Today was a boring day, and I needed it. Although I don't work full time anymore, it is tiring trying to figure out a new routine. My college roommate Carolina is coming to visit us this coming weekend, and I am so excited to see her.
Today, I cleaned up the guest bedroom. I did the sheets and comforter, dusted and ran the vacuum. I then announced that Maddy (our furbaby) is not permitted in the room the rest of the week. She normally goes and lays on that bed all day, lol. In fact, she is wandering around the hallway and doesn't know what to do because the door is closed. The sound of her nails on the hardwood floor is driving me insane. But, I love that girl. She was cuddling with me on the couch while I watched "The Bachelor." However, during the commercials I was dusting the living room, and when I got the vacuum out, she was out of here. She hates it!
I did get grocery shopping done, and I stayed on budget. I've been on budget every bill this year, so far! I made a really yummy Weight Watchers shrimp stir fry and brown rice for dinner. The stir fry had tomatoes, zucchini and fresh shrimp. I used the frozen raw and peeled it. They were yummy. Joe claimed most of the leftovers for lunch tomorrow. He loves his seafood!
Well, no pictures tonight, but after this weekend, I hope I have a bunch. Ooooh, and we are going to see the Riverdance in Pittsburgh this weekend!I saw the Riverdance in Dublin, Ireland, this summer, and it looks like it is most of the same cast (at least the two lead dancers). They were phenomenal when we saw them. I am so excited. Although I won't be in Ireland, I will get to experience this with my sister, her boyfriend, my parents and my favorite girlfriend. I am so excited for that!
This post isn't too exciting, but at least I posted two nights in a row. I am supposed to work two meetings tomorrow, but it is snowing so bad tonight. It was weird. It was snowing, and there was thunder and lightening. It was bizarre. The one I do at a school might be canceled. I kind of hope it is!
Well, I am going to go see who Brad kicks off, after the hometown dates! We'll see. This is a guilty pleasure of mine. I love me some reality T.V.
Sorry if this post is all over the place. I am trying to get finished with the post before the rose ceremony, lol. Well, I really am going now. See you soon!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Beginning of 2011 and Pictures
Yeah, so more than another month has come and gone. I have got to get with it, but it could be worse. I am getting used to a new way of life. My schedule is much different, and I absolutely LOVE it! I truly do.
My work has changed. I am leading three meetings right now, and I am currently in charge of our territory's newsletter. So far, I have done three newsletters, and my boss is ecstatic. That makes me really happy. We had a leader conference call Thursday night, and I had just come back from filling in for a meeting. Earlier in the day Joe and I were down the river looking for new carpet to replace the carpet in our basement. (Our beautifully finished basement that my husband, dad and father-in-law finished flooded the morning before the Super Bowl, and we were supposed to be hosting the party. Let's just say we had to shift the party to my parents' house. It was interesting.) As I was saying, my boss asked me to call her after the conference call to talk. When I called her, she asked me to become a leader mentor! That was such an honor. I am so excited.
Instead of recapping so much that was missed, I may just mention some things as I blog. I will, however, say that I had a wonderful birthday. Last month was my birthday, and Joe took me and my parents out to eat. Then, the next night my sister organized for my parents, Joe and a bunch of friends to go to a bar in Pittsburgh called Sing Sing, a dueling piano bar. The next day Joe threw me a party during the NFL playoff game. We are die hard Steelers fans and loved watching the Steelers whoop on the Ravens. Joe served pizza, wings, salad, snacks, chili dip,cake and ice cream. It was phenomenal! Great party and football food. Yes, I am spoiled, and my birthday lasts for days, lol. It was a great birthday, and so far, 2011 has been awesome! I can;t wait to see what the rest of this year is going to bring.
Again, I am going to try to get better about blogging!
Here are a few pictures of the beginning of 2011.
My work has changed. I am leading three meetings right now, and I am currently in charge of our territory's newsletter. So far, I have done three newsletters, and my boss is ecstatic. That makes me really happy. We had a leader conference call Thursday night, and I had just come back from filling in for a meeting. Earlier in the day Joe and I were down the river looking for new carpet to replace the carpet in our basement. (Our beautifully finished basement that my husband, dad and father-in-law finished flooded the morning before the Super Bowl, and we were supposed to be hosting the party. Let's just say we had to shift the party to my parents' house. It was interesting.) As I was saying, my boss asked me to call her after the conference call to talk. When I called her, she asked me to become a leader mentor! That was such an honor. I am so excited.
Instead of recapping so much that was missed, I may just mention some things as I blog. I will, however, say that I had a wonderful birthday. Last month was my birthday, and Joe took me and my parents out to eat. Then, the next night my sister organized for my parents, Joe and a bunch of friends to go to a bar in Pittsburgh called Sing Sing, a dueling piano bar. The next day Joe threw me a party during the NFL playoff game. We are die hard Steelers fans and loved watching the Steelers whoop on the Ravens. Joe served pizza, wings, salad, snacks, chili dip,cake and ice cream. It was phenomenal! Great party and football food. Yes, I am spoiled, and my birthday lasts for days, lol. It was a great birthday, and so far, 2011 has been awesome! I can;t wait to see what the rest of this year is going to bring.
Again, I am going to try to get better about blogging!
Here are a few pictures of the beginning of 2011.
