Pray for me...

I'm about to do something today that could affect the rest of my life... I'm not sure right now if that's a good thing or a bad thing. I know things have got to change. The most I can ask for right now is prayer that things go the way that they are supposed to. I am not 100% sure how things are supposed to work out or that I have made the right decision, but I know that life has got to be better than it has been. Life is about more than mind games and who can tick the other off the most. Life is about more than hurting each other.
Please just pray. And then pray some more.

Taking a moment...

So much has changed this year... I can't even begin to explain it all right now. All I can say is that I'm hoping that the new year is much better than this one. I know it will be. It's definitely going to be a ride.
I really hope that you will all join me on my journey and continue to support me as you have in the past.
Well, I'm going to get going, but I promise that I have not forgotten you all and I promise to explain it all at a later date...

Grrrr....

Hello people! I apologize for still not keeping my word and getting on here to update. I will tell you that there are some things going on that I just don't want to talk about, and I think that's part of what keeps me off here.
Right now I'll talk about good things. The trip to Savannah was a much needed break. I almost wish I could go back, but I missed the boys terribly. I made some very good business contacts while I was there as well, which is always a good thing.
Work is going great. My department is growing, which is fantastic, that means I'm doing something right and they have faith in me. I have two assistants and by January I should have three. I have my review coming up on Tuesday and it's so funny, with Walmart I would have been a wreck, here I am EXCITED!!!
The boys are fantastic! I'm going to see if I can upload some pictures that I have on my Blackberry tonight... We have some really cute goofy pictures from going out. They are getting so big too... I have this picture of Micheal next to my bed from where he was about 2 weeks old and I can remember that day like it was yesterday. I hate that they are growing up so fast. I feel like I am missing out on soooo much.
Well, that's about all for now....

Hello Readers and Friends...

I apologize that it again has been so long since I have written. I always mean to, but it gets so hard sometimes to get the chance.
Today I am writing you from the beautiful Savannah, Georgia, I am on a business trip and I have to say that I am probably staying at one of the nicest hotels I've ever been to. It is the Westin Resort. Look it up, it'll take your breath away. I, however, have been nearly at tears almost the entire time I've been here. As many of you know, I never leave my children with anyone. Thewy have never been away from me for more than a few hours. Well, I can't take them on business trips... No matter how much I try to explain that to the boss, he just continues to tell me no. LOL.... So here I am, all alone.
The flights were fun. I actually travel quite well when I'm alone. I was nervous that I would make some drastic mistake, but thus far I have been good. I even met some people that I will be hanging out with later tonight. They're all here for the same conference.
Well, I've got to get running, I'm gonna grab a late lunch. I finally got all my things put away and I just want to relax until the meeting tonight....
Talk to you all very soon!

By this time tomorrow...

By this time tomorrow, Gary will be gone. I will be single for three long months. Without the perks of being single, of course! ;) I am seriously trying to make this a laughing, joking matter. I just absolutely hate it when he goes away. And it will be happening more and more as time goes on. I am so worried about how the kids are going to handle it. And I'm worried about Gary. I know I'm going to be busy, and while yes, I will miss him, I will be fine. Sadly, I've gotten used to doing things alone. Truthfully, he doesn't do much while he's here. He is my shoulder though when things go wrong, and that's what I'll miss.... Because inevitably, something will go drastically wrong while he's gone. It always does.
To be honest, I think he's trying to make me angry with him these days. I don't know if he thinks that it makes things easier for me or what the deal is. It really doesn't make things easier, it makes me feel guilty for being angry when I know he won't be around and I only have a few hours left with him. And right now, it really is just hours. In less than 23 hours, I'll be dropping him off at the airport.
Well, that's all I have for now. Talk to you all later....

Wow!!!

They actually got the fence installed today. It looks fantastic! I love it and am so excited!
Work was bad today... Somebody clogged a toilet and flooded the building last night. That was not fun dealing with when I first got there this morning.
Well, I guess I should be going. There's not much else going on around here. I'm going to put the kids to bed soon.

Almost there...

I have been waiting for this week. I have been excited and dreading it for two completely different reasons.
Fourth quarter at work is over with after this week. Things are going to calm down and it will be absolutely wonderful. I'm not going to miss having one emergency after another and all of the cranky attitudes at all.
On the other hand, Gary leaves after this week is over. I have been trying to ignore it, to avoid it, to not think about it, but it's coming. I don't honestly know how I'll do by myself for three months. I know it's good practice for when he's gone for a year, but I still hate it nonetheless.
On a very happy note, the fence guys come today!!! They're putting the posts in the ground and I will have my fence by the end of the week.
Gosh, the kids are talking more and more every week. And they understand a lot more too... As I type this, Kyle is in his crib saying "Love you mama..." in hopes of me coming to rescue him. Yesterday, we got home and he screamed at me "I want DADDY!" to which I replied with "That's fine, if you want daddy, sit here and scream for him, see how long it will take for him to come get you out." and then he reached out for me and says "Mama???". I just can't get over how fast time flies by with them.
Well, I've got to run... There's a million things that I have to do this morning. Talk to you all later...

Age...

We were talking at work about age. Guessing people’s ages etc. Depressing subject for those of us whose ages were being guessed. It led to me wondering, just what happened to those days where people thinking you were older than you actually are being a good thing? I miss being 16 and people thinking that I was 21 and feeling good about it. Add five years now and I want to cry. I don’t know why, I guess it’s just something that comes with AGE.

 

Well, that’s all for now…

Yay for big projects!

Grrr... The assistant was a no show today. This makes six call-ins in the three weeks that she has worked there. I really wish that I could fire her, but I don't have that authority. Instead I am making my feelings known and continuing to give 200%. We can then decide in October what direction to go with her.
I have my very first FRG meeting tomorrow! I am so excited about it. I can't wait to get to know everyone and to really get to work on this all!
We get our fence in 6 days now! I'm already planning on how to fix my yard to make it as gorgeous as possible.
And, on a very sad note, Gary leaves in 10 days...
Well, I need to go... I have to find something to eat.

So I'm still not doing things as planned...

I have been so tired when I get home from work that I absolutely forget about getting on here. I plan to change that... I am going to start blogging on my breaks at work, so feel free to check in and see what I have to say then...

I have been really bummed out. Gary is leaving in such a short amount of time now... For three whole months. And that just starts out what the next two years of my life are going to be like. Leave, come back, leave again, come back, and leave me yet again. I don't really want to talk about it... I don't really know what to say. I get angry and take it out on him, even though it's not his fault, it's just easier to do that.

I'm going to go to the other, happier countdown that I have right now... 6 days until I get my fence! I sent my paperwork in to the homeowner's association yesterday to get approval. They said I should hear back by Friday at the latest. Yay!!!

I can't wait to get our family portraits back. Olan Mills said that since it's such a large order that it may be shipped directly to the house. I just want to have my family picture up on the wall and I want to start putting Christmas presents together, which, for those of you who don't already know, is pictures this year. I can't afford to something big for everyone, so we're going with something small for everyone rather than leave people out.

That being said, Christmas is on it's way... Email me with your addresses by Thanksgiving if you'd like a Christmas card!!!

Talk to you all later...

I know I haven't written...

I know I haven't written on here in a while, and believe me when I say that it's not because I don't care. It's just that life is a little crazy lately... Actually, a little doesn't even begin to describe it.
Micheal started beck to school. After weeks of crying and hiding and running away, I think he finally is enjoying himself. He is also starting to really do great with potty training as well! My goal is to have him completely potty trained during the day before Gary leaves, and completely out of pull-ups (at night) by the time Gary gets back.
Kyle is wonderful. He is really starting to talk! I wish that Micheal said half as much as that kid does... We are all really starting to have some conversations! Of course, he is having some things going on that are just flat out age related. He's a hitter... If he doesn't get his way, those arms start flailing. I'm hoping that soon enough this stage will be over.
Gary is Gary. He leaves in less than two weeks. I'm a little freaked out. I've never been alone for more than a few weeks and I'm really not looking forward to it.
I'm... hanging in there. Wishing life would just slow down for a second and give me a chance to catch up. I love my job. I love my kids. I love my husband. I love my dog... Who I need to post pictures of... I'll do that tonight, hopefully.
I'm going to be better... I'll be back on soon, I promise...

In search of a crafty person!

I am in search for the perfect Christmas decor for my family... I have an idea, I'm just not telling Gary, I want him to come home and see it. I need to find someone who can make Christmas stockings and tree skirts... Oh, and an angel for my tree whose dress will match my stockings and tree skirt if at all possible. Even if this angel has a white (or black if I could find that) dress and we just make some accents to match the other material, I think it would be fine.
The key is, the person who makes these items for me will need access to an embroidering machine. Also, each stocking will be different, just made of the same fabric.
Does anyone think that they might be able to help me find such a person? I would make these myself, but I don't know how to sew, so that would be interesting...
Well, I've got to run... Getting ready for work!

