After a little over two years of unemployment, I officially accepted a job offer today.
I still don't think its sunken in yet.
I'll be a process engineer for a family owned business in Mokena, Il....playing in rocks and dirt :) This opportunity literally fell in my lap last week, after they found my resume on ConstructionJobs.com - I signed up on that website after Pat's suggestion shortly after I lost my job.....so I guess that means I owe this opportunity to him?? LOL.
I've enjoyed this break from the corporate world, but I must say I've enjoyed being a Stay at Home Mom less than I expected I would. Especially since the birth of Lola, I've struggled with a lot of unexplained anger issues / depression / general malaise......and although therapy is helping, I think there is more to it. The anger portion is the most frustrating. Those of you who know me, I don't think, would describe me as an angry person.
I'm not thrilled with the idea of leaving my kids in the care of someone else.....but I'm kind of excited for them to not be with me all day......
I'm not sure that going back to work full time is the answer to all my issues......but I'm not sure its NOT the answer, either. Does that make sense? I guess the truth is there is no right or wrong answer - in either case my kids will be great, and in the end its what makes me a healthier, happier more mentally stable person that counts most. I feel like I'm taking this opportunity because its a great company, and I think I can make a significant and immediate impact......
This changes the outlook of my photography business, too. Just means I'll fulfill my current appointments and be taking limited sessions in the future.....
This post is full of..........'s. Very indicative of how I feel right now though.......
Showing posts with label Work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Work. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Why I Photoshop
I think a lot of people have issues with the existence of Photoshop, and especially in the case of fashion / magazine photography and their unattainable versions of perfect people I can understand why.
But I edit photos, and I do use Photoshop. Not necessarily extensively, but sometimes I do create what Pat calls a "fake reality". I don't consider it that, though. There are a few different ways I use photoshop. One way is to create art - to make something on a canvas that matches a vision in my head, or in my client's head.
The other way that I utilize Photoshop, is to forgive the ever seeing eye of the lens. When you take a photograph, sometimes you see too much - more than you would notice if you were looking at the same subject in person. For example, if you were looking at me while I was taking my self portrait, you probably would not be focused on "Holy Cow - her eyebags are horrendous" or "Sheesh, she's got a lot of sun damage and freckles". Hopefully, you would be seeing me as a friend, a mother, a wife and a general all around nice gal :) I can transform what the camera sees, into what others see, and make an amazing image.
Does that make sense? Maybe I'm not explaining it well enough.
Anywhoozers - here's an example of pushing the envelope a bit...more in the style of fashion photography (but not *quite* as extreme). In actually, the original photo isn't half bad.....I had a TON of make up on....
Like I said...a bit extreme. I probably spent about 2 hours or so on this edit, where as a portrait touch up might only take about 30 minutes or less. I've been trying to improve my Photoshop skills and tools, and have been taking courses online - so what better way to practice than on myself! Want to know what I did here?
What are your thoughts on retouching in general? I'm curious to know public perception!
But I edit photos, and I do use Photoshop. Not necessarily extensively, but sometimes I do create what Pat calls a "fake reality". I don't consider it that, though. There are a few different ways I use photoshop. One way is to create art - to make something on a canvas that matches a vision in my head, or in my client's head.
The other way that I utilize Photoshop, is to forgive the ever seeing eye of the lens. When you take a photograph, sometimes you see too much - more than you would notice if you were looking at the same subject in person. For example, if you were looking at me while I was taking my self portrait, you probably would not be focused on "Holy Cow - her eyebags are horrendous" or "Sheesh, she's got a lot of sun damage and freckles". Hopefully, you would be seeing me as a friend, a mother, a wife and a general all around nice gal :) I can transform what the camera sees, into what others see, and make an amazing image.
Does that make sense? Maybe I'm not explaining it well enough.
Anywhoozers - here's an example of pushing the envelope a bit...more in the style of fashion photography (but not *quite* as extreme). In actually, the original photo isn't half bad.....I had a TON of make up on....
Like I said...a bit extreme. I probably spent about 2 hours or so on this edit, where as a portrait touch up might only take about 30 minutes or less. I've been trying to improve my Photoshop skills and tools, and have been taking courses online - so what better way to practice than on myself! Want to know what I did here?
- Removed stray hairs on face
- Brightened eyes
- Highlighted catchlights in eyes
- Sharpened eyes
- Removed dark under eye circles
- Enhanced eyelashes & eyebrows
- Enhanced hair highlights
- Minimized bright spots on skin
- Removed blemishes
- Smoothed skin
- Enhanced make up
- Made a small smile from my weird half smirk
What are your thoughts on retouching in general? I'm curious to know public perception!
Friday, January 09, 2009
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Hiatus
You know, I figured with this stay at home Mom stuff I would be blessed with oodles and oodles of time to find the end of the internets and in general play all day.
HAHAHHAHAHAHAA
not so much.
I'm having a great time, truth be told, it just has reduced my computer time quite a bit, and I haven't figured out how to balance it just yet. I'll figure it out eventually, so I don't anticipate another month long absence.
So much has happened! Liam has become a LIGHTENING fast crawler....and yes, he's taken his first steps!!! A week before his 9 month birthday. Sniff. I don't think I was emotionally ready for that LOL. Here's the video proof!
We have his 9 month check up today, so I will post stats after we get home from the doctor.
Liam and I have also been enjoying many mommy meet ups through meetup.com - going to the beach, farmers markets, zoos, playgrounds and peoples houses! Its difficult sometimes, and I get frustrated with having to take the bus everywhere, but for the most part its been pretty fun. Liam is getting less and less shy, and starting to enjoy hanging out with other kiddos. I've also joined a photography meetup; my first meeting with them was at 4:15AM on Saturday to catch the sunrise on the lake. It was pretty amazing!
More photos on flickr at Sunrise Photo Set
Other news - we've put our condo on the market as of today, I think. Everyone cross their fingers and we'll see how she goes!!!!
HAHAHHAHAHAHAA
not so much.
I'm having a great time, truth be told, it just has reduced my computer time quite a bit, and I haven't figured out how to balance it just yet. I'll figure it out eventually, so I don't anticipate another month long absence.
So much has happened! Liam has become a LIGHTENING fast crawler....and yes, he's taken his first steps!!! A week before his 9 month birthday. Sniff. I don't think I was emotionally ready for that LOL. Here's the video proof!
We have his 9 month check up today, so I will post stats after we get home from the doctor.
Liam and I have also been enjoying many mommy meet ups through meetup.com - going to the beach, farmers markets, zoos, playgrounds and peoples houses! Its difficult sometimes, and I get frustrated with having to take the bus everywhere, but for the most part its been pretty fun. Liam is getting less and less shy, and starting to enjoy hanging out with other kiddos. I've also joined a photography meetup; my first meeting with them was at 4:15AM on Saturday to catch the sunrise on the lake. It was pretty amazing!
More photos on flickr at Sunrise Photo Set
Other news - we've put our condo on the market as of today, I think. Everyone cross their fingers and we'll see how she goes!!!!
Friday, May 02, 2008
New Beginnings......
I've written this post in my head a thousand times over the past couple of days. Its hard to know where to start, what to write, what to cover. Complicated and simple I guess.
Here's the short and simple version. I lost my job on Wednesday.
And the long version. I had just gone to get a manicure and pedicure at Lunch time on Wednesday. Just a little treat to make myself feel pretty. Indeed, it worked. I picked a pretty different color for me. Kind of a translucent blue with purpley-pink shimmers. Really pretty - even Pat liked it :)
On the drive home I got a call from our HR manager. In so many words, he said my position had been eliminated due to recession planning. Basically, our company is freaking out because the economy is crap, pricing is crap, we're not selling much of anything, and we're not making as much money as we would like to. Honestly, I have no doubt we're still making money. All these cuts in spending and personell will ensure that, and I suppose thats good business sense. I knew that in the event something like this happened to our company, that my job would be at high risk of being cut, because its pretty much non-essential to the business. It does create value, it does provide a important service....but when it comes down to it promotion costs money, and doesn't directly contribute to the bottom line.