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Joe and I ringing in the new year    |
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Dad, me and Mom at Sing Sing. I seriously have the best parents.   |
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Kayla and I toasting! |
Monday, January 10, 2011
Christmas Review: Part One!
Yeah, so the whole idea of starting to write every day didn't really work out. It was probably for two reasons: it was December and I was in the process of quitting a job. Life got really nuts around the holidays, just like it does for everyone else.
I am warning you now that this is a long post. Hopefully, I will get photos up soon, but this is just a text review of the holidays. If you don't get through it, I won't hate you!
We had a day after Thanksgiving gathering and our Christmas party Dec. 11 (and I had made 13 kinds of cookies all the food, decorating, etc.). On Dec. 12, we went to a surprise 50th birthday party for my aunt and went to Hozak's farm (the same place we got our pumpkins) to pick out our annual live tree. The following week I had a work Christmas party and was getting ready for Christmas.
On Dec. 19 we went to my grandma's house to decorate her tree, and my cousins were there, too. It was a good time. Since my grandma wasn't feeling well, she told my mom the week of Christmas that she would like my mom to host the holiday. She didn't want to give it up, but it was the best choice. I had spent all day Dec. 8 taking my grandma to get x-rays and tests done. We were all excited mom was going to host Christmas, since my parents' house is bigger.
My last day of work was Dec. 21, and it was such a happy day for me. I hated the job, and I really needed to move on. (You can read more about that here.)
On Dec.23, we went to dinner at Undo's, a local Italian eatery, and then we went to the B.E. Taylor Christmas concert. He is a local musician who puts on a fantastic show. If you ever get a chance to listen to his Christmas music, you should listen. Joe and I pretty much agree that the B.E. Taylor Christmas songs are the best versions of the songs. We love him.
Dec. 24 was the most wonderful Christmas Eve. It was so relaxing and wonderful. I assembled a Christmas breakfast casserole (apples, French toast, etc.), and here is the recipe for it. I used the reviewers suggestions and flipped the layers. Also, I added a little pumpkin pie spice and most of the apples. It was tasty. I then made a cranberry spread that my family loves. I made that for our post-Christmas Eve Mass celebration. I served the spread with Nilla wafers, cinnamon Graham cracker sticks and honey Graham cracker sticks and honey wheat pretzel sticks. Here is the recipe for the spread. I also assembled a DELICIOUS chicken, broccoli and stuffing casserole. That recipe isn't online. It was from a Taste of Home magazine.
After making those things, my husband and I made lunch and cuddled on the couch to watch "Home Alone." It was so perfect. After that, we got ready for dinner at my parents' house. My mom made pasta, sausage and salad. After dinner, my brother, sister, husband, dad and I went to church early for choir practice and then celebrated Mass. There is nothing as magical and wonderful as Christmas Eve Mass. It was beautiful. After Mass, we headed back to my parents' to hang out a bit longer, visit and eat again. Come on, it's the holidays!
The next day, Joe and I woke up early and opened our gifts from Santa and each other. Wow, he spoiled me. My favorite gift from him was probably the mugs, plates and bowels he bought me from Ireland that match the teakettle I bought when we were there in August. I was pleasantly surprised. Then we headed to my parents' house to exchange with everyone. We had breakfast, then my mom, dad, husband, family friend who is a priest Father Bill and I headed to my dad's mom's house and visited and had lunch. We then headed home and got ready for Christmas dinner. Everyone was there, including my in-laws. It was great. That night my brother stayed the night so he and my husband could play their new video games. I made them barbecue riblets and chicken nuggets.
The next day, my husband and I hosted a Christmas movie day for our friends after Mass. We served sloppy Joes and a delicious macaroni and cheese. (Note: I used to make Pioneer Woman's mac and cheese, but this recipe is better.) I made a triple batch, and it was hammered. We all wear pajamas and everyone comes over and brings food and blankets and we are bums ALL DAY. We watched "The Santa Clause," "Elf," "Polar Express," "A Christmas Carol," "The Grinch," "The Grinch" cartoon, ""Four Christmases," and "Christmas Vacation." it is so needed after the busy holiday.
On Wednesday, we visited with my cousins, and we had a wonderful time. We went to their house, and we had a blast.
Thursday was the Christmas celebration at my dad's mom. We had lasagna, salad, bread and tons of cookies and cake.
On New Year's Eve, my parents hosted again! It was great and the night did not conclude until almost 5 a.m. on New Year's Day. We played games and had a wonderful time. My sister-in-law and her boyfriend stayed with us because my in-laws Christmas celebration was the next day, and their house was a bit crowded. So, after virtually no sleep, we headed to the in-laws for a wonderful Christmas gathering. It was a long day!
The next day we went to church and then my husband, sister-in-law and her boyfriend headed to my parents' house for leftovers. Then my sister-in-law headed back to Cleveland, and we went to my parents' for dinner that evening.
It was a busy but wonderful holiday. Although we continued the season through yesterday, our big celebrating concluded then. I wish everyone a blessed and Happy New Year! Hopefully we have an exciting and winderful year approaching. Stay tuned, and I am back!
I am warning you now that this is a long post. Hopefully, I will get photos up soon, but this is just a text review of the holidays. If you don't get through it, I won't hate you!
We had a day after Thanksgiving gathering and our Christmas party Dec. 11 (and I had made 13 kinds of cookies all the food, decorating, etc.). On Dec. 12, we went to a surprise 50th birthday party for my aunt and went to Hozak's farm (the same place we got our pumpkins) to pick out our annual live tree. The following week I had a work Christmas party and was getting ready for Christmas.
