Band Parents

Band Parents

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Small Success Thursday - One week before Christmas...

Here I go again. Doubting, wondering.. How much should I take responsibility for finding a new job and how much do I rely on God for his blessing?

Had another interview last Friday. We decided I was not right for the job at hand but discussed bringing me in to talk to the lead of the Project management team. I dutifully sent an e-mail thank you note and the days this week I would be available and once again, radio silence. Does the perfect job exist? (My current contract is close - I love hat I am doing, the location is between home and my son'd High school (no busing, i drive him everyday) I can work form home at times. Will a continuation of my contract or a permanent job offer come next month? Can I afford to ignore opportunities that are just not quite right? I have been blessed so far. I pray that I continue to be blessed and that I recognize the need to take action.

I got the trees and my Nativities up last weekend. The house is decorated for Christmas.

I also hosted a dinner for my parents, Hubby's Mom, my son, his wife and our grandson and the three of us at home after the 15YO's band concert. It was simple, done up ahead of time and in crockpots. Hubby's default answer is to go out.But I proved we could do it at home.

These days, recognizing our successes as we go about our day to day lives can be difficult, so we reflect so that we can see we are moving forward and not just treading water.  Linking up with Catholic Mom.

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Small success Thursday - Dec 11


Welcome to Thursday once again. The week I thought was going to be peaceful and relaxed was not. 

Sunday night was a crisis when Hubby was unable to find the keys to his rental car. We looked everywhere, After driving from home to his office for the again, he sat down and was able ot remember the odd place he had put them. 

I attended the Holy Day Mass at 12:15. Holy day Mass attendance always takes a herculean effort between my 8-5 job and chauffeuring duties. 

Tuesday day was quite the day. I had trouble sleeping and was up early. I could hear water running in the vicinity of my refrigerator, but did not see any puddles. I hoped it was the frost-free cycle. But I came home after dropping the 15YO off at school and worked there. Sure enough, but 11 AM, the puddle showed itself. But I had given it enough time to go into the basement. I tugged at the Fridge but could not budge it. With Hubby out of town, I could not budge it. So I called my Dad who came down. Meanwhile, I was able to get it moved before he got there. There was a pinhole leak in the ice maker\dispenser waterline. I turned the valve, but the water did not stop. Dad came and fiddled with it and said the valve was backwards and I had it wide open rather than shut. ("It's not "righty-tighty" he said.) He made an attempt to fix the hose, but it still leaked. So that is on Hubby's to-do list for the weekend. 

I got a call about a job opportunity. I am not currently thrilled with it, but they understand I have a contract until Jan 30. I will put on my game face and go to an interview tomorrow. Then another opportunity came to me. My resume was hand-carried to the manager by someone I worked with before. This one is with a Catholic Hospital. another email said they would start interviews after the first of the year. My first choice would be to stay with my current assignment. But we will see. 

Have a great next week!

Linking up with Catholic Mom




Thursday, December 04, 2014

Small success Thursday- Start of Advent

Hello everyone,

It is that time of the week again to celebrate the little things we accomplish. I know that as a Mom who works outside them home, it does feeling like I am so bogged down each day, it feels like I am treading water in the daily routine of lather, rinse, repeat.

Some of my business is coming to an end. I still will be taking my 15YO to High school every morning, then going on to my office. (Grateful to have had a contract extension until Jan 30). But this is the last week for my older son and Daughter-in-law's evening college course, during which I babysit my grandson. So I needed to be home by 4:30 T & Th.

But, for this week,
- While we did go to a family farm and cut down our live Christmas tree, it is sitting unadorned in the formal living room. My family never put the tree up until about the third week of Advent. My parents both grew up with the German tradition of the tree being put up Christmas eve...I am taking it slowly. Today I will dig out the stockings and advent wreath (a little behind..) For we also celebrate the Feast of St. Nick. I have the candy for the stockings and an iTunes gift card for the 15YO to download some Christmas music he is keen to buy.

- Last night I picked the 15YO up after band practice and went and got him a tux shirt to wear at the concert on the 14th. That has been on my list for a while.

- I made an appointment to have the oil changed in my car for tomorrow.

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Small Success Thursday - Thanksgiving edition

Hello everyone,

It is late afternoon, we've eaten or turkey, stuffing, potatoes, pie and whatever else was put on the table. It was wonderful.

I am very happy that I have a job to go to on Monday. There are no Doctors or Physical therapy appointments to go to. Just band. And this will be the last week of babysitting my Grandson wile my son and Daughter-in-law attend class. (Her classes will be all in the day next semester.) Maybe I can hit the gym, or sew some planned Christmas gifts.

