Time is limited because Katya should wake up any minute (at a friend's house, taking advantage of her internet)...
Wanted to at least let you all know that it looks like I will arrive in Rochester around June 10th (in time for my brother's HS graduation) and leave July 9th. I'm a little nervous about being away so long from my husband, and taking my little girl away from her daddy for so long, but excited about seeing everyone back home!!
And for those interested in such things, weaning has gone surprisingly well, steadily moving forward. Sure, I have to put up with a little extra crankiness sometimes, but that's understandable considering the major transition that it is for her and the fact that we are simultaneously getting her to sleep outside of our bed. We're down to a max of 3 feedings in a 24 hr period, and those are on one side only for only about 5 minutes. The other day, she nursed only once all day! Major improvement over the little girl who was nursing both sides every few hours night and day!
Pregnancy...I think all is well. We haven't actually been to a Dr yet...insurance issues with the new job. So, please continue to keep health care and labor options in your prayers.
On the job front, things have started to pick up lately. We are in god shape for the next couple of months. But the thing about 100% commissions is that there are never any guarantees for the future.
Ok, can't wait to see you all!
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Hello again...
I am at a friend's house (an American like me!) with internet access, and my busy, curious, attention demanding toddler is sound asleep :)
So, let's see if I can fill you all in a little on my life...
Herme's job got a slow, slow start...bad weather, holidays, train yourself with a handful of manuals...these things do not make finding your own clients very easy. And remember, this job is 100% commissions. But he's got several clients under his belt now, a potential big-paying deal with a company looking to insure 70ish cars, and they are finally giving him the actual training on what it is he is selling (which, by the way, includes a variety of insurance policies, credit cards and loans, and investment opportunities). Keep praying for a steady client base and encouragement (salesmen get lots of no's in-between the yes's).
Katya and I have settled into our new, no-daddy, routine pretty well at this point. The first week or 2 there were a lot of tantrums while Katya missed her dad and adjusted to less attention and less outings. But now she generally has a nice mix of playing on her own and trying to 'help' me in-between looking for my attention. She only takes 2 half hour naps all day though, so I am generally on the go pretty much all day. But it keeps the day moving quickly.
According to my baby development book, 15-18 months (she is 16mo) is generally a time of language explosion, but I've read that children in bilingual families take a little longer to start talking. Katya says Mama (well, usually she says Mamama), Dada, mira (look in Spanish), meh (more or mas), and bo (boots or botas), and she has a couple of "names" for cousins, etc. She obviously wants to talk a lot... she is always 'saying' things to us, and I am really starting to get very curious about what all she is saying. And she has a little repertoire of hand signs she uses (like patting her own chest to ask to nurse, or putting my hand on something to signal what she wants me to do).
She is just a little cutie, and I am not just saying that because I am her mom :) She is one of those kids that everyone wants to say hi to and win her over as a friend. Everyday brings something new she has learned or something to laugh at. This week I have noticed that she knows how to lift up her feet to put one leg at a time in her pants. Yesterday she walked 10 minutes or more with her hands in her pockets. She loves to try on people's sunglasses (she puts them on herself). She cares about what shoes we put on her (thus, learning to say boots, because they have been her favorites lately). She has very politely gives everyone a kiss on the cheek in greeting or good-bye, and loves to give her daddy kisses (I get very few).
She just got her 1st haircut last week, so she is finally no longer sporting the baby mullet (it was a little out of control!) (Pictures are from today's visit, courtesy of my friend's camera - mine is currently broken)
What else? We're getting settled pretty well at the new church. Katya is finally learning to stay in her class, which is awesome for me! We're getting to know people, had one person over a week or 2 ago, looking to invite a family over soon. Learning names, knowing that there are certain people I can count on chatting with, etc. At the same time, maintaining relationships with friends from the old church. It's nice that we live so close to several of those families, and Katya and I can walk over in about 10 min (Katya speed) to visit on the days that seem slow. It was nice, for example, this week when I was a little heavy hearted, to know that I could pop over and ask them to be praying (I still prefer face to face over phone conversations in Spanish).
Speaking of Spanish, I am getting pretty darn fluent these days. I can have a conversation easily with anyone, only occasionally not knowing a word I want or that they say. My grammar is getting there - I know my more complicated verb tenses still need work.
I often have ideas about things I should blog if only given the opportunity, but of course now that I am here, I am all out of ideas. But that was a pretty decent update, don't you think?
My love to all...I miss being better connected to you all...
So, let's see if I can fill you all in a little on my life...
Herme's job got a slow, slow start...bad weather, holidays, train yourself with a handful of manuals...these things do not make finding your own clients very easy. And remember, this job is 100% commissions. But he's got several clients under his belt now, a potential big-paying deal with a company looking to insure 70ish cars, and they are finally giving him the actual training on what it is he is selling (which, by the way, includes a variety of insurance policies, credit cards and loans, and investment opportunities). Keep praying for a steady client base and encouragement (salesmen get lots of no's in-between the yes's).
Katya and I have settled into our new, no-daddy, routine pretty well at this point. The first week or 2 there were a lot of tantrums while Katya missed her dad and adjusted to less attention and less outings. But now she generally has a nice mix of playing on her own and trying to 'help' me in-between looking for my attention. She only takes 2 half hour naps all day though, so I am generally on the go pretty much all day. But it keeps the day moving quickly.
According to my baby development book, 15-18 months (she is 16mo) is generally a time of language explosion, but I've read that children in bilingual families take a little longer to start talking. Katya says Mama (well, usually she says Mamama), Dada, mira (look in Spanish), meh (more or mas), and bo (boots or botas), and she has a couple of "names" for cousins, etc. She obviously wants to talk a lot... she is always 'saying' things to us, and I am really starting to get very curious about what all she is saying. And she has a little repertoire of hand signs she uses (like patting her own chest to ask to nurse, or putting my hand on something to signal what she wants me to do).
She is just a little cutie, and I am not just saying that because I am her mom :) She is one of those kids that everyone wants to say hi to and win her over as a friend. Everyday brings something new she has learned or something to laugh at. This week I have noticed that she knows how to lift up her feet to put one leg at a time in her pants. Yesterday she walked 10 minutes or more with her hands in her pockets. She loves to try on people's sunglasses (she puts them on herself). She cares about what shoes we put on her (thus, learning to say boots, because they have been her favorites lately). She has very politely gives everyone a kiss on the cheek in greeting or good-bye, and loves to give her daddy kisses (I get very few).
She just got her 1st haircut last week, so she is finally no longer sporting the baby mullet (it was a little out of control!) (Pictures are from today's visit, courtesy of my friend's camera - mine is currently broken)
What else? We're getting settled pretty well at the new church. Katya is finally learning to stay in her class, which is awesome for me! We're getting to know people, had one person over a week or 2 ago, looking to invite a family over soon. Learning names, knowing that there are certain people I can count on chatting with, etc. At the same time, maintaining relationships with friends from the old church. It's nice that we live so close to several of those families, and Katya and I can walk over in about 10 min (Katya speed) to visit on the days that seem slow. It was nice, for example, this week when I was a little heavy hearted, to know that I could pop over and ask them to be praying (I still prefer face to face over phone conversations in Spanish).