On Dec. 19 we went to my grandma's house to decorate her tree, and my cousins were there, too. It was a good time. Since my grandma wasn't feeling well, she told my mom the week of Christmas that she would like my mom to host the holiday. She didn't want to give it up, but it was the best choice. I had spent all day Dec. 8 taking my grandma to get x-rays and tests done. We were all excited mom was going to host Christmas, since my parents' house is bigger.
My last day of work was Dec. 21, and it was such a happy day for me. I hated the job, and I really needed to move on. (You can read more about that here.)
On Dec.23, we went to dinner at Undo's, a local Italian eatery, and then we went to the B.E. Taylor Christmas concert. He is a local musician who puts on a fantastic show. If you ever get a chance to listen to his Christmas music, you should listen. Joe and I pretty much agree that the B.E. Taylor Christmas songs are the best versions of the songs. We love him.
Dec. 24 was the most wonderful Christmas Eve. It was so relaxing and wonderful. I assembled a Christmas breakfast casserole (apples, French toast, etc.), and here is the recipe for it. I used the reviewers suggestions and flipped the layers. Also, I added a little pumpkin pie spice and most of the apples. It was tasty. I then made a cranberry spread that my family loves. I made that for our post-Christmas Eve Mass celebration. I served the spread with Nilla wafers, cinnamon Graham cracker sticks and honey Graham cracker sticks and honey wheat pretzel sticks. Here is the recipe for the spread. I also assembled a DELICIOUS chicken, broccoli and stuffing casserole. That recipe isn't online. It was from a Taste of Home magazine.
After making those things, my husband and I made lunch and cuddled on the couch to watch "Home Alone." It was so perfect. After that, we got ready for dinner at my parents' house. My mom made pasta, sausage and salad. After dinner, my brother, sister, husband, dad and I went to church early for choir practice and then celebrated Mass. There is nothing as magical and wonderful as Christmas Eve Mass. It was beautiful. After Mass, we headed back to my parents' to hang out a bit longer, visit and eat again. Come on, it's the holidays!
The next day, Joe and I woke up early and opened our gifts from Santa and each other. Wow, he spoiled me. My favorite gift from him was probably the mugs, plates and bowels he bought me from Ireland that match the teakettle I bought when we were there in August. I was pleasantly surprised. Then we headed to my parents' house to exchange with everyone. We had breakfast, then my mom, dad, husband, family friend who is a priest Father Bill and I headed to my dad's mom's house and visited and had lunch. We then headed home and got ready for Christmas dinner. Everyone was there, including my in-laws. It was great. That night my brother stayed the night so he and my husband could play their new video games. I made them barbecue riblets and chicken nuggets.
The next day, my husband and I hosted a Christmas movie day for our friends after Mass. We served sloppy Joes and a delicious macaroni and cheese. (Note: I used to make Pioneer Woman's mac and cheese, but this recipe is better.) I made a triple batch, and it was hammered. We all wear pajamas and everyone comes over and brings food and blankets and we are bums ALL DAY. We watched "The Santa Clause," "Elf," "Polar Express," "A Christmas Carol," "The Grinch," "The Grinch" cartoon, ""Four Christmases," and "Christmas Vacation." it is so needed after the busy holiday.
On Wednesday, we visited with my cousins, and we had a wonderful time. We went to their house, and we had a blast.
Thursday was the Christmas celebration at my dad's mom. We had lasagna, salad, bread and tons of cookies and cake.
On New Year's Eve, my parents hosted again! It was great and the night did not conclude until almost 5 a.m. on New Year's Day. We played games and had a wonderful time. My sister-in-law and her boyfriend stayed with us because my in-laws Christmas celebration was the next day, and their house was a bit crowded. So, after virtually no sleep, we headed to the in-laws for a wonderful Christmas gathering. It was a long day!
The next day we went to church and then my husband, sister-in-law and her boyfriend headed to my parents' house for leftovers. Then my sister-in-law headed back to Cleveland, and we went to my parents' for dinner that evening.
It was a busy but wonderful holiday. Although we continued the season through yesterday, our big celebrating concluded then. I wish everyone a blessed and Happy New Year! Hopefully we have an exciting and winderful year approaching. Stay tuned, and I am back!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Let's Get Cooking ... Well Baking
So, the whole blogging every day thing will happen at some point, but I guess trying to do that in December was pretty ambitious. I am so busy, just like the rest of the world, getting ready for the holiday season!
Friday, I ran to Macy's after work and picked up gifts for my mom and a few things from Walmart.
I then headed home and baked peanut butter blossoms and snickerdoodles with my hubby, while watching "Elf" and some Simpson's Christmas episodes (Joe's choice).
After going to bed, I woke up bright and early for a big baking day. We have our Christmas party this weekend, and I had tons to prepare. On Saturday, I made Wheaties cookies (love), gingerbread men, sugar cookies (Joe helped with these), red velvet cake balls, made the cake for the spice cake balls and pizzelles. It was an all-day event. We had Wendy's for dinner. During the day, our neighbor came to my house and asked if I would be her sponsor, as she comes into the Catholic Church. Considering I didn't really know her until then, I was pretty honored.
