It's no secret that our family has always loved Disney. Both of our girls have Disney names (Acadia's middle name is Belle, named after Beauty and the Beast. And though Rori is named Aurora for her great-great-grandmother, we loved that it is also the name of Sleeping Beauty.) and both have lived up to those names as little princesses. Cadi has outgrown the princess stage, of course, but shares many of Belle's traits: her love of reading, courage, and loyalty. Right now, Rori IS very much a princess. ;)
In the past, we've had our love of Disney in the background and only enjoyed it's full emergence as we planned for an upcoming Disney vacation. Then, once the trip passed, it quietly slipped back into the background as normal everyday life went on.
But last year, that changed. Once again, Disney was in our home full-force as we planned another dream Disney vacation. But this time, with the school year following immediately after, and the thoughts of "how will I spend my time while the girls are both in school" playing in my head, a ball was set into motion.
I love planning Disney trips. No, let me rephrase that... I LOVE planning Disney trips!!! Every time I have planned one for our family, I have felt like the trip began months before we went. It was fun and exciting! It extended the experience of being there because in my head I was there everyday, for months prior, as I planned and researched it. As I talked with friends about our upcoming trips, they would say things like, "When we go to Disney, I am talking to YOU!" And I would say, "I would LOVE to help you plan your trip! Just promise to tell me all about it when you're back!" Occasionally someone would say, "You should do this for a living." And I would think, "If only I were so lucky! But I'm sure I'd have to live in Orlando to get a job like that..." Now I laugh at how naive I was.
Finally, one day, shortly before our vacation last year, a friend told me that a mutual acquaintance of ours is a Disney Vacation Planner and that I should talk to her about it. WHAT?!?! A Disney Vacation Planner here, in the Pacific Northwest? Is that possible??? Well, yes, it is! And why shouldn't it be? With internet access and phone lines, you can do anything from home that you can do in an office, so why not live more than 3,000 miles away from the destination in question!
To make a long story not quite as long, I talked to this mutual acquaintance and she was so very helpful! Our family went on our wonderful Disney vacation and came home to the rush of a new school year. And as soon as the dust settled, I started making contacts. It took a couple of months, but eventually, I was officially an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner myself! I had completed the Disney College of Knowledge and signed on as an affiliate for an Earmarked travel agency that Disney works with, and now I work part time as a Disney Vacation Planner, from my home!
The best part is that I love it! I love it so much! I get to help people plan their dream vacations and since I love the planning almost as much as the actual trip, it's almost like being there every time! Right now I'm very part time. I don't receive leads from the agency I'm with, so the only clients I have are people I know or people that have been referred to me by people I know. And for now, that is okay! I would like this to grow, and that is my long term goal, but it is something I truly am doing just for fun right now. :)
I recently started a FaceBook page for my business, so please make sure to visit it! By liking it and sharing it with friends, you'll be helping my dream grow. And if you are ever interested in planning a Disney trip (I can help with ALL Disney destinations.), I hope you will let me help you! It is a FREE service for you! (My commissions are paid by Disney, not the client.) Referrals are awesome as well, so please feel free to pass along my information to anyone interested in Disney travel.
Along with this new part of my life, comes new opportunities. Because of my new goals and the advantages I have, I am planning even more trips for myself and my family. I realize that I am so very fortunate! I am blessed that my husband has a job that provides for our family so I can stay home and choose to do a "fun" job instead of having to go out of the home to get a steady, less-fun job. I am so grateful for the hard work he does and the support and encouragement he gives me!
Two more quotes from Walt Disney:
"If you can dream it, you can to it."
"It's kind of fun to do the impossible."
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Friday, August 17, 2012
Monday, June 13, 2011
One of the best things about summer vacation.
I told Cadi to enjoy her last week of freedom this week, and she looked at me, clearly confused. I knew what she was thinking. This is the last week of school - it's the last week UNTIL freedom! Oh how wrong she was...
CHORE TIME, BABY!!!
During the school year, the only chores Cadi has are to clean her room and do her laundry. Occasionally I'll ask her to put away dishes or pick up the family room, but for the most part, I keep her load light since she has a heavy load at school and I'd rather her focus on that.
Acadia is funny. She doesn't seem to mind, or at least she rarely complains about chores. A year or two ago, she and I made up a chore chart for her for the summer that I felt was fair, but after thinking it over, she came to me and admitted that she didn't think there were enough chores on there. She proceeded to add one more chore to each day! lol
She's still the same; I asked her to make up what she felt like would be a fair chore list for her. She put on more than I would have. So I just smiled and said, "That looks good to me, Dear!" lol
I love summer break. :)
CHORE TIME, BABY!!!
During the school year, the only chores Cadi has are to clean her room and do her laundry. Occasionally I'll ask her to put away dishes or pick up the family room, but for the most part, I keep her load light since she has a heavy load at school and I'd rather her focus on that.
Acadia is funny. She doesn't seem to mind, or at least she rarely complains about chores. A year or two ago, she and I made up a chore chart for her for the summer that I felt was fair, but after thinking it over, she came to me and admitted that she didn't think there were enough chores on there. She proceeded to add one more chore to each day! lol
She's still the same; I asked her to make up what she felt like would be a fair chore list for her. She put on more than I would have. So I just smiled and said, "That looks good to me, Dear!" lol
I love summer break. :)
Monday, March 1, 2010
My husband thinks I'm paranoid. I think he's suicidal. You be the judge.
