Wednesday, October 22, 2008

This might explain a few things...


Understand now, I work for the federal government, and I'm proud to. And I know what this conference was about, and I think it's a valid topic.
But still.
Until we're known for plain language in government, sights like this conference tote bag will still be funny.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Sent this around the office today

Seventeen years ago today
I began working for EPA

Young and able, fit and trim
My head held nary an acronym

I thought I'd be a French professor
Instead I used a word processor

I can remember when email was new
And your boss got the copy you'd highlight blue

Shelter in place and TQM
I've re-org'd with the best of them

Climate change and mutant frogs
And even federal government blogs

Presidents come and presidents go
But I have learned to go with the flow

The passing of another year
Is cause for cheer, or fear, or beer

Whichever of those is in your head
Come have cookies and pumpkin bread

They're on my floor, inside the south door
And when they're gone, there won't be more

Monday, October 06, 2008

Irks in progress


Reading twenty-two words today, I was reminded of a favorite irk: the obligatory right turn on red. You know, when you're stopped at a red light, and you're in the lane that lets you go forward or turn right. And the person behind you is agitatedly laying on the horn to make you turn right, dammit, because you don't have to wait for the light to change. Except that you aren't turning right because you intend to go straight, and if they would stop that racket they might be able to think for a moment and realize why you are still blocking their way. Now which of those choice words from Abraham's list is most fitting for the situation?