I am exhausted! work has been crazy this week. On a normal day, my boss makes sure I get at least an hour to go home and relax. Some days I am home for a few hours, which is nice, because it gives me the chance to play games like samurai online and relax. Then there are the days when I don't even have time to stop and use the restroom. Thankfully, those days are few and far between.
Not this week, though, Wednesday was one of those days, and I was almost an hour late getting home that day. Today was just as bad, though I did manage to make it home on time. I don't mind busy days. In fact, when we are busy, time seems to go by faster. But I only slept about five hours last night, so being on the road all day was hard. All I wanted to do was come home and take a nap.
I am sure that I have mentioned a time or two how awesome my boss is. Yesterday, he gave me money for lunch, just because I worked so hard on Wednesday. He is always telling me how much he appreciates me, and let me tell you, that makes me love my job even more. I spent most of my life before this job working fast food, and while I have had some very nice bosses, that kind of work is hardly ever appreciated. I love that my current boss doesn't think twice about calling me during the day just to mess with me. I think we are more friends than employer/employee, and I really like that.
Today, though, I would have loved some down time to get online and catch up with the goings on of Facebook. I could do that now, but honestly, my pillow is calling to me, and I might just have to answer.
Showing posts with label working. Show all posts
Showing posts with label working. Show all posts
Friday, September 14, 2012
Thursday, August 30, 2012
My Car And My Boss
Life has been a little crazy for me lately. A couple of months ago, my car started acting up. After a couple of trips to the mechanic, it was diagnosed with transmission trouble. My car was having trouble with first gear. To avoid major (and extremely expensive) work, the mechanic showed me how to shift it manually, even though it is an automatic, which seemed to solve my issue.
Until last week. I was driving to the grocery store, and when I tried to go after stopping at a red light, nothing happened. My poor transmission finally gave out, and Ryan had to push my car to get up enough speed to bypass first gear so that I could get my car home. My ex is pretty good at fixing cars, and he offered to replace my transmission. The only problem was that I didn't have the money to buy even a used transmission. I was also getting sick, so last weekend, instead of worrying abut my car or playing free pyramid solitaire, I took some cold medicine and slept for almost 36 hours straight. By Sunday night, I was feeling a little better, and knew that I needed to make a decision about my car.
I knew I would have to borrow the money to fix it, but I didn't want to ask anyone. I know that it is my responsibility, not anyone else's, but when every cent I make goes towards bills, finding an extra $600 is impossible. On Tuesday, my boss asked me what I was doing about my car, because he knew all the trouble I had been having. We talk every morning and are more friends than boss/employee. He even called around to the mechanics he knows to see how much it would cost to fix my transmission. When I told him my ex would fix my car if I could come up with the $575 for the transmission, he told me to follow him to the atm, and he handed me the money.
I couldn't stop crying. I told him that I couldn't ask him to do that, and he told me that I didn't ask, it was an emergency, and then asked if I planned on quitting. I told him of course not, so he told me I can pay him back $25 a week until we're even. Have I told you all how much I love this man?
So this weekend, my ex is going to put in my new transmission, and hopefully by Sunday morning I will have my car back. I can not wait!
Until last week. I was driving to the grocery store, and when I tried to go after stopping at a red light, nothing happened. My poor transmission finally gave out, and Ryan had to push my car to get up enough speed to bypass first gear so that I could get my car home. My ex is pretty good at fixing cars, and he offered to replace my transmission. The only problem was that I didn't have the money to buy even a used transmission. I was also getting sick, so last weekend, instead of worrying abut my car or playing free pyramid solitaire, I took some cold medicine and slept for almost 36 hours straight. By Sunday night, I was feeling a little better, and knew that I needed to make a decision about my car.
I knew I would have to borrow the money to fix it, but I didn't want to ask anyone. I know that it is my responsibility, not anyone else's, but when every cent I make goes towards bills, finding an extra $600 is impossible. On Tuesday, my boss asked me what I was doing about my car, because he knew all the trouble I had been having. We talk every morning and are more friends than boss/employee. He even called around to the mechanics he knows to see how much it would cost to fix my transmission. When I told him my ex would fix my car if I could come up with the $575 for the transmission, he told me to follow him to the atm, and he handed me the money.
I couldn't stop crying. I told him that I couldn't ask him to do that, and he told me that I didn't ask, it was an emergency, and then asked if I planned on quitting. I told him of course not, so he told me I can pay him back $25 a week until we're even. Have I told you all how much I love this man?