Speaking of Spanish, I am getting pretty darn fluent these days. I can have a conversation easily with anyone, only occasionally not knowing a word I want or that they say. My grammar is getting there - I know my more complicated verb tenses still need work.
I often have ideas about things I should blog if only given the opportunity, but of course now that I am here, I am all out of ideas. But that was a pretty decent update, don't you think?
My love to all...I miss being better connected to you all...
Monday, November 23, 2009
A JOB!!
My husband has a job! For the 1st time in almost an entire year, he got a yes!
Now, we still covet your prayers, because it is 100% commissions, no base salary. But a job is still a job, and much, much better than no job at all.
He will be working in a bank, ´selling´ credit cards, insurance plans, etc.
The big upside...he will work normal, 40 hour work weeks, Mon-Fri, and will be at a desk in the office...no crazy driving all over town stuff like the last job. :)
I can´t remember the name of the bank, but its owned by the man who is even richer than Bill Gates and from Mexico...
Today he went in and filled out all the pre-hire paperwork, and tomorrow or Wednesday he´ll start his training or orientation or whatever you want to call it.
THank you so, so much for all of your prayers!!!!
___________________
In other news, because I ran out of time last time, we have switched churches. This has been a major decision for us that we have struggled with since actually before the wedding, about 2 years now. It has been hard, mostly because we really felt like we were with family at our first church. At the new church we knew only a handful of people getting started, although I am happy to say that after 5-6 weeks, I do know a few names and faces now. But we reached a point where we really felt it was where God wanted us, that He has a plan for us and for the family of my husband in that church and under that Pastor´s care. We actually will be meeting with the Pastor in about a half hour. Anyways, for that reason, I can´t write more now, but it has been a major change for us that I wanted to share here, even if it is only a little bit.
Thanks again for all the prayers. I´ll keep doing my best to stay in better touch!
Now, we still covet your prayers, because it is 100% commissions, no base salary. But a job is still a job, and much, much better than no job at all.
He will be working in a bank, ´selling´ credit cards, insurance plans, etc.
The big upside...he will work normal, 40 hour work weeks, Mon-Fri, and will be at a desk in the office...no crazy driving all over town stuff like the last job. :)
I can´t remember the name of the bank, but its owned by the man who is even richer than Bill Gates and from Mexico...
Today he went in and filled out all the pre-hire paperwork, and tomorrow or Wednesday he´ll start his training or orientation or whatever you want to call it.
THank you so, so much for all of your prayers!!!!
___________________
In other news, because I ran out of time last time, we have switched churches. This has been a major decision for us that we have struggled with since actually before the wedding, about 2 years now. It has been hard, mostly because we really felt like we were with family at our first church. At the new church we knew only a handful of people getting started, although I am happy to say that after 5-6 weeks, I do know a few names and faces now. But we reached a point where we really felt it was where God wanted us, that He has a plan for us and for the family of my husband in that church and under that Pastor´s care. We actually will be meeting with the Pastor in about a half hour. Anyways, for that reason, I can´t write more now, but it has been a major change for us that I wanted to share here, even if it is only a little bit.
Thanks again for all the prayers. I´ll keep doing my best to stay in better touch!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Wow, it´s been a LONG TIME
I am going to write as much as I can and post as many pictures as I can before Herme and Katya can´t handle waiting for me any more... pictures taken since around early August till the present, and include first birthday celebrations :) (They are in reverse order, and my husband wants it clarified that his pants are only dirty because he had just sat down on a dusty bench....)
Let´s see, where do I start??
Well, still no job. My poor husband has applied for things ´beneath him´, for things recommened by friends, anything within his ability....and no one even wants to interview him (beyond an initial screening anyways), much less hire him. We don´t know what to think. He just keeps looking, keeps applying. The whole state of the economy doesn´t help any - there just aren`t a lot of jobs out there, and there are so many people looking for work.
My parents came to visit for a weekend, just in time to celebrate Katya´s 1st birthday. That was awesome, especially since Mom coming was a complete surprise to me! It was quick, part of a business trip, but we enjoyed every minute of it :) So special to have them here for the birthday party and everything.
Living so far, far enough to make travel expensive and therefore not common, was not a part of how I saw my life, and yet here I am. I am happy here, wouldn´t trade my husband or how this has all come together for anyting, but it is really hard to be so hard from family and friends sometimes. Speaking of which, this lack of internet time has started to wear on me...I feel really out of touch with all my U.S. folks. Sometimes I feel like you all have moved on with your lives without me, if you know what I mean. I know it isn´t really the case, but with communication a little harder of late, thats how it feels. Oh how I´d love to be able to use skype in my house and talk to you all whenever the mood strikes!
What else? CAn´t believe that my baby girl is already a toddler! What a fun age, learning something new everyday, showing off for us. Of course, there´s the tantrums and tired breakdowns and vomiting 9x between the hours of 1:30am and 8am, but it´s all worth it of course :) She started walking at 9 months, got scared by a fall, and didn´t find her confidence to walk alone until 11 months. But then she just took off running! She is always on the move, or at least it often feels like that. She loves to read, together or alone. She loves animals, no fear, says ´ruff!´ every time she hears a dog bark. She´s generally a very happy, smiley, friendly girl, although she is a bit discriminating in who she wants to be friends with, gie kisses to, etc. She knows where her nose is (or mine, or yours), she can tell you she is ´so big!´, she loves it when you applaud her. She likes to play peek-a-boo, palms facing out, elbows sticking out to the sides. She waves to the moon every single time she sees it, even if that means 5 times in 6 minutes :P
Ok, I think my time is up. So good to connect with you all :) I love and miss every one, and will try to figure out how to get online more often.
Let´s see, where do I start??
Well, still no job. My poor husband has applied for things ´beneath him´, for things recommened by friends, anything within his ability....and no one even wants to interview him (beyond an initial screening anyways), much less hire him. We don´t know what to think. He just keeps looking, keeps applying. The whole state of the economy doesn´t help any - there just aren`t a lot of jobs out there, and there are so many people looking for work.
My parents came to visit for a weekend, just in time to celebrate Katya´s 1st birthday. That was awesome, especially since Mom coming was a complete surprise to me! It was quick, part of a business trip, but we enjoyed every minute of it :) So special to have them here for the birthday party and everything.
Living so far, far enough to make travel expensive and therefore not common, was not a part of how I saw my life, and yet here I am. I am happy here, wouldn´t trade my husband or how this has all come together for anyting, but it is really hard to be so hard from family and friends sometimes. Speaking of which, this lack of internet time has started to wear on me...I feel really out of touch with all my U.S. folks. Sometimes I feel like you all have moved on with your lives without me, if you know what I mean. I know it isn´t really the case, but with communication a little harder of late, thats how it feels. Oh how I´d love to be able to use skype in my house and talk to you all whenever the mood strikes!