Sunday, I got up and did my Weight Watchers meeting, went to choir practice and church, headed to my parents' house for lunch, went grocery shopping for the week, went home and made the spice cake balls and Oreo truffle. It was midnight by the time I headed to bed.
Then, yesterday was really crazy. I headed to a few store after work. I got my gift exchange gift for Saturday, picked up a few things for the party, headed to Bath and Body Works for my holiday soaps, and I then headed home. When I got home I made hot dogs and fries, and we ate. I then tackled the mini cheesecakes for Saturday, and the first batch was an epic fail. They just weren't right. So, I moved on and made the mini quiches for Saturday. I made them with bacon, and the egg was allover the bottom of the tray, so we will see how they are. (The cooking gods were not with me yesterday.) Then I remade the cheesecakes, which turned out better.
Today, I am on deadline for work. This is my second-to-last deadline at this place. Woo hoo! Tonight is "Glee!" I have a roast and carrots in the crock pot. I hope to get all of the holiday platters, roaster and things cleaned tonight. I wish this was all done and the party was here!
Friday, I ran to Macy's after work and picked up gifts for my mom and a few things from Walmart.
I then headed home and baked peanut butter blossoms and snickerdoodles with my hubby, while watching "Elf" and some Simpson's Christmas episodes (Joe's choice).
After going to bed, I woke up bright and early for a big baking day. We have our Christmas party this weekend, and I had tons to prepare. On Saturday, I made Wheaties cookies (love), gingerbread men, sugar cookies (Joe helped with these), red velvet cake balls, made the cake for the spice cake balls and pizzelles. It was an all-day event. We had Wendy's for dinner. During the day, our neighbor came to my house and asked if I would be her sponsor, as she comes into the Catholic Church. Considering I didn't really know her until then, I was pretty honored.
Sunday, I got up and did my Weight Watchers meeting, went to choir practice and church, headed to my parents' house for lunch, went grocery shopping for the week, went home and made the spice cake balls and Oreo truffle. It was midnight by the time I headed to bed.
Then, yesterday was really crazy. I headed to a few store after work. I got my gift exchange gift for Saturday, picked up a few things for the party, headed to Bath and Body Works for my holiday soaps, and I then headed home. When I got home I made hot dogs and fries, and we ate. I then tackled the mini cheesecakes for Saturday, and the first batch was an epic fail. They just weren't right. So, I moved on and made the mini quiches for Saturday. I made them with bacon, and the egg was allover the bottom of the tray, so we will see how they are. (The cooking gods were not with me yesterday.) Then I remade the cheesecakes, which turned out better.
Today, I am on deadline for work. This is my second-to-last deadline at this place. Woo hoo! Tonight is "Glee!" I have a roast and carrots in the crock pot. I hope to get all of the holiday platters, roaster and things cleaned tonight. I wish this was all done and the party was here!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Busy, Busy, Busy
So, remember how I was going to blog every day for the month of December? Hah! I did the first day and already fell off the wagon. But, I am back today. Last night was interesting and busy. I ran to the store after work and bought all of our paper products for the party (plates, plastic ware, napkins), and everything matches because I am anal like that.
After I got home, it was a little late to start the barbecue chicken for dinner that I had originally planned. So, I made egg sandwiches. I made baked sweet potato fries for me, and I made ham and hash browns for Joe. It actually hit the spot.
After dinner, I switched out the dishes in the China cabinet, put up some more decorations. Joe also pretty much finished the basement.
Then we sat down to watch "The Santa Clause," and I wrapped the plastic ware for the party, and Joe wrapped up some of our pictures that hang on the walls in the basement. He does this around the holidays, and it always looks so darn cute.
After that, we headed to bed. So, although nothing exciting happened, we were busy bees.
Oh yeah, and it's 17 days until I leave my job! It is bittersweet, and in the end it will be good. but, right now, I am in that awkward stage of closing out what I am doing here, and it's kinda sad. But, I think it will be good!
After I got home, it was a little late to start the barbecue chicken for dinner that I had originally planned. So, I made egg sandwiches. I made baked sweet potato fries for me, and I made ham and hash browns for Joe. It actually hit the spot.
After dinner, I switched out the dishes in the China cabinet, put up some more decorations. Joe also pretty much finished the basement.
Then we sat down to watch "The Santa Clause," and I wrapped the plastic ware for the party, and Joe wrapped up some of our pictures that hang on the walls in the basement. He does this around the holidays, and it always looks so darn cute.
After that, we headed to bed. So, although nothing exciting happened, we were busy bees.
Oh yeah, and it's 17 days until I leave my job! It is bittersweet, and in the end it will be good. but, right now, I am in that awkward stage of closing out what I am doing here, and it's kinda sad. But, I think it will be good!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Christmas from the Past!
So, I am going to try to do one post every day this month! December, what a great month to start with, right? We'll see!
Anyways, I this is a wonderful month. I was so enthralled to wake up to snow falling on the ground on Dec. 1. It felt magical. I love the snow, and it is pretty snow. I love everything about the holidays, especially how often I get to spend time with family and friends. I love the smell of winter, fires burning, cookies baking, Christmas music playing ( I have it on at work right now - Celine Dion's "O Holy Night"). I just love it, really.
