man! Do the Right Thing!

I went to see the Russell Peters show and it was just as funny as the last one! This guy is good, and hopefully he'll find success as a TV sitcom star, as that's what he'll be doing. I was a bit tipsy from preshow drinks but I still had a lot of fun.

Stress * 2

What a hectic day at work. It was the HR support person's last day so we had to do a hasty changeover of things so the transition will work out. Normally that's OK but today I was relief floor manager so I had to juggle two jobs at the same time. As a result, I made some silly mistakes regarding breaks. But somehow I managed. My mind's a mess. There are so many things on my mind.

Some Pics from the Party

Let's take a look at some pictures of me with some very beautiful women.


Bon Bon


















Christie


















Jackeline

Hungover

We had a farewell party for one of the managers who is transferring to River Rock, as well as the Human Resources Support Person that I am temporarily replacing. What that meant was a bunch of casino staff getting hopelessly drunk. I drank and drank and drank, and lost TWO $50 poker tourneys (that has never happened to me before).

And to make things worse, Happy Friggin' Valentine's Day. I'm wondering what the gossip will be regarding me tomorrow. I did have my eye on someone (and it wasn't who I was planning to have my eye on).

Work * 10

Today was supposed to be my one day off, since my days off changed to Saturday Sunday. However, one of the managers called in sick so I was called into work a short shift from 4:30pm-9:30pm. What that means is that I had Sunday February 5 and Monday February 6 off (before days off changed), worked from Tuesday February 7 to Saturday February 11, then a short day on Sunday February 12 (today), followed by five days off work until Friday February 17. Yup, 10 days in a row. Better make sure my shirts are cleaned and ironed and my underwear is clean.

Office Job?

The Human Resources support person put in her notice and they need a temporary person to take care of things while Head Office hires a permanent person. Guess who they chose as the temporary person? ME! It's an interesting but (as usual) overwhelming development in my employment. I'm getting four days of training and then I'm the HR person "until further notice". They are paying me manager's wage in the meantime so I can't complain. However, I hope this doesn't last a long time because HR/organizing stuff just isn't my cup of tea.

Money

My new silly hobby is tracing where my currency ends up. I came across a website, Where's Willy? which allows you to type in a bill's serial number and then trace its movement across the country. All you do is put the website on your bill, enter it on the website, and then see if somebody else registers the bill. I've received a number of bills lately with the website but only now have started to register them. OK, I need a life, but it's fun. By the way, there is an American version at Where's George?.

And now back to your regularly scheduled programming.

Women

I just can't understand women. They tell you one thing and they do something else. They say that they would never go out with someone from work, so you ease off. And then they go out with someone from work. I saw this one a mile away too.

Paycheque

My work schedule for the last seven days:

Sunday January 29: 8 hours floor managing at River Rock
Monday January 30: 7.5 hours supervising at Casino on Broadway
Tuesday January 31: off
Wednesday February 1: 8 hours supervising at Casino on Broadway
Thursday February 2: 8 hours supervising at Casino on Broadway
Friday February 3: 8 hours + 1 hour overtime supervising at Casino on Broadway
Saturday February 4: 8 hours + 2.5 hours overtime supervising at Casino on Broadway

Yup, I got called in for an extra day on Monday. With all the overtime, I worked a grand total of 51 hours!

Back from the Rock

It was a rather uneventful night at the Rock. I was sent there as an "extra" floor manager in anticipation of a busy Chinese New Year's Night, but it really wasn't as busy as it was expected to be. So I ended up doing some minor paperwork and did a lot of mindless roaming of the floor, saying hi to old acquaintances and introducing myself to new ones....

...and then I came back for two days off. Unfortunately on Monday they called me into work at the COB. Well that means a nice healthy paycheque next week. I anticipate about 48 hours, 8 of which will be at floor manager's rate. Can't complain.