What else? CAn´t believe that my baby girl is already a toddler! What a fun age, learning something new everyday, showing off for us. Of course, there´s the tantrums and tired breakdowns and vomiting 9x between the hours of 1:30am and 8am, but it´s all worth it of course :) She started walking at 9 months, got scared by a fall, and didn´t find her confidence to walk alone until 11 months. But then she just took off running! She is always on the move, or at least it often feels like that. She loves to read, together or alone. She loves animals, no fear, says ´ruff!´ every time she hears a dog bark. She´s generally a very happy, smiley, friendly girl, although she is a bit discriminating in who she wants to be friends with, gie kisses to, etc. She knows where her nose is (or mine, or yours), she can tell you she is ´so big!´, she loves it when you applaud her. She likes to play peek-a-boo, palms facing out, elbows sticking out to the sides. She waves to the moon every single time she sees it, even if that means 5 times in 6 minutes :P
Ok, I think my time is up. So good to connect with you all :) I love and miss every one, and will try to figure out how to get online more often.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Coming soon...
...a real live post with pictures and news and comments...
Have you all given up on me? Internet access has been scarce, but I have lots I want to write. Now that we finished with those classes I was giving at church (which were fairly prep intensive), I am hoping to get online soon and do a real update.
For those who have been praying for us, still no job in sight. Just one closed door after another. Besides praying for a job opening, please pray that we would hear from the Lord if there is something we are supposed to be learning, changing etc. 7 months of closed doors makes one wonder, you know?
Ok, promise to write for real soon, like in the next week-ish.
Have you all given up on me? Internet access has been scarce, but I have lots I want to write. Now that we finished with those classes I was giving at church (which were fairly prep intensive), I am hoping to get online soon and do a real update.
For those who have been praying for us, still no job in sight. Just one closed door after another. Besides praying for a job opening, please pray that we would hear from the Lord if there is something we are supposed to be learning, changing etc. 7 months of closed doors makes one wonder, you know?
Ok, promise to write for real soon, like in the next week-ish.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Final moments
Strangely enough, the final moments of our trip.... are a day longer and later than planned. We worked hard to get every last gift and hand-me-down squeezed into the suitcases, made sandwiches to get us thru a long day, got up really early to head for the airport...
and found out that the last leg of our trip doesn't exist today!!
It was the Lord's grace that we found out here and not in Houston - can you imagine if we had made it to Houston, and then they told us? With the baby, and not packed in a way to facilitate such a stop, and without a way to call the family in Saltillo and warn them?!?! It was thanks to the lady who checked us in and my dad that we did find out - the 1st two legs of the trip were a different airline than the last leg, so we had the boarding passes to get started. I was inclined to use our 2.5 hr layover in Houston to worry about the last boarding passes, but the woman behind the counter and my dad both encouraged me that there was time to do it before heading thru security.
So, here we are, one more day. Weird, huh? Good thing we don't have anything pressing awaiting us.
But after a week or so of really not feeling up to leaving and not wanting to leave my family, when it came down to good-byes last night and this morning I was feeling pretty good. The Lord's grace was very apparent in the final moments, and I was ready. (I assume that will be true for the good-byes the 2nd time around too!) :)
We appreciate prayers for the trip home (calm baby, no weather issues despite the forecasted snowstorm), as well as Herme's job search when we get back. Also, we are going to look for a house on the other side of town, closer to my in-laws, church, pastor....and now my closest friend in Saltillo moved to that side of town too.
and found out that the last leg of our trip doesn't exist today!!
It was the Lord's grace that we found out here and not in Houston - can you imagine if we had made it to Houston, and then they told us? With the baby, and not packed in a way to facilitate such a stop, and without a way to call the family in Saltillo and warn them?!?! It was thanks to the lady who checked us in and my dad that we did find out - the 1st two legs of the trip were a different airline than the last leg, so we had the boarding passes to get started. I was inclined to use our 2.5 hr layover in Houston to worry about the last boarding passes, but the woman behind the counter and my dad both encouraged me that there was time to do it before heading thru security.
So, here we are, one more day. Weird, huh? Good thing we don't have anything pressing awaiting us.
But after a week or so of really not feeling up to leaving and not wanting to leave my family, when it came down to good-byes last night and this morning I was feeling pretty good. The Lord's grace was very apparent in the final moments, and I was ready. (I assume that will be true for the good-byes the 2nd time around too!) :)
We appreciate prayers for the trip home (calm baby, no weather issues despite the forecasted snowstorm), as well as Herme's job search when we get back. Also, we are going to look for a house on the other side of town, closer to my in-laws, church, pastor....and now my closest friend in Saltillo moved to that side of town too.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Sorry - it's been waaayyyy too long!!
Ok, it has been an embarrassingly long time since I last blogged. Sorry about that. It had to do with online access/time, changes in schedule, hands full of baby.... and eventually just being out of the habit of blogging.
So, let's see. Just to quickly get back up to speed...
(BTW, after talking it over with my husband, I'm gonna start using his real name, Herme, here)
Without getting into all the details, we basically are completely broke and provided for at the same time. Herme left his job at the beginning of December and will be looking for a new one when we get back. We had about 10 days together before leaving Saltillo, which was really nice after all the crazy hours he worked over the last year+. Thanks to those of you who have been concerned about the job situation - sorry I have been so bad at replying! Obviously, we appreciate your prayers for a short search and a good find :)
It took some running around, but we were able to get all the passport related paperwork done in time and have finished passports in hand. (We have to travel with 2 passports for Katya, and a passport and a visa (for opposite countries) for Herme and I. Gets a little confusing!)
Katya did great on the flight up - slept and ate at the perfect times, barely made a peep all day, and even arrived awake and smiling to meet her grandpa and the first few aunts and uncles. I could really feel the prayers, between how great she did and how smoothly and quickly the day went despite a delay on our first flight causing us to arrive several hours later than planned. We discovered that I can go through American customs and immigration with Herme on the visitor side, which is nice because then we can go together and help each other juggle carry-ons and baby(s).
Our visit has been really nice, of course! :) I was grateful to see E&J and kids while they were in town visiting, as well and R&J and their new baby. We've seen both of my grandparents and almost all of my aunts and uncles and cousins. For five days in between Christmas and New Years, we had all of my siblings and their spouses and kids in my parents house - all 18 of us! It was really nice to get everyone together, the first time since my wedding. We're working on visiting assorted friends - many wanted to wait till the holidays were over. We stopped in today at my school to say hi to old coworkers. It was funny to see the looks the kids gave me - 1.5-2 years is a long time in the life of a kid to remember a teacher/principal.
Oh, and we have been very blessed by assorted gifts of money and clothes (mostly for the baby), as well as some favorite children's books and a couple of stuffed animals. :)
______________________
On a completely different note, I felt called to do something a while back and have wanted to share it here. I wrote a thank you note to President Bush for all his hard work over the past 8 years. Having been in leadership positions, I know how hard it can be.... although you try to do your best, it isn't always understood or appreciated. Many have written Bush off the last few months, many are pointing fingers and blaming him for a variety of problems. But I felt it important to acknowledge all he has done and invested these past 8 years. If you would like to encourage or thank him as well:
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500
or
comments@whitehouse.gov
or
Check this link for other contact related info.
-------------------
A few baby updates before I sign off...