And, I had a feeling that this was coming when I caught word that another co-worker, in a similar promotion based position was being let go. I figured it would be a matter of time.
A matter of time is now.
So, I was caught off guard - I was upset - sad - betrayed - blah blah blah. I even cried for a bit on Wednesday day night (after too much wine, mind you). I even cried because Jason Grilli was traded to the Rockies.....(I vaguely recall babbling between drunken cries "But, what if Grilli misses working in Detroit? What if he misses his work buddies?" sob sob - that GOODness he's gone, really, he was a terrible relief pitcher......but it was pretty funny I was upset about it). But now, I really felt good about the whole thing. Yes, its sucky, but really we are in the best possible position to be in if this were to happen. I'm just going to put the following benefits / options in list form, just because that's how they seem to be coming out in my mind.....
Here's the short and simple version. I lost my job on Wednesday.
And the long version. I had just gone to get a manicure and pedicure at Lunch time on Wednesday. Just a little treat to make myself feel pretty. Indeed, it worked. I picked a pretty different color for me. Kind of a translucent blue with purpley-pink shimmers. Really pretty - even Pat liked it :)
On the drive home I got a call from our HR manager. In so many words, he said my position had been eliminated due to recession planning. Basically, our company is freaking out because the economy is crap, pricing is crap, we're not selling much of anything, and we're not making as much money as we would like to. Honestly, I have no doubt we're still making money. All these cuts in spending and personell will ensure that, and I suppose thats good business sense. I knew that in the event something like this happened to our company, that my job would be at high risk of being cut, because its pretty much non-essential to the business. It does create value, it does provide a important service....but when it comes down to it promotion costs money, and doesn't directly contribute to the bottom line.
And, I had a feeling that this was coming when I caught word that another co-worker, in a similar promotion based position was being let go. I figured it would be a matter of time.
A matter of time is now.
So, I was caught off guard - I was upset - sad - betrayed - blah blah blah. I even cried for a bit on Wednesday day night (after too much wine, mind you). I even cried because Jason Grilli was traded to the Rockies.....(I vaguely recall babbling between drunken cries "But, what if Grilli misses working in Detroit? What if he misses his work buddies?" sob sob - that GOODness he's gone, really, he was a terrible relief pitcher......but it was pretty funny I was upset about it). But now, I really felt good about the whole thing. Yes, its sucky, but really we are in the best possible position to be in if this were to happen. I'm just going to put the following benefits / options in list form, just because that's how they seem to be coming out in my mind.....
- I got a pretty darn good severance package. I can't talk about the details (I signed something saying I wouldn't - along with saying I wouldn't sue the company) but lets just say I feel adequately compensated.
- Overall, we're in really great financial health. We've got substantial savings, and our only debt is a small balance of my college loan, and our mortgage. That is a great place to be.
- We had contemplated me staying home with Liam for some time, we most likely can flourish on one salary with lots of adjustment in our spending of course - but that would be a great situation.
- Maybe we want to make more babies :) Soon :)
- Of course, if I want to find another full-time career related job I have no doubts with my qualifications, experience and dazzling personality that I would be able to find a great job with out much problem, even in this economy.
- Maybe this will be an opportunity for me to work part time at something I really enjoy doing.....like retail, or some kind of fun direct sales gig. Not necessarily for the money, but for the social aspect and to get me out of the house.
- We're still not quite sure if we're going to try to sell our place to look for a new house yet.....but now that we're going to be stopping daycare, it opens up our options a bit. Oh yeah, that's another thing. I was soooo sad to tell Josefina that we wouldn't be brining Liam after the next two weeks. We're continuing for two weeks just because when we signed our daycare agreement, we said we would do so - and it just seems like the right thing to do. I just know how much she loves Liam, and I don't want to put her under any financial hardship either....I'm thinking maybe I can help her find another little one to care for.
- After next week, I won't have a car.....and I have to get a new phone. As long as we're in the city, its not that big of a deal. Public transportation is ample, and we won't need to buy another car. If we move to the 'burbs though - that might be a different story.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
WHOO HOOOO!!!!!!
Why the enthusiasm you ask? No, not because I posted twice in two days (although that is cause for celebration). EUNICE IS COMING TO VISIT TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!! I haven't seen her in two years, and even though it should be my turn to visit (because she came last to see me in Mexico) she's being a doll and making the trek again. Of course, I do have bait here......we live very close to a Target, and they don't have Target's in Canada :) Oh yeah, and Liam too!
Anywho - I'm very much looking forward to her visit. She's here until Tuesday. It was a good weekend for her, because Canadians' have Monday off for Family Day, a new holiday instituted by the new Prime Minister. Apparently it was a campaign promise that he followed through on. I don't know what I would like more - an extra holiday, or a politician that follows through on a promise.
Another reason for celebration - I expanded my wardrobe. This celebration is twofold. First, of course, fabulous new clothes! Second, is the commitment to my job they represent. Its like I officially decided to let go of the idea of being a stay at home mom for a while, and commit to making a real effort at succeeding at my job. It might seem like a small step, but it feels pretty significant in my mind.
What did I get? Well, a nice trip to Ann Taylor Loft, and some really nice professional threads :) A nice suit, a couple very pretty shirts, and a fabulous sash/belt thingy. I can't wait to wear them! I do need to buy a new pair of shoes to go with though.......
Anywho - I'm very much looking forward to her visit. She's here until Tuesday. It was a good weekend for her, because Canadians' have Monday off for Family Day, a new holiday instituted by the new Prime Minister. Apparently it was a campaign promise that he followed through on. I don't know what I would like more - an extra holiday, or a politician that follows through on a promise.
Another reason for celebration - I expanded my wardrobe. This celebration is twofold. First, of course, fabulous new clothes! Second, is the commitment to my job they represent. Its like I officially decided to let go of the idea of being a stay at home mom for a while, and commit to making a real effort at succeeding at my job. It might seem like a small step, but it feels pretty significant in my mind.
What did I get? Well, a nice trip to Ann Taylor Loft, and some really nice professional threads :) A nice suit, a couple very pretty shirts, and a fabulous sash/belt thingy. I can't wait to wear them! I do need to buy a new pair of shoes to go with though.......
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Working together
Pat & I have worked for the same company for over 7 years now (7.5 for me - 9 in January for him), and even though we didn't work in the same group, I've always held him in pretty high esteem and very much respected him as a colleague - not just for his knowledge of cement and concrete, but for his personality and his ability to connect and relate to customers. For its one thing to have a lot of knowledge, but its quite another to be able to communicate that knowledge effectively to various groups of people. I shouldn't speak for him, but I will, and I'm pretty sure those feelings are mutual.
People may have thought it strange when I moved to Chicago and knowingly starting working with Pat in the same sales group. There's not many wife/husband teams that can do that successfully! Its not like we work together every single day, but there are days when we spend a lot of time together - during the day when working from home or in the office, and then in the evenings at industry functions. You know what? It really works for us. In fact, I think it probably has made our relationship stronger, especially after the birth of Liam - and definitely since my return to work. For one, working together gives us a way to connect outside of our procreation activities :) And I think that's very healthy! For another - sometime during the exchange of discussion of new testing equiptment, a holiday party, or proctoring for a certification exam, being able to admire him from afar, in his natural element, reminds me of why I love him so much to begin with. His warm personality, interaction with people, wittiness, charm, oh, and in the words of Simone while describing "Abe Froman, the Sausage King of Chicago" the fact that he's "Devistatingly Handsome".
*sigh* I married a real, live, dreamboat. I couldn't be luckier!