Ryan's been having a heavy load at work lately and it's likely to continue for a few months. (It's a good thing he gets paid OT!) Last night he had to go in and thought he'd be home around midnight. It turned into an all-nighter. He came home around 6am to take a quick shower, grab a bite to eat, then head back in for a regular day of work! (He's been up since yesterday morning!) He knows I'm worried about him coming home this afternoon. It's a bit of a commute and rush hour traffic can be awful. :(
Ryan doesn't like it when I worry. And I really try not to worry very often. He is usually really smart about taking a nap or pulling over if he needs to. But this is insane! I'm trying to convince him to let me come pick him up when he's ready to come home. It'll be inconvenient, especially when I have to take get the girls up early to take him to work in the morning, but I'd rather go get him and not even risk the possibility of him falling asleep behind the wheel.
Tell me I'm not crazy. You don't need to tell me that he is, I already know that. ;) I just want confirmation that I'm not being overly paranoid.
P.S. Did anyone see the Marriage Ref after the Closing Ceremonies last night? I think sometimes that would be a good idea! lol
Ryan doesn't like it when I worry. And I really try not to worry very often. He is usually really smart about taking a nap or pulling over if he needs to. But this is insane! I'm trying to convince him to let me come pick him up when he's ready to come home. It'll be inconvenient, especially when I have to take get the girls up early to take him to work in the morning, but I'd rather go get him and not even risk the possibility of him falling asleep behind the wheel.
Tell me I'm not crazy. You don't need to tell me that he is, I already know that. ;) I just want confirmation that I'm not being overly paranoid.
P.S. Did anyone see the Marriage Ref after the Closing Ceremonies last night? I think sometimes that would be a good idea! lol
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
What it looks like...
... when Ryan's working from home:
Two laptops in front of him, the cell phone to his ear... fun times.
Two laptops in front of him, the cell phone to his ear... fun times.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
I'm pretty sure blackberries are evil.
There are not many things that I do not like about living here. But blackberry bushes are certainly one of them!!!
I like blackberries. Yum! Blackberry milkshakes... MMMMMM!!!! But, you know how the devil tries to make evil things appealing? Yeah... blackberries. The blackberries make you think that the bush is a good thing, but do not be deceived!!! They are evil!!! Granted, as long as they are not on or near my yard, they are fine... but the moment one comes into my yard, CURSE THEM!!!
We've been infested by them since we bought this house. They crawl over both of our side neighbors' fences, under them, and sometimes through them! You can't get rid of them. When we cut them back and even when we dig them out, a couple of months later they are back! They are constantly trying to choke out whatever trees/plants we have along the fence and their thorns are nasty, they grab you when you're trying to walk by! We even had one branch grow over the fence, through a tree, over the pathway, and under the make-shift-awning in our backyard just in the last few weeks. It got all the way to our back door. I cut that sucker down today. lol
In fact, today I spent all afternoon ridding one fence line of the little (and not so little) buggers. I think I'll leave the other side of the house for Ryan. ;)
I like blackberries. Yum! Blackberry milkshakes... MMMMMM!!!! But, you know how the devil tries to make evil things appealing? Yeah... blackberries. The blackberries make you think that the bush is a good thing, but do not be deceived!!! They are evil!!! Granted, as long as they are not on or near my yard, they are fine... but the moment one comes into my yard, CURSE THEM!!!
We've been infested by them since we bought this house. They crawl over both of our side neighbors' fences, under them, and sometimes through them! You can't get rid of them. When we cut them back and even when we dig them out, a couple of months later they are back! They are constantly trying to choke out whatever trees/plants we have along the fence and their thorns are nasty, they grab you when you're trying to walk by! We even had one branch grow over the fence, through a tree, over the pathway, and under the make-shift-awning in our backyard just in the last few weeks. It got all the way to our back door. I cut that sucker down today. lol
In fact, today I spent all afternoon ridding one fence line of the little (and not so little) buggers. I think I'll leave the other side of the house for Ryan. ;)
Sunday, July 26, 2009
We cannot tell a lie...
We did chop down the cherry tree!
Of course, it was first a weeping cherry blossom tree and only recently became a cherry tree... but still, we chopped it down. "Why?" Well, to make room for my Dogwood, of course! And because that tree was just confused and making us confused. lol
Yesterday was a hot day, so Ryan started by working in the shade of the tree he'd be demolishing. He dug around it and chopped off the roots first. His friend, James came with his kids and they helped. It was James who gave Ryan the idea to climb up in the tree and "ride it down". He didn't have to suggest it twice. lol
The guys tied a rope around one of the upper branches and had the kids pull on it while James chopped at the final root holding the tree in place.
After the tree was down, we borrowed our neighbor's chainsaw to cut it to pieces. Their kids came over to help and we sent them home with the wood to add to their wood pile. The kids cut the branches into managable pieces and piled them in the corner of the yard while Ryan chopped the thicker branches and trunks to load into the wheelbarrows. Everyone helped and everything went smoothly. :)
(It was really cute - Rori kept trying to pull the rope tied to the tree, even though it was laying on the ground. lol)
We'll be planting my Dogwood close to where this tree had been. I'm anxious to get it in the ground! :)
Of course, it was first a weeping cherry blossom tree and only recently became a cherry tree... but still, we chopped it down. "Why?" Well, to make room for my Dogwood, of course! And because that tree was just confused and making us confused. lol
Yesterday was a hot day, so Ryan started by working in the shade of the tree he'd be demolishing. He dug around it and chopped off the roots first. His friend, James came with his kids and they helped. It was James who gave Ryan the idea to climb up in the tree and "ride it down". He didn't have to suggest it twice. lol
The guys tied a rope around one of the upper branches and had the kids pull on it while James chopped at the final root holding the tree in place.
After the tree was down, we borrowed our neighbor's chainsaw to cut it to pieces. Their kids came over to help and we sent them home with the wood to add to their wood pile. The kids cut the branches into managable pieces and piled them in the corner of the yard while Ryan chopped the thicker branches and trunks to load into the wheelbarrows. Everyone helped and everything went smoothly. :)
(It was really cute - Rori kept trying to pull the rope tied to the tree, even though it was laying on the ground. lol)
We'll be planting my Dogwood close to where this tree had been. I'm anxious to get it in the ground! :)
Monday, January 5, 2009
Getting back to normal.