I was home Tuesday morning at 9am or so (had drinks with coworkers after work) and slept until 4pm. I checked my email, watched some TV and then at around 6pm decided to take a nap for no apparent reason. I slept until 11:45pm and while this would normally screw up my sleep cycle, I decided NOT to get out of bed and tried to fall asleep. At around 1am I did...and woke up at 4pm on Wednesday afternoon! Wow, I haven't had a good sleep like that in a long time. As a result I went to work totally awake. I hope I can sleep like that next week on my days off (hopefully I get two this time).

Gung Hei Fat Choy

Happy Chinese New Year. While everybody is out celebrating, I'll be totally stressed out at the River Rock Casino tonight from 9pm-5am. But that's part of the job.

Come to Vancouver, Madonna

There are rumors that Madonna is going to tour in 2006. I can only dream that she will make her way to Vancouver, because if I get to hear her sing Hung Up live, my life will almost be complete.

Live at the Rock..... Me!

It had to happen eventually. I am scheduled for a floor managing shift at the illustrious River Rock Casino Resort on January 29, aka Chinese New Year's Eve. Ironic isn't, I was floor manager on "regular" New Year's Eve (day shift though) and now the "other" New Year's Eve (9pm-5am). I guess this is what everything I've learned becomes reality. I am both excited and horrified. But in a way I asked for this so we shall see what happens.

P.S. Disregard previous post about Anna breaking up with her boyfriend

She's Really a Nice Girl!

Remember way back when I called Anna a bitch? It seems so long ago. At the time I was angry because she told some people she was single and other people she wasn't. And she gave me shit because I kissed her at the Christmas Party (2004). Anyways, times have changed and I've heard that she's broken up with her boyfriend. Will I have to subject everyone to another year of Anna stories? I still wonder what could have been (and could be?). Time will tell.

Full Circle

"I would never do that to my best friend's girl". Well he's not my best friend but something's happening at work. More details to follow.

2 Weeks Already?

My apologies to all for not posting all year!??! I've been doing a lot of online poker lately and haven't gotten around to updating my blog. Things are going OK. I bought in for a measly $75 and now it's at $125. If I play another 150 raked hands I'll get a $125 bonus. This is on Absolute Poker. If you are interested in opening an account, send me your email address and I can get you a bonus.

In other news, the next month will not see a lot of managing shifts, in fact, none are scheduled. There is no one on holidays so that means it's back to supervising for a while. That's OK. Tonight I got to run the floor for about an hour while Vandy was taking a break.

Another Year

I was called in to open again, and it was less stressful, but still confusing in a different way. Five people called in sick, and it was busy enough to begin with, so I had to make do with less tables open. I think I'm getting the hang of it though.

Meanwhile I had a chance to talk to an old friend, Johnny (when I say old, I don't mean OLD). Keep your head up buddy.

Daytime Debut

My first daytime managing shift begins in a couple of hours (can't sleep). Of course it would be on December 31. I don't know what to expect, probably a lot of sick calls since people want to party it up at night. We'll see what happens.

In the meantime, Happy New Year to everybody.

Season's Greetings

It's a bit early but I just want to wish everybody a Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, or whatever holiday you celebrate at this time. It's been quite an interesting and memorable year for me.

More Presents

I had lunch with Michael yesterday. My original plan was to go to the mall afterwards so I could finish up my Christmas shopping. But he wanted to go play some hold'em so I decided to join him (supposedly for an hour or two). Well before I could blink an eye, we were both down. Five hours later I was in for $150. Michael had already left after he made a small comeback. I decided to be patient and eventually, after 7 hours of play, I ended up winning $155 overall. I won a couple of monster-sized pots. So TODAY, this morning, I'm going to go shopping, since I can buy a few more presents now.

Movie of the Year

After some minor Christmas shopping and picking up my tips, I went downtown to watch Memoirs of a Geisha. You know, in a year of Siths and bats and Hogwarts, my favorite movie was about a Japanese girl who became a geisha. The movie was just magical. The cinematography was divine. And of course, the movie starred three of the most beautiful Chinese actresses ever. All that crap about people pissed off because Chinese actresses were playing Japanese roles....who the hell cares? Ziyi Zhang was enchanting, Gong Li was devilishly evil, and Michelle Yeoh was just as wonderful as she was in Tomorrow Never Dies.