People may have thought it strange when I moved to Chicago and knowingly starting working with Pat in the same sales group. There's not many wife/husband teams that can do that successfully! Its not like we work together every single day, but there are days when we spend a lot of time together - during the day when working from home or in the office, and then in the evenings at industry functions. You know what? It really works for us. In fact, I think it probably has made our relationship stronger, especially after the birth of Liam - and definitely since my return to work. For one, working together gives us a way to connect outside of our procreation activities :) And I think that's very healthy! For another - sometime during the exchange of discussion of new testing equiptment, a holiday party, or proctoring for a certification exam, being able to admire him from afar, in his natural element, reminds me of why I love him so much to begin with. His warm personality, interaction with people, wittiness, charm, oh, and in the words of Simone while describing "Abe Froman, the Sausage King of Chicago" the fact that he's "Devistatingly Handsome".
*sigh* I married a real, live, dreamboat. I couldn't be luckier!
Monday, November 26, 2007
*sigh*
Today is my first day back at work.
Please tell me it gets easier!!!!!
I'm a distracted, unmotivated, crabby, unproductive mess.
Dropping off Liam went well this morning, in big part thanks to Pat's help. I had a hard enough time getting myself ready on a schedule, let alone trying to get him ready too. Pat gave me a good suggestion though - a list of things that need to go in the diaper bag so we can check things off and not have to think about it. Also, preparing the bag and bottles the night before would also be a big help.....Things you learn as time goes on.
I miss my little man :(
But I'm thankful to have time away from him, know what I mean?
*sigh*
I know it will get easier as we get more onto a schedule and such, but in the mean time it just feels like life is all mumbly jumbly.
A friend sent this.....it kind of makes me cry, but makes me feel a bit better too....
A Working Mother's Prayer
O Lord, since I must now entrust my precious child into the arms of another so that I may go forth to earn bread for our table, accept my offering of tears and deep regret. Take my child, Lord—and my aching heart—and lay them together in your dear Mother's lap where both may rest secure until I come again to claim my treasures.
Amen.
Please tell me it gets easier!!!!!
I'm a distracted, unmotivated, crabby, unproductive mess.
Dropping off Liam went well this morning, in big part thanks to Pat's help. I had a hard enough time getting myself ready on a schedule, let alone trying to get him ready too. Pat gave me a good suggestion though - a list of things that need to go in the diaper bag so we can check things off and not have to think about it. Also, preparing the bag and bottles the night before would also be a big help.....Things you learn as time goes on.
I miss my little man :(
But I'm thankful to have time away from him, know what I mean?
*sigh*
I know it will get easier as we get more onto a schedule and such, but in the mean time it just feels like life is all mumbly jumbly.
A friend sent this.....it kind of makes me cry, but makes me feel a bit better too....
A Working Mother's Prayer
O Lord, since I must now entrust my precious child into the arms of another so that I may go forth to earn bread for our table, accept my offering of tears and deep regret. Take my child, Lord—and my aching heart—and lay them together in your dear Mother's lap where both may rest secure until I come again to claim my treasures.
Amen.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Last Day!
Today was my official last day of work. I still have a couple of things to take care of here and there, but I can officially stop feeling bad about not doing work. Things will get done with or without me, and it needs to function without, since I don't plan on being back to work until Mid November (or later, depending on the circumstances). OK Baby - you've officially got clearance to make your entrance into the world now. AAAANNNNNYYYYY time would be great!
Boy, was it a doozy of a last day! I was up at 5:30AM, for no particular good reason at all......Pat got up just before 6AM to run, and I joined him for a cool down walk around 7AM. We got into the office sometime after 9 (or was it 10? I forget) to do our semi-mid year reviews with our boss. Then, after about 2PM, we headed back into the city for an ACI Illinois Board meeting....followed by our monthly dinner meeting.......which got us home sometime around 8-ish or so.
I spent the day kind of sitting, but really it was a significant amount of up/down/walking kind of stuff too. We scooted out of our meeting a bit early.....I was trying to be a trooper and tough girl and stick out the whole time, but now I'm glad I didn't. I'm actually in a lot of pain now - my hips and back hurt tremendously, and I'm overall really achy. I realized how much I over did it when I took off my socks and shoes and my legs/feet were super Stay-Puft Marshmallow Girl. That doesn't oft happen to me.
Anyway, I'm not sure why I'm up right now - its a combination I think of me being overly tired, my body hurting, heartburn, and just this inexplicable insomnia that seems to plague me every time I try to go to bed. OK, maybe it doesn't help that I had a cup of coffee after dinner tonight, but should one cup really effect me that much?
Its a no win situation - I try to relax myself and clear my head, but there are always a million thoughts that run through my brain - so that "self relaxation" method doesn't work. Then, I tried keeping the TV on to at least keep my mind from racing, which actually works by distraction, but keeps me up because I get engrossed in the shows. Pat doesn't mind when I watch TV in bed (it takes him all of 2 minutes to fall asleep) but on nights, such as tonight, when I'm particularly restless and the TV doesn't even keep me occupied, I come out into the living room. I'll give myself over an hour or so. Ick. I'm just so tired.....and I really, REALLY want to sleep!!! My body won't relax though - and the baby certainly isn't in any mood to relax.....its been a tossin' and a turnin' all STINKIN' DAY!!!!!
OK, maybe I'll try to lay down and get semi-comfy, or at least as comfy as I can surrounded by pillows on the most uncomfortable couch on earth...please send either labor vibes or comfort vibes.....I just want some type of relief!!!
Boy, was it a doozy of a last day! I was up at 5:30AM, for no particular good reason at all......Pat got up just before 6AM to run, and I joined him for a cool down walk around 7AM. We got into the office sometime after 9 (or was it 10? I forget) to do our semi-mid year reviews with our boss. Then, after about 2PM, we headed back into the city for an ACI Illinois Board meeting....followed by our monthly dinner meeting.......which got us home sometime around 8-ish or so.
I spent the day kind of sitting, but really it was a significant amount of up/down/walking kind of stuff too. We scooted out of our meeting a bit early.....I was trying to be a trooper and tough girl and stick out the whole time, but now I'm glad I didn't. I'm actually in a lot of pain now - my hips and back hurt tremendously, and I'm overall really achy. I realized how much I over did it when I took off my socks and shoes and my legs/feet were super Stay-Puft Marshmallow Girl. That doesn't oft happen to me.
Anyway, I'm not sure why I'm up right now - its a combination I think of me being overly tired, my body hurting, heartburn, and just this inexplicable insomnia that seems to plague me every time I try to go to bed. OK, maybe it doesn't help that I had a cup of coffee after dinner tonight, but should one cup really effect me that much?
Its a no win situation - I try to relax myself and clear my head, but there are always a million thoughts that run through my brain - so that "self relaxation" method doesn't work. Then, I tried keeping the TV on to at least keep my mind from racing, which actually works by distraction, but keeps me up because I get engrossed in the shows. Pat doesn't mind when I watch TV in bed (it takes him all of 2 minutes to fall asleep) but on nights, such as tonight, when I'm particularly restless and the TV doesn't even keep me occupied, I come out into the living room. I'll give myself over an hour or so. Ick. I'm just so tired.....and I really, REALLY want to sleep!!! My body won't relax though - and the baby certainly isn't in any mood to relax.....its been a tossin' and a turnin' all STINKIN' DAY!!!!!
OK, maybe I'll try to lay down and get semi-comfy, or at least as comfy as I can surrounded by pillows on the most uncomfortable couch on earth...please send either labor vibes or comfort vibes.....I just want some type of relief!!!
Friday, September 14, 2007
I'm environmentally friendly :)
Yes, ladies and germs, I am now officially a LEED Accredited Professional. I can't believe that I actually passed, seeing as how the practice test I took earlier in the day I scored 8 out of 18 correct.....I guess it doesn't really matter how it happened though, eh?
In celebration - Pat bought me a surprise plant with a cute sign that says "Congratulations! Karin - you ROCK!". That totally made me smile!
Get it - its a plant, because it was a Green test? HA! I did the same for him when he passed back in June......his plant is doing fabulously!
Seriously though - I'm so relieved I passed it. It was a goal to have that accreditation before I went on maternity leave.....and, I didn't want to take it again - and I didn't want to admit that my lack of performance was probably due to my lack of concentration and memory retention.....which is directly related to me being knocked up.