Not that we ever were normal. lol
School and work are back in session! That means back to using alarm clocks to wake up, and making sure that clothes are clean and backpacks and shoes are locatable.
I've heard many people say that if their husband didn't work, he'd drive her crazy. I don't know... Ryan had pretty much all of winter break off with us and I didn't get tired of it one bit. In fact, I conveniently forgot that he would actually have to go back to work today; I wanted to keep living in my fantasy that money magically appeared in our bank account whether or not he did anything to earn it. I was really sad that it was just me and Rori all day. The house just felt empty.
But I got a lot of laundry done! ;)
School and work are back in session! That means back to using alarm clocks to wake up, and making sure that clothes are clean and backpacks and shoes are locatable.
I've heard many people say that if their husband didn't work, he'd drive her crazy. I don't know... Ryan had pretty much all of winter break off with us and I didn't get tired of it one bit. In fact, I conveniently forgot that he would actually have to go back to work today; I wanted to keep living in my fantasy that money magically appeared in our bank account whether or not he did anything to earn it. I was really sad that it was just me and Rori all day. The house just felt empty.
But I got a lot of laundry done! ;)
Monday, September 15, 2008
Count Your Blessings
•I have a loving husband who works hard to provide for our family.
•Ryan has a great job that is stable and provides for our needs as well as many wants while allowing me to stay home with our kids.
•He gets holidays off, unlimited sick time, and not only does he get a generous amount of vacation time each year, but he is the one who handles the vacation schedule and can most times arrange for us to get our vacation time whenever we want. And we have a nice week long vacation coming up in two months. :)
•He gets paid hourly, which means when he works extra, it's overtime pay.
•And when he works enough hours, it's double time.
•None of the plans I have this week require him to watch the girls for me.
•Even when he is at work, he can often call home or chat briefly on IM.
•This next week or two are just a tiny little part of the eternities we get to spend together.
•My girls are good girls who, while often they drive me bonkers, it's usually in a good way.
•My girls also have a pretty decent bedtime so if I get really tired of being the parent, all I have to do is hold on until they go to bed and then I'm released from my immediate duties and merely placed "on call".
Can you guess who's going to be working late every night for the next couple of weeks?
•Ryan has a great job that is stable and provides for our needs as well as many wants while allowing me to stay home with our kids.
•He gets holidays off, unlimited sick time, and not only does he get a generous amount of vacation time each year, but he is the one who handles the vacation schedule and can most times arrange for us to get our vacation time whenever we want. And we have a nice week long vacation coming up in two months. :)
•He gets paid hourly, which means when he works extra, it's overtime pay.
•And when he works enough hours, it's double time.
•None of the plans I have this week require him to watch the girls for me.
•Even when he is at work, he can often call home or chat briefly on IM.
•This next week or two are just a tiny little part of the eternities we get to spend together.
•My girls are good girls who, while often they drive me bonkers, it's usually in a good way.
•My girls also have a pretty decent bedtime so if I get really tired of being the parent, all I have to do is hold on until they go to bed and then I'm released from my immediate duties and merely placed "on call".
Can you guess who's going to be working late every night for the next couple of weeks?
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
The good, the bad, and the ugly.
The good:
•Rori has been sleeping GREAT! Seriously great! She usually sleeps well, but this is probably the best she's ever slept before. :D
•I am going to visit a friend tonight! (And probably spend a lot of money on candles. lol)
•Breaking Dawn is 4 days away!!! I cannot wait! And here is a little spoiler (though, it's not as much of a spoiler as they make it out to be). I am seriously SO HAPPY about this! :)
•I've been working on getting all of our pictures on my computer and edited for the last two days and now I'm just uploading them to PhotoBucket. It'll take awhile, there are a few hundred. lol But SOON, I'll have some to post. :)
The bad:
•Rori and I took Ryan to the airport this morning. He's going to be in Massachusetts for the next week and a half. It's not really a bad thing; I'm glad he'll be able to spend more time with family and he'll also be with Cadi so she won't feel so homesick. But I'm gonna miss them both!!! :( I am not excited about the next week and a half alone. Stupid work not flying Rori and I out with him. :P But there is a lot I can and should do here so it's probably better this way. I hope Cadi's having a ton of fun! She did get to see some of DC (The White House and some monuments) and a little of NYC (Empire State building and Statue of Liberty).
•I have had a migraine for about 3 days now. *grrrrrr*
•I "get" to pack for a week of camping all by myself before Ryan and Cadi get home. But I guess that's okay since I like to be in control of packing things anyway. I just usually like some help.
The ugly:
•I'm determined to lose a few lbs while Ryan's gone. With just me and Rori, I have a feeling I won't be doing a ton of cooking, so I stocked up on salad stuff and fresh fruits and veggies. I know I can't drop a lot of weight in less than two weeks but I want to try to lose a few and just get some weight loss started so I can keep it up and then in a couple of months I will see a difference. I hope! lol
•Rori has been making this face; it's not really "ugly" but it sure is silly! She scrunches up her face and looks at you like either 1) she's mad at you or 2) she thinks you're absolutely crazy. It's a joke of her's. She'll make the face, hold it for a few seconds, then bust up laughing. lol It's hard to capture on film, but I'll see if we have a pic or two that come close.
So, stay tuned. Vacation pics are on their way!
