It's been a while since I've updated my blog and I apologize. I know that many of you have been holding your breath, sitting on the edge of your seats as you waited for another installment. Breathe easy now and enjoy.
Today, I received some long-awaited news and received a job offer. I've been staying at home for well over a year as I searched for a job. I was determined to find a job that I wanted versus settling for a job I merely needed. This proved to be a difficult task, but paid off in the end. Thankfully, I'm not settling, I'm not giving up, and I'm not taking a job out of desperation. I've spent many sleepless nights worrying about how this journey would end and if I was being selfish by holding out for the "right" job. All of my worrying and stressing was worthwhile for myself and my family.
I'll be the first to tell you that I'm not the most religious person you'll ever know. Yes, I believe in God and I pray daily. I'm not against organized religion, but I simply haven't found one that I feel is worthy of including myself in. This past year has been a huge test of my faith, and it's always worth it to keep the faith. Just like George Michael said. That being said, many cliches were proven to be true for me today:
When one door closes, another one opens.
Good things come to those who wait. Even if it's something more important than ketchup.
That which doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
What's meant to be, will be.
I won't bore you with anymore cliches, but just remember to keep your faith and hold strong to your values, and include your head and your heart in big decisions. Everything really does find a way of working out.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Looking Back
Hello, everyone -
When I started this blog, I had so many ideas swirling in my head regarding the theme/idea that I should follow. To be honest, I have a touch of ADD (self-diagnosed), so I have lots of good ideas and those ideas change from day to day, often minute to minute. So, I'm just going to share what's on my mind.
The beginning of a new year seems to put so many of us back on the track of doing what we feel we should be doing versus what we are doing and/or want to be doing. So, along with reminding myself to stay away from unnecessary calories and trying to improve my physical health, the beginning of a new year always leads me to reflecting on the past.
2002 has always been a year that has, in some way, haunted me when I think back to it. For me, it was a year of many ups and downs, life changing decisions, heartbreaking moments, and at times, pure exhilaration. When I look back, I realize it was the year that I officially got my big girl pants.
2002 started out pretty smoothly, until February rolled around. This is when things really started rolling. The abridged version of 2002 goes something like this:
I was laid off from my job. I said goodbye to someone I thought I loved. I moved from Ohio to Hawaii. I went sky diving for the first time. The person that I thought I loved walked back into my life. One of my cousins and closest friends gave birth to her son and I was fortunate enough to spend the first three weeks of his life with him. I moved back to Ohio. I started a new job. I was wise enough to say goodbye for good to the person I thought I loved. And to round out the end of a tumultuous year, my Grandma passed away.
2002 is a year that I always look back on with mixed emotions, but I'm always thankful. I realize how fortunate I am to have lived through that year and to have these memories to look back on. All of the events I listed above taught me many valuable lessons. I learned that being in love with someone combines a mutual respect, admiration, and unconditional love. I learned that I had not yet really been in love, as every time I thought I loved someone, there was a critical piece of the equation missing. I learned to take chances. I learned to always make sure the people in my life know that I love them. And I learned to listen to my heart and always consult my head.
I think it's important to understand your weaknesses and vulnerabilities and I certainly do. Before 2002 came along, I believed that there were certain decisions I would never make and things I would never do. Now I know that given the right circumstances, anyone can choose to take actions that directly oppose one's personal belief system. I surprised myself in 2002, by showing my weakness, my vulnerability, and most of all, my strength.
It's hard to believe that it's been ten years since that roller coaster ride. I don't know what 2012 has in store for me, but I have a feeling it's going to be good and without a doubt, there are certainly some changes and new opportunities on the horizon.
When I started this blog, I had so many ideas swirling in my head regarding the theme/idea that I should follow. To be honest, I have a touch of ADD (self-diagnosed), so I have lots of good ideas and those ideas change from day to day, often minute to minute. So, I'm just going to share what's on my mind.
The beginning of a new year seems to put so many of us back on the track of doing what we feel we should be doing versus what we are doing and/or want to be doing. So, along with reminding myself to stay away from unnecessary calories and trying to improve my physical health, the beginning of a new year always leads me to reflecting on the past.
2002 has always been a year that has, in some way, haunted me when I think back to it. For me, it was a year of many ups and downs, life changing decisions, heartbreaking moments, and at times, pure exhilaration. When I look back, I realize it was the year that I officially got my big girl pants.