No matter now. I Passed! So go celebrate for me and hug a tree - or hug your nearest LEED AP!
In celebration - Pat bought me a surprise plant with a cute sign that says "Congratulations! Karin - you ROCK!". That totally made me smile! Get it - its a plant, because it was a Green test? HA! I did the same for him when he passed back in June......his plant is doing fabulously!
Seriously though - I'm so relieved I passed it. It was a goal to have that accreditation before I went on maternity leave.....and, I didn't want to take it again - and I didn't want to admit that my lack of performance was probably due to my lack of concentration and memory retention.....which is directly related to me being knocked up.No matter now. I Passed! So go celebrate for me and hug a tree - or hug your nearest LEED AP!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Stress-O-Rama
You wouldn't think I'd be stressin' - I've only got one more week left of work before I begin my maternity leave.....and I've been ramping work down for a while, so it should be an easy transition to nothingness :o) But, like the big dork I am, I had a personal goal of taking and passing a test before I leave. I'm taking the exam to become a LEED AP - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional. (Pat took and passed this exam back in June, if you recall) Which normally wouldn't be a huge deal, but, again, like the big dork I am, I procrastinated and procrastinated studying for this exam, and I've been cramming since last week. Now, I know I'll have enough time to cover the subjects, but I'm not sure I have enough time to keep all the information in my head. Especially with my pregnancy brain. I feel like I can't retain any knowledge in there at all! Needless to say, I'll be very disappointed in myself if I don't pass, but if I don't pass, I have no one to blame but myself. I've got a half a day tomorrow to study, and then I take the exam at 4:30pm....keep your fingers crossed.
I'm not sure if I'm giving myself physiological symptoms from stressing about the test, or if I'm just stressing because of the baby. But my neck is KILLING me!!! My massage therapist says people carry a lot of stress in a muscle that goes from your head to your shoulders....and I think I'm carrying it ALL there right now. I would go get it massaged out, but he's sooo good at doing that - so much that it feels like I was hit by a truck the day after before it actually feels good. I know I'm stressed, because when I'm waking up 1,000 times a night I can feel myself really, really clenching my teeth. I try to relax myself but I usually notice it during that semi-conscious state between sleep and wake, and I can't always do it. At least I have a mouth guard so I'm not wrecking my teeth. Apparently Pat's stressin too, because he's been telling me his jaw hurts, presumably from doing the same nightly teeth clenching activities. I wish there was a way to avoid that.....maybe some relaxation techniques before bed time?
Speaking of bed time, mine has not been very kind to me as of this last week or so. Sleep pretty much eludes me - either because I can't fall asleep until the wee hours of the morning (2:30AM on Monday Night), or because I'm getting up every two seconds to pee. OK, maybe not every two seconds, but at LEAST (last night anyway) every 1-2 hours. I can't cut down my water drinking any more! I get thirsty!!! It just dawned on me, as I was in the shower, that maybe the baby dropped a bit, which would explain why I am peeing so much with increased pressure and less capacity in my bladder. But I can't really tell, you know? I don't think I have any noticeable increase in lung capacity, and my hips/pelvic area don't seem to ache or hurt any more than they usually do......but I suppose its possible. I have noticed a considerable increase in activity with the little O'Brien this week though - he/she's been a super wiggle worm! We'll see what the powers that be say at my doctor's appointment tomorrow (it was rescheduled cuz I have a customer meeting on Friday).
On Monday night, when I couldn't fall asleep after laying in bed for an hour.........I came out into the living room and turned on some HGTV to watch me some Color Splash and House Hunters. It was fantastic. Then, I got the urge to whip up a batch of blueberry muffins - old school Jiffy style (my favorite!). So I did - and yes, it was about 1:30AM. I'm surprised Pat didn't wake up, because they smelled sooooo good! I did leave him three to eat the next morning - so that was a nice surprise for him :) Anyway, apparently, hot fresh from the oven blueberry muffins with a dab of melty butter was apparently just what I needed - because after I ate a couple and laid down on the couch supported by a mountain of pillows, and I finally fell asleep......then I woke up a few minutes later to go back into my comfy cozy bed.
OH, one more thing - I met the other preggo-pants girl who is floating around in our building. She's Polish (like, straight from the motha-land) and due one week after I am :) I gave her a high five and said "Yeah girl - we're almost there! We can do it!". Cheesy, I know, but that's how I roll.
OH, and one more thing (seriously this time). I love 50 degree weather. Pat and I took a nice walk this morning, and it was so awesome to wear pants, a long sleeve shirt and a fleece vest. Just so crisp and fabulous! I love fall!
OK - that is all - more to come later.........
I'm not sure if I'm giving myself physiological symptoms from stressing about the test, or if I'm just stressing because of the baby. But my neck is KILLING me!!! My massage therapist says people carry a lot of stress in a muscle that goes from your head to your shoulders....and I think I'm carrying it ALL there right now. I would go get it massaged out, but he's sooo good at doing that - so much that it feels like I was hit by a truck the day after before it actually feels good. I know I'm stressed, because when I'm waking up 1,000 times a night I can feel myself really, really clenching my teeth. I try to relax myself but I usually notice it during that semi-conscious state between sleep and wake, and I can't always do it. At least I have a mouth guard so I'm not wrecking my teeth. Apparently Pat's stressin too, because he's been telling me his jaw hurts, presumably from doing the same nightly teeth clenching activities. I wish there was a way to avoid that.....maybe some relaxation techniques before bed time?
Speaking of bed time, mine has not been very kind to me as of this last week or so. Sleep pretty much eludes me - either because I can't fall asleep until the wee hours of the morning (2:30AM on Monday Night), or because I'm getting up every two seconds to pee. OK, maybe not every two seconds, but at LEAST (last night anyway) every 1-2 hours. I can't cut down my water drinking any more! I get thirsty!!! It just dawned on me, as I was in the shower, that maybe the baby dropped a bit, which would explain why I am peeing so much with increased pressure and less capacity in my bladder. But I can't really tell, you know? I don't think I have any noticeable increase in lung capacity, and my hips/pelvic area don't seem to ache or hurt any more than they usually do......but I suppose its possible. I have noticed a considerable increase in activity with the little O'Brien this week though - he/she's been a super wiggle worm! We'll see what the powers that be say at my doctor's appointment tomorrow (it was rescheduled cuz I have a customer meeting on Friday).
On Monday night, when I couldn't fall asleep after laying in bed for an hour.........I came out into the living room and turned on some HGTV to watch me some Color Splash and House Hunters. It was fantastic. Then, I got the urge to whip up a batch of blueberry muffins - old school Jiffy style (my favorite!). So I did - and yes, it was about 1:30AM. I'm surprised Pat didn't wake up, because they smelled sooooo good! I did leave him three to eat the next morning - so that was a nice surprise for him :) Anyway, apparently, hot fresh from the oven blueberry muffins with a dab of melty butter was apparently just what I needed - because after I ate a couple and laid down on the couch supported by a mountain of pillows, and I finally fell asleep......then I woke up a few minutes later to go back into my comfy cozy bed.
OH, one more thing - I met the other preggo-pants girl who is floating around in our building. She's Polish (like, straight from the motha-land) and due one week after I am :) I gave her a high five and said "Yeah girl - we're almost there! We can do it!". Cheesy, I know, but that's how I roll.
OH, and one more thing (seriously this time). I love 50 degree weather. Pat and I took a nice walk this morning, and it was so awesome to wear pants, a long sleeve shirt and a fleece vest. Just so crisp and fabulous! I love fall!
OK - that is all - more to come later.........
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
WTF?
I'm glad the game wasn't on TV. I might have actually tossed my cookies. It was heartbreaking enough watching the final plays on ESPN's play by play gig.
Michigan's loss to Appalachian State was as big of a suprise for me as it was for everyone else. I mean, I know the first game of the season is normally a fluff off game, but guys, you HAVE to show up enough to WIN. For PETE'S SAKE!!! *sigh* I can't even talk about it anymore because its making me upset.