•Rori has been sleeping GREAT! Seriously great! She usually sleeps well, but this is probably the best she's ever slept before. :D
•I am going to visit a friend tonight! (And probably spend a lot of money on candles. lol)
•Breaking Dawn is 4 days away!!! I cannot wait! And here is a little spoiler (though, it's not as much of a spoiler as they make it out to be). I am seriously SO HAPPY about this! :)
•I've been working on getting all of our pictures on my computer and edited for the last two days and now I'm just uploading them to PhotoBucket. It'll take awhile, there are a few hundred. lol But SOON, I'll have some to post. :)
The bad:
•Rori and I took Ryan to the airport this morning. He's going to be in Massachusetts for the next week and a half. It's not really a bad thing; I'm glad he'll be able to spend more time with family and he'll also be with Cadi so she won't feel so homesick. But I'm gonna miss them both!!! :( I am not excited about the next week and a half alone. Stupid work not flying Rori and I out with him. :P But there is a lot I can and should do here so it's probably better this way. I hope Cadi's having a ton of fun! She did get to see some of DC (The White House and some monuments) and a little of NYC (Empire State building and Statue of Liberty).
•I have had a migraine for about 3 days now. *grrrrrr*
•I "get" to pack for a week of camping all by myself before Ryan and Cadi get home. But I guess that's okay since I like to be in control of packing things anyway. I just usually like some help.
The ugly:
•I'm determined to lose a few lbs while Ryan's gone. With just me and Rori, I have a feeling I won't be doing a ton of cooking, so I stocked up on salad stuff and fresh fruits and veggies. I know I can't drop a lot of weight in less than two weeks but I want to try to lose a few and just get some weight loss started so I can keep it up and then in a couple of months I will see a difference. I hope! lol
•Rori has been making this face; it's not really "ugly" but it sure is silly! She scrunches up her face and looks at you like either 1) she's mad at you or 2) she thinks you're absolutely crazy. It's a joke of her's. She'll make the face, hold it for a few seconds, then bust up laughing. lol It's hard to capture on film, but I'll see if we have a pic or two that come close.
So, stay tuned. Vacation pics are on their way!
Monday, June 16, 2008
Published!
Again.
The third 3rd grade classes had their final Publishing Party today. Rori and I stopped by to hear Cadi and her classmates share their stories with their family members. This first pic shows how excited all the kids were (there are two classes shown here). lol Also, this is Cadi's teacher.
The third 3rd grade classes had their final Publishing Party today. Rori and I stopped by to hear Cadi and her classmates share their stories with their family members. This first pic shows how excited all the kids were (there are two classes shown here). lol Also, this is Cadi's teacher.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Go To Work
Last night, a miracle occured... I was able to burn a dvd!!! I was SO HAPPY!!! So, I'm burning another one now. ;) I have quite a lot to do to get caught up, so guess what I'll be doing during every spare moment I get for the next few days? lol
Today is "Take Your Child to Work" Day. For the first time, Ryan actually has an office in a location where Cadi is allowed to visit. He did have a couple of meetings in the morning but we met him after that, had lunch with him, and then Cadi stayed with him at work for the remainder of the day. I think she got bored though; she called me after about 3 hours and said she "didn't feel good". Yeah, whatever. That's what she says everytime she's bored. :S Tough it out girl, that's what you do when you're in the real working world. lol
I did take a few pics but since I haven't installed my photo editing software yet, and I am nervous to upload any pictures while I'm attempting to burn another dvd right now anyway, you'll just have to wait. Stay tuned... :)
***Update: I spoke too soon. The attempt to burn this dvd failed. UGH!!! I give up. Ryan bought us new software and I'm going to install it. I was hoping that if my software would work, I could return what he just bought. Apparently not. :( I guess it's okay, the new software is sure to be more updated and have more bells and whistles than the one I was using. :)
Today is "Take Your Child to Work" Day. For the first time, Ryan actually has an office in a location where Cadi is allowed to visit. He did have a couple of meetings in the morning but we met him after that, had lunch with him, and then Cadi stayed with him at work for the remainder of the day. I think she got bored though; she called me after about 3 hours and said she "didn't feel good". Yeah, whatever. That's what she says everytime she's bored. :S Tough it out girl, that's what you do when you're in the real working world. lol
I did take a few pics but since I haven't installed my photo editing software yet, and I am nervous to upload any pictures while I'm attempting to burn another dvd right now anyway, you'll just have to wait. Stay tuned... :)
***Update: I spoke too soon. The attempt to burn this dvd failed. UGH!!! I give up. Ryan bought us new software and I'm going to install it. I was hoping that if my software would work, I could return what he just bought. Apparently not. :( I guess it's okay, the new software is sure to be more updated and have more bells and whistles than the one I was using. :)
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
The New Schedule
This is Ryan's first week in his new position at work. He would have worked Mon-Fri, but seeing as how yesterday was his birthday, he opted to work Tues-Sat instead. :) So today was his first day!
He got off work about an hour later than his shift ended, so he came home right in the peak of commute time. But miraculously, it only took him just a few minutes more than an hour! We expected about a half hour longer than that. So it was a great first commute home.
For the next couple of weeks, we'll be just seeing how his schedule really is. We'll see when he has later meetings, when he has teleconferences (some which can be done while at home), etc.
We're so excited to have him home for dinner tonight! This is something we're going to be very glad to get used to. :)
He got off work about an hour later than his shift ended, so he came home right in the peak of commute time. But miraculously, it only took him just a few minutes more than an hour! We expected about a half hour longer than that. So it was a great first commute home.
For the next couple of weeks, we'll be just seeing how his schedule really is. We'll see when he has later meetings, when he has teleconferences (some which can be done while at home), etc.