2002 started out pretty smoothly, until February rolled around. This is when things really started rolling. The abridged version of 2002 goes something like this:
I was laid off from my job. I said goodbye to someone I thought I loved. I moved from Ohio to Hawaii. I went sky diving for the first time. The person that I thought I loved walked back into my life. One of my cousins and closest friends gave birth to her son and I was fortunate enough to spend the first three weeks of his life with him. I moved back to Ohio. I started a new job. I was wise enough to say goodbye for good to the person I thought I loved. And to round out the end of a tumultuous year, my Grandma passed away.
2002 is a year that I always look back on with mixed emotions, but I'm always thankful. I realize how fortunate I am to have lived through that year and to have these memories to look back on. All of the events I listed above taught me many valuable lessons. I learned that being in love with someone combines a mutual respect, admiration, and unconditional love. I learned that I had not yet really been in love, as every time I thought I loved someone, there was a critical piece of the equation missing. I learned to take chances. I learned to always make sure the people in my life know that I love them. And I learned to listen to my heart and always consult my head.
I think it's important to understand your weaknesses and vulnerabilities and I certainly do. Before 2002 came along, I believed that there were certain decisions I would never make and things I would never do. Now I know that given the right circumstances, anyone can choose to take actions that directly oppose one's personal belief system. I surprised myself in 2002, by showing my weakness, my vulnerability, and most of all, my strength.
It's hard to believe that it's been ten years since that roller coaster ride. I don't know what 2012 has in store for me, but I have a feeling it's going to be good and without a doubt, there are certainly some changes and new opportunities on the horizon.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Who Peed on the Floor?
Determining who peed on the floor seems to be a new theme at my house and there are 2 suspects. My son or my puppy. Both are potty and house trained, respectively, but seem to be having lots of "accidents lately". In the last two days, both have been found guilty of peeing on the floor. Or the Christmas tree. The tree was easy to figure out - the puppy can hike is leg higher than the 3 year old. (Yes, my Christmas tree is still up. If you feel the need to judge me, go ahead, you have my permission. Maybe this makes you feel better, knowing you have one up on me. You're welcome.)
If you're sensing that life has been chaotic in my house, well you'd be making a correct assumption. I used to joke that I wanted my carpet to be ruined so I would feel justified in replacing it. Our house is only 4 years old and I felt it would be wasteful to replace carpet just because we didn't like it. Well, now we hate it and have good reason to. My carpet is not like Beyonce. It's not a survivor. It failed miserably against potty and puppy training. It's bad timing... now I can't justify ripping up the carpets when I'm not working, so I'm living with yucky carpet. It's made me a bigger germaphobe (did I just create a word?) than I already was. Yuck.
I'm hoping tomorrow is a better day. If no one pees on the floor, it will be a huge improvement from the last two days. It could be worse, right? Absolutely.
If you're sensing that life has been chaotic in my house, well you'd be making a correct assumption. I used to joke that I wanted my carpet to be ruined so I would feel justified in replacing it. Our house is only 4 years old and I felt it would be wasteful to replace carpet just because we didn't like it. Well, now we hate it and have good reason to. My carpet is not like Beyonce. It's not a survivor. It failed miserably against potty and puppy training. It's bad timing... now I can't justify ripping up the carpets when I'm not working, so I'm living with yucky carpet. It's made me a bigger germaphobe (did I just create a word?) than I already was. Yuck.
I'm hoping tomorrow is a better day. If no one pees on the floor, it will be a huge improvement from the last two days. It could be worse, right? Absolutely.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Resolutions, shmezolutions...
Every year around this time, I'm feeling the need to dedicate myself to be healthier, more active, and to stop doing something that is next to impossible. This year, I've decided to try something new. I'm not going to set myself up for failure like I do every year. Who wants to feel like crap come February 1st when you realize that you're not working out 5 days a week, eating more than 1000 calories, and still gossiping with your girlfriends? I say, to heck with all of that. I'm setting myself up with some achievable goals as a proactive approach to remaining positive for more than the first 4 weeks of the year.
You're dying to know what my resolutions are, aren't you? Now that I've got you on the edge of your seat, I'll tell you.
