Weekend Wrap Up

First a quick weekend wrap up and then some big news. We've had a busy weekend with family, but unfortunately I did not do a great job of taking pictures. Last Thursday, the boys and I went to visit my mom. We spent some time outside playing at her house and at a playground nearby.

She has a beautiful yard. She spends many, many hours working on it during the summer. We were able to help with a little job, so at least she marked one item off her list. Miles kept saying to me that he didn't know how she keeps up with everything.

We only spent one night b/c everything revolves around Carson and it worked out best for us to leave at 8pm the second day rather than spend another night and leave the next morning. The plan was successful (with the help of Benadryl) and he slept almost the whole way home. When I rolled into the driveway at 10:15pm, I was able to carry him straight to bed and he slept until morning. The electricity went out for a couple house at my mom's house the one night we stayed so the boys entertained us with a riveting game of charades (all animals :)

We spent the rest of the weekend at home. It was a nice mix of work and pleasure. Darrin and I were each able to mark a few things off our to do lists. I bought this new chair on Amazon last week. I actually kicked back with my feet up more than usual for me. I am trying hard to enjoy rest rather than constantly find ways to stay busy. I'm terrible at it, but I think it's so important. It felt beautiful in the shade. A little someone kept trying to steal my chair.

But he also brought me a flower. Apparently it was just to show me b/c he wouldn't let me keep it. 

Darrin's parent came down for dinner last night and spent the night. We enjoyed having them, but I don't have a single picture to show for it. After the rainiest spring we've had in a long time, I am so thankful for a beautiful weekend.

And now for the big news. I shared a couple weeks ago that I was starting a new job. Tomorrow, I am going back to my old job. The last thing my old boss said to me was that if I got over there and didn't like it, to give him a call. After two days at the new job, I took him up on his offer and called him to find out if his offer still stood for me to come back. It's been a tough experience to endure, but I am so excited to go back to work tomorrow. I had to go back through the hiring process which meant waiting for a background check and drug screen. That's just part of working for a big company. Something that would have made me roll my eyes in the past now makes me appreciative for set guidelines and procedures. The two weeks I was off work allowed me time to get caught up at home. 

In some ways I worry that I ran ahead of God on this decision, but I also know how I was feeling and it did not feel like the right move. While I know that God's blessings may be richer down a particular path, I also know that he is at the end of every path I could ever choose, so I trust in that. I missed my old co-workers so much and something about the new job just didn't feel right to me. At the end of the day, my old job is still a very busy pace that is difficult for my family, so I have thought through some ways to try to improve that. I am going to be diligent about trying some new ways of doing things. My boss said he would help me find ways to cut down on travel too. Everyone at my old job has been so welcoming and gracious about me coming back. It's been a humbling experience in feeling like I made a poor decision, but also in how I've been welcomed back so warmly. One of my managers jokingly said I better never pull a stunt like this again and I could not agree more. I am definitely here to stay. I would have never know the feeling if I didn't give it a try, so I'm grateful for that. I think my outlook will be much different now. I cannot wait to go to work tomorrow! So thankful.

Wordless Wednesday

Carson's First Day, Miles' Last Day

Yesterday was Carson's first day in his new classroom. He moved up to the three year old room. A lot of parents were sad, but I welcomed the change. He was the oldest kid in his old classroom and it's time he sees how older kids use the potty, follow directions, eat their food, etc. After we took a few things to his new room, I had to take him to the gym b/c that is where you drop them off in the morning. He was so excited until we got around ten steps from the door. He froze, sat down, and started crying. I picked him up and carried him in the door. As soon as I pointed to a friend, he wiggled out of my arms and took off running without looking back. He cried again this morning and Darrin had to eventually hand him off to a teacher and leave. It's interesting to see b/c this is the first time we've ever seen him act this way. He's usually fine with being left a school, church, grandparents, or babysitter. 

His new teacher is a friend of mine from Miles' baseball team. She sent me this picture after nap time. Apparently this is the look he gave her when she told him to get back on his mat. His first two days have been great!

Today was Miles' last day of third grade. I can't say enough how great the year has been. When I picked him up today, both his teachers told me how great he is. They said he is very intelligent and brings so much fun and challenge to the classroom. One teacher said that he asks questions that make the other students think. She complimented us on the job we have done with him so far. I wish I would have gotten pictures with both teachers, but I only managed one with Ms. Carla. When I asked Miles which teacher was his favorite, he said that he couldn't pick between then. I'd say that is a successful year with Ms. Carla and Mrs. Hardison.

While I do think that these teachers would have been fabulous regardless of my efforts, I think it's only fair to reflect on my strategy to help the school year go more smoothly. After a horrible 2nd grade year, I decided to be 'that mom' that volunteers, sends snacks, and even buys gifts. My motto was "if you can't beat them, join them" b/c we have a super involved parent group in our town. These teachers made it a pleasure to do anything for them. I told them both today that I wish I could buy them everything b/c they are both amazing. Since they both bragged on the gifts I sent this year, I thought I would share a few ideas. First, the desk organizer. This has been my standard Christmas gift every year. You can buy them at Marshalls or TJ Maxx. I fill them with fun school supplies. This is mine at home, but you get the point.