In honor of the month of Christmas, I am going to post some pictures of some Christmases past. After looking through my files, I realize the only two Christmases I have uploaded are from 2007 and 2009 (the rest are on the computer at home). I will warn you, this post is picture heavy. So, here they are:
Anyways, I this is a wonderful month. I was so enthralled to wake up to snow falling on the ground on Dec. 1. It felt magical. I love the snow, and it is pretty snow. I love everything about the holidays, especially how often I get to spend time with family and friends. I love the smell of winter, fires burning, cookies baking, Christmas music playing ( I have it on at work right now - Celine Dion's "O Holy Night"). I just love it, really.
In honor of the month of Christmas, I am going to post some pictures of some Christmases past. After looking through my files, I realize the only two Christmases I have uploaded are from 2007 and 2009 (the rest are on the computer at home). I will warn you, this post is picture heavy. So, here they are:
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| Cutting down our tree in 2007 |
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| Our Maddy in 2007! |
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| Daddy and Maddy on Christmas Eve morning 2007! |
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| Us in front of our tree after Christmas Eve Mass 2007 |
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| She is trying to guilt us into more gifts! That adorable face gets us every time! |
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| This is during our gift exchange at our party. |
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Some of the gang at our house for our annual Christmas party. |
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| Hubby and me before Christmas Eve Mass. |
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| The 2008 cruise group at our Christmas party! |
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| My brother's girlfriend Maria, me and my sister Kayla at my parents' house after Christmas Eve Mass. |
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| My brother Derek and me at my parents' house on Christmas Eve. |
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| My husband and me at Grandma's on Christmas. |
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Gift time at my other grandma's house on Christmas Day!  |
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| We host a movie day after Christmas Day at our house. Everyone lays around ALL DAY, eats and watches Christmas movies. We all wear pajamas and are so lazy. It is wonderful! |
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| My sister and I with Dad at Grandma's house. |
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Chapter Closing!
Ok, so I kinda fell off the earth there, but I am trying to get back on the blogging wagon. A lot has been going on in my life. It's crazy enough that it is the holiday season. However, I then decided we should have two rooms in our house painted; then we did the good clean of our house, and I mean good clean (every corner, closet, wall and floorboard was scrubbed and/or reorganized.) It is wonderful now. We had the holidays mixed in, a friend staying with us for a weekend and a few gatherings at our house. Plus, I have two jobs, which brings me to the biggest change of all: I quit one of my jobs.
It's a good thing in the long run. I am not using my skills here, and I feel used. I have three positions in this building and answer to four people. It makes for one insane work week. When I was hired, I was initially hired to work for the newspaper. (I have a degree in communications.) Then, approximately three years into the job, my one boss came and told me I was being promoted to the director of a new program in the building; it involved a raise, so I took it. At that point, I was working two jobs. However, I quickly realized that the new job I took on was not a promotion by any means; I became a secretary. Now, don't get me wrong, I have all the respect in the world for secretaries, but I went to school to be a journalist. I understand you have to work your way up in a company, but I felt that after three years, I had proven myself, and I felt like I was going backwards. I stuck out the second job because of the nice raise.
Then, this past summer, my head boss (who was new) came in and told me they would be splitting me again into a third position. This time, there was no raise. Yeah, I felt really appreciated. In their minds, it was a compliment I was getting so many positions. They said they knew I could handle it. To me, well, I felt like I was being used. Plus, did I mention, the new position was another secretary position? It was.
The company I work for has been downsizing for a few years, just like everyone else. We are a nonprofit organization, and I know money is tight. But, I went to school to be a journalist, not someone's you-know-what!
The final factor that determined my resignation was that I wasn't even happy in the position I originally signed up for. When I was in college, I was the assistant editor and promoted to editor of the school newspaper. I graduated with honors and had a paid internship at a newspaper. I covered fires, an attempted murder trial and so many other things. They offered me a job, and I turned it down to take the job at this paper. I knew the stories would be less interesting at this job, but the money was better, hours were better, and the commute was better. So, I took the plunge.
When I came here, I realized I was working with two older women who were stuck in their ways. They weren't very good with journalism and didn't understand design and a lot of the grammar rules. It was frustrating. It was like teaching an old dog new tricks; it wasn't happening. The one thing I convinced them to change was that stories shouldn't jump backwards, meaning if a story starts on page four, it shouldn't jump to page three; that's backwards. They did let me convince them to change that.
I know I am rambling, but I need to get this all down. I thought time would change things. However, my immediate boss at the paper can't stand giving control to anyone else, so she covers 95 percent of the stories. I do some design (without much creative liberty), a handful of stories a year and typing, a lot of typing. Again, I did not go to schoolt obe a typist. It is frustrating; it is tiring; and it is time to move on.
If you have gotten this far, congratulations. I really needed to get it all out. I mean, I have worked here for almost five years, This is a big chapter of my life closing.
I put in my resignation Nov. 23, 2010, and I told them I would stay until Dec. 21. I want to leave on good terms. For the most part, this place has been good to me. I have great co-workers, and the hours are unbeatable. It just isn't working for me anymore, and I have realized money isn't everything. I will be picking up more hours with Weight Watchers, and I will hopefully be moving up the chain there. I may get to do some public relations there, too. I really hope this all pans out.
Again, sorry this was so long. I promise my future updates will be more exciting. Now, I feel like i can get back to some happy blogging. I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I ate too much, but it was wonderful!
