Ah the department meeting was not as painful as one might expect, despite the arrival of completely unexpected problematic people. In general the hostess was sound and not tacky in her hospitality, and all people seemed to be quite cordial to one another. Now one could make the niggling point that only about a half of the department were there, but oh well--even the crazy one (guess who that might be, Richelle) seemed less crazy. Maybe wine should be required at all departmental events. Damn if we don't work for the state, however.

You did not hear this. I was not here.

Well this weekend is full of various gatherings--some adult--some just for kicks. The weekend kicks off with a departmental gathering--ah colleagues--I suppose it should be interesting. I doubt that blood will flow--we are actually having--gasp--wine. After that there is a band I wish to see, and then tomorrow a hike or two and two more parties. It is all wrapped up on Sunday with yet another band at the Urban. Zippity.

As I indicated previously: busy. I suppose the beginning of most terms are like this, but I have been packed with a variety of activities both day and night. I think the whole Friday off thing might be the main difference.

In any case Bill, the bus driver came in to the Writing Center today. He is working on getting promoted. After talking about his letter, I then started some chit-chat about the bus. Yes he is still driving the 40. He likes it, apparently due to its proximity to the College as well as the late shift he gets. As he was leaving, he made a comment about the bus and that probably now that the College was offering free passes I got a car. That took me aback for a minute. "I've always had a car, I ride the bus for environmental reasons." He chuckled at that, and I couldn't let it go. "No, really. A couple of years ago I woke up and noticed that I couldn't see the mountains nor could I even see down the street. I decided I wasn't going to be a part of it any more." I've repeated that statement many many many times, since people can't seem to grasp the concept that I voluntarily ride the train. I suppose I understand their confusion in our culture that has fallen to the vampire gas and car companies. If they whine they don't have time, I often respond "I don't have time either, but I'd rather be able to see the mountains in 20 years and breathe the air in 5." Anyway I try not to lay guilt trips on people. I just do what I do and mention the benefits. In any case, someone seems to understand. Melissa, a colleague of mine has committed to the commute too. Perhaps we will start a clique and be all snooty to all the other English professors.

Somehow I don't think we could do any worse than some others in the department have already done, however.