She weighs about 15 pounds these days, and is about 3 1/2 months old already. We are beginning to feel like we have a decent routine coming together, although the travel and lots of people keep us from quite nailing it down. The last couple of weeks she has really 'come to life' - everyone always talks about the difference after hitting 3 months. It seemed all of a sudden that toys that barely caught her attention a short time ago, she now tries to grab at and can entertain herself for some time. She started rolling over 2 or 3 days ago (stomach to back), and not only smiles alot these days, but laughs alot too! She is really a very happy and easy to care for little girl, and everyone has been telling us how beautiful she is (so it's not just her proud parents that think so)! Oh, and she got her ears pierced just before we came up.
Well, I'll try not to wait around so long before the next post ;)
So, let's see. Just to quickly get back up to speed...
(BTW, after talking it over with my husband, I'm gonna start using his real name, Herme, here)
Without getting into all the details, we basically are completely broke and provided for at the same time. Herme left his job at the beginning of December and will be looking for a new one when we get back. We had about 10 days together before leaving Saltillo, which was really nice after all the crazy hours he worked over the last year+. Thanks to those of you who have been concerned about the job situation - sorry I have been so bad at replying! Obviously, we appreciate your prayers for a short search and a good find :)
It took some running around, but we were able to get all the passport related paperwork done in time and have finished passports in hand. (We have to travel with 2 passports for Katya, and a passport and a visa (for opposite countries) for Herme and I. Gets a little confusing!)
Katya did great on the flight up - slept and ate at the perfect times, barely made a peep all day, and even arrived awake and smiling to meet her grandpa and the first few aunts and uncles. I could really feel the prayers, between how great she did and how smoothly and quickly the day went despite a delay on our first flight causing us to arrive several hours later than planned. We discovered that I can go through American customs and immigration with Herme on the visitor side, which is nice because then we can go together and help each other juggle carry-ons and baby(s).
Our visit has been really nice, of course! :) I was grateful to see E&J and kids while they were in town visiting, as well and R&J and their new baby. We've seen both of my grandparents and almost all of my aunts and uncles and cousins. For five days in between Christmas and New Years, we had all of my siblings and their spouses and kids in my parents house - all 18 of us! It was really nice to get everyone together, the first time since my wedding. We're working on visiting assorted friends - many wanted to wait till the holidays were over. We stopped in today at my school to say hi to old coworkers. It was funny to see the looks the kids gave me - 1.5-2 years is a long time in the life of a kid to remember a teacher/principal.
Oh, and we have been very blessed by assorted gifts of money and clothes (mostly for the baby), as well as some favorite children's books and a couple of stuffed animals. :)
______________________
On a completely different note, I felt called to do something a while back and have wanted to share it here. I wrote a thank you note to President Bush for all his hard work over the past 8 years. Having been in leadership positions, I know how hard it can be.... although you try to do your best, it isn't always understood or appreciated. Many have written Bush off the last few months, many are pointing fingers and blaming him for a variety of problems. But I felt it important to acknowledge all he has done and invested these past 8 years. If you would like to encourage or thank him as well:
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500
or
comments@whitehouse.gov
or
Check this link for other contact related info.
-------------------
A few baby updates before I sign off...
She weighs about 15 pounds these days, and is about 3 1/2 months old already. We are beginning to feel like we have a decent routine coming together, although the travel and lots of people keep us from quite nailing it down. The last couple of weeks she has really 'come to life' - everyone always talks about the difference after hitting 3 months. It seemed all of a sudden that toys that barely caught her attention a short time ago, she now tries to grab at and can entertain herself for some time. She started rolling over 2 or 3 days ago (stomach to back), and not only smiles alot these days, but laughs alot too! She is really a very happy and easy to care for little girl, and everyone has been telling us how beautiful she is (so it's not just her proud parents that think so)! Oh, and she got her ears pierced just before we came up.
Well, I'll try not to wait around so long before the next post ;)
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
A collection of thoughts
So, I am currently listening to the drumming of a ritualistic dance/celebration for an idol that is taking place in front of the Catholic church a couple of buildings away from me. The dancers are dressed in traditional, indigenous outfits, very bright. Interesting, huh?
__________________________________________
In other news, we were back to the Dr´s this morning. Things looked pretty good, with me dropping a pound and the baby apparently gaining a little over a pound (estimated weight: 7lbs 11oz - which is actually my birth weight). The Dr did another internal exam, and it sounds like I hadn´t dilated at all at that point. When all was said and done, he announced that he´d like to induce next week (Wednesday, Oct 1st) if I haven´t already gone into labor. Something to do with the rate at which the placenta is ageing. I am not necessarily a huge induction fan, but considering the many levels at which I am out of my element right now (country, language, first baby....), I don´t really feel up to disagreeing with his strong personality and opinions. I am just happy he´s talking induction rather than C-section, and actually said he thinks I´m a better candidate for a normal labor than for surgery.
Both my husband and I are hoping and praying for labor to start on it´s own before next Wednesday - and in fact, it may have already. I have been having contractions at varying levels of strength and varying intervals all day. Actually, I had come last night, too. So we´ll see what happens. Obviously, any and all prayers are appreciated at this point!
One way or another, my little girl will be here in the next week. The thing that is funny to me about that is that those ticker countdowns I put on the blog just might be right on :)
___________________________________
My 3rd and final shower was Saturday. Actually, I feel like I had 2 showers on Saturday, because that morning a package arrived from a very good friend who appears to have had fun shopping for us :) But the official one was thrown by my in-laws, who made me feel very loved by all the thought, planning, work, and money that went into making it something special. Several guests we thought were for sure never showed (including, for example, a cousin) - that was the only downer. I received a variety of really nice gifts, ranging from very practical (diapers, medicine dropper, nose suction cleaner thing), to fun (hairbands!), to special (handmade by the giver sweaters), to cozy (fleece baby blankets), to possible winner of best gift (a hardcover/pages children´s bilingual Bible!).
__________________________________________
Don´t know how many of you have followed the AIG bank woes, but that is the parent company that my husband is working for. He already was feeling enough pressure of late to feel his job is at risk. We´re obviously feeling that pressure even more now. Still waiting to see what God has in store on the job front, and hoping it is something new and better just around the corner...
__________________________________________
In other news, we were back to the Dr´s this morning. Things looked pretty good, with me dropping a pound and the baby apparently gaining a little over a pound (estimated weight: 7lbs 11oz - which is actually my birth weight). The Dr did another internal exam, and it sounds like I hadn´t dilated at all at that point. When all was said and done, he announced that he´d like to induce next week (Wednesday, Oct 1st) if I haven´t already gone into labor. Something to do with the rate at which the placenta is ageing. I am not necessarily a huge induction fan, but considering the many levels at which I am out of my element right now (country, language, first baby....), I don´t really feel up to disagreeing with his strong personality and opinions. I am just happy he´s talking induction rather than C-section, and actually said he thinks I´m a better candidate for a normal labor than for surgery.
Both my husband and I are hoping and praying for labor to start on it´s own before next Wednesday - and in fact, it may have already. I have been having contractions at varying levels of strength and varying intervals all day. Actually, I had come last night, too. So we´ll see what happens. Obviously, any and all prayers are appreciated at this point!