It's a good thing in the long run. I am not using my skills here, and I feel used. I have three positions in this building and answer to four people. It makes for one insane work week. When I was hired, I was initially hired to work for the newspaper. (I have a degree in communications.) Then, approximately three years into the job, my one boss came and told me I was being promoted to the director of a new program in the building; it involved a raise, so I took it. At that point, I was working two jobs. However, I quickly realized that the new job I took on was not a promotion by any means; I became a secretary. Now, don't get me wrong, I have all the respect in the world for secretaries, but I went to school to be a journalist. I understand you have to work your way up in a company, but I felt that after three years, I had proven myself, and I felt like I was going backwards. I stuck out the second job because of the nice raise.
Then, this past summer, my head boss (who was new) came in and told me they would be splitting me again into a third position. This time, there was no raise. Yeah, I felt really appreciated. In their minds, it was a compliment I was getting so many positions. They said they knew I could handle it. To me, well, I felt like I was being used. Plus, did I mention, the new position was another secretary position? It was.
The company I work for has been downsizing for a few years, just like everyone else. We are a nonprofit organization, and I know money is tight. But, I went to school to be a journalist, not someone's you-know-what!
The final factor that determined my resignation was that I wasn't even happy in the position I originally signed up for. When I was in college, I was the assistant editor and promoted to editor of the school newspaper. I graduated with honors and had a paid internship at a newspaper. I covered fires, an attempted murder trial and so many other things. They offered me a job, and I turned it down to take the job at this paper. I knew the stories would be less interesting at this job, but the money was better, hours were better, and the commute was better. So, I took the plunge.
When I came here, I realized I was working with two older women who were stuck in their ways. They weren't very good with journalism and didn't understand design and a lot of the grammar rules. It was frustrating. It was like teaching an old dog new tricks; it wasn't happening. The one thing I convinced them to change was that stories shouldn't jump backwards, meaning if a story starts on page four, it shouldn't jump to page three; that's backwards. They did let me convince them to change that.
I know I am rambling, but I need to get this all down. I thought time would change things. However, my immediate boss at the paper can't stand giving control to anyone else, so she covers 95 percent of the stories. I do some design (without much creative liberty), a handful of stories a year and typing, a lot of typing. Again, I did not go to schoolt obe a typist. It is frustrating; it is tiring; and it is time to move on.
If you have gotten this far, congratulations. I really needed to get it all out. I mean, I have worked here for almost five years, This is a big chapter of my life closing.
I put in my resignation Nov. 23, 2010, and I told them I would stay until Dec. 21. I want to leave on good terms. For the most part, this place has been good to me. I have great co-workers, and the hours are unbeatable. It just isn't working for me anymore, and I have realized money isn't everything. I will be picking up more hours with Weight Watchers, and I will hopefully be moving up the chain there. I may get to do some public relations there, too. I really hope this all pans out.
Again, sorry this was so long. I promise my future updates will be more exciting. Now, I feel like i can get back to some happy blogging. I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I ate too much, but it was wonderful!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Bloggers Get 50 Free Holiday Cards from Shutterfly!
I absolutely love the holidays. Once I get my first Christmas card, I start to get giddy, and I find cards to be such an important part of the holiday season.
It is one of the first things I think of when I am planning my holidays. What do I want my closest friends and family to see? How do I want my card to look?
Since beginning my search more than a month ago, I found that I will certainly be using Shutterfly. Now, I am a journalist and do a lot of layout for the newspaper and could easily design my own card from scratch. But I decided to use Shutterfly for sure.
First of all, the designs of the cards are so gorgeous. I mean, just look at these Christmas cards! If you love simplistic designs with clean lines, they have it. If you prefer dramatic, elegant, fun, unique, they have them all. I truly mean that.
Now, I love when families do family updates in their cards. Shutterfly has cards where you can put the updates on the card! How creative and fun! I adore these story cards.
The site even has the option to send the cards for you.
I live a busy life, but I still want to be able to send cards to my family and friends, and this allows me to make some quick decisions on the easy-to-use site, and then sit back while they do all the work.
I have used Shutterfly more than once, and I refuse to go to any other site for pictures or photo projects. I have never been disappointed at all. One of my favorite projects was the album I put together for our honeymoon. I love their photo books. Like I said, I design newspapers for a living, so I can be pretty darn picky, but the quality and efficiency form Shutterfly is superb. The photos were so clear, and the quality of the hardback book was unbeatable. The site even allowed for me to add captions, quotes and description. It was a HUGE project, but was so simple, at the same time. I couldn’t believe it was on my doorstep approximately a week later. Unbelievable! It is a true keepsake in our house, and people are always looking through it. Plus, the price was so affordable.
Another favorite thing of mine is I also love the easiness of printing photos and having them delivered to my house. I love a nice matte finish on photos, and they offer it!
A third reason I love Shutterfly is they have great gift options. Just look how great calendar is! We cruised with my parents three times, and they make an entire calendar out of the cruise photos for us each time. We love it and can relive the cruise each month!
That is another reason I love quality. Sometimes you really pay good bucks for a nice album; however, with Shutterfly, I find that I am getting great quality for a fraction of the price.
They have cards for everything! Think of the possibilities. If you don’t do Christmas cards, per say, you might do a Christmas party invitation, a New Years party invitation, birth announcement, housewarmings, etc. Really, the options are endless.
What’s the best part of all of this? Shutterfly is offering 50 FREE (you read that right) cards to anyone who promotes the company on the site. For more information on this, visit Shutterfly here.