::::::::: WORK DRAMA :::::::::
The past few weeks have been difficult for me with regards to work. I can't remember if I've posted it before, but my job responsibilities are changing - from less of a sales role to more of a promotion/education role for other architects and engineers. Which, in theory, is fantastic - because I've always loved that part of the industry, and I know I'm very well qualified and it will work out well with my new role as a mommy too. But, the whole thing is kind of cloudy - ill-defined - if you will, and has left me in a bit of limbo.
To tell you the truth, I was just starting to find a groove with the sales role. And I was really diggin' it. And I realize now why some other sales guys I've known through the years showed a bit of territorial-ness when it came to their customers. Because they are YOUR customers! You spend the time to get to know them, determine their needs, and its really tough to just hand them over to someone else!
So the issue I've been having is this transition period between my old and new job, and the transition of handing off my customers to the new guy (who, by the way, is SUPER cool, and very knowledgeable - especially for being right out of college!) while trying to prepare for the new role that I will enter into after maternity leave. The whole thing just wasn't/isn't very well mapped or planned out. I tried and tried, on various occasions, to put together a formal plan with my boss to try to avoid some of this confusion, but I couldn't come up with anything super specific (being new to the sales role as I am - with 6 months under my belt) so we had more of a general umbrella of who would be covering what.....etc.
Without a firm plan in place, the resulting feeling for me is inadequacy. Basically, I feel like I can't complete my job roles because of my pregnancy (I'm restricted to stay in the Chicago Metro area - which cuts off about 75% of my territory), which is making me not able to visit customers and in general, I feel like (at least in my eyes) I look incompetent.
I will admit, its a bit tough to be a woman in this industry...not superficially...people aren't saying rude comments and telling me to get back in the kitchen and bake some pies. But its like this semi-transparent, looming black cloud. Its like a stereotype that is baked into people's heads that a women sales person isn't as good as a man, isn't as easy to talk to, relate to, etc. Its not anything that can be helped, I don't think. And being pregnant on top of that, is just adding to the stereotype. Its not just the customers, either, but I think the thoughts of management as well.
The only analogy I can think is this: If I were walking at night down an alley, and saw a big scary looking tatooed up shaved head man walking toward me, I would definitely be a tad bit alarmed, automatically thinking this person would attack me or rob me. Not that I'm predjudiced against big scary looking dudes, but its just where the mind is programmed to go.
I realize that additional effort needs to be made to make up for this thought process, but its tough to go the extra mile when you're not even sure what your responsibilites are. And dammit, sometimes it just gets hard to slather on a smile and pretend like everything is going great.
This makes me cry (thus further adding to the stereotype) and that, my friends, is never a good thing for a pregnant woman to do....because sometimes its really hard to stop.
::::::::: ON TO HAPPIER THINGS :::::::::
Pat and I had a great weekend in Indiana. And just in case you're wondering, I would still consider it Metro Chicago, seeing as how its only a 45 minute drive from my hospital (gotta respect doctors orders!). It was just nice to hang out and have fun with family. Even nicer to feel like its my family. I took about a zillion photos of the goings on (namely a game of bags, and two hand touch football), of which I'll post a bit later when I get a round to it. A million thanks to Mike & Kristen & Family for putting up with us and feeding us for a couple of days. You guys ROCK.
::::::::: LAST BUT CERTAINLY NOT LEAST :::::::::
A giant happy birthday wish to my dear dear little baby sister, who is now officially 16 years old. Sweet LORD! Where did the time go??? I hope you have a fantastic day Karli-girl!
Michigan's loss to Appalachian State was as big of a suprise for me as it was for everyone else. I mean, I know the first game of the season is normally a fluff off game, but guys, you HAVE to show up enough to WIN. For PETE'S SAKE!!! *sigh* I can't even talk about it anymore because its making me upset.
::::::::: WORK DRAMA :::::::::
The past few weeks have been difficult for me with regards to work. I can't remember if I've posted it before, but my job responsibilities are changing - from less of a sales role to more of a promotion/education role for other architects and engineers. Which, in theory, is fantastic - because I've always loved that part of the industry, and I know I'm very well qualified and it will work out well with my new role as a mommy too. But, the whole thing is kind of cloudy - ill-defined - if you will, and has left me in a bit of limbo.
To tell you the truth, I was just starting to find a groove with the sales role. And I was really diggin' it. And I realize now why some other sales guys I've known through the years showed a bit of territorial-ness when it came to their customers. Because they are YOUR customers! You spend the time to get to know them, determine their needs, and its really tough to just hand them over to someone else!
So the issue I've been having is this transition period between my old and new job, and the transition of handing off my customers to the new guy (who, by the way, is SUPER cool, and very knowledgeable - especially for being right out of college!) while trying to prepare for the new role that I will enter into after maternity leave. The whole thing just wasn't/isn't very well mapped or planned out. I tried and tried, on various occasions, to put together a formal plan with my boss to try to avoid some of this confusion, but I couldn't come up with anything super specific (being new to the sales role as I am - with 6 months under my belt) so we had more of a general umbrella of who would be covering what.....etc.
Without a firm plan in place, the resulting feeling for me is inadequacy. Basically, I feel like I can't complete my job roles because of my pregnancy (I'm restricted to stay in the Chicago Metro area - which cuts off about 75% of my territory), which is making me not able to visit customers and in general, I feel like (at least in my eyes) I look incompetent.
I will admit, its a bit tough to be a woman in this industry...not superficially...people aren't saying rude comments and telling me to get back in the kitchen and bake some pies. But its like this semi-transparent, looming black cloud. Its like a stereotype that is baked into people's heads that a women sales person isn't as good as a man, isn't as easy to talk to, relate to, etc. Its not anything that can be helped, I don't think. And being pregnant on top of that, is just adding to the stereotype. Its not just the customers, either, but I think the thoughts of management as well.
The only analogy I can think is this: If I were walking at night down an alley, and saw a big scary looking tatooed up shaved head man walking toward me, I would definitely be a tad bit alarmed, automatically thinking this person would attack me or rob me. Not that I'm predjudiced against big scary looking dudes, but its just where the mind is programmed to go.
I realize that additional effort needs to be made to make up for this thought process, but its tough to go the extra mile when you're not even sure what your responsibilites are. And dammit, sometimes it just gets hard to slather on a smile and pretend like everything is going great.
This makes me cry (thus further adding to the stereotype) and that, my friends, is never a good thing for a pregnant woman to do....because sometimes its really hard to stop.
::::::::: ON TO HAPPIER THINGS :::::::::
Pat and I had a great weekend in Indiana. And just in case you're wondering, I would still consider it Metro Chicago, seeing as how its only a 45 minute drive from my hospital (gotta respect doctors orders!). It was just nice to hang out and have fun with family. Even nicer to feel like its my family. I took about a zillion photos of the goings on (namely a game of bags, and two hand touch football), of which I'll post a bit later when I get a round to it. A million thanks to Mike & Kristen & Family for putting up with us and feeding us for a couple of days. You guys ROCK.
::::::::: LAST BUT CERTAINLY NOT LEAST :::::::::
A giant happy birthday wish to my dear dear little baby sister, who is now officially 16 years old. Sweet LORD! Where did the time go??? I hope you have a fantastic day Karli-girl!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Dammitallanyway
I was getting antsy and tired of working at home today, so Pat and I decided to head to Staples to purchase some office supplies - and then head to Target. It was supposed to be a quick afternoon jaunt, but no such luck.
Upon our exit of our parking spot, Pat noticed another person who started backing up after he was already mostly out in the isle......he stopped. Honked. For a good couple seconds. The other people kept on backing up. Right into the drivers side back door. *sigh* at least it was a low impact collision, and the door just crumpled. Turns out it was a college age girl and her high school age sister......they had insurance and everything, but were obviously relatively upset about backing into someone.
But its still a giant pain in the ass. No police report since it was in a parking lot (Chicago Police have bigger fish to fry). Exchange of information - blah blah blah. We already were able to report the accident with GE, take the car to a body shop to get an estimate already, so we'll just wait to hear from them to see what to do next. Or at least Pat will, since it was his company car. We definitely have that to be thankful for too - fleet vehicle companies are awesome. I had a couple accidents with our other company, PHH, which went pretty well, but this will be our first with GE.