It's Official!!!

While I was working on installing my bamboo shades tonight, Gary got Mack out of his crate and started playing with him. He's falling for him!!! His exact words were "Let me check out this mutt!" as he smiled and opened the door to the crate. Mack went running, but went right back to him and stayed at his feet. Gary petted him and Mack just rolled over on his back... I think they're in love!
That's all for now, I have to get to bed....

We're keeping Mack!

It's official! Gary adopted Mack... He loves him because I love him and the kids love him. One day he'll just flat out love him, but I'm willing to work with him on that for now...
I'd like to take this moment to introduce Mack, the sweetest little dog in the world. Believe me when I say that he only looks sad, he is so happy and full of energy!

Mack resting on a clean living room floor:

Mack wishing I would stop taking his picture:

Mack playing with a tennis ball:

I believe you have already met Kyle:

Micheal and his daddy:

It's a long, long story involving me wheeling and dealing as to why we get to keep Mack, but it basically is just the fact that my husband really does love me after all and just wants me and the kids to be happy... I am thrilled beyond belief right now. He really is such a sweet dog and I'm so happy that I don't have to worry anymore about Gary giving him away... I'm not sure what his parents think of the idea, I know his mom is happy for me (please don't ask) but I think his dad is against the idea entirely.

And even more news... Today is new blinds day! I'm finally finishing the living room and getting new blinds for it! I guess the kitchen will be next, but that will wait another week or two... Gotta get bills paid first. And one of these days I'll get curtains and blinds for the boys room again...

We'll I've gotta run, I was supposed to have woken Gary up 15 minutes ago...

Gary's home...

Gary came home and we got into a screaming match as soon as I walked in the door. He told me that Mack had to go... This went on for well over an hour. I am hoping that he will change his mind very soon. He got to see how close Micheal is to him and how much both of the kids love him. He told me to get him out of here before he runs out of food... We have two huge bags of dog food. He did change that later to within a week. I just want him to fall in love with him like the kids and I have. He's such a good dog.
I have to say that with everything that happened yesterday, I'm not exactly enjoying Gary being home. I got out my planner and started counting down the days until he leaves again. I know that's awful. Believe me, I know. I just hate the fact that he feels the need to control me so much and that he thinks that what he says goes and no one else matters. It never used to be that way.
I did, however, sleep better last night than I have in weeks, even with the fighting. I love him, and I hate it when he's away, he just needs to get his attitude in check.
Well, that's all for now...

I have been through a lot...

I have been through so much as a daughter, sister, friend, employee, wife, neighbor, and mother. The past few days have been awful though. I LOVE my new job. My new boss is great, everything is better than I ever expected there. I am really glad to have left Lifetouch though. I am trying to remain calm as I write this, but my temper has just really flared over the past 48 hours about all of this... I was told Friday that I would have to go pick up my paycheck because they cancelled my direct deposit when I quit. I double-checked that I would be able to pick it up on Saturday with no problems and was promised that it wouldn't be an issue at all. Well, my paycheck was nowhere to be found when I got there. My boss was there and just told me that since I left them in a bind, I should expect to be left in a bind as well. Yep, I was extremely upset. I set my neighbor loose on him and everyone that answered the phone in that office yesterday.
I went to get my hair done after that. It looks awesome. I love my hair, although I know when Gary gets home he's going to hate it. I'll post some pictures later today.
Today, I went shopping at Walmart. The kids are acting up because they miss their daddy. I'm trying to just get what I need and get out. This old woman comes up to me and asks if Micheal has had his meds today. I tell her that he isn't on anything, and she tells me that I might want to consider putting him on something... I LOST it. I told her exactly what I thought of her and asked her just what made her qualified to recommend that I drug my kid. This went on for a few minutes until a member of management asked me to leave! I lost my mind on them as well and told them that I was sick and tired of being treated this way just because I decided to better myself and get a better job. After a few minutes, another member of management decided that Walmart would be buying my groceries today...
So, that's the last few days in a nutshell...

Just so danged tired....

As many of you know, or as you can guess, I don't sleep very well with Gary gone. I don't get scared, I know most people in this neighborhood would warn anyone not to break in my house and if they did not to get caught, I don't have a gun, but I have knives... LOL! Stab first, ask questions later, isn't that how it goes? Anyhow, that is the non-sleep talking. I don't have Gary to fight with and then yell at about the snoring, then to try with all my might to turn him over (which is no easy feat while he's sleeping), and I don't sleep. Supposedly he goes through the same thing... I don't know.
Yesterday, his car was broken into. He had left his GPS in there and they got it. They tried to get his change jar, but they dropped it. I guess they tried to get into the van, but ran when the alarm went off. They got several others in the neighborhood last night as well. I called the police, had to play the scared female role to get them out here, and they at least got a good palm print out of it, so if whoever it was has been arrested before, they will find them. That makes me very happy! I just wish they had come out when my van was broken into...
Mack is doing great. Driving me crazy this morning... He won't eat his food. He's going to get professionally groomed today. That's rather exciting. He should come back nice and pretty!
Work is wonderful. I was 45 minutes late yesterday due to the car being broken into, but they didn't mind too much. It's nice being appreciated and having a set schedule. I'm still getting the hang of everything there, but the people are great and always willing to help me.
This morning I'll be leaving a little early, I think I'll get doughnuts for everyone at work... I also need to get a desk organizer.... I'm feeling a bit disorganized at work.
Well, I need to go so I can get ready... Talk to you all later!

Craig's List...

Well, I have finally joined the rest of the world in using Craig's List. I posted a few things for sale that I just really want to get out of the house. Hopefully I'll have it all gone soon and some cash in my pocket to boot! I'm going to look around and see if there's anything else around here that I can get rid of... I like the idea of free listings.
We're going to get Max today! I'm so excited... I can't wait to bring him home. I'm sure that the boys will really love him, I know I will.
I start work tomorrow. I'm really nervous about that. I'm sure I will be fine and that I will learn the ins and outs of the job by the end of the week, I am just always nervous about starting something new.
Well, I need to get going... I've got some cleaning to do and I also need to shower.

SOOOOOO Excited!!!

We get to pick up Max tomorrow. I have almost everything ready for him now... I have his crate put together with a blanket waiting for him, his food is sitting in here, and I have toys and treats. I brought the boys to a local shelter today so that they could see dogs other than the ones that they're used to. That was a bad idea, I fell in love with so many of them, I really wanted to bring them all home. They actually started the application process with one of them and I had to stop them and apologize, explaining that I couldn't actually take her home with me. Talk about feeling like an ass...
On a different subject, I got my living room curtains changed out today. It really made the living room look nicer. I moved the kitchen table back to where I originally wanted it, I think it looks better there. I'm just picking up around the house now and tweaking things... Thinking of renting a carpet cleaner. Can you tell it's boring without the husband here?
Well, I need to get going... Who knows, the house might get rearranged today...

More changes...

So, I'm making more life changes now... I changed my job, again. I promised Gary that this is the last time, until I get my degree at least. At least with this position I am guaranteed 40-50 hours a week though, and the pay is a little better than Lifetouch. I went to the interview yesterday after speaking with my prospective boss over the phone for almost two months now. He offered me the job on the spot. I will be a sales assistant, taking phone calls, receiving and returning emails, and assigning clients to sales people. I won't be doing any sales myself, which is good because I like knowing what I'm bringing home each week.
The even better thing right now is just knowing that I have a set schedule. This last week has been very rough on me and the boys. I like being the one to pick them up from daycare. I like doing dinner and bath time and bed time. I've missed all of that this week and it's killing me.
I am so glad to be turning in my Lifetouch equipment today. It's really sad for me, because I always loved that job, but I just can't do it... Not knowing one week from the next what I'll be doing, how many hours I'll be working and all of that just won't work for me at this point, I have a family to think about.
Well, I need to get going, I will talk to you all very soon though...

Just trying to make it through...

I am exhausted this week. I am currently just trying to make it through the next few days. Tomorrow I have an interview and it will be nice to see what they offer, not that I know whether or not I would take the job. I love Lifetouch, I'm just realizing now that I have kids and don't have the support system that I used to that it's not as easy. I'm really worried right now about when Gary leaves, I just don't know how my schedule will work.
I have gone out to buy almost all the puppy stuff. I'm really excited to get him on Sunday. I called the guy who's giving him to me and we might meet on Saturday instead! I currently have his crate, food, treats, collar, leash, and a little blanket for him. I am trying to set up an appointment to get him neutered, but I need to find a good clinic first. I plan to make some more calls today about that.
Well, I need to get going, just wanted to drop in really quick!