Tell me about your incredible projects with Shutterfly. I would love to hear them. And remember, pass the good experiences onto your friends and family, and share the wealth. Don’t worry! With so many options out there, they won’t choose the same card; I promise!
For more information, visit http://bit.ly/sfly2010.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Carolina's Coming!
Yeah, so I was going strong, blogging almost every weekday and absolutely loving it. Then, life happened!
We decided to have our living room painted and had to clear those rooms out for the painter, pick paint, pick new curtains, etc. After the painting was done I decided I wanted to do a good clean of the two rooms, which mean floorboards, floors, rugs, every piece of furniture in the room and everything that goes back into the room (including what goes back into the china hutch). It was tough work. After I finished that, I decided I wanted to do a good clean of the back bedroom since my best girlfriend, Carolina, is coming to stay with us. So, that meant scrubbing the walls, floorboards, floors, rug, cleaning the curtains, comforter sheets and everything that went back into my room. My back is crying for a break. Yuck.
But, it will pay off because I get to see my Carolina! I just have to clean the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom tonight and maybe make a few treats for the weekend.
Carolina is from Columbia, and we met in college in a history class. We studied together a couple of times, and we really hit it off. I was a communications/journalism major, and she was a communications/theater major. We ended up having a few classes that overlapped, and we just kept hitting it off. Although I was not involved in theater in college, I loved and still do love theater. Carolina was the stage manager in many of the productions, and I loved going to see her.
Our second year in college, my first roommate decided to live off of campus, so I was left without a roommate. Carolina was my suite mate, and when things with her roommate didn't work out (think young college girl dating a man older than my parents...blah), Carolina decided to move in with me.
We stayed roommates throughout the rest of our college experience. She was the neat freak, and I was the slob. However, I think she rubbed off on me because I am a crazy clean person now. Yes, my house gets messy, but it drives me insane.
In our junior year of college, Carolina and I moved into a house on campus. That house is where we truly bonded. We got our own rooms and had the chance to have some more space to ourselves. It was really good for us. We spent many nights sitting on each other's beds laughing, crying, studying and gossiping (and we, of course, occasionally opened a nice bottle of wine). It was perfect!
After college, Carolina moved around a few times and is now living in Virginia, near Washington, D.C. We see each other more now than we did a few years ago. The last two Thanksgivings she has come to our place (day after Thanksgiving). Last Thanksgiving, she came down to our place, and we went to Cleveland to see "Wicked" and the house from "The Christmas Story." I traveled down to see her the week of Holy Week, and we went to the cherry blossom festival and to see a production of "Sweeney Todd." It was nice because her birthday is April 2, and I got to see her! Remember, we love our theater. So, that's always an important part of our time together, too!
I can't wait for this weekend. Our plans include some Christmas shopping and catching up with friends for a nice dinner. It will be great and relaxing!
I will try to get back into blogging more. Right now is rough because of the holidays and other big things going on, but I am trying to get back into the swing!
Have a great day!
We decided to have our living room painted and had to clear those rooms out for the painter, pick paint, pick new curtains, etc. After the painting was done I decided I wanted to do a good clean of the two rooms, which mean floorboards, floors, rugs, every piece of furniture in the room and everything that goes back into the room (including what goes back into the china hutch). It was tough work. After I finished that, I decided I wanted to do a good clean of the back bedroom since my best girlfriend, Carolina, is coming to stay with us. So, that meant scrubbing the walls, floorboards, floors, rug, cleaning the curtains, comforter sheets and everything that went back into my room. My back is crying for a break. Yuck.
But, it will pay off because I get to see my Carolina! I just have to clean the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom tonight and maybe make a few treats for the weekend.
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| Carolina and I waiting to see "Sweeney Todd" in April. |
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| Me and Carolina at the Cherry Blossom Festival! We had incredibly beautiful weather. |
Carolina is from Columbia, and we met in college in a history class. We studied together a couple of times, and we really hit it off. I was a communications/journalism major, and she was a communications/theater major. We ended up having a few classes that overlapped, and we just kept hitting it off. Although I was not involved in theater in college, I loved and still do love theater. Carolina was the stage manager in many of the productions, and I loved going to see her.
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| Carolina, my mom and me |
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| Carolina looking adorable, while I look like a total bum. We were heading home after "Wicked." |
We stayed roommates throughout the rest of our college experience. She was the neat freak, and I was the slob. However, I think she rubbed off on me because I am a crazy clean person now. Yes, my house gets messy, but it drives me insane.
In our junior year of college, Carolina and I moved into a house on campus. That house is where we truly bonded. We got our own rooms and had the chance to have some more space to ourselves. It was really good for us. We spent many nights sitting on each other's beds laughing, crying, studying and gossiping (and we, of course, occasionally opened a nice bottle of wine). It was perfect!
After college, Carolina moved around a few times and is now living in Virginia, near Washington, D.C. We see each other more now than we did a few years ago. The last two Thanksgivings she has come to our place (day after Thanksgiving). Last Thanksgiving, she came down to our place, and we went to Cleveland to see "Wicked" and the house from "The Christmas Story." I traveled down to see her the week of Holy Week, and we went to the cherry blossom festival and to see a production of "Sweeney Todd." It was nice because her birthday is April 2, and I got to see her! Remember, we love our theater. So, that's always an important part of our time together, too!