And now back to Christmas wrapping....

Oops Again

So Memoirs of a Geisha is premiering THIS Friday instead of next. Can't they make up their mind? Hopefully I'll get a chance to see it.

In other news, Syama seems to be mad at me about something. It'll be interesting to know why, because I have no idea.

My So Called Life

It's been an incredible few weeks that have gone by like a flash. I realize that my postings have been sporadic, and for that I apologize.

Floor managing has been quite the experience. To be honest, it hasn't been as overwhelming as I'd thought it would be. But that's not to say things are easy. It is an ongoing learning experience, and I have so much to learn. My time management has been below average to say the least. But I know what I have to do and know that I must do it.

In the meantime, life goes on. For the rest of December I will get almost all supervising shifts. I am scheduled for a managing shift on the morning of December 31. The end of one year, and the beginning of my new life so to speak.

Christmas Blues

Damn I guess I should start shopping soon. I hope people buy me nice presents. That's all for now.

Oops

Memoirs of a Geisha is not here until December 23. Rats.

Memoirs of a Geisha

I can't wait to watch this one. Ziyi Zhang is a hottie, and Michelle Yeoh ain't too bad to look at as well. It's about time there was a movie out there worth watching.

Also for Syama

Watch Video:

I'LL BE THERE (Mariah Carey)

Video Code provided by VideoCodeZone.Com

For Syama

Oh, girl I've known you very well
I've seen you growing everyday
I never really looked before
but now you take my breath away.

Suddenly you're in my life
part of everything I do
you got me working day and night
just trying to keep a hold on you.

Here in your arms I found my paradise
my only chance for happiness
and if I lose you now I think I would die.

Oh say you'll always be my baby
we can make it shine, we can take forever
just a minute at a time.

More than a woman, more than a woman to me
more than a woman, more than a woman to me
more than a woman, oh, oh, oh.

There are stories old and true
of people so in love like you and me
and I can see myself
let history repeat itself.

Reflecting how I feel for you
thinking about those people then
I know that in a thousand years
I'd fall in love with you again.

This is the only way that we should fly
this is the only way to go
and if I lose you I know I would die.

Oh say you'll always be my baby
we can make it shine, we can take forever
just a minute at a time.

More than a woman, more than a woman to me
more than a woman, more than a woman to me
more than a woman, oh, oh, oh.

More Than a Woman -- Bee Gees

The Boss is Back

I was trained from Tuesday to Thursday for daytime managing. It was overwhelming at first, as I had to know (and remember) a lot of things. Of course I was slow at first but hopefully that will change quickly. By the third day the manager on duty pretty much let me run the show and I think I did relatively well. Perhaps I could have left some tables closed as it wasn't that busy. Every day will be different depending on how many players show up and what they play.

My first official shift has been changed from December 31....to this Sunday! I am required for a relief shift from 4:30pm-12:30am. This is intimidating because they haven't even trained me for night duties yet, so it will be a challenge. But I must show them I am capable.

I hope everyone is well. Happy Thanksgiving to Johnny and my American friends. Hello to Tiff, Sam, and whoever reads this.

In the Beginning

As I expected I won't be getting a lot of managing shifts (for the rest of the year at least) since there aren't a lot of people on holiday. My first scheduled shift is...December 31. Nevertheless, it's almost certain I'll be called in at sometime during the next 6 weeks or so. Meanwhile, training begins this Tuesday-Thursday at the unrecognizable time of 9am. Obviously my training begins with the daytime procedures. Next week will be the nighttime procedures. I'll keep everyone posted on my progress.

Meanwhile I've been inundated with encouragement from people everywhere: family, friends, coworkers and many Internet buddies. Now I must prove to them I'm capable of doing my job. Thanks again everyone!