1. Snack Less and replace most snacks with a healthier option
2. Be more positive
3. Work out more often
Ambitious? Not really, but all of the above are realistic. Since the birth of my son, I've found myself in a position of needing to watch my weight, which is honestly something I never really worried about before I was pregnant. That meant, I spent the first 30 years of my life on easy street, never really worrying about weight control and I realize now that it was a curse. I'm not large now, but when you spend the majority of your life being "small", there is a certain expectation and a judgement that comes along with carrying an extra 15 pounds around. It's no longer "baby" weight since he's 3 1/2. It's just weight. If I had known how hard it would be to lose weight after being pregnant for the first time at 30, I think I would have had a baby at 15, when my metabolism was high and I had twice the energy I have now. Plus, the required gym class in high school would have been perfect.
So, resolutions 1 # 3 center around me trying to become a better me. Closer to the person I was before I became a mom. Only the physical part, however. Being a mommy changes who you are internally forever and I'm very much okay with that. I just hope to shed a few pounds, tone a few muscles, and someday, rock a pair of leopard pants again. That's right, I said again.
Whatever your resolutions are, I wish you luck in keeping yours!
You're dying to know what my resolutions are, aren't you? Now that I've got you on the edge of your seat, I'll tell you.
1. Snack Less and replace most snacks with a healthier option
2. Be more positive
3. Work out more often
Ambitious? Not really, but all of the above are realistic. Since the birth of my son, I've found myself in a position of needing to watch my weight, which is honestly something I never really worried about before I was pregnant. That meant, I spent the first 30 years of my life on easy street, never really worrying about weight control and I realize now that it was a curse. I'm not large now, but when you spend the majority of your life being "small", there is a certain expectation and a judgement that comes along with carrying an extra 15 pounds around. It's no longer "baby" weight since he's 3 1/2. It's just weight. If I had known how hard it would be to lose weight after being pregnant for the first time at 30, I think I would have had a baby at 15, when my metabolism was high and I had twice the energy I have now. Plus, the required gym class in high school would have been perfect.
So, resolutions 1 # 3 center around me trying to become a better me. Closer to the person I was before I became a mom. Only the physical part, however. Being a mommy changes who you are internally forever and I'm very much okay with that. I just hope to shed a few pounds, tone a few muscles, and someday, rock a pair of leopard pants again. That's right, I said again.
Whatever your resolutions are, I wish you luck in keeping yours!
Thursday, December 29, 2011
What a difference a year makes...
As we are preparing for 2011 to come to a close, it's a time for us to reflect on the events of the past year. 2011 was a tough year for so many and I am looking forward to wishing it farewell. I can't recall another year in my life when I have been touched by so many friends and family members that dealt with tragedy as in 2011. I've spent the better part of this year job hunting and let me tell you, it has been nothing if not challenging. After applying for hundreds of jobs and numerous interviews, I'm still searching and praying that something comes along soon.
A year ago, I was in a very different place. I had left the most stressful (also the most rewarding) job that I have ever had due to my company relocating my department to another state. The day that I was laid off, I recall walking out of the building feeling more carefree than I had in years. It felt good. So, we planned for me to take 3-6 months off to spend some time with my son, who was 2 1/2 at the time. It's now been 15 months and the stress is mounting more and more, with each passing day.
Although I never felt that I defined myself by my occupation, I've realized how much of who I am is wrapped up in a career. When I was in my 20's, I had jobs, and I realized in my 30's that the "jobs" have turned into a career. Until this past year, I've never been offered a job after interviewing, so being turned down for so many has been tough. This has shocked me. At this point in my life, I'm more experienced than I've ever been, I have an impeccable work history, and I'm well educated. Yet, I'm still waiting...
For the most part, I'm able to keep a positive attitude and a smile on my face, because I know that if I show my worry, my family will worry. I know that my husband is already worrying, but this is a worry that often consumes me. I laugh and make jokes a lot, because if I don't laugh, I'll cry. I make an effort to cry when I'm alone, which isn't often, so I suppress a lot of tears.
I know that eventually, I will find a job. My hope is that I find a job that is a good fit and doesn't force me to put my job ahead of my family, because that is what I left behind in 2010. I count my blessings everyday: my husband, children, dogs, and my home. I hope that 2012 brings amazing opportunities and a chance for everyone to make a fresh start after the challenges faced in 2011.