So this weekend, my ex is going to put in my new transmission, and hopefully by Sunday morning I will have my car back. I can not wait!
Friday, March 30, 2012
What Type Of Driver Are You?
I see a lot of different types of vehicles on the road every day. I have seen everything from mini-cars to big rigs with two trailers attached. Those happen to be my least favorite vehicles to encounter on the interstate, simply because it always looks like they are having trouble controlling both trailers, especially when the wind is blowing. By far, though, the funniest car I have ever seen was painted like a package of Skittle, complete with the "taste the rainbow" slogan down the side. I can't help but wonder what would posses the driver to do that to his vehicle. I mean, I love peanut butter Twix, but I would never paint my car metallic red and put the Twix logo on the side. Unless they paid me.
Driving every day has also taught me a lot about people. For instance, people driving wheelchair vans or daycare buses tend to be more careful drivers. I guess they figure their cargo is too precious to endanger. The drivers I hate the most are women on cell phones and business men who appear to be late for a meeting. Now, I have been known to drive while talking on my cell phone, but I am never distracted. My eyes are always on the road and I keep up with the flow of traffic. A lot of the women I see talking on their phones tend to slow down, which makes for dangerous conditions, especially on the interstate, where I spend most of my day. The men who appear to be late tend to weave in and out of traffic, traveling way faster than the posted speed limit. I don't think I need to tell you all the dangers they pose to not only themselves, but the other drivers on the road.
I tend to stay in the middle lane, simply because that is where I feel the safest. Like I said, my eyes are always on the road, because I have too much waiting for me at home to let another driver cause me to have an accident.
Driving every day has also taught me a lot about people. For instance, people driving wheelchair vans or daycare buses tend to be more careful drivers. I guess they figure their cargo is too precious to endanger. The drivers I hate the most are women on cell phones and business men who appear to be late for a meeting. Now, I have been known to drive while talking on my cell phone, but I am never distracted. My eyes are always on the road and I keep up with the flow of traffic. A lot of the women I see talking on their phones tend to slow down, which makes for dangerous conditions, especially on the interstate, where I spend most of my day. The men who appear to be late tend to weave in and out of traffic, traveling way faster than the posted speed limit. I don't think I need to tell you all the dangers they pose to not only themselves, but the other drivers on the road.
I tend to stay in the middle lane, simply because that is where I feel the safest. Like I said, my eyes are always on the road, because I have too much waiting for me at home to let another driver cause me to have an accident.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Let's All Support Local Businesses
I work for a man who owns a small business. You all know that I drive a delivery van, but I don't think I've ever talked much about what I actually do. In the mornings, I deliver mail to several local businesses. These are small businesses, and unfortunately, a few that I used to deliver to have gone out of business over the last year. In the afternoon, I revisit each business and pick up mail that I then drop off at the post office before going home. In between my mail routes, I deliver between businesses. I really do love my job, mostly because for most of the day, it is just me and my radio. I love cranking up my favorite songs and singing along at the top of my lungs. People I pass must think I'm insane as they see me dancing in my seat, but I don't care. It makes the day go by faster.
I wish more people would Support Local Business owners and not shop so much in the big chain stores. I am guilty of spending most of my paycheck at Walmart every week, but when it comes to finding one of a kind gifts, or jewelry, I try and buy handmade things. I love etsy, and try to search out artists who are from my area. I did a lot of my Christmas shopping the past two years online, buying handmade things. I would rather spend a little more on something that I know was made with love. In fact, I bought my mom the cutest potholders last year, and they were about ten times more expensive than what I would have paid in a chain store, but I considered it money well spent because I was helping to support a local mom who was trying to help support her family.
I guess my point is, we all need to be more supportive of local small businesses.
I wish more people would Support Local Business owners and not shop so much in the big chain stores. I am guilty of spending most of my paycheck at Walmart every week, but when it comes to finding one of a kind gifts, or jewelry, I try and buy handmade things. I love etsy, and try to search out artists who are from my area. I did a lot of my Christmas shopping the past two years online, buying handmade things. I would rather spend a little more on something that I know was made with love. In fact, I bought my mom the cutest potholders last year, and they were about ten times more expensive than what I would have paid in a chain store, but I considered it money well spent because I was helping to support a local mom who was trying to help support her family.
I guess my point is, we all need to be more supportive of local small businesses.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Time
My job requires me to always know what time it is. I am on a schedule most days, and making sure I get my deliveries where they need to be on time is very important. The clock in my van is two minutes slow, which is kind of annoying, especially when those two minutes make a difference like they did today. I thought I arrived somewhere before noon, when it was actually one minute after, and they refused to unload me until they got back from break at 1. I went and ate Taco Bell, but it was a waste of an hour. I hate when that happens.