Staying up late...

I am watching Army Wives right now with my sister and neice. I wish that they were here every week to watch it with me. It's so great. I really like having someone else to watch it...
We went to the flea market today. It was a ton of fun. We got some stuff that I needed for the puppy and some collectible jerseys for Fae and Tony.
I hate that they are leaving tomorrow. I wish that we all lived closer together. It would be nice to be able to hang out... I miss having family and friends around, maybe not all the time, but most of the time. It would be nice to not have to drive an entire day to see them...
Well, I'm going to get going now... Talk to you all soon!

Search is over... Hopefully!

So, after lots of searching, I think I finally found the perfect puppy! I have looked on every site and I have called or emailed for every listing that caught my attention so that I could ask questions. This little guy was not available... Already sold. I was heartbroken. He's an adorable Pug/Pekingese mix. Apparently they're called Puganese. His name is Max, but Micheal can't say Max and calls him Mack when we talk about him, which I feel is a more fitting name.
We should be getting him next Sunday! Oh, and the best part is, the owner gave him to a friend for free, and that friend is giving him to me for free!!! I'm so excited, I can't wait to go and buy all his little puppy stuff!
Anyhow, look at our new puppy, "Mack":

Isn't he a little cutie? I know the boys are going to love him! I can't wait to go get him...

Well, I need to get going, my sister and her kids are in town and I feel the urge to go wake them up!

Yay!!!

My sister comes into town today! I'm really excited! I know I just saw her last month, but it's nice to have weeks instead of months or years between visits! I don't know what we'll be doing... Probably just a lot of hanging out around the house, but that will probably be better than planning too much to do.
I went to interview the babysitter for while Emily is on vacation and during the week she has her surgery. She's really strict, which will be good for Micheal, but I'm worried about how the boys will be over there. She also is more expensive. I'm slightly irritated by that, but I'll get past it. She knows how much I normally pay and I'm pretty sure that she deliberately went higher. All in all, she's good, this is just the critic in me. Her house is spotless and really puts mine to shame. She doesn't allow for very many kids at a time to be there. The thing that bugs me (and I mean REALLY bugs me) is that she opens later and closes earlier than Emily does.
Lets see... I know there was something else. Oh, I have a job interview next week. I'm not planning to leave Lifetouch, not by any means, it's just an interview. The company is great and my neighbor went out on a limb to get this interview for me, so I'm going to go. Now if they offer me better hours and more money... I can't say what I'll do. I may just have to go for it.
The dog search is gruesome. Every dog that I'm in love with is one that I can't have because I don't qualify or because it's adopted out... One thing or another. I'm thinking of getting one from a breeder now... I just don't know for sure what breed. I don't know what I'll do. I don't particularly want to get one until October, so we'll see.
Well, I've got to get running, I'll talk to you guys later!!!

Kind of sad...

I spoke with Kathy from One Paw At A Time today about Surri. Sadly, she will not allow me to adopt her. She thinks that Surri needs a home with either no or older children and with other dogs and, unfortunately, I don't meet those qualifications. She did make a suggestion though that I am keeping in mind... His name is Axel and he is a very cute yellow lab mix. She thinks that he would be perfect for my family. I pondered it for several hours and finally called her back to ask about an adoption application. I am still not 100% sure that he is the dog for us, but I have to fill out an application before I can even meet him.
I got my new dinette, but do not have photos to put up yet. I am trying to get the house all cleaned up first. I also finally cleaned the coffee maker. One part vinegar to two parts water seems to be doing the trick. I'm going to run it through one more time and then I'll run some water through a few times just to be sure, but I think it's good!
Well, I need to get running... I'll talk to you all later!

Tearing the house apart...

I think I forgot to mention that this past Sunday Gary and Greg (our neighbor) had to fix the garage. This was supposed to be a minor fix last year when I first spotted it. The wood surrounding our garage was not sealed properly and therefor was exposed to way too much moisture and turned into a moldy mushy substance. Gary made every excuse about why he would do it next weekend, next month, and apparantly next year. Well, it finally came time that I put my foot down and said it had to be done, immediately. I told Dorsann, who told Greg, who told Gary. It worked better than me just telling him because it actually got done before the house caved in on us. Although, since he didn't listen to me, we were just weeks away from having to call a contractor in to do it...
Anyhow, all the work on fixing and improving the house has gotten me into a mood to do the same on the inside. Yesterday, I redid the toy room. I still need to do a little decorating, but I have to say, it's pretty cool. Today, the kitchen. I'm getting a new dinette and maybe I'll get a rug. Maybe next week I'll spruce up the living room... I know I want to do the kids bedroom and eventually my own. My bedroom will be the very last though. I have a lot that I want to do, but I want new furniture first. Plus, my bedroom will be a LOT of work. The rest of them are things that I can do in a matter of hours and for very little money...
Stay tuned for pictures... I hope to finish decorating the toy room this afternoon and I'll post the finished product. Same for the kitchen!

Ahhh... The Work Week!

I'm so excited for today! I get to start my work week and have a little peace! Does anyone else feel like they need the week to get rest from the weekend? I seriously feel like I am on the go all the time on the weekends and am sometimes physically and mentally exhausted from the weekend. Weekdays are so much more relaxing though.
This week is more training with Lifetouch. I'm happy about that. I just can't wait to get to a studio, that will be a whole new experience for me.
On Wednesday I'm going to be super busy, but that's the way I like things! I'm gonna go pick up my paycheck from The Merl Group, get the van detailed, geta new dinette and a futon, and then come home to try and get everything in the house and put together before Gary gets back! Oh, and I will be trying to visit the sweetest little doggie named Surri! She looks almost exactly like Princess, a dog I had growing up... I am trying to see what the adoption process is for her and then I will be trying to convince Gary to let me get her.
Here are a few pictures of her:

Isn't she a cutie? I just have to have her... It makes me want to cry to think that if she doesn't get adopted soon she'll be euthanized. She also has a little brother that looks almost exactly like her. I wish I could take them both in, but Gary doesn't even want one right now...

Time to get ready for work and it sounds like the coffee maker is just now getting done with the coffee!!! I think it's almost time for a new coffee maker. When it starts taking two hours to brew one pot, there's something wrong there... Any ideas on how to fix that? I have run a cleaner through it (I do it about once a week routinely) and it's just not working anymore...

Well, I need to get going, as I said, it's time to get ready for work...

On the hunt...

I'll start off by telling you that work is wonderful! I cannot begin to tell you how great it is to be back at Lifetouch and to feel so appreciated. I have gotten the hang of all the new equipment and will be finishing up training next week and then moving on to a studio! Studios will be new to me, but I am so prepared and thankful for this opportunity.
Now to explain my blog title... I am currently hunting for the perfect dog. I do not wish to get this darling doggie until October, but I am hunting for it now, just in case it comes to me in puppy form. If I do get a puppy, ideally it would be three to four months old before it comes to my house, so it would be born by now.
I want a medium sized dog, nothing too large and definitely not too small, and breed is not of extreme importance, just not a pit bull... I do not prefer a pure bred over a mixed breed, as a matter of fact, probably the opposite. The smarter dogs that I've had were mixed breeds...
I want a running partner. Although I have a human running partner, I would like a canine one. The canine will never say, "I just don't feel like running tonight." like my human one sometimes does.
I want the kids to have a buddy. I loved my dogs when I was growing up. I talked to them when I didn't talk to anyone else.
I'm searching the rescue shelters and humane societies first, I think those dogs would be more grateful for a home, but I am not completely against getting one from a breeder or an accidental litter, just never from a pet shop.
Well, that's about all for now... I will keep you all updated on my search. Hopefully October will bring a new family member to my home...

Started work today...

I am so happy to be back with Lifetouch... I enjoyed myself and I'm really looking forward to going further with my career. I've put everything on pause for so long now, it's time to get back on track.
The concert went great on Saturday. I had a wonderful time volunteering and have been given the opportunity to get a team of volunteers built up in Indiana... I am really excited to get started on that!
Well, that's about it for now... I will talk to you all later!

Lawsuit...

I got something in the mail today about a lawsuit on the behalf of the Indiana Walmart employees. I qualify for the lawsuit, I mean I really qualify. Here's the problem, I have to recall every break I ever missed, every time my lunch was interrupted, and every time I worked off the clock and was not able to get paid for it. I don't know how I would be able to remember all that...
If I can't recall it then I just get a set amount of $35.00. If I know how many times I didn't receive my breaks and things like that though, I would get paid for all of it.
I just need to figure out how to apply a number to it now... Most every day that I worked there I missed either one break or the other (sometimes both) because they didn't have adequate scheduling. I also often got phone calls while I was on lunch and all the time when I was off the clock to take care of work things.
I think I'll be calling to find out more about the case and what to do...