Last Saturday the Football team won their playoff game, so the play again This coming Saturday. S we will be moving band equipment. Yay! Praying for weather that is not too cold and not wet.

Sunday I was able to fix a big turkey dinner for my Husband, children, daughter-in-law, grandson along with my parents and mother-in-law. It was successful and fun for me.  

This evening hubby and I will sit down and discuss our Christmas plan and budget (yes, a little late for me).

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Linking up with Catholic Mom 

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Small Success Thursday - 2 Month reprieve

Happy Thursday everyone,

I am counting my blessings today. Yesterday afternoon I got a message from my co-worker asking if I wanted to work until the end of January. One of the other guys is taking a long vacation, so I will be helping out. I have these potential opportunities pop up and then they all evaporated one by one. So I have been praying for a resolution for to my job situation that would be the best for my family. So here it is. This will give me an income over the holidays and into the beginning of the year when (hopefully) new projects will be launched and budgets allocated. I don't have to cancel Christmas.

Also no my doing, but feeling like a victory, my son is finished with formal Physical therapy. In spite of having decent health insurance, we had a hefty co-pay for each PT session. And he went twice a week, requiring Hubby or I to take off from work. This is one of the reasons I have not been able to squirrel away as much money as I wanted.

What really strikes me is how relatively calm I have been. When news came of another possibly opportunity fading away, I was able to acknowlege my disappointment and feel a moment of panic before deciding that God has my back and I need to move forward, still looking a job boards, putting in more applications but trusting that God would make something happen.

I prefer to be able to start my prayers with "Thank you for the wonderful blessings you give me."

Linking up with Catholic Mom.


Thursday, November 13, 2014

Small success Thursday - Nov. 13

Happy Thursday everyone,

So I got confirmation that my current contract job is ending at the end of the month. The folks I am working for did send my resume for an open position. Nice that they have confidence in me. My co-worker has given me a rave review on LinkedIn. I've been talking with 2 recruiters, so please say a prayer or two for me. I am feeling like I'd like to pull back a little bit but Hubby is not so much in favor of that. Mostly because I am definitly NOT a homebody and my current busy-ness looks like it is going to lessen in the next month as my 15 YO finished up Physical Therapy and  my daughter-in-law has scheduled all of her college classes during the day or online for the spring semester so I won't be rushing home 2 days a week to take care of my grandson while both his parents attend class. A few years ago I experimented with a work from home job and that did not go well. Plus, we'd like to be able to pay for college for both of our sons.

I have 2 Christmas presents. I ordered a new coat for Hubby and made him try it on to ensure it will fit over a suit coat, and I made something for my Niece.

I mailed packages for my twin nephews' birthday. They are in College and struggling with the cafeteria food. They are very much into healthy eating.

We scheduled one more Physical therapy session for the 15 YO.  Then he visits the Doctor and we anticipate that they will release him to a "bridge" program between formal therapy and 100% that will be half the out of pocket cost  if therapy and will be in the evenings.

Have a great week.

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, November 06, 2014

Small Success Thursday - Time Change

Hello,

Still adjusting to the time change. I like that it is a little light while driving to work. But I still want to crawl into bed about 8 PM.

Still no word on if my contract job is ending at the end of the month or not. The account manager was going to pitch me as a flexible resource who can work a few hours a week or up to 40. I figured I need about 60% of my current take home pay to cover our obligations. I have put it in God's hands to determine what is best for me and my family. But it is hard. I try to keep my eyes open for actions to take. This is pretty stressful, but I am mostly keeping my cool.

I asked for help. My parents wanted to visit some evening when I was taking care of my Grandson. The were going to drop off Hubby's birthday gift. Well, Hubby was going to be out of town Tuesday, The 15 year old needed to be picked up at school at 5:00 and the Grandson arrives at my house at 4:30. So I asked Mom and Dad to be here by 4:30. My Mom even brought dinner. They all had fun playing together.

My big success is that I finished a twin-sized quilt. While not thrilled with one of the fabrics, I like the quilt overall. It has a Comic book-theme. I work on it in fits and starts as I steal the time. I plan to give it to my cousin when she receives a multiple organ transplant. Her favorite super heroes can help her stay strong.