We're so excited to have him home for dinner tonight! This is something we're going to be very glad to get used to. :)
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Christas Gifts
Our family is doing a little activity during these final two weeks before Christmas. We are each choosing something we can do as a gift for Jesus. We've talked about it for a few days and yesterday we each chose our "gift", wrote it on a paper, and we're putting it under the tree. I will report our "gifts" later, after they have taken place. :)
We feel as though we've just received an early Christmas gift though! The gift of "family" and the gift of "time". Just put those two together! :) Ryan has been offered a promotion in his company that will allow him to be on a more family-friendly schedule. It will make so many things easier for us! We will have weekends together for piano recitals and trips to the beach, Friday nights available for dates and ward activities, and most weeknights we'll have dinner together and Ryan will get to tuck his girls in bed.
His current shift, which he has had for years, has been really nice in some ways and it has been the best option he's had for the position he's in. It gave him 3 and 4 day weekends every week, he commuted less, and received OT every workday. But for the 3 or 4 days that he worked, he didn't see his girls at all. He would leave before they woke up and come home after they went to bed. And the only day he and Cadi BOTH had off from work or school was Sunday since Ryan worked every Saturday. That has made it difficult for us to have much family time.
We are very grateful for this opportunity for Ryan to grow in his company and also for us to spend more time together as a family! Congratulations, Ryan... so, when are you taking me out? ;)
We feel as though we've just received an early Christmas gift though! The gift of "family" and the gift of "time". Just put those two together! :) Ryan has been offered a promotion in his company that will allow him to be on a more family-friendly schedule. It will make so many things easier for us! We will have weekends together for piano recitals and trips to the beach, Friday nights available for dates and ward activities, and most weeknights we'll have dinner together and Ryan will get to tuck his girls in bed.
His current shift, which he has had for years, has been really nice in some ways and it has been the best option he's had for the position he's in. It gave him 3 and 4 day weekends every week, he commuted less, and received OT every workday. But for the 3 or 4 days that he worked, he didn't see his girls at all. He would leave before they woke up and come home after they went to bed. And the only day he and Cadi BOTH had off from work or school was Sunday since Ryan worked every Saturday. That has made it difficult for us to have much family time.
We are very grateful for this opportunity for Ryan to grow in his company and also for us to spend more time together as a family! Congratulations, Ryan... so, when are you taking me out? ;)
Friday, July 13, 2007
Friday
Hey, it's Friday the 13th! I'm not superstitious so I really don't care but it's fun to joke about. :)
Yesterday was my birthday! I'm getting old! lol
We didn't really do anything special though, Ryan worked the night before and last night too so he slept most the day. It was also the only day we could visit with some friends who had moved away and were here this week visiting family, so we had them over for dinner. That meant I spent my day going to the store to get stuff for dinner, cleaning the house, and cooking. But dinner was really nice - and one of my favorites. :) It was fun visiting with our friends (Hey, Arizona Beauty - we love you guys!)!
It has turned out that for the last couple of years, Ryan has had to work on most of the "special days" - or when he hasn't worked, he had another reason where he ended up being gone... this was the second birthday in a row of mine (he has also had to work 2 of the last 3 birthdays for Cadi), the last 3 Mother's Days, at least the last Valentine's Day (I was pregnant and sick the Valentine's Day before this one and honestly don't remember much about that time so I couldn't say what happened that year.), and even our 10th wedding anniversary. Most of those days were celebrated later and it shouldn't really matter whether it was on the actual day or not... but I'm getting to the point where I'm tired of it always getting postponed. I want the next "special day" to be a priority! :P
I think the current plan is for us to go out on Tuesday. We'd better!!! lol
Yesterday was my birthday! I'm getting old! lol
We didn't really do anything special though, Ryan worked the night before and last night too so he slept most the day. It was also the only day we could visit with some friends who had moved away and were here this week visiting family, so we had them over for dinner. That meant I spent my day going to the store to get stuff for dinner, cleaning the house, and cooking. But dinner was really nice - and one of my favorites. :) It was fun visiting with our friends (Hey, Arizona Beauty - we love you guys!)!
It has turned out that for the last couple of years, Ryan has had to work on most of the "special days" - or when he hasn't worked, he had another reason where he ended up being gone... this was the second birthday in a row of mine (he has also had to work 2 of the last 3 birthdays for Cadi), the last 3 Mother's Days, at least the last Valentine's Day (I was pregnant and sick the Valentine's Day before this one and honestly don't remember much about that time so I couldn't say what happened that year.), and even our 10th wedding anniversary. Most of those days were celebrated later and it shouldn't really matter whether it was on the actual day or not... but I'm getting to the point where I'm tired of it always getting postponed. I want the next "special day" to be a priority! :P
I think the current plan is for us to go out on Tuesday. We'd better!!! lol
Monday, June 12, 2006
Tool Trouble
Here's a funny story from Ryan's work...
He was working with a tool that was giving him a bunch of troubles. He got to a point where he needed to program a shoop (sp?) and part of programing it is giving it a name. Usually they name these things a series of numbers and letters. But because Ryan was mad at this tool, he named this shoop "Up Yours". Apparently, the tool wasn't too happy with Ryan either because it sent "Up Yours" back to him. lol
After he had worked on it some more, and had to reprogram it again, he changed the name. I asked if he decided on something a little nicer this time, like... "Have a nice day" or "You're such a nice tool" or something along those lines. lol
He was working with a tool that was giving him a bunch of troubles. He got to a point where he needed to program a shoop (sp?) and part of programing it is giving it a name. Usually they name these things a series of numbers and letters. But because Ryan was mad at this tool, he named this shoop "Up Yours". Apparently, the tool wasn't too happy with Ryan either because it sent "Up Yours" back to him. lol
After he had worked on it some more, and had to reprogram it again, he changed the name. I asked if he decided on something a little nicer this time, like... "Have a nice day" or "You're such a nice tool" or something along those lines. lol
Friday, May 12, 2006
Mom's Day
As you all know, this weekend is Mother's Day... Go on, ask what my husband's doing for me on Mother's Day...