A chance to live my dream!

I went on the interview with Lifetouch today and their territory is SOOOOOO different from how we ran things in Georgia, but much is the same as well. I left excited and confident. One of the Steves called me back within 45 minutes of me leaving the interview and asked me to come in on Monday.

I'm happy, I'm returning to my dream, my photography career. I'm also returning to a company that I love and have so much respect for. I'm getting the chance to really do something this time to, they've already advanced me past the position that I had when I last worked for Lifetouch.

I also got some really great news today: Gary won't be leaving after all!!! He'll be leaving in October, before our anniversary of course, and getting back on December 23.

I need to get going for now, but I just wanted to keep you updated!

Ummm... Yeah.

So I don't even know how to get this blog started this morning... I just really don't know where to start because so much happened yesterday. I guess it would be best to start from Tuesday and work my way back to this morning, so that's what I'll do...
This actually predates to when I went on my first interview with the Merl Group. I drove by this little shopping center and I saw this studio called Prestige Portraits. I never stopped, or even went in the shopping center. Then, after I was assigned my territory, it became an every day thing to go back and stare at it. I know that Prestige Portraits is Lifetouch, and I really loved working for Lifetouch. On Monday, I was going to go in, but they weren't open. On Tuesday, I raced back to get there in time, went in, carried on a conversation, finally asked if they were looking for a photographer, and gave the studio manager my name and number to pass on to the photo manager, but I also got his name and number. I called, could not get in touch with him or find his voicemail, so I started to think that he didn't exist. I left a message on a voicemail for two guys with similar names. One of them called me back yesterday!!! He says, when can you start???
For any of you who don't know, I loved Lifetouch, they were like family to me. The only reason I ever left the company is because I wasn't able to transfer when we moved to Michigan. I was heartbroken and still called to check in on them until the office turned into a whole bunch of people that I didn't know...
I told him as soon as possible, that I missed my Lifetouch family. I told him what my situation was with everything right now and how much I had to make. He said no problem.
I got thrown a curveball after that...
Gary called. This is what I got to start off with: "I don't have time to talk right now, but I'm being put on orders for 12 to 16 weeks and I'll be leaving on Sunday." Then he hung up. I was beyond upset... I couldn't figure out what was going on, so I called back. Please keep in mind that I got this on my voicemail because he called sometime between me being in a place of business and talking to Steve from Lifetouch. When I called his cell phone, he didn't answer. I called the work phone and he picked up and promptly hung up... D@mn caller ID! I called again... He answered and said, "I'll call you back in a minute, the GENERAL is in here."
Oops... I'm sorry you're making me have a panic attack and the general is in your office, that completely blows for you, but you better call me back in the next 5 minutes and explain yourself or I'm driving down there!
He called back... He's going to school for training early. A slot opened up and there wasn't a lot of time, so he went ahead and took it when he was asked. We needed this, because it should help him to go ahead and pick up a promotion as soon as he gets back, which means that we'll be making more money when he deploys.
I called Steve back from Lifetouch and told him the news and that I would really like to start as soon as possible, he said come in at 9:00 tomorrow and we'll fill out your paperwork, get you into training on the new equipment on Monday, and get you in the field as soon as we can.
So after that, I went back to the office and explained Gary's situation and how my job there just wasn't going to work out. My boss didn't understand. Flat out did not get it. He told me to go do what I had to do and let him know if I would be coming in today or Friday.
That just about sums everything up... I'm sure I left out some details, but I'm too tired right now to figure out what they were...
I will talk to you all later, I have to wake Gary up soon...

I had the dream again...

Those of you who know me know what I'm talking about... Some of you either don't know me or may not remember, so I'll tell you.
I went to be early last night and passed out immediately. Every time I have a life-changing event, I have this dream... When I turned 16, graduated high school, got married, and both times I was pregnant. I can remember almost every dream vividly...
I dream about my dad. Many of you know that he passed away when I was 12. I know I have the dream because some part of myself is seeking the closure that I never got, I just don't know how to get that closure...
The dream goes something like this: I'm at a family event or I'm doing something pertaining to whatever the life-changing event is... In this case it was Christmas at my mom's, but I've had a dream where I was at home putting the baby crib together, or where I was out shopping for wedding stuff. He and my uncle drove up in this little sports car and we were having Christmas outside like we did the last time I was home. Everybody was so excited when they realized who it was... My mom cried and hugged him, then started chewing him out... I went over and he smiled and tried to hug me. All I said was "You're dead." and he tried telling me that it was all just a big misunderstanding. This time I just looked at him and said "It doesn't matter, you're still dead to me." and walked away. I tried to get my things together and it's like I was going to leave in the dream.
Time went by, my brother and sister were elated to see him and never questioned anything, my mom kept going back and forth with hugging him, crying, and chewing him out... I was mostly a spectator from what I can tell.
Finally, I go back over, trying to keep my composure (because I was very angry by this point) and talked to him. I told him that he missed out on everything. He missed every event that he ever promised me he'd be there for, my 16th birthday (he was supposed to teach me to drive and help me find my first car), my graduation, my wedding day, my kids being born, everything. He tried telling me that he would be there from now on and I told him that I didn't need empty promises, I'd done this well on my own and I wasn't sure that I wanted him to be there for anything else.
I was hateful. The conversation went further, but I don't feel like it all needs to be typed up.
I woke up shortly afterwards... At 4:00 this morning. I was mad, I was angry. Then, when I came to the realization that I couldn't just go yell at him, couldn't call him and scream, I fell to pieces. I have done almost nothing but cry all day...
So that's been my day. Sorry to lay it out there, I just need to "talk"...

Ice Cream & Army Wives...

Life is good... I have a giant bowl of Breyer's chocolate ice cream and a brand new episode of Army Wives is coming on. YAY!!!
Fireworks are going off right now... Gary is trying to convince me to go outside instead of watching my favorite show. No chance... I love fireworks, but I love my show more... I'm an addict, I admit it!
I finished my finals early this afternoon! I think I'm going to take a few weeks off this time. I just need to adjust to a new schedule and it's not flowing as easily as I want it to. I really don't want my grades to suffer just because of my schedule...
I've got to look tomorrow and see how much a new bedroom door will cost me... Apparantly the babysitter got a little rough on it when she was over here on Thursday... I have a fist and a knee in it. I am not happy, but Gary won't let me call and say anything to her. It's just the whole thing, the house was a disaster area when we got back, I had to throw out some of the kids' toys that her little brother (she had to bring him for some reason) destroyed, the toilet handle was broken and there was a giant crap left in it, and then the door... I am extremely upset by that! I just don't know what to do about it...
Well, I was told I need to get off here, I'm slowing down Gary's internet speed...

Happy 4th of July!

Happy Independence Day to everyone out there! If you know someone in the service, be sure to tell them thanks for everything they do so that we are able to live with all of our freedoms.
Now on to the subject that I left off with, my new job! I had yesterday off from work, so I spent some time with my family. It's been a while since I've had days off because they surrounded a holiday. It was amazing! I'm going to back up a little bit though to the last day of my work week... Thursday!
Thursday was when I got my own territory and was able to go out on my own to work with customers. The morning was rough... I didn't talk to any customers that I could help. It was probably more of the area that I was in than anything else. I finally took a break for lunch and relaxed for a little bit. Then I found a building with over 40 businesses in it and tried to visit each one of them... No luck with any of them either. I drove down the street some, found one that had called and complained before about one of our reps making her bill go sky high. Went in to talk with her, she asked how to know if I really worked with AT&T and I was trying to explain that to her when she went ahead and got the phone bill out. I don't know a whole lot about it, but I do know that her bill was nearly twice what it should have been. I did the math really quick and then called our billing department for a little more information. I found out that she was within 90 days of her contract being up, so I definitely could help her, then got her a quote together. She was ecstatic about it so I got to work. Now throughout all of this I didn't really think that I was helping myself very much... Just keep in mind that I am salary plus commission.
When I was getting ready to head back to the office I was proud that I was able to actually help one customer, but I was a little down that I had only done one thing to earn commission, and it was only $9. I called Leslie, my supervisor to figure out exactly how to tally my end of day numbers. I explained that all I really did was upgrade the high speed internet and she asked why I said "All I really did" so I told her that I moved all ten lines to the new local plan that was a lot cheaper and that all of those lines got like 6 new features because of it. She nearly screams with excitement at me... I can't figure out what's going on and please keep in mind that I still have a little bit of the Walmart mentality so I asked what I did wrong. She's telling me that I get commission for every line that I moved the the new plan (a retained line fee) and for every new feature (6 features times 10 lines), so by this point I am nearly in shock while trying to do the math in my head...
I got back to the office and was congratulated by my boss as soon as I walk in the door. Then he tells everyone that they need to get ready for spankings because the new girl is kicking @$$ and taking names, I beat everyone's numbers that day and broke a record for my first sale! I nearly started crying and told my boss that I had been in the wrong business for far too long now...
What all of this is getting to is the fact that I made more in one day than I used to make in one week at Walmart!!! I can't believe it, it's so exciting! I know next week will be even better, as I can only get better from here... It's just really exciting to think that I will never have to work at Walmart again and that I am working for such a great company that rewards me for doing good instead of finding a way to bring me down...
Well, until next time....

