I started a new job two months ago, but didn't physically move so I've been enjoying the company of my old team mates who I still sit next to, while also enjoying my new team mate who I communicate frequently with even if I don't see her every day. But today I had to pack up all my things so facilities could move me tonight, and we've been joking about it -- they got a new contractor (Jay!) on Monday and need the space -- but it was really sad. We've all been sitting there for so long now. And I have these daily rituals -- tea and snack breaks with Danan, smoke breaks (whether I smoke or not) with Ed. Lunch with everyone every day. Conversations on all manner of topics -- even if I don't want to talk, there's always something interesting to listen to -- especially when the two Indian boys start on a topic :)

I know that the new space'll be great -- another wonderful window spot, closer to a micro kitchen, right next to a balcony, and right next to my co-worker, but I'm really going to miss those boys...

I finally gave up the idea of adopting kittens -- so, I got rats instead! I adore rats. I drove out to Petaluma to get them a few weeks ago -- I found the rat breeder on craigslist. The rats are beautiful -- healthy looking, shiny coats, bright little eyes, and very social and friendly. I asked the breeder what she fed them so I could make sure to have food for them before I picked them up. Trader Joe's lite dog food and a grain mix her daughter makes for them!. When I saw how big the bag of Trader Joe's dog food was, I said forget it...rat food for these guys (my last rat ate store bought rat food and he lived for over three years!)

Alas, I've discovered that a 1 gallon ziploc bag can hold 9 coffee cups full of Trader Joe's lite dog food. And a 20 pound bag of Trader Joe's lite dog food fits into almost exactly six 1 gallon ziploc bags. And the stuff I need to buy for the rat mix is easily obtainable -- I think I've got enough rat food for the rest of the year (if none of it goes bad that is).