Another little gift was these earrings. I ordered them in light gold and black and gave one pair to each teacher with a note. My sister-in-law gave me the light gold for Christmas and I wear them all the time. This is a very inexpensive gift that seems like way more than it is.

Today's end of the year gift were goodr sunglasses. I ordered them both the Bosley's Basset Hound Dreams, which is the pair that I'm wearing. I also have them in orange. The colors are really fun. I bought them at a local boutique. 

I also sent random texts when Miles would tell me something nice or funny about them, and sent snacks when needed. As I said, I think these teachers would have been stellar no matter what, but you can bet that I will be using the same strategy in 4th grade. Happy summer!

Weekend Wrap Up

The weekend started with haircuts. Carson was completely uncooperative for the first time. Darrin usually takes him, so maybe he thought he could get away with it since I was there. 

Miles had a "Triple Play" birthday party for three of his baseball teammates. It was so nice that the parents planned it together. The party was at a Nerf 'battlefield'. Lots of sweaty boys.

That's a lot of kids with Nerf guns. By the end of the night there were more than a couple that were mad and/or crying, mine included.

For some reason, things like Nerf guns and dodge ball get 110% of Miles' effort and bring out his most competitive side...far more than sports. 

Carson spent the weekend with Granny & Pa b/c we left bright and early on Saturday morning for a baseball tournament. He had a great time. I think he was having too much time to stop for a picture.

Miles' team got a new banner for the dug out. I think they feel pretty big.

I didn't take many pictures b/c I just enjoyed the day since we didn't have Carson. I managed this one of Miles as catcher, talking to the pitcher. I would love to be a fly on the wall to hear what he says.

 

I was in full on Medina support with my orange glasses, blue shirt, Hornet hat, and 'Real Housewives of Medina' cup :) The weather was beautiful all day. I'm trying to protect my skin this summer with sunscreen, hats, and glasses. I put SPF 70 on before I left the house and reapplied during the day. I fared better than most. 

It started pouring during our last game of the night. Literally with one gust of the wind the temperature dropped what seemed to be 10 degrees. We all noticed it. It was the strangest thing I've ever felt. We eventually were rained out and the games were canceled on Sunday b/c the fields were not playable. It wasn't the best weekend for the boys, but they gained some experience that will no doubt help them get better.

We spent Sunday at home working outside. Darrin bought a trailer to work around the house. He and Miles did a good job restoring it and putting a new floor and sides on. It's going to be so helpful with yard work b/c we can pull it behind the 4-wheeler.

Carson loves to be barefoot, which is the opposite of Miles. I don't even like to be barefoot in my own house, so I can't relate, but I try not to get in the way of him being a boy.

The boys played together nicely. Carson used his 'mon-mower' to go to 'Mal-Mart' and get us cereal bars all afternoon :)

I wish the weather would have cooperated so we could have enjoyed more baseball and sunshine. We have this weekend off and then 4-5 weekends straight of baseball, so I'm sure we will get out fill of it.

Weekend Wrap Up

This weekend turned out much differently than expected. We were supposed to play baseball all weekend in Mississippi. We asked Darrin's parents if Carson could stay with them since we had a 2.5 hour drive and three days of baseball. We were all set to go, but in keeping with the rainiest spring I can remember in a long time, it was supposed to rain all weekend. Our team was given the option to back out of the tournament and so we did. That left us with a weekend at home and NO PLANS!!! We decided to take advantage of our time at home to work on potty training. This might go down as one of my all time favorite pictures. Miles was coaching Carson on how to potty. His big brother game is strong. 

Friday night, Darrin and I were in the living room late. I fell asleep and just hadn't made myself go to the bedroom yet. Around 1:30am, without a peep, Carson came strolling into the living room. He has climbed out of his crib a couple times, but not without a warning. We knew it was time to switch him to a big boy bed. Since we just bought Miles a new bed from Christmas, we had his old bed ready for Carson. Within a couple hours and less than $30, we had his new room ready to go. I was so thankful that we had everything b/c this transition was easy.

I knew a queen would be a little big in Carson's room, but we made it work. I know a queen is big for a toddler, but I like the option of laying down with him comfortably when needed, or using it for extra guests. Plus, I just think it's comfortable. I'm all about making beds as comfortable as possible. That is definitely something that my mom taught me. We are so busy and we need good rest to stay healthy, even little ones.

It is pretty crowded with the chair, but we aren't ready to part with that yet. Sitting in the chair and reading books is a nightly routine and it's been very effective for the last couple years. We are hoping we can continue with that and keep him sleeping as well as he has been. The room needs a few touches after we officially lose the changing station. For now, it is very functional.