Another day...

I'm going back in to work in just a little while... I can't wait either! I am really enjoying myself! Yesterday was another great, although a very long, day. It was nice to feel like I was actually helping people.
Today they're setting me loose with the customers all by myself, I'll just have them there for any questions I might have. Tomorrow I'll be completely on my own, although Leslie (my trainer) will be coming by to check on me. I'm very nervous, and a little excited, about that.
Well, I need to get on the go... Talk to you all soon!

Salespeople...

I planned to post last night, but my dear sweet husband set an appointment with a company because they sent us a card in the mail saying that we had won something. Of course the trick is that you have to watch their presentation first.
What do you think their product was???
This wonderful vacuum cleaner that gets more dirt and germs than you would ever dream of up off of your floors.
How much do you think it cost???
A thousand?
Go higher than that!
Two thousand?
Bingo, you're a winner!
Yep, a two thousand dollar vacuum cleaner... So what do you think my husband did? If you said bought it, you would be a winner right now... Of course, we bought the display model and they let you "trade-in" your old vacuum cleaner, so we only spent $1,100, but after taxes and finance charges as well as all the interest we'll be paying it will be two thousand dollars all over again...
Yay, we're goiong in debt over a vacuum cleaner... Somehow I'm not excited.
Anyhow, I was actually coming to talk about my first day of work... I was just distracted because the thing is sitting right in front of me right now.
Work was WONDERFUL! I had so much fun. There are so many great people who actually show up to work early because they want to be there... Can you believe that??? Sorry, it's just hard for me to after working at Walmart for so long... We have our meeting in the morning, then go out to visit our customers, make some changes in their phone services for them, and at the end of the day, we go back to the office to turn in our paperwork. I know that's not a lot of detail, but I don't have a whole lot to give right now...
Today I will be doing more hands on stuff, really doing some work for the customers and helping them with their phone service... I can't wait. I am really excited!
Well, I need to get going... Talk to you all soon!

Back to work...

Starting with some promised photos!

Kyle being silly... This was a series of faces, but I love his pout face!

Micheal's cheese face!

About half of my family:

The kids "riding" my brother's Harley!

The kids being so cute sleeping!

Today is my first day at my new job... I'm nervous and excited, I'm sure that it will all work out fine though.

I am so tired... I just got my first sip of coffee. I accidentally set the coffee pot for PM, so it didn't fix my coffee for me this morning. That was really disappointing.

Time to get ready for work... Talk to you all tonight...

So good to be home...

Today was my first day back home... It was great! I love being back... I'm much more relaxed now.

I start my new job tomorrow. I can't wait for my first day of work!

Gary and I went to the movies today with his parents. We saw Transformers 2 and it was the absolute greatest!!! Of course seeing it at the IMAX made it much better...

I'm going to have to get off here for now, but I will be posting in the morning...

I apologize...

I am still not keeping up with my end of the bargain. I haven't been posting much at all. I have just been so busy while I'm down here that I barely have time.
Yesterday I got to ride a motorcycle! I had so much fun... I don't have pictures of that, but my mom took some of me riding Micheal around on the four wheeler. He didn't want to stop riding! It was so cute...
Today we are just laying around and vegging out for the most part, the little guy has a bit of a fever and we are just trying to sit it out and not over do it.
My oldest sister is heading down with her family today. They'll be stopping halfway and spending the night at a hotel and then finishing up tomorrow.
Oh, and I should have my van fixed up tomorrow. All the windows should be working tomorrow and I am excited! Of course when I get back to Indiana I plan to trade it in for a Prius... I want something with a warranty and something that gets much better gas milage.
Well, that's about all for right now... I need to do some schoolwork.

I've neglected you all...

So, the weekend went great. We had a lot of fun in Illinois. I came back home and rested for a day and then drove to Georgia. I LOVE being back home.
I'm getting the window on my van fixed today... One of the many perks to having a mechanic for a brother. It's only costing $80 in parts and no labor! Another shop would have cost $400-600, we priced it!
I've got plenty of pictures from Gary's family reunion and from my trip, I'll try to post some soon...
I have to go for now, talk to you soon though!

Just a quick one...

I have been so excited that I forgot to let you guys know what exactly I'll be doing at my new job. Basically, I'll be helping out small businesses. AT&T needs sales reps right now to go out and help them keep their business going. I'll be going out to businesses that have appointments set up for them through AT&T to take a look at their phone and internet bill and helping them figure out where they can save money. It's salary with bonuses too... Which is pretty cool.
Gary and I went out to celebrate last night, I got the call with my official start date and all that information just before lunch time. We went to this really cool restaurant, Fogo de Chao, it's a Brazillian steak house. If you've never been to one, I definitely suggest going! It was the coolest thing ever. And I got so full! The food was a little pricey (Gary didn't let me see the check, so I can only imagine) but worth every penny! After the restaurant, we went to see Night At The Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, which was a decent movie. I have to say that my favorite part of the night was definitely the restaurant, and second best was Gary buying me two new pairs of sandals from Aldo. One pair wasn't in my size, so they are supposed to be shipped here to the house within the week for free!
Well, I got packed last night for Illinois, but I have to go exchange some pants at Kohls really quick this morning and go somewhere to find a swimsuit, so I need to get off here. I will catch you all later!!!

The End...

So yesterday was the end of an era for me. The end of Walmart and all that I fantasized would one day happen. The end of working a crappy job for crappy pay just to be treated like crap. As you can probably guess by now, I quit.
I didn't do anything that I planned. I just went in at 7:30, shopped for my essentials (shampoo, conditioner, and bodywash) and bought Micheal a beanbag chair. I brought it all out to my van and then came back in, talked to a few people, clocked in, went to talk with personel and find out what I needed to do. They told me to talk to Jeremy. He didn't come in until 9:00. So I waited... I saw him as soon as he entered the building. He was in a great mood... Yeah, I was happy, I got to change that. I flagged him down, told him we needed to talk now, it was important. He said okay. I told him that I followed his advice and that I found a new job, a Monday through Friday with the hours that I need, and that I would be quitting, that it would be my last day and what should I do now. He said he would be back in a few minutes for my exit interview........
Two and a half hours later, I was still working. I paged for him. I had the fitting room ladies talk in his ear. He never came over. At 12:00, I finally decided that I was leaving. I clocked out and he saw me. He came running up behind me and asked if I was going to lunch. I said yes. He said he'd see me in an hour... I replied "No, no you won't."
"Why not?" he says.
"Because I quit at 9:00 this morning. You were supposed to do my exit interview and never did. I said I had things to do and I'm not hanging out all day waiting for you to come and get me!"
"You were serious? I thought you were kidding, that maybe you were just upset or something." he tells me.
I wanted to kill him. Now I have to go back in there and sign paperwork when I go to pick up my check.
Apparently later he went around asking some of my friends that I work with if I was serious or if they thought I'd be back. They told him that they were pretty sure I was serious. Then I guess he flipped out and started asking who all I had taught to run the photo lab... That's right! Never thought about that, did ya Jeremy? No one there knows how to do my job. No one there cares enough to do my job. Have fun getting Fuji in there to fix everything and have fun paying those bills!
The kicker is, when I went in last night to do my grocery shopping, I was asked how my mom was... Apparently I left for vacation early because I had a family emergency... He didn't quite think that one through. I will still shop there every now and then, so that lie's not a very good one. He just doesn't want all of them to know what a craooy boss he was is what I'm thinking...
Fourteen months. That's how long I worked there. Fourteen long months. I loved the people though. Most of them, I would take them with me anywhere... I just hope that I find good people like that at my next job.
Man, I can't wait to finish my degree. I can't wait to get started on my career, instead of just another job.
Well, I need to get going. I job shadow today... This way I can be sure that I want to take the position that they're offering me. I'm kind of hoping that Jason's (my neighbor across the street) boss gives me a call though, I think I'd really like a job there...

Soooo...