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| Carolina and I at "Wicked" last November. |
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| My brother's girlfriend Maria, Carolina and I waiting for "Wicked." |
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| At a restaurant featured on "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives," after "Wicked." |
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| Visiting the house from "The Christmas Story," after "Wicked." |
I will try to get back into blogging more. Right now is rough because of the holidays and other big things going on, but I am trying to get back into the swing!
Have a great day!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Christmas Tunes Are Welcome!
It's November, and that means it is the holiday season in my mind! I love, love, LOVE this time of year. You can ask anyone in my family. I am like an overgrown child.
Since Christmas is my favorite time of year and music is so important to my life, Christmas music is a necessity. Now, out of respect to other people (aka my husband) I don't listen to it all year around. One reason for that is because I love the anticipation of listening to the Christmas music during the season.
However, once November 1 rolls around, it is fair game. Woo hoo! Now, I don't put up decorations or bake Christmas cookies, but music is played. My husband has even embraced, or shall I say succumbed, the this tradition.
It is a tradition that was always upheld in my family. My dad and I still count down the days until the carols begin. A favorite in my family is Amy Grant, and you can be sure to know that she will be on my play list soon!
I think I will have to gather some of my favorite tunes, which will probably be 50 songs...yes, obsession.
The weatherman is calling for spurts of snow tomorrow, and while many people are whining, I am singing "It's the most wonderful time of the year. ..."
P.S. I really do intend on updating some more and things. Life in our house is insane right now. Welcome to that time of year.
Since Christmas is my favorite time of year and music is so important to my life, Christmas music is a necessity. Now, out of respect to other people (aka my husband) I don't listen to it all year around. One reason for that is because I love the anticipation of listening to the Christmas music during the season.
However, once November 1 rolls around, it is fair game. Woo hoo! Now, I don't put up decorations or bake Christmas cookies, but music is played. My husband has even embraced, or shall I say succumbed, the this tradition.
It is a tradition that was always upheld in my family. My dad and I still count down the days until the carols begin. A favorite in my family is Amy Grant, and you can be sure to know that she will be on my play list soon!
I think I will have to gather some of my favorite tunes, which will probably be 50 songs...yes, obsession.
The weatherman is calling for spurts of snow tomorrow, and while many people are whining, I am singing "It's the most wonderful time of the year. ..."
P.S. I really do intend on updating some more and things. Life in our house is insane right now. Welcome to that time of year.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Still Alive!
I haven't fallen off the earth. I had an absolutely insane end of the week and weekend. I will post soon. I have a house repaint and lots of other things going on. Stay tuned for lots of pictures and stories!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Added Pictures!
I added pictures of the big Halloween party to the previous post. Check it out here!
Brace yourself for the cuteness!
Brace yourself for the cuteness!
Halloween Cuties!
Yesterday was a pretty boring day, until lunch that is. My mom babysits a handful of adorable kids, and since she lives three doors down from me, I stop by her house several days each week to sneak a peak at them.
Some days are better than others, but let me tell you, yesterday was a great day. It was Halloween party for the brood, and they were all decked out for the festivities. We had a Dorothy, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Charlie Brown and a fairy.
I told my mom I would stop by and take a few photos. Um, I took 89. What can I say? I love those kiddos, and it is quite the challenge to get the attention of little ones while they are checking out each others' costumes and the room full of fun and toys.
The kids had pizza for lunch and got snack bags of course. I believe they were going to watch "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown," after I left. They were having a ball.
Happy Halloween from the clan:
Some days are better than others, but let me tell you, yesterday was a great day. It was Halloween party for the brood, and they were all decked out for the festivities. We had a Dorothy, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Charlie Brown and a fairy.
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| My adorable cousin Karlie as Dorothy. She is such a doll! |
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And we have Mr. Angelo starring as Woody! |
I told my mom I would stop by and take a few photos. Um, I took 89. What can I say? I love those kiddos, and it is quite the challenge to get the attention of little ones while they are checking out each others' costumes and the room full of fun and toys.
The kids had pizza for lunch and got snack bags of course. I believe they were going to watch "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown," after I left. They were having a ball.
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Little Liam looks like Charlie Brown. |
Happy Halloween from the clan:
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Maddy's Home Day Pictures
We rescued our beautiful Maddy Mae from a local shelter, and my husband and I decided we would probably always rescue our animals. There are so many that need homes and just want to be loved. We are blessed with one incredibly adorable and well-behaved dog. I mean she has probably gone to the bathroom twice in our house in the four years we've had her.
Oct. 8 was the four-year anniversary of the day we brought our Maddy home with us, and I can't remember life without my furbaby. We call it her home day, and here are some pictures from her special day. Yes, we give our dog treats, sing to her and give her gifts. What can I say? I think our family would say we need a real child.
Celebration of Maddy's home day 2010:
So, as you can see, we borderline worship our dog. We love her!
Oct. 8 was the four-year anniversary of the day we brought our Maddy home with us, and I can't remember life without my furbaby. We call it her home day, and here are some pictures from her special day. Yes, we give our dog treats, sing to her and give her gifts. What can I say? I think our family would say we need a real child.
Celebration of Maddy's home day 2010:
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| Our Maddy had birthday ice cream with peanut butter, and we sang "Happy Home Day!" |
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Maddy giving me home day kisses.   |
So, as you can see, we borderline worship our dog. We love her!
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