Is anyone else dreading the Christmas party season? There's my Unit's, my dept's, the organisation-wide staff party and the Mayor's ball. Not to count all the Christmas lunches with our partner agencies and delivers. Just how many can you turn down without appearing like a wierd, anti-social loner?

^ Amiin. Very sad.

I would send him an E-card.

^ That's a good attitude. So, have you heard from them yet?

NGONGE, what's wrong with building a villa in your hometown? It don't stay empty for long, you know, relatives move in as soon as it's finished. Am sure you're already saving for a little house in Burco.

^ I like Sulfa too. An old friend of mine made a tape for me years ago. I think I've still got it. Sulfa cursed anybody who listens to his music when he became a wadaad, maaha? I was always a bit cautious about that.

^ LoL..Sister NGONGE and Sister JB probably want to open their own Day-care centre so they can hit on all the yummy mummies, innit? Hiba, Large corporate organisations, Local Authorities and Central Government Offices all probably have good employee policies. I know at my place, they really encourage staff to maintain a good work/life balance. Also, some of the women in my dept have been there for decades, I'm talking between 15-25 years! They have had their kids and watched them grow while in the same jobs (not exactly the same jobs, they have climbed up the ladder in their time). How wierd is that? My feet are so itchy and I have only been there for two years. Probably the nomad in me. Moreover, the good thing is that if they misbehave, you can take them to court and get a load of dosh (if u have a good case). Policies are there to be implemented, if they are not then they are liable for the consequences (altho most organisations try their best).

LoL...ouch. Just viewed the trailer. It looks pretty funny, especially when the dad takes his belt to the daughter. I haven't read cali and cawrala, so I can't comment on that part.

It depends on what you are qualified in and what YOU would like to do. I don't think there are specific careers for moms. What you need to look at is the company you want to work for and their employee policies. If you have a permanent contract and your organisation has family-friendly policies, you'll be able to take time off to look after your child and then come back to your position and salary when you are ready. If you do go back to work earlier than you would like, then there is flexible working, where you can share your job with somebody else, reduce your hours or work from home. The possibilities are endless. You just need to choose your workplace with care. Being a mum doesn't mean you need to take up working with children as a career.

Rudy, you're so full of it. Shit, that is.

STOIC, hope it went well. Let us know.

^LoL.... D, wierd dream for sure.

^ Really? Why Tuesdays?

Lo0oL! OK, you're far too observant, NG. I hope a woman took the pic as the alternative is disturbing. Sophist, I can't say. But if that wedding is allowed....

The dude is just saving himself the expense of having TWO weddings. I wonder how he sorted out the wedding night tho? 2 mins for one, followed by a break and a nap and then 2 mins for the other? Or in the vein of his wedding, might he've saved his energy and turned it into one big session for all of them? Oh the curiousity.

LoL...there definitely something to that. City folks are shiny and chic. Very bling. Our Sophist is a perfect example: He is always in an immaculate suit. Also, I have noticed the not-for-profit sector is more trendy and exploratory than the Public sector. Public sector workers dress dully, even when they wear suits and other professional styles, they still look dull. They have a lifeless vibe to them. It's the environment. Govt buildings kill people's creativity.

^ You are right. The money would be wonderful, but I couldn't work to fill the already deep pockets of fat cats. I don't have a private sector personality.

It's natural to change styles. I like to try out different things as well. Sometimes, out of the blue, I get an image in my mind and then it's time for a wardrobe change! I dress pretty casually for work now and I'm bored with it. I'm thinking I'ld luv to wear sleek suits and heels. Maybe I ought to get a job in the city. I love Zara too.

Gee, this thing has died and gone to hell. Let it be, people.

Well, I did see it over the wkend and it's as funny as everyone says. In fact it was ridiculously hilarious. I had never laughed so hard. The nude wrestling bit was very disturbing, I must say.

You got a promotion and are well established in your job. Alxamdullilah deh! Oy, where do you get off gatecrashing my pity party? @ Zu

^ LoL. And without the bad transport, I bet. Don't mention Xmas to me. I don't want to think about 2006 ending. How could it have gone so fast? I didn't do anything! Well, I got a raise and my job title changed, but it's all been work work work. No fun, no personal achievements, no goals touched as yet. Long list of to-dos and no ticks beside them as yet. FrenchConnectionUK-ing hell.

^ A Mr Faraax, sure. Definitely. But many Faaraxs? Nah.

^^ Because I'm very doubtful about the statement.

care to share you happiest n darkest ...days in your life so far Not at the moment, no.