One way or another, my little girl will be here in the next week. The thing that is funny to me about that is that those ticker countdowns I put on the blog just might be right on :)
___________________________________
My 3rd and final shower was Saturday. Actually, I feel like I had 2 showers on Saturday, because that morning a package arrived from a very good friend who appears to have had fun shopping for us :) But the official one was thrown by my in-laws, who made me feel very loved by all the thought, planning, work, and money that went into making it something special. Several guests we thought were for sure never showed (including, for example, a cousin) - that was the only downer. I received a variety of really nice gifts, ranging from very practical (diapers, medicine dropper, nose suction cleaner thing), to fun (hairbands!), to special (handmade by the giver sweaters), to cozy (fleece baby blankets), to possible winner of best gift (a hardcover/pages children´s bilingual Bible!).
__________________________________________
Don´t know how many of you have followed the AIG bank woes, but that is the parent company that my husband is working for. He already was feeling enough pressure of late to feel his job is at risk. We´re obviously feeling that pressure even more now. Still waiting to see what God has in store on the job front, and hoping it is something new and better just around the corner...
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Prayer Request
So tell me if this doesn`t sound like a heavy enough workload...
Mon-Fri: 11ish hour workdays
Sat: 7ish hour workday
Sun: work one Sunday/month, about 8ish hours
The work includes: Driving to 28 clients´ houses (14 on Saturdays) to find out why they have not been making payments on their loan and to somehow convince them they need to start paying. Then head to the office for a couple of hours to capture all the data on the day´s work and print out what to do the next day.
This has netted us just enough to pay our bills.
That has been my dear husband´s schedule since we got married (well, for a few months before then too.)
On Tuesday, they had a staff meeting. The workload increased significantly, starting immediately. By significantly, I mean they have to make 35 visits/day Mon-Fri - a 25% increase. Saturday´s workload doubled from 14 to 28 visits. And for the rest of the month they are expected to work every single Sunday - 35 visits.
You may ask, as my husband´s coworkers did, if the increased workload equals more pay. The answer is no. You may also ask if they will be given more gasoline money (they have been receiving enough to pay for about 2/3 of the gas they actually use in a month). Again, the answer is no. So basically, my poor husband is going to put in the equivalent of an extra week to 10 days worth of work this month, and we will have less money when the month ends (because we will have to pay for all that extra gas ourselves - I`m not sure we even have the money to do that).
They were told these changes are definite for this month - there are no promises of what next month will look like.
Are you feeling our need for a breakthrough on the job front? We aren`t looking for a huge salary or anything, just enough to pay our bills with a new baby on the way and have a little bit to set aside for emergencies and such. We aren`t saying he should only work 40 hours a week, but it would be nice if he had more than 3 Sunday`s a month to rest (oh wait, he doesn`t even have that any more!). And having a boss that wasn`t constantly questioning his work ethic and integrity would be nice. One who was actually somewhat encouraging would be a huge blessing.
While I am asking for prayer, I officially entered the 3rd trimester this month, and so the decision about the how and why of the birth needs to be made pretty soon. You see, we can go to the government run hospitals and pay little to nothing (which fits our budget perfectly) - but they are generally overcrowded and understaffed, I would be expected to stay in a bed once admitted (no birth friendly position changing allowed here, nor walking), at least 3 women are put to a room, and my husband is not allowed in the room with me. An even bigger deal when you realize the language issues that could arise. (We are going to ask if the language issue would get my husband in the room with me, but it doesn`t look too likely.)
There are private hospitals, but the cost would be close to 2 months wages.
What I would really like is to have a home birth with an experienced midwife. Unfortunately, that is not common here and it is next to impossible to find midwives. The only one I have found has a prior commitment that takes her out of town every Thursday to Saturday (as in, half of the week), every week, all through September and October. And even if/when we find one, it costs a little more than a month`s wages.
So please pray for wisdom and open doors and peace in both of these major areas of our lives right now. Thanks for helping us in this way. I appreciate your friendships!
Mon-Fri: 11ish hour workdays
Sat: 7ish hour workday
Sun: work one Sunday/month, about 8ish hours
The work includes: Driving to 28 clients´ houses (14 on Saturdays) to find out why they have not been making payments on their loan and to somehow convince them they need to start paying. Then head to the office for a couple of hours to capture all the data on the day´s work and print out what to do the next day.
This has netted us just enough to pay our bills.
That has been my dear husband´s schedule since we got married (well, for a few months before then too.)
On Tuesday, they had a staff meeting. The workload increased significantly, starting immediately. By significantly, I mean they have to make 35 visits/day Mon-Fri - a 25% increase. Saturday´s workload doubled from 14 to 28 visits. And for the rest of the month they are expected to work every single Sunday - 35 visits.
You may ask, as my husband´s coworkers did, if the increased workload equals more pay. The answer is no. You may also ask if they will be given more gasoline money (they have been receiving enough to pay for about 2/3 of the gas they actually use in a month). Again, the answer is no. So basically, my poor husband is going to put in the equivalent of an extra week to 10 days worth of work this month, and we will have less money when the month ends (because we will have to pay for all that extra gas ourselves - I`m not sure we even have the money to do that).
They were told these changes are definite for this month - there are no promises of what next month will look like.
Are you feeling our need for a breakthrough on the job front? We aren`t looking for a huge salary or anything, just enough to pay our bills with a new baby on the way and have a little bit to set aside for emergencies and such. We aren`t saying he should only work 40 hours a week, but it would be nice if he had more than 3 Sunday`s a month to rest (oh wait, he doesn`t even have that any more!). And having a boss that wasn`t constantly questioning his work ethic and integrity would be nice. One who was actually somewhat encouraging would be a huge blessing.
While I am asking for prayer, I officially entered the 3rd trimester this month, and so the decision about the how and why of the birth needs to be made pretty soon. You see, we can go to the government run hospitals and pay little to nothing (which fits our budget perfectly) - but they are generally overcrowded and understaffed, I would be expected to stay in a bed once admitted (no birth friendly position changing allowed here, nor walking), at least 3 women are put to a room, and my husband is not allowed in the room with me. An even bigger deal when you realize the language issues that could arise. (We are going to ask if the language issue would get my husband in the room with me, but it doesn`t look too likely.)
There are private hospitals, but the cost would be close to 2 months wages.
What I would really like is to have a home birth with an experienced midwife. Unfortunately, that is not common here and it is next to impossible to find midwives. The only one I have found has a prior commitment that takes her out of town every Thursday to Saturday (as in, half of the week), every week, all through September and October. And even if/when we find one, it costs a little more than a month`s wages.
So please pray for wisdom and open doors and peace in both of these major areas of our lives right now. Thanks for helping us in this way. I appreciate your friendships!
Friday, September 21, 2007
My attitude
I just feel a need to to apologize for the tone of my last entry. It wasn't exactly 'faith-filled'. It was pretty complain-y.
So, stating once again for the record:
My God is Jehovah Jireh, my Provider, and He shall provide for all our needs according to His great riches in glory.
So, stating once again for the record:
My God is Jehovah Jireh, my Provider, and He shall provide for all our needs according to His great riches in glory.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Fair compensation?