I have a feeling you will suggest I just fix the time on the van clock, but I don't know how. Trust me, I have tried several times to figure it out. I think my best bet would be to invest in a watch for myself. There are so many pretty ladies watches out there, I know I will have a hard time deciding what kind to get. I used to have a gold one that had diamonds and amethysts around the face. I loved that watch! I still have it in my jewelry box, but the band is broken and it costs too much to have it fixed. Plus, I need something a little more sturdy to wear to work. I bang my hands and arms all the time on the van doors. I know if I wear a delicate watch to work it will break within a week.
I'm thinking of getting one with a black leather band and a simple face. Or maybe something purple. I'm not sure, but I'll let you know when I decide!
I have a feeling you will suggest I just fix the time on the van clock, but I don't know how. Trust me, I have tried several times to figure it out. I think my best bet would be to invest in a watch for myself. There are so many pretty ladies watches out there, I know I will have a hard time deciding what kind to get. I used to have a gold one that had diamonds and amethysts around the face. I loved that watch! I still have it in my jewelry box, but the band is broken and it costs too much to have it fixed. Plus, I need something a little more sturdy to wear to work. I bang my hands and arms all the time on the van doors. I know if I wear a delicate watch to work it will break within a week.
I'm thinking of getting one with a black leather band and a simple face. Or maybe something purple. I'm not sure, but I'll let you know when I decide!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Turkey!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
On The Road
I work for a delivery service. Every day I go to work not knowing what my day is going to be like. I usually end up driving hundreds of miles a day, and I love it. We don't do anything like Car Shipping, but I do deliver big air conditioning units that are as big as my van.
When I drive the interstates, I see a lot of different kinds of vehicles. I used to be afraid of the big rigs, but I'm not anymore. Most of the drivers are very courteous. In fact, there have been several who flirt with me from their trucks. There is one kind of truck that I hate being behind, and those are the Auto Transport trucks. The way they have the cars stacked on the trailer scares me. They always look like they are about to fall off. I'm positive that that is not an actual possibility, and the Car Transport drivers know what they are doing.
But they still look scary.
There is another thing I hate running into on the road - chicken trucks. These trucks have hundreds of crates filled with live chickens, and aside from smelling absolutely disgusting, there are always feathers flying off of it. Trust me, it's horrible being behind one of those trucks.
When I drive the interstates, I see a lot of different kinds of vehicles. I used to be afraid of the big rigs, but I'm not anymore. Most of the drivers are very courteous. In fact, there have been several who flirt with me from their trucks. There is one kind of truck that I hate being behind, and those are the Auto Transport trucks. The way they have the cars stacked on the trailer scares me. They always look like they are about to fall off. I'm positive that that is not an actual possibility, and the Car Transport drivers know what they are doing.
But they still look scary.
There is another thing I hate running into on the road - chicken trucks. These trucks have hundreds of crates filled with live chickens, and aside from smelling absolutely disgusting, there are always feathers flying off of it. Trust me, it's horrible being behind one of those trucks.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Free Lunch
Yesterday was a busy day at work. I drove all day! I usually end up driving a few hundred miles every day when all is said and done. Most days I get to come home for a little while during the day, but yesterday I didn't even have time to stop for lunch. It's a good thing I keep granola bars and almonds in my van for days like that.
This morning, my boss gave me money to buy myself lunch, saying he appreciated all my hard work yesterday. How awesome is that! I have the best boss in the world. Thankfully, I was able to stop and eat today. I tink it tasted so good because I didn't pay for it!
This morning, my boss gave me money to buy myself lunch, saying he appreciated all my hard work yesterday. How awesome is that! I have the best boss in the world. Thankfully, I was able to stop and eat today. I tink it tasted so good because I didn't pay for it!
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Do You Need A South Florida Workers Compensation Attorney
I don't think I have talked much on here about what I do every day when I go to work. In the mornings and afternoons, I deliver mail. In between, I am a courier of sorts, delivering different products between businesses. I get to meet some pretty interesting people, but I spend most of the day, alone in my van, which I love. I turn the radio up and sing along, which gets me some pretty funny looks from the other drivers on the road. I drive a van, and I have to climb my big old butt in and out of it at least 50 times a day. The seat, when I am standing outside, is higher than my chest. I am short, so to a normal person it is probably not that high, but for me, it's a climb. It is doing wonders for my legs though, so I'm not complaining.