I went on two interviews today. I got home and had messages on my machine about three other jobs. I was able to set up two other interviews (one of which I called to cancel because I realized it was over an hour away) and I am working on the other one.
I called to follow up on my interviews from today and guess what? I got a job offer! I start out at $2,000 a month for the first three months, and get a raise after that. The really cool thing is that I'll get a bonus after 30 days if I don't miss work and I'm on time or early every day!
I haven't accepted yet. I want to go through my other interviews and really weigh my options first. Gary wants me to accept this one. The raises are definitely worth it. I would earn $3,000 a month after 3 months and $4,000 a month after 5 months. My pay would literally double after just 5 months of work. It's funny that Gary is so much more excited than I am, but I just keep trying to figure out the catch... I'll start on July 1st if I decide to take the job...
I'm quitting my job at Walmart on Wednesday. Gary and I are trying to figure out exactly when and how I should do that. I'm not sure if I want to follow my plan... It was a good one, but I am just not sure that I want to leave on a bad note.
Well, I will let you all know how tomorrow works out... Maybe I'll get another job offer...

Oh so nervous...

I'm really hoping that one of the interviews tomorrow works out. I want to be done with Walmart for good... I don't even want to shop there anymore. I don't know that I won't shop there anymore for sure, but I'm going to try it.
I have intended to start becoming more self-sufficient anyhow, so I'm going to start working harder towards that. We're growing our own vegetables, so most of our grocery shopping that I do there will be over now. Other things that I need can be bought elsewhere... It might now be the most convenient thing to do, but it's the better thing to do, and that's what I need to remember.
Well, I'm going to get back to watching Army Wives... I will write tomorrow after the interviews to let you know how it all goes... Maybe I'll get a job offer, or maybe I'll get two offers! Just PRAY!

I found a healthier approach...

I found a healthier approach for dealing with my anger at work. I worked on a whole new section for my CafePress store yesterday. It may not make me a ton of money, but maybe it will help someone else who feels the same about their job as I do about mine. Heck, I'm even thinking of ordering a few things for myself.
Gary laughed when he saw me making the designs. He gulped when he saw them on CafePress a few minutes later. Of course, he also knows that this is just part of my plan for quitting Walmart.
Oh, and I'm not done with the designs, so check back often!

The whole story...

So here goes. I am going to attempt to tell you what has been going on at work. Most of you who read my blog know that I have had a whole mess of issues there anyhow, so you won't be entirely surprised.
I got my "Decision-Making Day". For anyone who has worked at Walmart or know anyone who has, you know that this is your day where you are supposed to sit at home and write a letter about how you intend to change your behavior so that you will be able to keep your job. It didn't quite happen that way for me...
I'll start by telling you how my day started. I went into work, and for the first time in over a week, my supervisor was actually there! She didn't call in! I was excited. I went straight to work and was trying hard to get along with her and not say anything about her excessive amount of absences. Seriously, this woman should get an award for missing so much work and still managing to keep her job. Anyhow, about an hour and a half after into my shift, I get pulled into the office and I'm told what a bad employee I am. I have missed so much work... I missed April 25th (the day after Gary's surgery), I went home early two weeks ago because I had a migraine that brought me to tears, and I called in for Kyle's doctor's appointment after requesting it off twice and it being rejected twice. Three absences, two and a half if you want to get technical about it, since everything else has fallen off because it was longer than six months ago. Well, while he's telling me what a bad employee I am and all that good stuff, I'm just smiling and laughing... He tells me to consider this my decision day, go home, think about it, and write my letter. I went home alright... I made a few phone calls, decided to go look for another job, and then I wrote A LETTER. Keep in mind, that while I was upset, I was not near upset enough to just quit. So I wrote the "sassiest" (I'm trying to keep the words friendly) letter I could. According to the few that were lucky enough to read it, it was a page and a half of telling my boss off while still keeping my job.
That evening, after driving around with Tabby in search of a new job, I was talking to Gary about it all and we decided that Walmart just was not an option anymore and that I needed to take a more proactive approach to finding a new job. We got on careerbuilder.com and looked at some postings. I made a phone call and set up an interview for next week with one job. I then sent in my resume to about 250 other jobs. Please keep in mind that every time I sent in a resume, I got an email from the website and sometimes from the company. My inbox was full for hours! I called some of the companies yesterday that really peaked my interest. I got three more interviews set up! The best part of all of them is that they are Monday through Friday jobs, so I will have weekends with my family again!
Well, Jeremy pulled me into the office yesterday so that he could read my letter and all that fun stuff. That was an interesting experience. I don't think he liked it and he felt the need to argue back, it just didn't work for me. He then asked me to type up my letter into the computer system. The entire time I'm typing, I'm thinking to myself "Why on earth did I write such a long letter?" It did keep me off the sales floor for a while though. I then got a lecture about how what goes on in the managers' office is supposed to be held confidential and he didn't appreciate me broadcasting what we talked about back there... I'm sorry, I didn't realize that me getting a "D-Day" was such a big deal... Everyone knows anyhow. They see you come to work, they see you go to the office, they see you leave. "Gee... I wonder what happened to them???" It was around this time that I started concocting just how I will quit my job. I came up with the perfect plan. It's completely original and I bet no one has ever done it to my boss before... I promise I'll tell you what it is when I do it, but I just don't want to right now...
I will however post a copy of my "D-Day" letter in a little while. I've got to take care of the kids right now though... Micheal is on his 3rd bowl of cereal, and I'm pretty sure there's something not right with that.
Talk to you all later!

I'm moving on...

After some rather unfortunate events at work over the past few days, I have decided to kick the job search into overdrive... It's done some good. I have several interviews set up for next week, so let's hope I get just one offer. One good offer is all I'm asking for...
I have to call in tomorrow, so I don't expect to continue my employment with Walmart very much longer.
Well, I'll write tomorrow... I'm feeling snackish.

Been a long few days...

Chris has called in sick all week, which has made a long week for me. I worked by myself all day today...
Micheal had his hearing test yesterday. There was not much I didn't expect to hear. He has some minor hearing loss in his left ear and had some negative pressure in the same ear, which just means that he may possibly have an ear infection coming on.
Not much else going on here today. Everyone is getting sick, we think it's a sinus thing... Yay.
Well, I'm going to get back to my school work...

The cookout...

Let me start out by saying that we had a blast at the cookout... Dorsann, Greg, and Jake came over at about 1:45, so Micheal was thrilled... He had his Jake-Jake. Stephanie, Casey, and Brandon came over around 2:00... Micheal was then less thrilled because Jake had someone his own age to play with. Around 2:30, Jason and Julie showed up and the cooking and eating started. We had fun.

I put sunscreen on me and the baby, Micheal flat out refused. Screamed when I tried to put it on him. Said it hurt. I told him that he would hurt if I didn't put it on him. He didn't care. I gave up. Decided to just make sure he wasn't getting too red. The baby and I both burned... Micheal, not even pink.

We also found out yesterday that we definitely have new neighbors moving in down the street. Well, we thought it was the plural form... Until we walked down to introduce ourselves and found a bachelor. We were all disappointed, except for Stephanie... She thought he was cute and can't wait to watch him outside doing yardwork.

Well, here are a few pictures... I didn't get a lot, but I tried.

Kyle eating a piece of chicken:

Gary grilling... I think he was testing the food.
Micheal harassing Jake with the ball... This is moments before he threw it at him.
Julie, Jason, Gary, and Micheal after he got soaked by the big boys...

You should see Kyle... He was up at 5:00 this morning. His little face is red and just one arm. He's fine other than that. Me, on the other hand, I'm burned... My face, my shoulders, my arms, my legs, and my feet..

Well, it's time to wake up the husband...

So I've been lazy...

I haven't posted in a few days. I apologize. I've been busy with work and stuff around the house.

I brought Kyle to the doctor on Thursday... He made a jump from the 20th percentile in weight to the 65th. I told his doctor back in February that I thought he had just lost weight from being sick with that stomach bug so much... Oh well, it's all good now.

We're having a cookout today. I invited most of the neighbors over, but we all work such opposite schedules that I wasn't able to give them all enough notice. Note to self: Next time make printed invites and leave them at their doors or mailboxes! Of course Dorsann came up with an excuse two days ago as to why she might not make it. Really upset me... She knew about it before anyone else did and now this. Oh well, we'll just have a good time without her.

Other than that, not much going on. School's going good. I need to get to work on one of my assignments this morning since I won't have all day to do it.

I'm playing with Outlook right now. Gary set my Gmail account up in it for me and I'm getting my calendar all set up. I'm having fun, I haven't used it since I worked at Darton.

Well, I need to get going... Got a lot to do today.

I'm excited!

Gary's birthday present will be delivered today! I got him a new laptop bag. It's ACU fabric and really nice from what I can tell. I hope he likes it...