A Time to Work, A Time to Play

The party at the Capricorn was wonderful. Well, it was just people drinking but why not? I was given various types of shooters that I drank without really realizing what was in it. Wow, good stuff. It was a great time and of course now I'm feeling the after effects. Well it was worth it.

And now, it is time to begin the next stage of my life, one with more seriousness. I have a lot of apprehension and dread over my position. It's not really the work itself. I know that will be challenging but I'm confident I can do well. It's getting respect from coworkers and to be taken seriously that scares me. The guy who jokes around, is SOOO nice (as everybody says) and dresses in drag on Hallowe'en, can be be a successful floor manager? Time will tell. At least I know that I have a lot of wonderful friends to guide me... Syama, Vandy, Kity.... they mean so much to me.

Third Time Lucky Indeed

It's so surreal that in the middle of a depressing day for me that I would get the most amazing news I could. The wait is over. I got the promotion. Thanks to my buddy Johnny for all his encouraging words. Now I take the next big step in my life.

RIP Eddie Guerrero

Eddie Guerrero the wrestler passed away yesterday. Yes, he was "just a wrestler" and wrestling is fake and all that shit, but he was the hardest working of them all. We spend all our time worshipping actors and actresses and you know what, they are all fake too. But some of them work harder than others. Eddie was one of them. Yes, he was just an actor, but damnit he was a great one.

Rest in peace, Latino Heat.

And Again I Wait

The interview is all said and done and once again I come home regretting that I could have done a lot better. Now I must wait and see...

Destiny Awaits Again

The interview for relief floor manager is Thursday at 2pm. Destiny and fate are in my hands.

Marilyn's Back

Wow has it been a week already? As a matter of fact, I ended up dressing up as Marilyn Monroe and of course I won the Best Costume contest. I also realized how a lot of men are just pigs (but we won't go into that). I may or may not post a picture of the great costume. OK back to work now.

Hallowe'en

Well it's that time of year, and all staff at my casino are encouraged to dress up and be eligible for prizes. Last year I got first place with my Austin Powers outfit. This year I was deciding among three: Michael Jackson, Elvis and....Marilyn Monroe. Then Vandy dared me (in fact, she double-dared me) to go as a Playboy bunny. So today I bought some cheap ears, bowtie and cuffs. Now if I get enough guts to get a top, fishnets, and shoes (and wig?) I'm set. This is worse than Fear Factor. I still might "chicken out" and stick with your basic Marilyn Monroe, but we'll see. The things I do.

The Legend of Zorro

With nothing to do on a Friday night (except have a quick dinner with Kity and her son Derek), I decided to go see The Legend of Zorro, starring the utterly divine Catherine Zeta-Jones (and that Antonio Banderas fellow too). The movie was quite predictable and pretty corny, but who cares. Catherine Zeta-Jones was in it and that's good enough for me.

Back to Work Blues

After my six-day mini-vacation, I returned to work and was faced with total mayhem. Because of the Coquitlam overstaffing, over half of the dealers on the tables were new, and I must say, poorly trained. As a result, most of the night was spent correcting dealers' mistakes (hopefully I didn't miss any). It was total stress. Vandy was yelling at me (and she had every reason to). I truly hope the Coquitlam expansion is finished on schedule (and even that's 3 weeks away) because I don't know how much more I can take of this. Oh, and somewhere in there I have to prepare for my impending interview.

Third Time Lucky?

It seems that there is a posting for promotions to Relief Floor Managers once again. So now the weeks of uncertainty and nervousness will begin again. First I must decide if I want to apply, knowing full well that I may be turned down again. It's a foolish reason not to apply, but being passed over is a really shitty feeling. However, not applying means I have NO chance of getting promoted. So we shall see.

Back from my Trip!??

The two days of seminars are over at the River Rock Hotel, and as a result, so are my two nights at the hotel. The hotel itself was beautiful (reminds me of a Whistler lodge) and my suite was huge. It was a one-bedroom suite with two TV's (!) and overall a nice layout. I took some pictures with an instant camera but I still have pictures left to take so you'll have to wait.