I was able to talk to my love last night (hooray!). Apparently, there were some weird internet issues this past Saturday. It turns out we were both online at the agreed upon time, but neither of us to could see or communicate with the other. Very strange.
Anyways, I'm beginning to wonder about this new job of his. Well, continuing to wonder might be more accurate. I already knew he had to work at least a half day most Saturdays. Now apparently he's been told to work one Sunday a month. He's still going to ask if he can just work extra hours another day so he doesn't have to miss church and all (I mean, he is the worship leader!). But the thing I don't get is how they get away with paying him so little for so much work. His salary would definitely be considered below poverty level here, although it doesn't seem that drastically low by Mexican standards. But this is an American based company. A professional level job. I can deal with long work hours if it feels worth it, but it will be hard to put up with if he continues to make less than what the bills add up to. I'm hoping all his hard work now is going to lead to some type of raise or something. Or that the Lord opens up a better opportunity. Something.
Anyways, I'm beginning to wonder about this new job of his. Well, continuing to wonder might be more accurate. I already knew he had to work at least a half day most Saturdays. Now apparently he's been told to work one Sunday a month. He's still going to ask if he can just work extra hours another day so he doesn't have to miss church and all (I mean, he is the worship leader!). But the thing I don't get is how they get away with paying him so little for so much work. His salary would definitely be considered below poverty level here, although it doesn't seem that drastically low by Mexican standards. But this is an American based company. A professional level job. I can deal with long work hours if it feels worth it, but it will be hard to put up with if he continues to make less than what the bills add up to. I'm hoping all his hard work now is going to lead to some type of raise or something. Or that the Lord opens up a better opportunity. Something.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Independence
I've been giving this concept some thought lately. This is partly due to comparing Mexican culture to American culture. One thing I've noticed is how Mexican culture is more family and community oriented, while America tends to breed an independent streak. Look at how we became a nation. It is in our blood.
Hmm, I'm having trouble organizing my thoughts well. Sorry if this comes out a little choppy.
It is interesting to look at how this cultural difference plays out generationally. For example, in America, we encourage and expect young adults to move out on their own. It is often considered a sign of maturity, or a way to attain maturity, if someone in the 18 - mid 20's range moves out of their parents' place into an apartment. In Mexico, on the other hand, it is extremely rare for a single adult to move out of their parents' home, and oftentimes newlyweds continue to live at home for the first couple of years. There's no negative connotation for doing so, but rather is expected.
At the other end of the spectrum, in Mexico it is expected and understood that the elderly will be cared for by family. Widows are supported by their children. I've never seen or heard yet of nursing homes or adult care facilities there. In contrast, many Americans struggle with the issue of how to care for the elderly. Either the elderly person is determined to maintain their accustomed lifestyle for as long as possible, or their children look for ways to provide them care without it having too big an impact on their own lives.
I've been giving thought to both ends of the spectrum in my own life and family lately. My remaining grandmother is 94 years old, and has stubbornly lived alone up to this point. She can hardly entertain the notion of leaving her home, has blocked almost every attempt we've made to offer help (for example, canceling Meals on Wheels within the first 48 hours). She's been in the hospital since Saturday; there's a diagnosis of congestive heart failure. Where walking was slow and difficult for her before, it's dangerous now. We can't send her home to live alone again, but we are equally sure she will protest any other option.
I've been thinking about the changes in my own life recently. A year ago (well, up to a few months ago), I lived alone. I was an elementary school principal. I was very action oriented, a problem solver, decision maker. Now? I live with my family. I am at the bottom of the totem pole at my workplace. I'm soon to move to another country, but the timing of said move is out of my hands. Interestingly, realizing the changes in my position have made me more trusting of my fiance.
I don't know how well all that makes sense to anyone else, but I needed to write it out. I'm curious to understand the cultural difference better as time goes on, and the impact those differences have in people's everyday lives. And I am glad I know the One who is in control of it all.
Hmm, I'm having trouble organizing my thoughts well. Sorry if this comes out a little choppy.
It is interesting to look at how this cultural difference plays out generationally. For example, in America, we encourage and expect young adults to move out on their own. It is often considered a sign of maturity, or a way to attain maturity, if someone in the 18 - mid 20's range moves out of their parents' place into an apartment. In Mexico, on the other hand, it is extremely rare for a single adult to move out of their parents' home, and oftentimes newlyweds continue to live at home for the first couple of years. There's no negative connotation for doing so, but rather is expected.
At the other end of the spectrum, in Mexico it is expected and understood that the elderly will be cared for by family. Widows are supported by their children. I've never seen or heard yet of nursing homes or adult care facilities there. In contrast, many Americans struggle with the issue of how to care for the elderly. Either the elderly person is determined to maintain their accustomed lifestyle for as long as possible, or their children look for ways to provide them care without it having too big an impact on their own lives.
I've been giving thought to both ends of the spectrum in my own life and family lately. My remaining grandmother is 94 years old, and has stubbornly lived alone up to this point. She can hardly entertain the notion of leaving her home, has blocked almost every attempt we've made to offer help (for example, canceling Meals on Wheels within the first 48 hours). She's been in the hospital since Saturday; there's a diagnosis of congestive heart failure. Where walking was slow and difficult for her before, it's dangerous now. We can't send her home to live alone again, but we are equally sure she will protest any other option.
I've been thinking about the changes in my own life recently. A year ago (well, up to a few months ago), I lived alone. I was an elementary school principal. I was very action oriented, a problem solver, decision maker. Now? I live with my family. I am at the bottom of the totem pole at my workplace. I'm soon to move to another country, but the timing of said move is out of my hands. Interestingly, realizing the changes in my position have made me more trusting of my fiance.
I don't know how well all that makes sense to anyone else, but I needed to write it out. I'm curious to understand the cultural difference better as time goes on, and the impact those differences have in people's everyday lives. And I am glad I know the One who is in control of it all.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
My 1st Non-"1st day back to school"
As my brothers headed out the door to their 1st day back to school, my mother made an interesting point:
This is the first year in something like 25 years, since I started at pre-school, that I am not heading off to my 1st day back to school. Immediately upon graduating HS, I headed to college, and immediately upon graduating college, I started working in a school. I've always existed, up to this point, on the school schedule. But not this year.
You'd think, for someone as sentimental and tradition oriented as me, that I'd feel this change more deeply. I guess it is a sign of being ready for this transition, of looking forward to the next phase of my life, that I've hardly realized it, much less had any major feelings on the subject.
I did call and email several good friends from my old workplace and wish them well on a new year. But I haven't really missed being there much at all. I guess that is a good thing....?
This is the first year in something like 25 years, since I started at pre-school, that I am not heading off to my 1st day back to school. Immediately upon graduating HS, I headed to college, and immediately upon graduating college, I started working in a school. I've always existed, up to this point, on the school schedule. But not this year.
You'd think, for someone as sentimental and tradition oriented as me, that I'd feel this change more deeply. I guess it is a sign of being ready for this transition, of looking forward to the next phase of my life, that I've hardly realized it, much less had any major feelings on the subject.
I did call and email several good friends from my old workplace and wish them well on a new year. But I haven't really missed being there much at all. I guess that is a good thing....?