For his first nap, Darrin read books and put him in bed. He started to get up, so Darrin sat in the chair for a few minutes and he felt right to sleep. He slept for just under four hours! I was shopping with a friend when Darrin text me to say that he had just gotten up. I was so happy to know that he was comfortable in his new bed. Obviously he loved it. He was very proud when he came walking in to the living room after his long nap. Darrin and Miles celebrated with him.

Last night was his first night. He came into our room in the middle of the night and got in bed with us. Our plan was to take him back to his bed, but I must have been so tired that I forgot. That's the plan again tonight if he comes back.

We also had a lot of time to work around the house. I worked inside on laundry and meal prep. Darrin and the boys worked outside. Miles and Carson checked on the garden. I bought Carson some new boots last Thursday. He said "thank you momma" at least five times.

We are all getting excited about everything that is growing!

Miles is most excited about the strawberries.

Miles took my phone to the garden and took a bunch of pictures. A lot of them had Carson posing. They know me and my blogging needs all too well.

Miles also cut the grass. He's only cutting the level parts this year. He did a great job and loved it. What a big help!

Lastly, we celebrated Mother's Day. My mom was out of town and Darrin's mom celebrated with his sister, so it was just our little family this year. They bought me several cards and some pretty roses. I also picked where we had dinner. My choice was take out from Panda Express. Keeping it classy around here. We have become a take out family since Carson came along and we may never go back. That is the way to go.

I love Carson's craft from daycare.

A friend sent me this and I thought it was spot on.

We are very thankful for our moms, for the love and support they provide us. And, I'm beyond grateful to be a boymom to these two. Happy Mother's Day, everyone!

Tomorrow is a Big Day

Well, tomorrow is a big day for me. After 17 years with my company, tomorrow is my last day. When I started as a teller supervisor in 2001, before marriage and kids, I never could have imagined where it would lead. After a couple years in that position, I got to put my degree to use in the Marketing department, which would become a department of 7 over the years to come, and the best team ever.

We learned and accomplished so much, while having a lot of fun.

 

My boss always did a great job of celebrating our company anniversaries.

I think this was my 10 year anniversary. I owe so much to this boss and friend. She taught me how to manage people by emulating it in front of me. We were a great team b/c of her and she has 'raised' all of us to just know what to do in order to be productive and respected in the workplace.

There have been many headshots over the years.

I swear my hair was brown and not red. I don't know what happened here, but it didn't last long :)

Our department was known for the Party Mix. We always made it for meetings and training sessions. It has regular Chex mix, bold Chex mix, honey roasted peanuts, peanut M&Ms, white Kit Kats, Honey BBQ corn twists, mini Reese cups, white puffed corn, and Whoopers. You can add a lot of things, but that's my favorite combo.

In 2014, our company was acquired. That day is memorable, b/c my Time Hop says, "Sometimes you just have to eat ice cream for dinner". That day started a couple years of change and uncertainty.

All but two from our Marketing department left. My work BF, Angie, and I landed in a retail role each managing a group of branches and branch managers. This is my group and I love them dearly. 

I've been in this role for two years and it's been a wild ride. I have learned so much and I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. I could not have asked for a better group. They work hard, play hard. They are good people and I consider them all friends.

So why am I leaving? I was approached about a marketing director position at a smaller community bank. I just don't think I can keep the pace of my current job up for much longer. I work with 11 offices and the closest office is 45 minutes away. I am on the road a lot and I feel like I'm always flying by the seat of my pants. In order to do this job well, you have to stay on the go and push yourself. Even when I'm not working, my mind is thinking about work. The calls, emails, and texts never stop, and I DON'T MIND THEM ONE BIT, but I just think it's not about me right now. I only get these years with my kids one time. I need more mental capacity available for them.

My transition to this role has given me new friendships that I will take with me.

It really has been fun, very challenging, but so fun at times.

Over the last two years, I worked closely with the man that hired me in 2001. He has become a great mentor and friend. He retired two weeks ago, making this move a little more doable for me.

 

Sadly, this is the only picture that I could come up with of Angie and me (she is second from the left). We stayed by choice and circumstance and I am so glad. Our bond is strong. Leaving her behind is the hardest, but I know we will keep in touch. Thankfully her office is two hours away so I don't have to physically say goodbye to her tomorrow. I will miss talking on the phone 100x a day and traveling with her.

 

 

I don't remember what it is like to give a company your all during the day, but then be able to go home and not think about it until the next day, but I'm looking forward to remembering. I do remember that is how I felt for the 15 years I spent in marketing. Our family's schedule and busyness has been on my heart for a while. I believe God gave me my 15 years of marketing experience and then allowed me to manage retail for the last two years for such a time as this. He doesn't overlook the details, and a major detail for me was overcoming my fear of public speaking in my current role. That has always been a hang up for me and now it is not. This day is bittersweet, but I leave with nothing but love for my co-workers and this company. I'm ready for the next chapter.