I am, however, waiting for the day that I actually fall out. It hasn't happened yet, but I have come close several times. I don't know much About Workers Compensation, but I do know that if something did happen to me on the job, my boss would make things right. I don't think I would have to hire a South Florida Workers Compensation Attorney or anything like that.
A friend of mine fell at her job a few years ago, and she ended up suing the company because she had lasting problems. I believe when all was said and done she ended up with several thousand dollars. Her lawyer worked hard to get her that settlement, but it was worth it. I mean, the company didn't even want to pay her medical bills...she needed someone to fight for her. If you ever get hurt on the job, wouldn't you want someone on your side who would fight for you?
I am, however, waiting for the day that I actually fall out. It hasn't happened yet, but I have come close several times. I don't know much About Workers Compensation, but I do know that if something did happen to me on the job, my boss would make things right. I don't think I would have to hire a South Florida Workers Compensation Attorney or anything like that.
A friend of mine fell at her job a few years ago, and she ended up suing the company because she had lasting problems. I believe when all was said and done she ended up with several thousand dollars. Her lawyer worked hard to get her that settlement, but it was worth it. I mean, the company didn't even want to pay her medical bills...she needed someone to fight for her. If you ever get hurt on the job, wouldn't you want someone on your side who would fight for you?
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Researching Loan Officer Training Programs
I am in the middle of enjoying a three day weekend. I don't have to work on the days that the post office is closed, so that means no work for me tomorrow. I was looking forward to spending the day being lazy, but that is not going to happen now. I am going to babysit my niece and nephew all day today and overnight, which means sleeping at my sisters house, which means not in my bed, which means I will not get a good night's rest. Then tomorrow, my boss was nice enough to find me some work to do so that I don't lose a days pay, which is awesome because right now I need every cent.
I have had people ask me if I am happy at my job, and I really am. I am getting to know the people at the businesses I stop at, and everyone is so nice. I would love it if I could make more money, but right now, I am thankful to even have a job. Every now and then I will get online and look at going back to school, but right now, I just don't have the time. I could take a class or two, or maybe research some Loan Officer Training Programs. It would be nice if I could have some type of certification for something, and TrainingPro pioneered the National Cross Certification Program, saving their students time and money. I need something that will save me time and money, which in the long run will help me make more money.
But for now, I am going to continue driving, and enjoying what I am doing.
I have had people ask me if I am happy at my job, and I really am. I am getting to know the people at the businesses I stop at, and everyone is so nice. I would love it if I could make more money, but right now, I am thankful to even have a job. Every now and then I will get online and look at going back to school, but right now, I just don't have the time. I could take a class or two, or maybe research some Loan Officer Training Programs. It would be nice if I could have some type of certification for something, and TrainingPro pioneered the National Cross Certification Program, saving their students time and money. I need something that will save me time and money, which in the long run will help me make more money.
But for now, I am going to continue driving, and enjoying what I am doing.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
I Go To Work In My Pajamas
The other day, Junior and I went to see how much money we would be getting back when we file our taxes. According to their estimate, this will be the most money we have ever gotten back. What I don't understand is that we made just about the same amount of money, but our refund will be almost $1,700 more than last year. I'm not complaining, but I am wondering if the people who did our taxes last year did them correctly.
As soon as the tax preparer heard that I am "self employed", she started asking if I wanted to claim any deductions. I know I can claim office space and my intertnet bill as deductions, but it's really not worth it. It's not like I go to work each day, or that I have to spend money on medical uniforms or anything like that. In fact, most days I "work" in my pajamas.
I remember when Junior used to be a CNA (certified nursing assistant), we would always be on the lookout for discount medical uniforms. He basically had to wear white, which was sometimes hard to find. It would have been a whole lot easier if he could have worn scrubs, because finding discount nursing uniforms was easier. Heck, they sell those at our local discount store now. It's been years since he has worked in that field. Now all he needs for work are nice collared shirts, and those are a lot easier to find.
As soon as the tax preparer heard that I am "self employed", she started asking if I wanted to claim any deductions. I know I can claim office space and my intertnet bill as deductions, but it's really not worth it. It's not like I go to work each day, or that I have to spend money on medical uniforms or anything like that. In fact, most days I "work" in my pajamas.