Thursday, August 23, 2007
I somehow misunderstood
Apparently, FB did get the one job (the one that doesn't pay that great but is better than nothing). So that's a little bit of good news. I don't know what he was trying to tell me the other day when I misunderstood him and thought it was a no-go. He is continuing to search for something better, but at least it will be some income in the meantime...
Monday, August 6, 2007
Did I say laid back and easy?
I am writing this from my new job, where I was eventually told today (1st day) by the person training me to feel free to bring something to read, etc, for the slow times. This is about as easy and laid back as a job can be, I think. I basically take reservations and answer questions - which can come several in a row or spaced out by half hour increments...
At least I won't have to worry about being stressed at work!
At least I won't have to worry about being stressed at work!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Did I mention I'm in transition?
The timing of my Mexico trip and family vacation mean that I've essentially been away for 3 weeks. What makes that timing so interesting is that I need to wrap things up at my job and move out of my apartment (back home) by the end of the month. I don't know about the rest of you, but when I've been away from home for awhile, the last think I want to do is start sorting and packing. Not just any sorting and packing, but well thought out and organized so I know what is going to Mexico with me and when. And having been away from work for 3 weeks does not make it easy to get back in the swing of things. Thankfully, that part is pretty low-key.
I feel like I explain the timeline of the next several months multiple times a day and by now the whole world should know it. But I realize it is quite possible I have not explained it to all who happen to read this blog, so let me spell it out quick:
End of July: My contract at work is up and I stop receiving a paycheck. My lease is up on my apartment and I move home to save money.
Mid-Late October: FB comes to visit here for about a week. I go back with him, moving to Mexico.
December 29th: The wedding.
Up until recently, my plans for between the end of July and the end of October were pretty vague, revolving around whatever I felt I needed to tie up all my loose ends here before moving away. However, circumstances have conspired against me in such a way that my savings account has shrunk significantly. So where before I considered some very part-time work to just keep things even, I am now feeling a strong need to work at least half-time and earn some money in the next couple of months. Although I won't have to pay rent, I'll still have things like gas, going out with friends, etc, that will require money. And there are a couple of bigger things I want to do, like consider new glasses and maybe make a trip to CA. Thankfully, my dad has connections and can probably help me find an office job (which is perfect for me since most of my part time jobs over the years were office jobs, and it is a pretty low-stress, mindless kind of thing).
This is a very interesting stage to have come to. I am thankful to close the chapter of this last year, because it was very hard to basically have a whole year of working and living in places I knew I'd soon be leaving. I feel like I am moving on, am much closer to the wedding and starting the next chapter. However, for the moment, I am between things, in a type of holding pattern for about 3 months. I haven't quite sorted out what I think and feel about this yet....maybe there will be more to come.
And now for a sappy moment.....
I miss my man!!!
The combination of not being as busy now since I am simply wrapping things up at work and having just recently returned from a visit in which I was able to spend at least several hours everyday with him - suffice it to say that our internet dates for an hour or 2 every 3-4 days seem awfully paltry now.
I promise, pictures really are coming soon. I just can't load them from home, and when I was working on it the other day, the computer I was using froze. Soon, really.
I feel like I explain the timeline of the next several months multiple times a day and by now the whole world should know it. But I realize it is quite possible I have not explained it to all who happen to read this blog, so let me spell it out quick:
End of July: My contract at work is up and I stop receiving a paycheck. My lease is up on my apartment and I move home to save money.
Mid-Late October: FB comes to visit here for about a week. I go back with him, moving to Mexico.
December 29th: The wedding.
Up until recently, my plans for between the end of July and the end of October were pretty vague, revolving around whatever I felt I needed to tie up all my loose ends here before moving away. However, circumstances have conspired against me in such a way that my savings account has shrunk significantly. So where before I considered some very part-time work to just keep things even, I am now feeling a strong need to work at least half-time and earn some money in the next couple of months. Although I won't have to pay rent, I'll still have things like gas, going out with friends, etc, that will require money. And there are a couple of bigger things I want to do, like consider new glasses and maybe make a trip to CA. Thankfully, my dad has connections and can probably help me find an office job (which is perfect for me since most of my part time jobs over the years were office jobs, and it is a pretty low-stress, mindless kind of thing).
This is a very interesting stage to have come to. I am thankful to close the chapter of this last year, because it was very hard to basically have a whole year of working and living in places I knew I'd soon be leaving. I feel like I am moving on, am much closer to the wedding and starting the next chapter. However, for the moment, I am between things, in a type of holding pattern for about 3 months. I haven't quite sorted out what I think and feel about this yet....maybe there will be more to come.
And now for a sappy moment.....
I miss my man!!!
The combination of not being as busy now since I am simply wrapping things up at work and having just recently returned from a visit in which I was able to spend at least several hours everyday with him - suffice it to say that our internet dates for an hour or 2 every 3-4 days seem awfully paltry now.
I promise, pictures really are coming soon. I just can't load them from home, and when I was working on it the other day, the computer I was using froze. Soon, really.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Mile Markers
So, there's been some major milestone moments in the last week. I've actually been wanting to write for days, but it has been so busy...
Last Thursday, FB was approved for his visa!! When I read his email that night letting me know, I cried for about half an hour. Off and on, but 30 minutes easily. It was such a relief. It is a really big deal for him to be able to come and meet my family and friends before I move down. And he thinks that it is good for the next 10 YEARS! We're waiting until he actually gets it in the mail to be sure, but that would be awesome...to not have to worry about the paperwork for 10 years of visits, etc. That is an awesome example of our Heavenly Father doing something exceedingly, abundantly above all we can ask or think.
The next day, Friday, was my last day with the students at school. I was all prepared to cry my way through that, but never actually shed a tear. I did get a little teary-eyed here and there, but that was it. I gave all of them hugs, waved to all as the buses drove away, and felt surprisingly little. I decided this week that God knew what he was doing when He built in such a long period of transition for me. I have never been good with change, but having such a long transition made me very ready to close this chapter and move on to the next. I don't think anyone likes living in transition.
Today was my last day with the whole staff. I did cry some today. My boss gave me flowers and a gift card in front of everyone, making the expected (although heartfelt) parting words. We had a time of 'popcorn thanks' where anyone who wanted could stand up and thank someone for whatever. I was doing pretty good through that, until one woman who has been a solid friend for the last 5 years totally lost it while thanking me for being there for her. She is the kind of person I wouldn't name at the top of my 'closest, most important friends' list, but that I have a depth of friendship with that I will miss. After that, I have been on the verge of tears when anyone stopped to talk to me. The friendships I have here at work....it finally hit me today how much I will miss some of these people. I will still see most of them - I plan on popping in at the beginning of the school year, many of the ones I am closest to I will get together with, etc. But I am going to move away soon, and I felt that tearing today. It is hard to feel the true reality of leaving the place I have worked for the last 7 years (the same building I went to school in for 13 years!).
In a little over 17 hours I leave for Mexico for an 11 day visit. Hooray! So I am not sure if I'll be posting while I am gone. I may try to stop in a cyber cafe and jot a few notes for you all, we'll see. I am just so excited to see my man. :)
So, there you have the gamut of my emotions of late, compiled quickly in between things that need to get done before I leave. I'm off to finish packing...