Okay fine, don't ask. But I'll tell you anyways. Nothing. I won't even see him. Well, I guess when he kisses me good-bye as he leaves for work at 6 am and then when he gets home at 9 pm. But other than that, nope. Not going to see him. :(
But before anyone feels too bad for me (and YES, you should feel bad for a mom who doesn't get pampered at least a little on Mother's Day!) and before anyone gets mad at Ryan for leaving me ALL DAY so he can work instead... He is covering for the gal who covered for him when we were in California. She has her mom flying in just for Sunday and Monday and so Ryan is covering her shift. And he PROMISES to make it up to me on Tuesday. So I'm thinking that Tuesday is going to be an awesome day! (Especially since even if Ryan wasn't working Sunday, he would have church meetings first thing in the morning and after church he's usually beat and naps all afternoon. So, this is a much better deal! lol)
But I did get a little early Mother's Day fun. Today was Muffins with Moms at Cadi's school. We went to school about an hour early and had blueberry muffins and juice. We sat with her two best friends and their moms (of course). We brought books to read. Cadi had chosen "How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?" and "The Kiss That Missed". She gave me a letter she wrote to me and a cute craft that they made yesterday. (I actually helped her make it when I was in the classroom, lol. She did the writing and cutting, I did all the gluing. I thought it was funny that her teacher sent her with the half of the kids I was helping instead of keeping her with his half. But I guess he's just a guy and didn't think about the part where I'd be making my own Mother's Day gift for myself, lol. No big deal, as if it really matters.)
The craft was a cute, corny flower with Cadi's face in the center, that is folded so that you can have the stem short or tall. The verse on the back says, "Mom, My love for you "grows" every day. Love, Acadia" I love it. But it's funny because just last night I saw a commercial for one of the department stores that uses that very same craft as one of the corny examples of gifts moms get. The commercial, of course, was telling you to go to their store and buy Mom a "real" gift like jewelry, clothes, handbags, etc. I like the craft. Of course, I won't turn down jewelry either, lol. ;)
Oh, here's a pic:
Okay fine, don't ask. But I'll tell you anyways. Nothing. I won't even see him. Well, I guess when he kisses me good-bye as he leaves for work at 6 am and then when he gets home at 9 pm. But other than that, nope. Not going to see him. :(
But before anyone feels too bad for me (and YES, you should feel bad for a mom who doesn't get pampered at least a little on Mother's Day!) and before anyone gets mad at Ryan for leaving me ALL DAY so he can work instead... He is covering for the gal who covered for him when we were in California. She has her mom flying in just for Sunday and Monday and so Ryan is covering her shift. And he PROMISES to make it up to me on Tuesday. So I'm thinking that Tuesday is going to be an awesome day! (Especially since even if Ryan wasn't working Sunday, he would have church meetings first thing in the morning and after church he's usually beat and naps all afternoon. So, this is a much better deal! lol)
But I did get a little early Mother's Day fun. Today was Muffins with Moms at Cadi's school. We went to school about an hour early and had blueberry muffins and juice. We sat with her two best friends and their moms (of course). We brought books to read. Cadi had chosen "How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?" and "The Kiss That Missed". She gave me a letter she wrote to me and a cute craft that they made yesterday. (I actually helped her make it when I was in the classroom, lol. She did the writing and cutting, I did all the gluing. I thought it was funny that her teacher sent her with the half of the kids I was helping instead of keeping her with his half. But I guess he's just a guy and didn't think about the part where I'd be making my own Mother's Day gift for myself, lol. No big deal, as if it really matters.)
The craft was a cute, corny flower with Cadi's face in the center, that is folded so that you can have the stem short or tall. The verse on the back says, "Mom, My love for you "grows" every day. Love, Acadia" I love it. But it's funny because just last night I saw a commercial for one of the department stores that uses that very same craft as one of the corny examples of gifts moms get. The commercial, of course, was telling you to go to their store and buy Mom a "real" gift like jewelry, clothes, handbags, etc. I like the craft. Of course, I won't turn down jewelry either, lol. ;)
Oh, here's a pic:
Friday, July 29, 2005
A mother's job is never done.
1. What was your first job?
Besides babysitting and besides cleaning houses for a couple of families at church, my first real taxes-withheld-paying job was working at Brooks Clothing and Outlet Store in Florin Mall. I liked it because they had really cute clothes and I got a discount! I didn't like it because they had really cute clothes and I got a discount = I didn't really take home much $$$. Took home some really cute outfits though!
2. How much did you make?
I'm sure I started at minimum wage. I think that was about $6.50/hour at that time.
3. Describe your least favorite co-worker of all time.
I have blocked it out of memory! lol, Really I can't think of anyone. The only thing I can think of was when I worked at Gymboree. That is the least favorite job I've ever had and so that is probably why I didn't like the people very much either. They had TONS of role-playing meetings, quotas, scripted sales pitches - it was NOT ME! The manager was constantly telling me to role-play with her using the scripted lines and I hated it!
4. What is your dream job?
Now or then? Well, honestly I guess the answer is the same for either. I have always wanted to be a killer whale and dolphin trainer. Seriously. And I think I would have pursued it if I hadn't chosen to marry and have a family instead. I am glad I made that choice (ie. stay at home while raising Acadia) and wouldn't change it for the world - not even killer whales. But whale training still keeps the title "dream job".
5. What do you currently do and do you like it?
Uh, I think I answered that in the last question.
But to clarify... I stay at home. No, not eating Bon Bons and watching soap operas. Not on the phone gossiping about the neighborhood real life "desperate housewives". Not sleeping in all day. Not even (despite popular belief and apparent evidence otherwise) sitting on the computer "surfing the net" or blogging all day. (Though I do make sure to squeeze it in, usually daily.)