I remember when Junior used to be a CNA (certified nursing assistant), we would always be on the lookout for discount medical uniforms. He basically had to wear white, which was sometimes hard to find. It would have been a whole lot easier if he could have worn scrubs, because finding discount nursing uniforms was easier. Heck, they sell those at our local discount store now. It's been years since he has worked in that field. Now all he needs for work are nice collared shirts, and those are a lot easier to find.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
I Think I Want To Get An Online Degree
I am once again thinking about getting a real job. I keep going back and forth with it, listing the pros and cons. One of the biggest cons is that I probably won't make much money even if I did get a job, because I would most likely have to go back to fast food or a supermarket, and neither of those jobs pays much. In reality, Junior would probably spent my paychecks in gas getting me back and forth to work.
What I should do is look into an Online college and see about getting an Online degree. I am pretty sure i could get a better paying job if I had a degree, but I have no idea what I would want to go to school for. I went to college for a few semesters after high school, and I was studying early childhood development, but I am not sure if that is what I still want to do. I think I want to look into getting an Online college degree in graphic design, but I'm not sure if I am artistic enough for that.
I guess for now I am just going to continue working from home, and considering going back to school. I wonder if I would qualify for a grant or something to help pay for it?
What I should do is look into an Online college and see about getting an Online degree. I am pretty sure i could get a better paying job if I had a degree, but I have no idea what I would want to go to school for. I went to college for a few semesters after high school, and I was studying early childhood development, but I am not sure if that is what I still want to do. I think I want to look into getting an Online college degree in graphic design, but I'm not sure if I am artistic enough for that.
I guess for now I am just going to continue working from home, and considering going back to school. I wonder if I would qualify for a grant or something to help pay for it?
Making A Difference
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Ramblers Way. All opinions are 100% mine.
I hate driving around town and seeing empty buildings. In South Carolina, (and probably in other states as well) when a grocery store wants to expand, they build a new store instead of adding on to their existing one. This usually means that when they move to the bigger store, they leave the other building empty.
And it stays empty. Over time, it is vandalized, and ends up looking horrible. The same is true for all the small businesses downtown that have closed over the years. Right now, the town I live in is trying to "revitalize" downtown, but all the money they are putting into making downtown beautiful is wasted if the businesses can not stay open. It's actually pretty sad watching shops that have been open for decades have to shut down. Maybe if more people bought things that are Made in America, these mom and pop stores would stand a chance.
I was reading about how Rambler's Way is trying to help revitalize America's small towns. One of the things they have done is buy an old building that was built in 1792 and restored it to it's original condition, while also updating it to make it the home of their companies corporate offices. They also source, grow, and produce their fine woolen apparel using 100% domestic resources. Their fabric is amazingly soft, too. (I know this because a couple of months ago I requested a sample from their website. You can, too.)
Try and imagine how many less empty buildings there would be if every company bought an old building (like a supermarket) and updated it for their own use.
I hate driving around town and seeing empty buildings. In South Carolina, (and probably in other states as well) when a grocery store wants to expand, they build a new store instead of adding on to their existing one. This usually means that when they move to the bigger store, they leave the other building empty.
And it stays empty. Over time, it is vandalized, and ends up looking horrible. The same is true for all the small businesses downtown that have closed over the years. Right now, the town I live in is trying to "revitalize" downtown, but all the money they are putting into making downtown beautiful is wasted if the businesses can not stay open. It's actually pretty sad watching shops that have been open for decades have to shut down. Maybe if more people bought things that are Made in America, these mom and pop stores would stand a chance.
I was reading about how Rambler's Way is trying to help revitalize America's small towns. One of the things they have done is buy an old building that was built in 1792 and restored it to it's original condition, while also updating it to make it the home of their companies corporate offices. They also source, grow, and produce their fine woolen apparel using 100% domestic resources. Their fabric is amazingly soft, too. (I know this because a couple of months ago I requested a sample from their website. You can, too.)
Try and imagine how many less empty buildings there would be if every company bought an old building (like a supermarket) and updated it for their own use.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Work Experience
Junior is working on a friends car. He was supposed to change the head gasket, but then discovered the heads were cracked, which equaled much more work. (kinda sounds like I know what I'm talking about, doesn't it?) Because of his bad back, he delegated some of the work to Ryan, who was in heaven! They made a great team, and now the job is almost complete. Ryan is definitely racking up some automotive experience!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Repossession
My husband has lost his mind. Seriously. He has completely and totally gone insane.
You see, he has decided that he needs to find a part time job for Friday and Saturday nights. At first, he thought bouncing was a good idea. I put a stop to that one immediately. There is no way he needs to be at a club in the early morning hours, breaking up fights between people who are most likely packing weapons. Thankfully, he finally agreed that this was a bad idea.