We were able to make it to Target afterward, but at the end of the day our 1 hour trip a total of about 2.5 hours. Oh, and note to self (and a good rule to follow in general). When going to Target, don't show up in khaki pants and a red polo shirt. Luckily, Pat had a very visibly pregnant wife in tow and we weren't bothered at all, but I'm sure if he went alone he would have been bombarded with many questions about where the milk was, or if the swiffer wet jet was on sale.
Upon our exit of our parking spot, Pat noticed another person who started backing up after he was already mostly out in the isle......he stopped. Honked. For a good couple seconds. The other people kept on backing up. Right into the drivers side back door. *sigh* at least it was a low impact collision, and the door just crumpled. Turns out it was a college age girl and her high school age sister......they had insurance and everything, but were obviously relatively upset about backing into someone.
But its still a giant pain in the ass. No police report since it was in a parking lot (Chicago Police have bigger fish to fry). Exchange of information - blah blah blah. We already were able to report the accident with GE, take the car to a body shop to get an estimate already, so we'll just wait to hear from them to see what to do next. Or at least Pat will, since it was his company car. We definitely have that to be thankful for too - fleet vehicle companies are awesome. I had a couple accidents with our other company, PHH, which went pretty well, but this will be our first with GE.
We were able to make it to Target afterward, but at the end of the day our 1 hour trip a total of about 2.5 hours. Oh, and note to self (and a good rule to follow in general). When going to Target, don't show up in khaki pants and a red polo shirt. Luckily, Pat had a very visibly pregnant wife in tow and we weren't bothered at all, but I'm sure if he went alone he would have been bombarded with many questions about where the milk was, or if the swiffer wet jet was on sale.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Big Ol' Mean Customer Man
I knew what my strengths and weaknesses were coming into this sales position. As a matter of fact, my weaknesses are the reasons why I was slightly afraid to persue a career in sales. Those weaknesses, you might ask?
Basically being sensitive and taking everything personally.
I think that may be the death of someone in sales - its not always a happy go lucky touchy feely position. I've done a great job so far, learning to separate the customers' anger and frustration from feelings directed at me - but its not always easy for me to make that separation. So, in times when I am unable to (for whatever reason) we end up in a situation like today. I talked to a customer (who didn't remember who I was - not shocking, I was warned people wouldn't associate me with the position for at least three meetings - so I'm not taking that personally) and had some important issues to discuss - and instead of being a smooth resolution of a small problem, it became a tirade on how my company is a big greedy monster that makes it difficult to accomplish what is in effect best for its most loyal customers.
Point taken.
There is truth to that statement - because of my company's size and breadth its often easier and more efficient to take the long way around of things as opposed to trying to fight the long giant red tape in order to get it done the "right" way. His response to my proposed solution was "If you need to disguise it or hide it in order to get it done, I'll play along". Ouch. I was able to continue the conversation professionally...but when I hung up the phone I just started bawling. Of course I called Pat because the big ol' mean customer made me cry, but after a few minutes I realized how silly it was.
I couldn't even really say why I was crying, but now in trying to analyze the situation I understand (I think) the reason - I mean, the reason besides the fact that my body is all hopped up on crazy, uncontrollable, pregnancy hormones. The customer's last comment I took personally, and the way he phrased it made it seem as if I was doing something less than ethical, or basically being a slimeball sales person. And if there is one thing I pride myself on, it is my ethics - and if there is one thing I despise its slimeball sales people. And I hate being thrown into that group. Its not the first time I've felt that, and I suppose it comes with the territory, but it still sucks. And I knew it would suck, but I'm doing my best to try to fight those stereotypes and not let it get to me. I think maybe being a woman, and being with child makes me a little more sensitive than most, but I'm learning how to cope and deal and take it with stride like all those seasoned vets out there.
On the flip side, I've got a great day planned tomorrow. Its the first day of the Crosstown Showdown (not as much panache as the Subway Series, is it?) and Pat and I are taking a customer into enemy territory (the customer's a Sox fan) for a nice lunch and a fabulous afternoon Spring Ball Game at Wrigley Field. I guess I'll be wearing my Sox hat.....or I could be completely non-commital and wear the Sox hat with a Cubs shirt :)
Basically being sensitive and taking everything personally.
I think that may be the death of someone in sales - its not always a happy go lucky touchy feely position. I've done a great job so far, learning to separate the customers' anger and frustration from feelings directed at me - but its not always easy for me to make that separation. So, in times when I am unable to (for whatever reason) we end up in a situation like today. I talked to a customer (who didn't remember who I was - not shocking, I was warned people wouldn't associate me with the position for at least three meetings - so I'm not taking that personally) and had some important issues to discuss - and instead of being a smooth resolution of a small problem, it became a tirade on how my company is a big greedy monster that makes it difficult to accomplish what is in effect best for its most loyal customers.
Point taken.
There is truth to that statement - because of my company's size and breadth its often easier and more efficient to take the long way around of things as opposed to trying to fight the long giant red tape in order to get it done the "right" way. His response to my proposed solution was "If you need to disguise it or hide it in order to get it done, I'll play along". Ouch. I was able to continue the conversation professionally...but when I hung up the phone I just started bawling. Of course I called Pat because the big ol' mean customer made me cry, but after a few minutes I realized how silly it was.
I couldn't even really say why I was crying, but now in trying to analyze the situation I understand (I think) the reason - I mean, the reason besides the fact that my body is all hopped up on crazy, uncontrollable, pregnancy hormones. The customer's last comment I took personally, and the way he phrased it made it seem as if I was doing something less than ethical, or basically being a slimeball sales person. And if there is one thing I pride myself on, it is my ethics - and if there is one thing I despise its slimeball sales people. And I hate being thrown into that group. Its not the first time I've felt that, and I suppose it comes with the territory, but it still sucks. And I knew it would suck, but I'm doing my best to try to fight those stereotypes and not let it get to me. I think maybe being a woman, and being with child makes me a little more sensitive than most, but I'm learning how to cope and deal and take it with stride like all those seasoned vets out there.
On the flip side, I've got a great day planned tomorrow. Its the first day of the Crosstown Showdown (not as much panache as the Subway Series, is it?) and Pat and I are taking a customer into enemy territory (the customer's a Sox fan) for a nice lunch and a fabulous afternoon Spring Ball Game at Wrigley Field. I guess I'll be wearing my Sox hat.....or I could be completely non-commital and wear the Sox hat with a Cubs shirt :)
Friday, February 23, 2007
Home sweet Home
Pat is in Orlando this weekend for some kind of trade show. I was super jealous because I wanted to fly there too so I could go visit Mickey and such.....but it is probably better that I'm just staying home. It will give me some time to settle in here and make it feel like more "My" home, know what I'm saying dude? Apparently the weather is gorgeous, but he's come down with some nasty sort of cold/flu gig....my poor poor honeybuns. I told him to fly home so I could take care of him - what's the point of living in the same country if I can't take care of him when he's feeling all icky? Humph...the nerve of him getting sick while he's away on business!!!
Anyway, he'll be gone for most of the rest of this month and the first couple weeks of March practically - training, learning, giving presentations, getting some ins at various associations. He's in Orlando now, I think he's got Minnesota, the UP of Michigan and Dayton lined up so far. I think there is one more in there somewhere, but I can't remember at the moment. He gets home Sunday from Orlando then is leaving Monday afternoon for MN - it kind of stinks....I was just getting used to having him around - but since we're pretty much old pro's at this being apart stuff its not that big of a deal. It just means I can be super messy and not clean up after myself while he's gone :)
What else is new - oh, wedding plans. We still don't have everything settled - I'm pretty much just praying for nice weather so I don't have to worry about it.....we bought Pat's suit last week and will be getting rings after he gets back next week...I have another dress fitting tomorrow. I'll try to get the rest of it figured out this weekend.