He got up early with me this morning. I'm getting very irritated with him... He keeps knocking me offline. It's like he thinks he knows everything about everything and I know nothing. I can't stand him when he gets like this... It's not like he acts this way all the time, just every once in a great while, but it's enough to make me want to rip his head off...

I need to do my schoolwork, but since he keeps knocking me offline, it's not exactly easy to do... I'm just hoping that he gets this fixed before he heads off to work.

Yay... Internet's back!

Kyle has a doctor's appointment today... I'm calling in to work here in just a bit. It's stupid to have to do that seeing as how I asked for today off, but I don't even really care anymore... I'm just thankful to be taking an extra day off. I'm wondering if the poor kid is going to get another prescription for his allergies. I hope not... I'd like to be told that he'll get past whatever this is that keeps bothering him.

Micheal is going to hang out at daycare today. He really needs to learn to behave when he's over there. His attitude is actually worse when he's there than when he's at home. At least when I'm there to witness it...

We're getting cable installed between 3:00 and 5:00 today. I wish I could say that I was excited about that, but I truly am not. I am going to miss my DVR. I just feel like making cutbacks right now is the responsible thing to do.

Well, I need to get going and rush Gary out of here to work...

Saving money...

I just called to set up Comcast service and I'll be calling tomorrow night to cancel my Dish. I'm a little sad, I will no longer have a DVR, but we'll be saving $45 each month. I also called AT&T to see about downgrading my service to save money... I ended up upgrading and saving about $10 a month. This is an amazing day.

I just need to get to cleaning... That's something I haven't done yet. I just really dread it. I got out to do a little in the yard between the rain.

Well, I need to get back to cleaning... Talk to you all later!

Pictures I promised...

So I don't have a lot to upload right now, but I feel guilty for not posting anything new lately. I have a few new photos that I have come to love and figured I would post them really quick for you guys...

Here's one that Gary took of Micheal and I shortly after I got home from work yesterday:

A close-up of me and my new hair:
Kyle after eating a chocolate doughnut:
Micheal wearing his big-boy boxers:
Well, I need to be getting ready for bed soon... Talk to you tomorrow.

Today...

I am bringing the kids to daycare in a little while... After that, I'm not sure what I'll be up to. Relaxing and cleaning is my hope. I have been on the go for so long that I would like to just relax today. I might get some flowers and mulch and play in the yard a bit if it doesn't rain. That's debatable though. I really need to buckle down with school for the next two days. I don't know what I'll be doing... Rest is in the top 10 though, I know that.

I'm enjoying my coffee and considering the fact that I should really wake Gary up now. Poor guy didn't really get the chance to rest. He's been as busy or busier than me. I think yesterday he spent trying to make the stubborn baby walk though, which is a chore, but not backbreaking labor. Maybe I'll go wake him up now...

Talk to you all in a bit. I promise to get some pictures uploaded today...

I forgot...

In my last post, I forgot about organic makeup with 100% post-consumer recycled packaging. I love the stuff. The greatest thing is that it's made by Physician's Formula, so it doesn't make my face break out, and it has sunscreen in it! SPF 30, I believe. I know it kept me from getting burnt yesterday at the race, and that's all that matters.

Speaking of the race... I loved it! I had a lot of fun, but at the same time I am so disappointed. Gary made me bring the baby camera instead of my Canon. I took lots of pictures, and then... My memory card lost them all! I was nearly in tears. I don't know what happened. The Scottish band, with the cute little girls holding the terriers... Gone. The Camaro Pace Car... Gone. They picture of the guy I want to set a friend up with... Gone. The picture of my Brickyard Bucks... Still there, but the Brickyard Bucks are now gone. I am so beyond tears right now. I'm mad at the memory card. I wrote an email to Eye Fi demanding an explanation. We had to bring the little camera so we could use that memory card so that we would have Geo-Tagged images automatically uploaded to all of my online accounts. Well, it doesn't work if the stupid memory card is on the fritz!

I'm supposed to get a picture of me out on the track itself... Which was, by the way, one of the coolest things I've ever done! I felt so proud going out there and holding my point on one of the stars... I'm a dork, I know. It was cool though. I was surrounded by all of these servicemen and women and their spouses, it reminded me of when Gary was in the Marine Corps, only 10 times better, because I was able to participate in a nationally televised event! I'll have to see if I can find it online and I'll post some video footage if I do...

Well, I will chat at you later. Enjoy your Memorial Day and remember those who made it all possible with their sacrifices for our great country!

Organic...

I'm looking around and feel pretty decent about myself right now... At least on the organic side. Their is a lot more that I could be and should be doing, but I'm getting there. I've started buying organic cotton or bamboo clothes for me and the kids. I'm buying natural cleaners now. I look in my bathroom and I have organic shampoo, bodywash, and toothpaste. My kitchen has some organic foods, but I am growing my own organic veggie garden.

When I'm not buying organic, I do at least weigh my options. Like buying items from post-consumer materials, or not buying new items at all if I can help it. Also, most importantly to me, buying products that are made in the USA when I do need to buy something.

I've gone pretty far on my organic journey, but I still have quite a way to go. I'm thankful that I had the few eye-openers that I did and that I am making this step for my family. I can't wait to see how it works out for my kids. I'm hoping that they can go out into the world and make a huge difference, but I am happy with the small changes that I know they will make.

I'm going to try to post some pictures tonight, but don't quote me on that... It's been a while since I uploaded them, so please forgive me!

Talk to you all later, I need to get ready for work...

Demanding an explanation...

I woke up this morning and my toothbrush was in the trash. I am pretty angry about this. I'm going to have to go in to work early , buy a toothbrush and toothpaste, and brush my teeth in the bathroom at work. I don't even know why it's in the trash. Gary had to have thrown it away last night after I went to bed. I just used it last night after dinner. I am absolutely irritated.

I forgot to post yesterday, not there was much of anything to report. My in-laws backed out of watching the kids on race day, so I may not be able to go... I am really upset with them about that. They decided that having time with each other was more important than spending time with their grandkids. This is the one time we've asked them to watch them. Forget them, they'll never be asked to again. I'm sick of how they treat the boys. They did offer to pay someone to watch the kids... Then they said that they found someone else to watch them... No thanks, I am not up for letting a stranger watch my kids, that's just not going to happen. I've been searching for someone that I can trust to watch the boys, but no luck so far. I don't want to have to miss this, but I'm not seeing another choice. I don't know...

Well, time to get ready for work... And to ask the husband why on earth he threw my toothbrush in the trash!

So tired...

I slept last night, and fell asleep almost as soon as I hit the bed, so someone please explain why I feel so tired??? I have to do my schoolwork, but it looks like that will be waiting until lunch time because I can't concentrate on it. I miss my Critical Thinking and Environmental Science classes... They were so much more challenging... They at least help my attention for more than two minutes.

I have to go in to work again... My next day off is Sunday. Yay me. I keep putting resumes out there, I have to find another job soon... I need to find something that will work with my schedule. If anyone hears of anything, please let me know. I need a Monday through Friday with major holidays off. Is that possible???

Well, I'm off to hunt down some coffee...

Getting ready for work...

I just spent a chunk of my morning on Facebook. Not good. It's getting addicting. I found some friends from high school on there and I've been writing them. Turns out I have a high school reunion coming up. I'm trying to get more info about it. I guess for now I'll just have to deal with what I have though... A phone number to contact the class president. We never got along very well, so it should be very interesting!

Well, this is going to be a short one, I need to go to work... Talk to you all later.

I love my husband!

As I type this, my wonderful husband is on his way to Walmart to get cinnamon rolls for me! I love the cinnamon rolls, and one thing that he doesn't know is that I have them almost every day that I work. I eat six, Megan eats two. On days that he gets them for me, I cut back to five, and he has three. If I could just cut them out all together, maybe I could lose that weight that's been bothering me... But who wants to stop eating cinnamon rolls? Certainly not me.

Micheal has decided that both underwear and the potty are evil now. He is sitting on the toilet screaming at the top of his lungs. Kyle is in the kitchen doing his "I'm such a little angel" act. I'm typing away...

Dorsann and I are going to embark on a mission today. I'm going to Kohl's to use my 30% discount that they sent me. This is so awesome. I just can't decide what to buy with it! I could use a dress for church. The boys could use new clothes. We could all use stuff... So much to choose from.

Well, I must go for now... Getting the paper so I can clip coupons!!!

Bored... Gary has drill.

I'm sitting at home with the kids today. Gary has drill wheich means that I thankfully have the weekend off. I'm quite thrilled, don't get me wrong, I'm just also very bored. The weather is crappy, it can't decide if it wants to rain or not, so it's like the kids and I can go to the park or anything.