So now he has decided that he wants to repossess cars. This is something he has done in the past, though it was before I ever met him. He has experience using tow straps and grade 70 chains, but I still think this is a job where he will encounter some not so nice people. I watch Operation Repo. I know what happens when the car owners show up. The problem is that no matter how many times I tell him I don't want him to do it, he won't listen. He claims that he knows enough about wire rope slings and dealing with people, that he can handle whatever comes his way.
Yeah, right. My only hope now is that the guy he wants to work for doesn't call.
You see, he has decided that he needs to find a part time job for Friday and Saturday nights. At first, he thought bouncing was a good idea. I put a stop to that one immediately. There is no way he needs to be at a club in the early morning hours, breaking up fights between people who are most likely packing weapons. Thankfully, he finally agreed that this was a bad idea.
So now he has decided that he wants to repossess cars. This is something he has done in the past, though it was before I ever met him. He has experience using tow straps and grade 70 chains, but I still think this is a job where he will encounter some not so nice people. I watch Operation Repo. I know what happens when the car owners show up. The problem is that no matter how many times I tell him I don't want him to do it, he won't listen. He claims that he knows enough about wire rope slings and dealing with people, that he can handle whatever comes his way.
Yeah, right. My only hope now is that the guy he wants to work for doesn't call.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Angels Among Us
I can not begin to tell you all how blessed my little family has been in the past few months. We have been struggling financially, like everyone it seems, and I have been so worried about how my kids Christmas wasn't going to be as Merry as I would love for it to be.
I know that Christmas is not about the gifts, and my kids know that, too. But they also deserve to get the things they want, because they go without all year long, because most times we can not afford to get them the things they want. Did that just make sense?
Anyway, I have been pinching pennies, and the kids had gifts for Christmas morning. Not a lot, but enough. Then this afternoon, as Junior was getting ready to leave work, he found a card in his locker. It was addressed to "the wylie kids" and was from "santa". Inside the card was a $50 visa gift card. He has no idea who left it for us, but I am in awe of the generosity of whoever it is. It warms my heart to know that someone else wants my kids to have a good Christmas. I wrote a thank you card to all the workers at his store, because on top of the gift card, the store collected money to help us with our bills. When I say that we have been blessed, I mean, we have been really blessed, and I can not wait until we can do something to give back to those who gave to us. My heart is overflowing right now, and I hope someday I can give someone else this feeling.
I know that Christmas is not about the gifts, and my kids know that, too. But they also deserve to get the things they want, because they go without all year long, because most times we can not afford to get them the things they want. Did that just make sense?
Anyway, I have been pinching pennies, and the kids had gifts for Christmas morning. Not a lot, but enough. Then this afternoon, as Junior was getting ready to leave work, he found a card in his locker. It was addressed to "the wylie kids" and was from "santa". Inside the card was a $50 visa gift card. He has no idea who left it for us, but I am in awe of the generosity of whoever it is. It warms my heart to know that someone else wants my kids to have a good Christmas. I wrote a thank you card to all the workers at his store, because on top of the gift card, the store collected money to help us with our bills. When I say that we have been blessed, I mean, we have been really blessed, and I can not wait until we can do something to give back to those who gave to us. My heart is overflowing right now, and I hope someday I can give someone else this feeling.
Monday, December 7, 2009
My Day
What a day. I hadn't planned on leaving the house at all, especially since Brandi was home sick, but I hardly ever end up doing what I had planned, and today was no exception.
When I got up this morning, I had no hot water. Now, I don't mean I had cold water coming out of the hot side, I mean that when I went to wash my hands, no water came out of the hot side of the faucet. Walking into the kitchen, I saw towels on the floor, and the cabinet open that holds the breaker box. I called Junior at work, and he said the dang water heater was leaking, again, so he turned it off. I told him Ryan had to shower, and he said it was fine for me to turn it on long enough to do that, but to make sure we turned it back off. I asked if we should call the management company, and he said no, that he could fix it himself.
He was able to get the part at Home Depot (it was just a couple of dollars) and he attempted to fix it when he got home. I say attempted, because the part he got didn't fit. So, he rigged the hot water heater so that it will leak outside instead of into my kitchen, and we returned the part to Home Depot. Then we had to run a few errands, and got home just before the older kids did.