OH OH OH! They located a new vehicle for me! WHOO HOO!! not sure when I'm actually going to get it, but they at least found one! It's a white Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4, which is cool since I've never had a white car before! I'm excited to get it so I can finally stop having these stinking rentals. Ugh.
OK, tis all for now. Have a great weekend everyone!
Anyway, he'll be gone for most of the rest of this month and the first couple weeks of March practically - training, learning, giving presentations, getting some ins at various associations. He's in Orlando now, I think he's got Minnesota, the UP of Michigan and Dayton lined up so far. I think there is one more in there somewhere, but I can't remember at the moment. He gets home Sunday from Orlando then is leaving Monday afternoon for MN - it kind of stinks....I was just getting used to having him around - but since we're pretty much old pro's at this being apart stuff its not that big of a deal. It just means I can be super messy and not clean up after myself while he's gone :)
What else is new - oh, wedding plans. We still don't have everything settled - I'm pretty much just praying for nice weather so I don't have to worry about it.....we bought Pat's suit last week and will be getting rings after he gets back next week...I have another dress fitting tomorrow. I'll try to get the rest of it figured out this weekend.
OH OH OH! They located a new vehicle for me! WHOO HOO!! not sure when I'm actually going to get it, but they at least found one! It's a white Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4, which is cool since I've never had a white car before! I'm excited to get it so I can finally stop having these stinking rentals. Ugh.
OK, tis all for now. Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Lists
I've always been a list maker - it helps me not get freaked out. But sometimes I won't make them when I know the lists are too big, which kind of defeats the purpose of helping me tackle projects, doesn't it?
Anyway, I've got a few lists - some for home, some for work. At work, its a list of things that HAVE to get done before I leave, HAVE to get done AFTER I leave, and then the list of things that just won't get done ever, and no one will die because of it. I already have a nice steady list of appointments and training already set up for after I start my new position as well.
At home its mostly a list of things to do - things to purge - things to organize - things to bring with me in the car - things that need to go to the house by air shipment - things that need to get to the house sometime, and stuff that will go into storage. Its been a barrage of lists that somehow aren't managing to stress me out too much or drown me yet. I'm determined to make this a relatively stress-free move. Lets see if it really is mind over matter, because I don't think I've ever done a move where I wasn't freaking out at some point. So far, so good.
Lets see, the things I am focusing on right now for this weekend: Tonight I will have to finish purging all the things I need to get rid of. Hopefully as we speak Keith is disassembling the desk so we can send it off with the rest of the donated goods tomorrow morning when Salvation Army comes to pick it all up. I successfully compiled at least another truckful. So, that will be FIVE truckfulls (think an extra long bed pick up piled high above the cab) of stuff that I have given away - not to mention the countless numbers of trashbags of shredded and torn documents. I'm so glad I bought a shredder a few years ago. Totally a great investment and I don't have to worry about people stealing my social security number. After the STUFF is purged, I'll still have quite a bit of files to go through and sort out - but that will really be secondary. As Pat O'Brien keeps on reminding me - Papers don't take up all that much space......
Then, after that is all done, Friday and Saturday I will need to make sure to separate and clearly mark what is going where as far as Air shipment (basically clothes & printer), house shipment, storage shipment. I'm going to try to separate it by room - but we'll see how that all works out. Then Sunday night I'll have to pack - for a week or so. Actually two bags - one I can leave in the car, and another I can take with me into the hotels when we get to where we're going. I have to make sure everything we are taking in the car is necessary - and that it will all fit!
Saturday was supposed to be a rugby game, but its cancelled so they are just training instead. I'm not sure if I can make it to say goodbye to everyone - I have to work Saturday as well because of a HUGE meeting they are having here at the CTC. Hopefully we can at least drive down there and say hello for a bit. Sunday we're making time to spend some QT with our friends and surrogate family Fernando, Martha, Alejandro and little Fer. It will be hardest, for me, to say goodbye to them - they've been so good to us. We're going to go see La Basilica de Guadalupe, since it was the most important thing on my list to see while I was living here.
In the (not too distant) future:
The movers will be here Monday morning, so I have to also make sure I have the tablet of papers filled out and the appropriate copies of documentation ready so they have everything needed to get my goods across the border.
Monday I also have to take my car in for service to make sure its road worthy - also need to put on the new windshield wipers too.
I already transfered most of my money to my US account - but I think Tuesday I'll withdraw the rest and close my bank account. Tuesday night hopefully I can have dinner again with Veronica and her sister......OH Crap - I forgot I have to turn off our SKY sattelite - I need to call them FIRST thing tomorrow morning. Then Wednesday I'll turn in the keys to our renter and such. I have to not forget to ask about our security deposit. I would like that back in Cash.
Wow - it was exhausting just reading over it all! I hope you can excuse me for not keeping the blog updated for the next week - it will be a whirlwind. I will definitely post when we are safe and sound in the US of A though.......
Anyway, I've got a few lists - some for home, some for work. At work, its a list of things that HAVE to get done before I leave, HAVE to get done AFTER I leave, and then the list of things that just won't get done ever, and no one will die because of it. I already have a nice steady list of appointments and training already set up for after I start my new position as well.
At home its mostly a list of things to do - things to purge - things to organize - things to bring with me in the car - things that need to go to the house by air shipment - things that need to get to the house sometime, and stuff that will go into storage. Its been a barrage of lists that somehow aren't managing to stress me out too much or drown me yet. I'm determined to make this a relatively stress-free move. Lets see if it really is mind over matter, because I don't think I've ever done a move where I wasn't freaking out at some point. So far, so good.
Lets see, the things I am focusing on right now for this weekend: Tonight I will have to finish purging all the things I need to get rid of. Hopefully as we speak Keith is disassembling the desk so we can send it off with the rest of the donated goods tomorrow morning when Salvation Army comes to pick it all up. I successfully compiled at least another truckful. So, that will be FIVE truckfulls (think an extra long bed pick up piled high above the cab) of stuff that I have given away - not to mention the countless numbers of trashbags of shredded and torn documents. I'm so glad I bought a shredder a few years ago. Totally a great investment and I don't have to worry about people stealing my social security number. After the STUFF is purged, I'll still have quite a bit of files to go through and sort out - but that will really be secondary. As Pat O'Brien keeps on reminding me - Papers don't take up all that much space......
Then, after that is all done, Friday and Saturday I will need to make sure to separate and clearly mark what is going where as far as Air shipment (basically clothes & printer), house shipment, storage shipment. I'm going to try to separate it by room - but we'll see how that all works out. Then Sunday night I'll have to pack - for a week or so. Actually two bags - one I can leave in the car, and another I can take with me into the hotels when we get to where we're going. I have to make sure everything we are taking in the car is necessary - and that it will all fit!
Saturday was supposed to be a rugby game, but its cancelled so they are just training instead. I'm not sure if I can make it to say goodbye to everyone - I have to work Saturday as well because of a HUGE meeting they are having here at the CTC. Hopefully we can at least drive down there and say hello for a bit. Sunday we're making time to spend some QT with our friends and surrogate family Fernando, Martha, Alejandro and little Fer. It will be hardest, for me, to say goodbye to them - they've been so good to us. We're going to go see La Basilica de Guadalupe, since it was the most important thing on my list to see while I was living here.
In the (not too distant) future:
The movers will be here Monday morning, so I have to also make sure I have the tablet of papers filled out and the appropriate copies of documentation ready so they have everything needed to get my goods across the border.
Monday I also have to take my car in for service to make sure its road worthy - also need to put on the new windshield wipers too.
I already transfered most of my money to my US account - but I think Tuesday I'll withdraw the rest and close my bank account. Tuesday night hopefully I can have dinner again with Veronica and her sister......OH Crap - I forgot I have to turn off our SKY sattelite - I need to call them FIRST thing tomorrow morning. Then Wednesday I'll turn in the keys to our renter and such. I have to not forget to ask about our security deposit. I would like that back in Cash.