The seminars were quite informative and I enjoyed them. I guess my reservations are if the staff will "buy into" the whole program. Let's hope so.

OK, I still have 4 days off so we shall all talk again. Hello to my buddy Johnny and anybody else reading.

Business Trip?

Only one more day until I sort of have 6 days off!??! On Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, I will be attending a customer service training seminar at the River Rock Hotel. Being that they are VERY early in the morning (8am and 9am) I've decided to stay at the hotel Monday and Tuesday nights. Is it a waste of money ($99/night)? Perhaps, but I also consider it a mini-holiday so I can relax. Syama is also going and will be staying with me the first night. And no to whatever you're asking. Don't even bother asking.

After that I will have my regular days off on Thursday and Friday, followed by two "leave of absence" days. We are severely overstaffed as a result of the delay in the Boulevard Casino (Coquitlam) expansion. So in essence I have 6 days off from work. Considering the large amount of rookies we have, I'll be quite happy to be away from "the office".

The Crimson Room

This was a cool game that had me addicted for a while (until I solved it). Yes, the solution is all over the Internet if you want but what's the point of that? Good luck.

Crimson Room

Mamma Mia! Forever

What a show! I don't care if I've seen it twice already, and I don't care if it's the same stuff, it's still my favorite show. And this time I got to see it with two really cool people. I even managed to shed a few tears during some of the tender moments (something about "The Winner Takes it All" that does it to me every time). It was a great time and I miss it already.

Sleep is Overrated

After my great outing at the casino, I got to bed at around 4am, prepared for a long and peaceful sleep before working again at 7pm. All that changed at 10am when I was awakened by the phone. It was work. They wanted me to work at 11am. Wow. If anything, it was cool because that means I'll be off at 7pm (the time when I'm supposed to start work!???!). Anyways, I was pretty tired and dazed at work and managed to get through it.

And now I await the hours before seeing Mamma Mia! for the 3rd time. I can't wait.

29 Black Baby!

I had dinner with two ex-classmates from the Legal course. Then they wanted to go to the casino afterwards and as much as I hate gambling these days (especially at Edgewater), I decided to tag along. As expected, I began to lose, first $20, then $40, and before I knew it I had lost $200. My friends had already left. I was down to my last $85 (before the walk to the ATM) when I decided to go for it on roulette. Then the incredible happened. In a span of 10 spins, I hit my section (29 and the neighbors) 7 times. The other two times I missed but I somehow still got chips back because I was betting everywhere. Suffice to say that at one point I had $85 in my pocket and when I finally left the table, I had $800, for a profit of $540. Life is good.

Mamma Mia! in 72 hours

I am waiting with anticipation, and can't stop thinking about listening to my favorite songs in the world, then dancing the night away. I KNOW I'll have a good time, and it's especially good because I'm going with Syama and her Mom.

Meanwhile, I'm just relaxing at home after going to a hockey pool with some old friends. I still can't believe hockey's finally back after all this time. And Montreal's won their first two games!

2 Days Off

My two days off await me after tonight's shift. It's been an interesting week, and not really because of work itself, but more about what the future holds for work (did that make sense?). Our casino is going through a lot of changes in the coming month in preparation for the expansion of the Boulevard Casino in Coquitlam. There will probably be a number of staff members transferring there, and as a result we will be getting new staff here. It will be interesting to say the least to see what happens.

Here's a fun little game I came across. So far my best score is 480.7 but a friend of mine got over 600. Have fun!

http://badger.ing.me.uk/~ahmulh/pingu.htm

Be a Man

I went with a couple of coworkers to see Russell Peters, one of the best (THE BEST?) Canadian comics in existence. Even though he is Indian, he has the best Chinese accent (when he's making fun of the Chinese) around. His jokes are racist but in good fun. He was hilarious. Alas, now my days off are over and it's back to the grind.