As I sat here at the computer trying to get some blogging done (okay, so I was playing on facebook...shoot me) Junior was outside working on the riding mower and Ryan was putting up Christmas lights outside. Kasi was inside with me getting her homework done, and Brandi was watching television. Junior has an addiction to reality shows, especially the ones that take place on the beach, and that is what Brandi was watching. These shows have security officers patrolling the beaches for troublemakers. Some of the segments are pretty funny, especially when they come across people who have been drinking, and have no idea what is going on. Then there are the segments of people drowning, or little kids getting lost, and those aren't so funny. I don't like the kids watching these shows, so I told Brandi to put on something else. She decided on a marathon of iCarly. Luckily, that is one of the few kids shows that I actually enjoy watching.
Right now I am getting ready to lay with Brandi. Even though she turned eight the other day, she still likes for me to lay with her while she falls asleep. It's our special one on one time, and I enjoy it just as much as she does.
When I got up this morning, I had no hot water. Now, I don't mean I had cold water coming out of the hot side, I mean that when I went to wash my hands, no water came out of the hot side of the faucet. Walking into the kitchen, I saw towels on the floor, and the cabinet open that holds the breaker box. I called Junior at work, and he said the dang water heater was leaking, again, so he turned it off. I told him Ryan had to shower, and he said it was fine for me to turn it on long enough to do that, but to make sure we turned it back off. I asked if we should call the management company, and he said no, that he could fix it himself.
He was able to get the part at Home Depot (it was just a couple of dollars) and he attempted to fix it when he got home. I say attempted, because the part he got didn't fit. So, he rigged the hot water heater so that it will leak outside instead of into my kitchen, and we returned the part to Home Depot. Then we had to run a few errands, and got home just before the older kids did.
As I sat here at the computer trying to get some blogging done (okay, so I was playing on facebook...shoot me) Junior was outside working on the riding mower and Ryan was putting up Christmas lights outside. Kasi was inside with me getting her homework done, and Brandi was watching television. Junior has an addiction to reality shows, especially the ones that take place on the beach, and that is what Brandi was watching. These shows have security officers patrolling the beaches for troublemakers. Some of the segments are pretty funny, especially when they come across people who have been drinking, and have no idea what is going on. Then there are the segments of people drowning, or little kids getting lost, and those aren't so funny. I don't like the kids watching these shows, so I told Brandi to put on something else. She decided on a marathon of iCarly. Luckily, that is one of the few kids shows that I actually enjoy watching.
Right now I am getting ready to lay with Brandi. Even though she turned eight the other day, she still likes for me to lay with her while she falls asleep. It's our special one on one time, and I enjoy it just as much as she does.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
My Kid's Dreams
Junior and I were talking the other day about the kids. Neither one of us can believe that they are growing up so fast. Ryan just turned 14, Kasi will be 13 in May, and my baby will turn 8 on Friday. Eight! Where did the past, oh, I don't know, fifteen years go?
Anyway, Junior and I were talking about how badly we want our kids to go to college. We both want them to have better lives than we have. Don't get me wrong; I love my life. I just hate having to struggle for every cent we bring into the house, and I hate that there is never enough money. I want my kids to have careers where they have more than enough money, and they are never held back from doing anything because they can not afford it.
The girls are still a little young to know exactly what they want to do with their lives. They have dreams, of course, but right now they are just dreams. Ryan has a dream, too, but he is working towards it every day. I know I have mentioned before how he want to work on cars as an adult, and I support this 100%. There is really good money to be made, and if he loves what he does, he will do well with it. He already knows how to do so much, just by helping his daddy. There was this Toyota Corolla that a friend of Junior's drives, and it needed some work done. I am not sure what the presenting problem was, but Junior allowed Ryan to help him diagnose the problem, (it needed a new water pump) and then they fixed it together. Junior is beyond proud of how fast Ryan picks up how to do things. It won't be long before he is working in a Chicago auto repair shop or something, making lots of money.
I will be so happy when not only Ryan, but the girls too, are working in fields that they love. That's every parents dream, right?
Anyway, Junior and I were talking about how badly we want our kids to go to college. We both want them to have better lives than we have. Don't get me wrong; I love my life. I just hate having to struggle for every cent we bring into the house, and I hate that there is never enough money. I want my kids to have careers where they have more than enough money, and they are never held back from doing anything because they can not afford it.