Many blessings to you and yours!
Kelli
A year ago, I was in a very different place. I had left the most stressful (also the most rewarding) job that I have ever had due to my company relocating my department to another state. The day that I was laid off, I recall walking out of the building feeling more carefree than I had in years. It felt good. So, we planned for me to take 3-6 months off to spend some time with my son, who was 2 1/2 at the time. It's now been 15 months and the stress is mounting more and more, with each passing day.
Although I never felt that I defined myself by my occupation, I've realized how much of who I am is wrapped up in a career. When I was in my 20's, I had jobs, and I realized in my 30's that the "jobs" have turned into a career. Until this past year, I've never been offered a job after interviewing, so being turned down for so many has been tough. This has shocked me. At this point in my life, I'm more experienced than I've ever been, I have an impeccable work history, and I'm well educated. Yet, I'm still waiting...
For the most part, I'm able to keep a positive attitude and a smile on my face, because I know that if I show my worry, my family will worry. I know that my husband is already worrying, but this is a worry that often consumes me. I laugh and make jokes a lot, because if I don't laugh, I'll cry. I make an effort to cry when I'm alone, which isn't often, so I suppress a lot of tears.
I know that eventually, I will find a job. My hope is that I find a job that is a good fit and doesn't force me to put my job ahead of my family, because that is what I left behind in 2010. I count my blessings everyday: my husband, children, dogs, and my home. I hope that 2012 brings amazing opportunities and a chance for everyone to make a fresh start after the challenges faced in 2011.
Many blessings to you and yours!
Kelli
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Hello, everyone! This post marks my virgin attempt at blogging, so forgive me if I tend to ramble. I've spent the last 15 months "working" as a stay-at-home mom. I know that there are plenty of women who love doing this long-term, but I must admit, I'm not one of them. Don't get me wrong, I love my husband, my kids, and my dogs, but I don't like feeling like a servant. I love taking care of people, in fact, it's part of my nature. But, I don't enjoy cooking and cleaning up after three meals a day, plus all of the other messes that are created during any given day. If we were independently wealthy, I would hire a maid, put my son in pre-school part-time, and hire a personal trainer for myself. This would break up the hum-drum of every day life and eliminate the need for me to play the role of wife, mother, maid, personal chef, and administrative assistant. But, my last name isn't Kardashian, so off to work I go. Soon. I hope.
This past year has taught me many things and I wouldn't trade it for anything, even knowing the stress that job hunting has brought. I've had the time to experiment with cooking, spend quality time with the kids, and to shift my focus back to being a wife and friend to my husband. I realized that I became a robotic form of myself somewhere along the way after my son was born. Managing a demanding full time job, coupled with the needs of my family caused me to put myself on over-drive and there I remained for nearly 3 years. I've retrained myself to take a moment to enjoy life, even the stressful days, versus living my life on auto-pilot in an attempt to simply survive.
My motivation for starting a blog is to reconnect with the world outside of my house, as well as to keep in touch with my friends and family that live far away. Actually, I'm the one that lives far away, since my husband and I chose to leave Ohio and move to Texas in 2007. And, I have to be honest, I'm an interesting person with a lot of great ideas and stories to share. I would be doing the world an injustice to keep it all to myself and my circle of trust.
I hope this is the first of many posts that I will share with you.
Spread the word!
This past year has taught me many things and I wouldn't trade it for anything, even knowing the stress that job hunting has brought. I've had the time to experiment with cooking, spend quality time with the kids, and to shift my focus back to being a wife and friend to my husband. I realized that I became a robotic form of myself somewhere along the way after my son was born. Managing a demanding full time job, coupled with the needs of my family caused me to put myself on over-drive and there I remained for nearly 3 years. I've retrained myself to take a moment to enjoy life, even the stressful days, versus living my life on auto-pilot in an attempt to simply survive.
My motivation for starting a blog is to reconnect with the world outside of my house, as well as to keep in touch with my friends and family that live far away. Actually, I'm the one that lives far away, since my husband and I chose to leave Ohio and move to Texas in 2007. And, I have to be honest, I'm an interesting person with a lot of great ideas and stories to share. I would be doing the world an injustice to keep it all to myself and my circle of trust.
I hope this is the first of many posts that I will share with you.
Spread the word!
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