Jenn Update - January 2005: A Tale of Two Companies

Eighteen months is a slow death for a Company. I loved working for PeopleSoft. I mean I really, really loved the company, the people, the legendary bagels at PeopleSoft. I mourn her sudden, wretched death and consequent dismemberment.

Like a conquered nation, I am half of a company that now bows to Lords of Oracle. We are to worship Larry as the new god of all enterprise applications and database servers.

I have been offered a position with Oracle as Principle Consultant. My benefits have been cut at the knees. Alas, I have no choice but accept. I have a mortgage. I am addicted to traveling, fois gras, brand names and those cute one-of-a-kind napkin rings.

However, I count my blessings... but often wonder if those in the company who got the severance are better off. I sent out my resumes to all my contacts at: www.linkedin.com. Join my network, if you dare.

This month my assignment is at HP in Palo Alto, CA. I am working with a group of 20, from all over the world and very demanding. I am doing some analysis for their world-wide variable compensation and stock administration programs. (I'd tell you guys more details but fear it might give you a stroke...) I am hosting a total of 14 all day sessions over a period of 3 weeks. It's challenging and though I feel like my brain is frying, I take comfort on my assignment end date.

Working in the bay area gives me a chance to see and hang out with Rich B and Camp. I've also been dancing at Swing Central - Kevin & Carla's venue. I ran into Rich U., Kim, Bill and others from the Frankie Cruise... ah.. memories. Speaking of the infamous cruise, I imagine that Ian is somewhere in the seven seas and hope to hear from him sometime soon. (For those who missed it last May, you can view the photos at: Jenny's Cruise Photos)

Know that I am well and that I survived another round of layoffs. Many, many thanks for prayers and support. OK, that's all for now, post or email your comments!

Jenn

p.s. For those chicas that have anymore Jenn Update archives, please forward them to me so I can post! Thanks!

It's that Time Again: 2005 Resolutions

I was talking late, late last night...er this morning to my friend Eunice. We quickly strolled down the Jenn & Eunice past dates and boyfriend's Memory Lane. We found out that Jenny's memory needs key words and images to access the full movie.

Anyway, I digress. The point being Eunice pronounced: "No regrets. That's one of my New Year's Resolutions." She's right. So here goes...

1) No regrets
2) Visit a new country
3) Be more forgiving
4) Learn the Tango at PBDA?(American or Argentine)
5) Remodel a room in my house (Guest bath is the easiest, the Kitchen Remodel would be a dream)
6) Do better than the statistics! (John knows what this means)
7) Get TiVo
8) Dance with at least one new person at each dance!
9) Plant tomatoes in my garden. (I know they are easy, but have never tried)
10) Organize! Organize!! Organize!!! (Get back on eBay and get rid of the junk)

That's a lot.. Whew... Wish me luck! List or email me yours!!

Recap: 2004 Resolutions and How I Did

Wow! Time is flying by!! It's that time for new year's resolutions.
Wonder how I did in my with my 2004? Let's see...

1. Get Scuba certified - Nope, but did go for the first time in St. Martin in the Caribbean. What a scary experience... not for the faint of heart!
2. Get a slice of Damiano's sausage pizza in Los Angeles - Nope. Sheesh, the easiest one of all and didn't even do it.. ok, carry over.
3. Kayak La Jolla Cove - Nope. Dang it!! More of a wish list. I guess.
4. Invest again Disneyland passport - Yes!! Hey, it's the happiest place on Earth!!
5. Continue this year's resolution of be a better Follow - I think so...
6. Continue the Chick Day tradition - Nope, was too.. busy? lazy?
7. Be kind to animals and Users of Peoplesoft Applications - Well I tried..
8. Visit one new country - Yes and four of them too: St. Thomas, St. Martin, Trinidad and Tobego! (I also went back to the UK and Paris to visit my buds, Emma and Imee)
9. Lose weight?? %^&* that!! Nah, just ate what I wanted and just found creative ways to work it off. ;)
10. Appreciate Friends and Family - Yes, definitely!

That's not too good... I only accomplished half. Yikes!

Ok, time to get the 2005 List going.. you too!

Jenny kissing the Sphinx at Giza