Micheal's doing a lot better with potty training today. He didn't have an accident yesterday, he just decided that underwear are evil and ran around naked all day. Today he's excited and happy about his underwear and he's told me twice that he had to go potty. And he just farted. He giggled because it's not as muffled without a diaper. Silly kid.

Kyle is being Kyle. He refuses to walk, but gladly crawls anywhere... And he's climbing! The kid climbed into a chair and attempted to climb the bookshelf last night. Thankfully I caught him right before he really got started. Why do I have a feeling that he's going to be the same daredevil that his brother has always been???

Other than that, there's not much to report. I went across the street last night and showed my wedding photography to my neighbors and they hired me to photograph their wedding in October. I have another one in August for a friend from work. I think I'm back to doing weddings now whether I want to or not.

Well, I'm going to get off here... Talk to you all later.

They cannot kill Izzie and George!

I just finished watching Grey's. I was watching last night, but had the worst migraine and had to go to bed. I am so mad right now... The last episode I cried through, and this one I'm just angry with the writers. They can't kill Izzie off. I don't care so much about George, but Izzie? No. She's been through so much and has so much left to do...

Anyhow... Maybe I shouldn't worry so much about what's on TV, but I love that show.

I have to call around at 8:00 to try and get Gary into a dentist. He woke up in pain this morning and is going to need a filling. I have no sympathy for him, he's gone over four years since his last trip to the dentist, so this is all his fault.

Today starts Micheal's first day of stubborn mommy potty training. He's been using the potty for a long time now, he just needs added incentive. As soon as he gets home, he's getting his underwear on and I'm going to remind him every thirty minutes to go. My hope is that for the next week to only let him wear them when he's sleeping and when we go out. Naive, I know.

Well, I need to get going. Gotta get all that work done today that I didn't do yesterday... And reclean the kitchen, my husband doesn't seem to be able to clean up after he cooks.

Can't get motivated...

I can't seem to get motivated today. I brought Micheal to school and he cried and cried. Afterwards I went shopping for a few things around the house. I have cleaned up the yard... After last night's storm it was in bad shape. I haven't done anything in the house yet though. I just can't seem to get motivated enough to do anything inside. I have thrown out some papers that were lying around the living room, but that's about it. I still have a ton to get done, and I need to do it now. I have at least gotten a little school work done, but not much else.

Well, I'm off to try to get some cleaning done... After that I'll need to get my photography stuff together and go across the street to show my work to the neighbors, I'm supposed to be shooting their wedding in October so it would be nice to at least show them my work.

My day off...

Today starts my four day weekend! Nothing really planned. I'm bringing Micheal to school, coming back home and cleaning... Clean, clean, clean.Cleaning the kitchen, the living room, the boys' room, the play room, my bedroom, my bathroom, then doing laundry and dishes. I'm trying to find something that I'll want to cook tonight that's not very hard while I'm at it. Also need to do some school work. I'm going to try to complete most of next week's work while I'm home over the next few days.

Tomorrow starts me getting strict with Micheal's potty training. He's got to start going on the potty. We had hoped that he would be done with this by now, but he keeps having setbacks. I'm going to try putting him in underwear tomorrow when he gets home from school, and keep him in underwear throughout the weekend and see how it goes. It would be nice to have diapers be a thing of the past.

We went out with some Slavic officers last night. It was pretty cool, I enjoyed myself. I miss going out to dinner with people that Gary used to work with... It used to be a ball. They invited us to tag along again tonight, but I don't think we can find a sitter.

Well, I need to get going. This house obviously doesn't clean itself... Does anyone know when I can upgrade to one that does?

Life keeps going on...

Okay, so we found out that even though Gary was told he would be going to school in August (August 2- October 23 to be exact) that he won't be. They didn't have any openings. Now, he'll either be leaving in July or January. If he leaves in July, he'll come back in November. If he leaves in January, I don't know when he'll come back. I do know that I'll only have a few months with him before he deploys though, so I don't like that option.

In case you're wondering, there are three different schools he can go to: One in Vermont (12 weeks), one in Georgia (20 or so weeks), and one in California (I don't know how many weeks). Vermont is full until who knows when, so Georgia is the one that he can leave for in July. They filled out his paperwork, sent it in, and we're now just waiting to find out. I'd kind of just like to get this over with already. I'm irritated at the fact that just when I get my head wrapped around something, it all gets changed. I should be used to that, it's what always happens.

On another note, Gary and I are going to dinner with some people from his work tonight. I'm a little scared... I don't do fancy restaurants very well and from what I hear, that's where we're going. Should be exciting for me. I do love getting out of the house and not having to bring the kiddos, so that's one cool thing... I'm just nervous.

Upside to the day: After 5:00, I don't have to step foot into Walmart until Monday! Four whole days off, can you believe it?

Well, I have got to run... Talk to you all later!

Grrr...

I was docked 5 points from an assignment because I didn't post it as an attachment. He didn't say to, but he didn't say not to either. I should have known better. I think from here on out, I'll post them each way. My new teacher is really irritating me. It would be different if he let anyone know what was expected of him, but he doesn't. And he's now picking me out in the main forums to question more thoroughly on the subjects of discussion. It's frustrating. We're in week two... Six and a half weeks left, that time should fly right on by...

Work is work... It was pretty good yesterday and the day before. Chris wasn't there. She'll be in today, so we'll see how it goes. Tomorrow is my last day until Monday... I'm quite thrilled about that. Four days to try to relax.

Oh, Gary's school dates are going to change. We don't know when he'll be leaving now, they'll let him know in the next 30 days. He won't be going to the same school that they were talking about, and he will for sure be leaving for school sometime this year. So that's a little frustrating, but we'll get through it, we always do...

I need to get going, my coffee is getting cold while I type. Talk to you all later.

Gary got a new laptop...

So for Mother's Day, my husband got a new laptop. Sounds wierd, right? People at work were like, "Surely he's getting it for you..." and I told them no, it was for him, they just didn't believe me. Anybody that knows my husband would have known it was definitely for him. I'm happy, that means he'll be leaving mine alone now, so it was a Mother's Day present to me as well!

I do have to say that it is pretty cool... I've played with it, installed a few programs for him, and I'm happy for him. The greatest thing is that I actually picked it out for him. I got online myself yesterday and did the research, made a list of five different laptops and told him that he could bring home one of those, but nothing else. He picked the second cheapest one on the list. It has a 400 GB hard drive, facial recognition software through it's webcam, and it's bluetooth compatible. Like I said, pretty cool.

Well, I need to go, I have an early day today...

Micheal just did the cutest thing...

So, the boys are eating breakfast and I'm in the living room doing schoolwork. All of a sudden I hear, "Mom! MOM!!!!" and I look up and say "Yes Micheal?" to which he replies "Kyle want a nana..."

I say, "Does Kyle want a nana or do you?" and he looks at me, with a irritated face, and repeats "Kyle want a nana!"

I gave one to Micheal first, because I assumed he actually wanted it for him... I was wrong. "KYLE want a NANA!" is what he screamed at me next. So I gave it to Kyle, who was very happy to finally get it (he loves any food that is waved in front of his face), and they both say "Thank you."

That was my Mother's Day present from Micheal. A small conversation that I'm very thankful for.

Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there! 

I passed!!!

I finally got my feedback and final grades for my other class and am happy to announce that I passed! I spoke with my academic counselor and while I admitted that it was not my best work in either class, he told me that he paired me with two harder classes this time because he wanted to see how well I worked under pressure (because I plan to go all the way to at least my Masters in Psychology). He wanted me to realize that it's going to be hard work, so that if I changed my mind, at least I would do it before I got too far into it. While I have a small amount of appreciation for his logic, I was rather upset. I have been working my butt off, but I have a great sense of accomplishment right now to go along with it.

Right now I'm taking two classes that are fairly easy... As Jarrod (my academic counselor) put it, they are about 25% of the work and effort of the classes that I just went through. My next block is going to be one easy and one hard one. But, here's the exciting thing: I finally get to take a PSYCHOLOGY class on my next block! Imagine that, a PSYCHOLOGY major taking a PSYCHOLOGY class! I'm really thrilled, it's just that I'll have taken six classes before I finally get to one that is within my major.

So, the idea is to ace these next two classes, get straight A's on everything in them, bring my GPA way up, and get into my next block. And then, a year from now, I'll have a degree... Then, in a year and a half to two years later, another degree. Then, another degree. Oh yeah, and then I'll transfer colleges and get another degree. I can't get the Ph. D. that I want at the University of Phoenix, so I'll have to find another college by the time I get to that level, but I've got a little while right now...

Well, I need to go... The husband's looking at me like I've lost my mind as I clackity-clack away on the keyboard. Talk to you all soon...