I am a stay at home MOM. And that means I work like a dog all day long. It means I get no sick days, vacation time, or even holidays. There are no breaks, not even for lunch. I get no over-time pay and don't even think about double-time! I work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and my work will never be done until the day I die.
I don't think anyone who isn't a mom can understand that fully. Not until they are one. And guys never will. They think they do when they become dads, but they are only seeing part of it.
That is just they way it is. But I am glad to be a mom, and especially an at-home-mom. While there aren't breaks, OT, or holidays, there ARE amazing benefits. Kisses and snuggles from the cutest girl on the planet. Handmade drawings of just her and I encircled with hearts and "X"s and "O"s. Hearing everyone (even strangers) say, "You look just like your mom!" And even better, hearing her say, "I want to be just like my mom when I grow up." What job could possible be better than mine?
Besides babysitting and besides cleaning houses for a couple of families at church, my first real taxes-withheld-paying job was working at Brooks Clothing and Outlet Store in Florin Mall. I liked it because they had really cute clothes and I got a discount! I didn't like it because they had really cute clothes and I got a discount = I didn't really take home much $$$. Took home some really cute outfits though!
2. How much did you make?
I'm sure I started at minimum wage. I think that was about $6.50/hour at that time.
3. Describe your least favorite co-worker of all time.
I have blocked it out of memory! lol, Really I can't think of anyone. The only thing I can think of was when I worked at Gymboree. That is the least favorite job I've ever had and so that is probably why I didn't like the people very much either. They had TONS of role-playing meetings, quotas, scripted sales pitches - it was NOT ME! The manager was constantly telling me to role-play with her using the scripted lines and I hated it!
4. What is your dream job?
Now or then? Well, honestly I guess the answer is the same for either. I have always wanted to be a killer whale and dolphin trainer. Seriously. And I think I would have pursued it if I hadn't chosen to marry and have a family instead. I am glad I made that choice (ie. stay at home while raising Acadia) and wouldn't change it for the world - not even killer whales. But whale training still keeps the title "dream job".
5. What do you currently do and do you like it?
Uh, I think I answered that in the last question.
But to clarify... I stay at home. No, not eating Bon Bons and watching soap operas. Not on the phone gossiping about the neighborhood real life "desperate housewives". Not sleeping in all day. Not even (despite popular belief and apparent evidence otherwise) sitting on the computer "surfing the net" or blogging all day. (Though I do make sure to squeeze it in, usually daily.)
I am a stay at home MOM. And that means I work like a dog all day long. It means I get no sick days, vacation time, or even holidays. There are no breaks, not even for lunch. I get no over-time pay and don't even think about double-time! I work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and my work will never be done until the day I die.
I don't think anyone who isn't a mom can understand that fully. Not until they are one. And guys never will. They think they do when they become dads, but they are only seeing part of it.
That is just they way it is. But I am glad to be a mom, and especially an at-home-mom. While there aren't breaks, OT, or holidays, there ARE amazing benefits. Kisses and snuggles from the cutest girl on the planet. Handmade drawings of just her and I encircled with hearts and "X"s and "O"s. Hearing everyone (even strangers) say, "You look just like your mom!" And even better, hearing her say, "I want to be just like my mom when I grow up." What job could possible be better than mine?
Friday, May 6, 2005
This is my husband...
I got a call from Ryan’s supervisor today. This never happens. I was worried and asked if Ryan was okay. Greg said, “No.”
He then went on to tell how they had just gone out to lunch. Now, before I continue I need to tell you what happened last week.
Last Friday the “big bosses” were in town and the office went out to dinner. Apparently, Ryan ate all his dinner, plus the leftovers from a couple other guys, then ate his dessert AND a couple more. He came home extremely full, quite uncomfortable, and vowed not to overeat again for at least a couple of months.
All this week he has been eating really healthy.
Unfortunately, this is a normal pattern for Ryan. He pigs out, then gets on a real healthy streak for a couple months, and after awhile he splurges again for a day or two before starting his healthy eating again.
So, after swearing off “binges” one week ago, we find Ryan suggesting to his co-workers that they should all go out to lunch. Where should they go? Only to the same place that he ate 3 monster (and I mean MONSTER) burritos a few months back. (He ate 3 because one of his co-workers said they had never seen anyone able to eat more than 2.)
Of course, his co-workers don’t help. They urge him on, dare him, whatever they can to see him “perform”. And he can’t seem to let them down. (Note to self: We need to have a Family Home Evening lesson on peer pressure.)
Back to the story… So, they go out to lunch and like I said, his co-workers dare him to eat more than he should. His record had been 3 monster burritos, so he decides he needs to set a new “personal best” and declares that he is going to eat 4 this time! It took him 45 minutes just to eat the last one!
And that brings me to the phone call I got today. Greg told me that Ryan was in so much pain that he couldn’t get out of his car! He needed to “rest” before he could get out and go in to work. Greg and the guys decided I should know – partly so they could get Ryan in trouble. But also to encourage me to make a big dinner tonight – preferably Mexican food.
And you know, I am going to do it too! Serves him right! Chicken Enchiladas anyone?
He then went on to tell how they had just gone out to lunch. Now, before I continue I need to tell you what happened last week.
Last Friday the “big bosses” were in town and the office went out to dinner. Apparently, Ryan ate all his dinner, plus the leftovers from a couple other guys, then ate his dessert AND a couple more. He came home extremely full, quite uncomfortable, and vowed not to overeat again for at least a couple of months.
All this week he has been eating really healthy.
Unfortunately, this is a normal pattern for Ryan. He pigs out, then gets on a real healthy streak for a couple months, and after awhile he splurges again for a day or two before starting his healthy eating again.
So, after swearing off “binges” one week ago, we find Ryan suggesting to his co-workers that they should all go out to lunch. Where should they go? Only to the same place that he ate 3 monster (and I mean MONSTER) burritos a few months back. (He ate 3 because one of his co-workers said they had never seen anyone able to eat more than 2.)