Wow - it was exhausting just reading over it all! I hope you can excuse me for not keeping the blog updated for the next week - it will be a whirlwind. I will definitely post when we are safe and sound in the US of A though.......
Monday, January 08, 2007
The clock is ticking…..
I’ve been putting it off and putting it off – mostly because I am a World class champion procrastinator – so much so that I’ve convinced myself that I actually work better when there is a time crunch!
I have vowed today to make a list of EVERYTHING that I need to complete in the next three weeks – and then break it all down and make a plan of attack so I can make sure to get everything done. And I will do it. I promise you. After lunch.
::::::::::::::ACOT CROP::::::::::::::
First, lets talk about this weekend! It was the Scrappin’ In the New Year Crop weekend at A Cherry On Top – and it was my first Crop being on the planning side of things! It was very fun, but definitely stressful – being that it was my first one and I didn’t want to botch anything up!!! I hosted a bingo game, Disney trivia, and another game called song lyric hide and seek. It was very fun, and all in all I doled out about $50 in points and prizes!
Even with being on the Creative Team and not playing any of the games or anything, I still was encouraged to scrap a bit – I did about 10 pages in all! Here are a couple of my favorites:
::::::::::::::ENGAGED::::::::::::::
I have vowed today to make a list of EVERYTHING that I need to complete in the next three weeks – and then break it all down and make a plan of attack so I can make sure to get everything done. And I will do it. I promise you. After lunch.
::::::::::::::ACOT CROP::::::::::::::
First, lets talk about this weekend! It was the Scrappin’ In the New Year Crop weekend at A Cherry On Top – and it was my first Crop being on the planning side of things! It was very fun, but definitely stressful – being that it was my first one and I didn’t want to botch anything up!!! I hosted a bingo game, Disney trivia, and another game called song lyric hide and seek. It was very fun, and all in all I doled out about $50 in points and prizes!
Even with being on the Creative Team and not playing any of the games or anything, I still was encouraged to scrap a bit – I did about 10 pages in all! Here are a couple of my favorites:
::::::::::::::ENGAGED::::::::::::::
Papers, elements, alpha - Jen Wilson Nostalgia 5 Kit; Kraft Notebook paper - Shannon Lee Designs Muddle of Pud kit; Tied ribbons (some recolored) - ajsmith, amy teets, Heather Ann, Anita Stergiou, Shannon Lee, brutcher; Sketch - Becky Fleck pagemaps; Tear - Steph Krush; Font - Weltron Urban, My own handrwiting created by september Myles; Drop Shadows by Traci Murphy::::::::::::::AUNT::::::::::::::
Papers - Jen Wilson; Drop Shadows - Traci Murphy; Stitches – CGGibson; Frame & Tag - Holly McCaig; Fonts - Batik Regular & Jefferson::::::::::::::CHRISTMAS 2004::::::::::::::
Yeah, I know I put the wrong date in it – I’m gonna fix that today. I’m a huge dork.Template - Traci Reed Double Trouble2; Papers - Elements - Jen Wilson Merry Days 9; Hand Stamped Alpha - Michelle Coleman; Font - Susie's Hand
::::::::::::::FRIENDS::::::::::::::
Template - Traci Reed Double Trouble (pics added to achieve 4 pics per page); Stamp Alpha, Papers, Tags from New Beginnings kit, available exclusively at ACOT; Font - Gilder Girls::::::::::::::OTHER WEEKEND FUN::::::::::::::
I also finally cleaned my bathroom, and took down all the Christmas Décor inside. It always makes me a bit sad, because after my house looks so naked. Keith was nice enough to do the outside lights. I also took the opportunity to bring downstairs a bunch of stuff that needs to be donated. I swear, I have another room full. It sure feels good to purge, though! I think I arrived in Mexico with about 300 boxes of stuff – my goal was to purge half……I think I’m well on my way.
::::::::::::::PERSONAL GOALS FOR THIS WEEK::::::::::::::
Now, this week I would also like to scrap a few paper pages, and also shred at least two more boxes of documents. Oh, and I’m also going to start training tomorrow for an 8K in March. I was just going to wait until I got back to the US, but it will be much MUCH better if I start it now. Besides, I need some motivation to get my ass up in the morning. This sleeping in until 8:30AM business is for the birds.
::::::::::::::REPATRIATION UPDATE::::::::::::::
I finally determined my last day of work here in Mexico – it will be January 31, 2007. That means Keith and I will be on the road starting February 1 – and hopefully rolling into Chicago before the Superbowl on Sunday February 4. I’ll take a couple days to rest and relax, and start work sometime later that week.
Right now I’m working with a million different people to get all my stuff set up for my new position. Ordering a new car (Jeep Grand Cherokee), telephone (hot pink Razr, I hope!), email, access to intranet stuffs, reports, customer lists, etc……
I’ve also had contact with the movers and relocation company, so that is all in the works now as well. I’m pretty excited about it all!!!!!
The best thing about this whole process is how easy its going to be compared with other relocations. I already have a place to live, the kitties are already happily relocated, and when I arrive I’ll have a personal guide in Pat O’Brien to help show me around town, help me get my drivers license and city sticker! Half of the stress of moving is not knowing where you’re going to live, having temporary arrangements and living in limbo for 3 months. I’ll already have that taken care of! WHOOO HOOO!
Of course, there are other issues – I will be getting a bonus from Apasco sometime in June, so I have to figure out how that is going to work…not sure if I’m just going to keep my account open and close it after that, or if I’m going to have them send me a check, or what…..but I’ll have to figure that all out later this week or early next. I’m trying not to stress too much about it.
OK – that’s all for now. Hope you all have a great day!!!
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Ohhhh – Nice and toasty warm!!!!
I finally am wearing the serape type thing I bought at La Quimera a few moons ago. Its relatively lightweight fabric, but its wool and it is soooooo toasty warm! It’s like wearing a blanket around me wherever I go! I officially *heart* it, and I shall keep it with me for the rest of my days. It will be perfect for those crisp fall days when you have to go to a high school football game, but it’s a little too warm to bust out the winter goods. I had to make sure to wear long sleeve shirt today though, because I didn’t want to have über itchy arms. Yeah, that’s right. I said über.
My alarm was apparently playing a good song when I woke up this morning, because I was dancing when I woke up. No, I didn’t start dancing in my bed after I woke up – I actually came to consciousness and realized I was dancing. Shaking my shoulders and hips and stuff – I don’t even know the name of the song, but I know I really like it a lot. You know, it’s hard to be in a bad mood when you wake up like that, because you can’t help but laugh at yourself, and laughing smiling first thing in the morning is pretty much an instant mood picker upper.
Ooohhh - a coworker just came in and gave me some yummy treats for my throat (I’ve been having slight allergy/throat/drainage issues over the past few days). It’s like an Über Halls Lozenge, but disguised as a honey lollipop. That’s right, über and lollipop in the same sentence. I’m on a roll. Anyway, it tastes pretty good, and its all natural, and it’s got some kind of menthol yumminess in it so I can actually breathe right now. Awesome! No, ÜBER awesome.
Hmmmm….I wonder if one can overuse an umlaut? Those are the dots above the Ü in ÜBER incase you were wondering.
I was supposed to stay the night at the plant in Apaxco tonight so I could do some super cool chemical testing stuffs tomorrow morning…..but I really would rather stay here tonight and go early tomorrow morning. I have good reasons…..
- I have this phobia about staying in strange places by myself (I’m sure I’ve told you all before)
- I have no idea if they even have TV’s that would get the Tiger’s game tonight, and I’m not about to miss one
- I have a test to run here today that won’t be done until 5
- I really should go shopping tonight for an outfit for a big meeting I have on Thursday.
Then again, I really should go just to experience staying in a cement village. They had them in the US back in the day – it’s a town just for cement workers and their families, which is a really good concept seeing as how cement plants are often in the middle of no wheres. Although I don't know how I would feel about living and working with the same people every single day. It would just be too twighlight zoney.
I need to make up my mind soon – because if I’m going today I need to leave at like 3:00PM……
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