Last Thursday, FB was approved for his visa!! When I read his email that night letting me know, I cried for about half an hour. Off and on, but 30 minutes easily. It was such a relief. It is a really big deal for him to be able to come and meet my family and friends before I move down. And he thinks that it is good for the next 10 YEARS! We're waiting until he actually gets it in the mail to be sure, but that would be awesome...to not have to worry about the paperwork for 10 years of visits, etc. That is an awesome example of our Heavenly Father doing something exceedingly, abundantly above all we can ask or think.
The next day, Friday, was my last day with the students at school. I was all prepared to cry my way through that, but never actually shed a tear. I did get a little teary-eyed here and there, but that was it. I gave all of them hugs, waved to all as the buses drove away, and felt surprisingly little. I decided this week that God knew what he was doing when He built in such a long period of transition for me. I have never been good with change, but having such a long transition made me very ready to close this chapter and move on to the next. I don't think anyone likes living in transition.
Today was my last day with the whole staff. I did cry some today. My boss gave me flowers and a gift card in front of everyone, making the expected (although heartfelt) parting words. We had a time of 'popcorn thanks' where anyone who wanted could stand up and thank someone for whatever. I was doing pretty good through that, until one woman who has been a solid friend for the last 5 years totally lost it while thanking me for being there for her. She is the kind of person I wouldn't name at the top of my 'closest, most important friends' list, but that I have a depth of friendship with that I will miss. After that, I have been on the verge of tears when anyone stopped to talk to me. The friendships I have here at work....it finally hit me today how much I will miss some of these people. I will still see most of them - I plan on popping in at the beginning of the school year, many of the ones I am closest to I will get together with, etc. But I am going to move away soon, and I felt that tearing today. It is hard to feel the true reality of leaving the place I have worked for the last 7 years (the same building I went to school in for 13 years!).
In a little over 17 hours I leave for Mexico for an 11 day visit. Hooray! So I am not sure if I'll be posting while I am gone. I may try to stop in a cyber cafe and jot a few notes for you all, we'll see. I am just so excited to see my man. :)
So, there you have the gamut of my emotions of late, compiled quickly in between things that need to get done before I leave. I'm off to finish packing...
Monday, June 11, 2007
I keep thinking about posting...
...but most of what is going on with me right now isn't/can't be public information. So every time I sat down and thought about posting, I sort of hit a brick wall. Plus, in case you didn't pick it up from my last, very short post - life was a little crazy last week. But I decided to try sharing some of the emotions without the situational details I can't get into.
There are some situations in my fiance's life right now that leave my usually confident man feeling pretty unsure about what God is doing right now. That in itself is a bit unsettling for me, but the situation impacts us both in some very real ways that are a bit difficult. And in talking that out, we came as close as we ever have to a fight. Nothing huge, and in some ways comforting to me to walk through and come out the other side intact. Needless to say, long distance conversations on these issues is not ideal, and that upcoming visit is looking better and better (11 days and counting...).
For me, there is an area I feel I have waited in for a really long time - and have recently discovered that I may have to wait even longer. So it was interesting to read OTRgirl's post about resting in the Lord. It made me realize that I am sort of avoiding the Lord on this issue. I sort of forced myself to prayer journal last night, which is a step in the right direction. But I think I really need to just wait on Him a bit (which requires purposefully carving out some time).
Finally, last week was just full of feeling like people were working against me instead of with me. Students doing stupid things I expect, especially at the end of the year. Teachers and parents though - come on!
Anyways, I should get back to work. Maybe now that I've gotten past the brick wall, I'll be able to write again soon...
There are some situations in my fiance's life right now that leave my usually confident man feeling pretty unsure about what God is doing right now. That in itself is a bit unsettling for me, but the situation impacts us both in some very real ways that are a bit difficult. And in talking that out, we came as close as we ever have to a fight. Nothing huge, and in some ways comforting to me to walk through and come out the other side intact. Needless to say, long distance conversations on these issues is not ideal, and that upcoming visit is looking better and better (11 days and counting...).
For me, there is an area I feel I have waited in for a really long time - and have recently discovered that I may have to wait even longer. So it was interesting to read OTRgirl's post about resting in the Lord. It made me realize that I am sort of avoiding the Lord on this issue. I sort of forced myself to prayer journal last night, which is a step in the right direction. But I think I really need to just wait on Him a bit (which requires purposefully carving out some time).
Finally, last week was just full of feeling like people were working against me instead of with me. Students doing stupid things I expect, especially at the end of the year. Teachers and parents though - come on!
Anyways, I should get back to work. Maybe now that I've gotten past the brick wall, I'll be able to write again soon...
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Yuck
I am the only principal in the building today. And I woke up with a really bad headache. And everyone just needs to quit being so obnoxious and just behave themselves - staff and students alike.
Sorry. Needed a moment to vent.
Sorry. Needed a moment to vent.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
An Update...
Well, I didn't want to leave everyone hanging, wondering if I am doomed to perpetual crying. The good news is, I made it through all of today without crying once. Yesterday, on the other hand, I made it almost through the whole day, then lost it in a meeting with my boss at 5ish. The great thing about that is that I have a very unique relationship with my boss, and it doesn't phase him in the least when I cry in one of our meetings. He also doesn't read more into it than is there - he can usually accurately perceive the root of the tears, sometimes better than I can. On my end, these were half-way expected tears due to the topic at hand. Which, for those who do not cry as frequently as I do, is much easier to deal with than unexpected and/or seemingly pointless tears. So, I guess it is a mixed bag of progress. At least I am not crying multiple times a day in an on-going fashion.
My continued search for airfare has me pretty well convinced that I can't fly from here to there and back again for less than $500. (To be perfectly truthful, there are flights {at ungodly hours, with multiple long layovers, returning to a different airport than you started at} for $489, but...) I feel like I had another thought here, but I lost it.
On another note, I often struggle with finishing things well. I tend to peeter out towards the end of things, having lost motivation for it as I start looking ahead to the next thing. I am trying desperately to fight this tendency in my last weeks at work. Fighting it is similar to the feeling in bad dreams when you can't move as fast as you want to, no matter how important it is. So I'd appreciate any and all prayers on this front. I do want to finish out well. I want to leave all the bases covered, not gaping holes.
Ok, I'm off to write a love letter....it is long overdue.
My continued search for airfare has me pretty well convinced that I can't fly from here to there and back again for less than $500. (To be perfectly truthful, there are flights {at ungodly hours, with multiple long layovers, returning to a different airport than you started at} for $489, but...) I feel like I had another thought here, but I lost it.
On another note, I often struggle with finishing things well. I tend to peeter out towards the end of things, having lost motivation for it as I start looking ahead to the next thing. I am trying desperately to fight this tendency in my last weeks at work. Fighting it is similar to the feeling in bad dreams when you can't move as fast as you want to, no matter how important it is. So I'd appreciate any and all prayers on this front. I do want to finish out well. I want to leave all the bases covered, not gaping holes.
Ok, I'm off to write a love letter....it is long overdue.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)