The girls are still a little young to know exactly what they want to do with their lives. They have dreams, of course, but right now they are just dreams. Ryan has a dream, too, but he is working towards it every day. I know I have mentioned before how he want to work on cars as an adult, and I support this 100%. There is really good money to be made, and if he loves what he does, he will do well with it. He already knows how to do so much, just by helping his daddy. There was this Toyota Corolla that a friend of Junior's drives, and it needed some work done. I am not sure what the presenting problem was, but Junior allowed Ryan to help him diagnose the problem, (it needed a new water pump) and then they fixed it together. Junior is beyond proud of how fast Ryan picks up how to do things. It won't be long before he is working in a Chicago auto repair shop or something, making lots of money.
I will be so happy when not only Ryan, but the girls too, are working in fields that they love. That's every parents dream, right?
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Is Nursing For Me?
My mom and sister are both nurses. My sister quit nursing to be a mom, but my mom still works in the nursing field. I have been thinking about going back to school, and I am having a hard time deciding what I want to study. I always thought I wanted to work with kids. Maybe open a day care center or something. Then I think about all the money nurses make, and I lean towards that. I would have to get over my aversion to blood, and I'm not sure I can.
There is a very interesting nurse guide I found that offers new nurse tips. It also has an article about the best places to be a nurse. I can tell you first hand that when my sister was a nurse down here in South Carolina years ago, she was making awesome money. She was working in a nursing home, and I hear that hospitals pay even more.
Now that I think about it, all my sister did was push a drug cart. There was no blood involved in that. I know she had to do regular nursing while she was in school, like learning how to give shots and draw blood, and I am pretty sure I could handle that for a few weeks. I'm just not sure how I would do in the long run.
I mean, I almost threw up looking at Junior's finger yesterday. Maybe I wouldn't make a good nurse.
There is a very interesting nurse guide I found that offers new nurse tips. It also has an article about the best places to be a nurse. I can tell you first hand that when my sister was a nurse down here in South Carolina years ago, she was making awesome money. She was working in a nursing home, and I hear that hospitals pay even more.
Now that I think about it, all my sister did was push a drug cart. There was no blood involved in that. I know she had to do regular nursing while she was in school, like learning how to give shots and draw blood, and I am pretty sure I could handle that for a few weeks. I'm just not sure how I would do in the long run.
I mean, I almost threw up looking at Junior's finger yesterday. Maybe I wouldn't make a good nurse.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Working, Christmas, And Kids ~ Oh My
I feel like all I have been writing about lately is my lack of finding a job. I know the economy is not so good right now, and that there are people out there who are having a harder time than I am. I am lucky that Junior is employed, and that his job is not in jeopardy. There are many people out there who have no income, so I should not be complaining.
However, I am beginning to think we are going to be in trouble come Christmastime. My family already does the "no adult gifts" thing, and in the past, it has been suggested that we draw names for the kids. I don't want to have to do this, but I also don't want to spend all of my money on my nieces and nephews, leaving less money for my own kids. I think I might suggest a $5 limit on gifts for kids, or something like that. Even at $5, I will spend $60. If I suggested $10 per kid, that would be $120. I don't want to sound like Scrooge, but I don't have that kind of money this year.
This is going to be tough.
I really hope that my kids go to college, or at least a trade school. I want them to do better than Junior and I. It is not fun working 40 hours a week, and bringing home just enough money to make the bills. I want my kids to get great jobs. Or better yet, I want them to own their own businesses. They can become Painters by opening a College Pro franchise, or they can become lawyers and doctors. Whatever they decide, I hope they are happy, and successful.
For now, I will continue to apply for jobs online. Hopefully since it is getting closer to the holiday season, the grocery stores will start hiring seasonal help. Right now, I will take whatever I can get.
However, I am beginning to think we are going to be in trouble come Christmastime. My family already does the "no adult gifts" thing, and in the past, it has been suggested that we draw names for the kids. I don't want to have to do this, but I also don't want to spend all of my money on my nieces and nephews, leaving less money for my own kids. I think I might suggest a $5 limit on gifts for kids, or something like that. Even at $5, I will spend $60. If I suggested $10 per kid, that would be $120. I don't want to sound like Scrooge, but I don't have that kind of money this year.
This is going to be tough.
I really hope that my kids go to college, or at least a trade school. I want them to do better than Junior and I. It is not fun working 40 hours a week, and bringing home just enough money to make the bills. I want my kids to get great jobs. Or better yet, I want them to own their own businesses. They can become Painters by opening a College Pro franchise, or they can become lawyers and doctors. Whatever they decide, I hope they are happy, and successful.
For now, I will continue to apply for jobs online. Hopefully since it is getting closer to the holiday season, the grocery stores will start hiring seasonal help. Right now, I will take whatever I can get.
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