Of course, his co-workers don’t help. They urge him on, dare him, whatever they can to see him “perform”. And he can’t seem to let them down. (Note to self: We need to have a Family Home Evening lesson on peer pressure.)
Back to the story… So, they go out to lunch and like I said, his co-workers dare him to eat more than he should. His record had been 3 monster burritos, so he decides he needs to set a new “personal best” and declares that he is going to eat 4 this time! It took him 45 minutes just to eat the last one!
And that brings me to the phone call I got today. Greg told me that Ryan was in so much pain that he couldn’t get out of his car! He needed to “rest” before he could get out and go in to work. Greg and the guys decided I should know – partly so they could get Ryan in trouble. But also to encourage me to make a big dinner tonight – preferably Mexican food.
And you know, I am going to do it too! Serves him right! Chicken Enchiladas anyone?
Saturday, April 30, 2005
A rare, inside look...
Today was Intel's annual Family Day. So, Acadia and I met Ryan at work to see what he does! The campus (Ronlar Acres) is made up of several very large buildings - it's simply HUGE! And there were only about a million things to see and do, but here are some pictures of some of it (cameras weren't allowed in the actual fabs, so these are just in the activity areas)...
We started by making our own wafers (uh, wafer cookies that is!)...
Here we begin by putting the wafer into the furnace where it cooked (and got frosted).
We then put the on the design.
Placed the protective film on it.
The wafer went through a final inspection.
And here are the final products! Mmmm...According to Cadi, they were rather tasty too!
There were lots of exhibits...
At one, Cadi rode a hovercraft!
At another, we got to dress up in bunny suits! Acadia was a little shy about it (and was busy eating her wafer) so I was the only one to actually do it. Those puppies are HOT!!! Now I know why Ryan wears short sleeved shirts to work in the winter! Ryan also mentioned to me that they are each worth about $1000!!! I think this is officially the most expensive piece of clothing I have ever worn!
The picture is taken infront of a large picture of one of the fabs.
Here is a picture of a picture of the fronts of some of the tools Ryan works on.
All in all, it was a fun day! We were able to "tour" the fabs, including the one that Ryan works in. I say tour, but really we walked along an outer hallway that had some windows that looked into parts of the fabs. Still, quite interesting and very impressive!
Now we have a new appreciation for all the hard work that Ryan does!
We started by making our own wafers (uh, wafer cookies that is!)...
Here we begin by putting the wafer into the furnace where it cooked (and got frosted).
We then put the on the design.
Placed the protective film on it.
The wafer went through a final inspection.
And here are the final products! Mmmm...According to Cadi, they were rather tasty too!
There were lots of exhibits...
At one, Cadi rode a hovercraft!
At another, we got to dress up in bunny suits! Acadia was a little shy about it (and was busy eating her wafer) so I was the only one to actually do it. Those puppies are HOT!!! Now I know why Ryan wears short sleeved shirts to work in the winter! Ryan also mentioned to me that they are each worth about $1000!!! I think this is officially the most expensive piece of clothing I have ever worn!
The picture is taken infront of a large picture of one of the fabs.
Here is a picture of a picture of the fronts of some of the tools Ryan works on.
All in all, it was a fun day! We were able to "tour" the fabs, including the one that Ryan works in. I say tour, but really we walked along an outer hallway that had some windows that looked into parts of the fabs. Still, quite interesting and very impressive!
Now we have a new appreciation for all the hard work that Ryan does!
Friday, April 8, 2005
Booked
Earlier this week we received a call from one of the ladies I visit. Her son was sick with the flu and she wondered if I could feed the missionaries Friday (tonight) for them. It was the morning after the “long night” and I was so tempted to say no. But I knew things would be better for me by then (now) and also knew it would help her out, so I agreed. And now I need to make dinner for three sister missionaries. Which also means I need to actually finish cleaning the house. I’ve done a little here and there the last couple of days, but it needs so much more!
Ryan is back at a location at work that keeps him busy. He also has far less flexibility with his time. No more coming home early and making up for it later. So he gets to work on time and comes home on time. And that means half the week, Cadi won’t see Ryan at all. That’s no fun. But he is here all day (besides school) the other half of the week.
Okay, here’s a Friday Five:
What is the one book that you reread over and over again?
Okay, honestly the “Book of Mormon”. I’ve read some books more than once, but rarely.
What is your favorite genre?
Hmmm, I really like all kinds. I love historical novels. I suppose if I have to choose, that is it.
Do you usually buy your books or visit the library?
Mostly buy. Sometimes borrow from friends.
Who is your favorite author?
Don’t have one.
What book have you read that you absolutely hated?
Hahaha! I laugh because the first book that came to mind was “Where the Red Fern Grows”, which is what Ryan is reading to Acadia now. It’s an awful book – way to sad!
Ryan is back at a location at work that keeps him busy. He also has far less flexibility with his time. No more coming home early and making up for it later. So he gets to work on time and comes home on time. And that means half the week, Cadi won’t see Ryan at all. That’s no fun. But he is here all day (besides school) the other half of the week.
Okay, here’s a Friday Five:
What is the one book that you reread over and over again?
Okay, honestly the “Book of Mormon”. I’ve read some books more than once, but rarely.
What is your favorite genre?
Hmmm, I really like all kinds. I love historical novels. I suppose if I have to choose, that is it.
Do you usually buy your books or visit the library?
Mostly buy. Sometimes borrow from friends.
Who is your favorite author?
Don’t have one.
What book have you read that you absolutely hated?
Hahaha! I laugh because the first book that came to mind was “Where the Red Fern Grows”, which is what Ryan is reading to Acadia now. It’s an awful book – way to sad!
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