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Friday, October 31, 2014

Small Success Thursday - A day late


I let my stress get the better of me over the weekend and had a meltdown over a frustrating but ultimately trivial issue. Sigh, that embarrasses me. But I also realized I was also experiencing a low blood sugar event at the same time. I need to watch that.
  • I made it to the gym on Monday. But that is because I know I am going to be putting in a few hours of work over the weekend. As a contractor I am "limited" to 40 hours a week. Unfortunately I have not made it back. 
  • Had lunch with the account manager of my current contract. She is looking for opportunities for me if my current one ends at the end of November. After talking, she is also going to pitch me as a flexible resource who can work fewer than 40 hours a week or scale up to 40 when the work is there. I like that. My budget depends on 60% or my current take home pay, so we can cut back a bit without much pain and that would take a weight off of my shoulder. So I am saying some prayers. 
  • Made my husband a from scratch birthday cake for his birthday on Wednesday.  
Linking up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Small Success Thursday - Oct 23

Once again I am struggling to come up with my successes. I get up. get ready, drop my teenager off at school, go to work and either pick the teenager up or come home to babysit my Grandson while his parents attend class. Lather, rinse, repeat...

Add to this the fact that I work on a contract basis. My contract is currently expiring at the end of November. It seems to be touch and go as to if it will be renewed. This is always so much fun, NOT!

So I have:
1. Updated my resume
2. Made dinner every night this week even if it was not well-received
3. I dropped off a pair of shoes at the repair shop to have new heels put on them before iw ore them down too much.

Linking up with Catholic Mom.

Thursday, October 09, 2014

Small Success Thursday - Oct 9

Another Thursday, Another post...

I am in a season of my life where I really need these weekly reminders. Personally I feel like I am spinning my wheels most of the time, not growing in any aspect of my life.

It is amazing how with the advent of blogs, twitter and online news, how focused I am on my faith life. I think about my faith and the love for it much more than I did 10 years ago when my faith life consisted of prayer before dinner, Mass on the weekends and conversations with my kids about their day at the Catholic school.  

Now I can participate in Novenas by signing up for regular emails from PrayMoreNovenas.com. (Not that I am good at saying the prayers each and every day, But God is hearing me. My intentions for the last year have been focused on asking for my parents to get moved back to my home town. That has finally happened. I prayed for a peaceful death for a wonderful lady who is a friend of the family. Her doctors are amazed that she is not in excruciating pain and she has a happy demeanor, granting her husband, kids and grandkids good memories of her final days. I have been praying for my son, DIL and Grandson that they build a strong family and take steps to support themselves. My son has been working a labor intensive job for almost a year. We would love him to take some classes or vocational training. He is back taking an English class towards a degree and he is starting to explore other options. He realized that he does not want to be like his poor partner at work who is 50, has been pulling cable all of his working life, is slow, aching and tired. Thank you Lord!

I have been mostly patient with the 15 yo when he blamed me for forgetting his lunch the other day. He said I rushed him. Hum, I have a declared time to leave the house. He was not ready. Not my fault. This morning we had to turn around because he forgot his school laptop. Although I admit I got quite load when he did not want to taek the bag of too small creates in for the sports equipment drive saying "It would be a pain to carry it to the other side of the school." After his actions had put me at least 15 minutes late and I had to call into a conference call from my car.

And I have cooked dinner and packed my lunch this week. For today I have split pea soup in my crockpot.

Joining up with Catholic Mom  

Thursday, October 02, 2014

Small Success Thursday - The Day to Day Grind

More and more, I am having difficulty coming up with my small successes. But then I think that is when I really need to think about this. My vocation as a Wife and Mom have a tendency to be eclipsed by my working-for-pay job. In the beginning, I was called to work. I enjoyed it, I could not imagine being a stay at home Mom. it was not for me. I had earned my Master's degree and was ready to take in the IT world. It would be quite a few years before Hubby would decided he was ready to go back to school for his degree.

These days, my paycheck is putting out son through Catholic High school, school loans and extra wants and luxuries. The first two are worth every penny. My youngest son is only dependent upon me for grocery transportation, grocery shopping an financial support. I am longing to slow down, I still enjoy the paid work I do. And I have a good amount of flexibility. God had been good to me, in June he pointed me to a new job that enabled me to take my son to and from school (no bus service). And even though it is a contract position, I am keeping calm that everything will work out ok. If it is meant to be that I work less and be available to care for my Grandson so his parents can work and go to school, it will happen (My perfect scenario is a part-time position. Unfortunately they are not so common in IT).

Anyways, my days start early with getting up and getting dressed. I aim to leave the house at 6:30 pending the readiness of the teenager, drop him off at school. work by 7:30. I usually work through lunch so I can leave at 4. M & W I need to pick up the teen form school, T & Th he has band, but my older son and his wife have class, so they drop off the baby at 4:30. I cook and serve dinner, we clean up, I spend time with Hubby and am in bed by 9:30 and start all over again. Unless there is a band boosters meeting, or a meeting of the school's parent technology committee that I help out on... You get the picture.

So I guess there is success at putting one foot in front of the other, taking care of my employer's needs and my family's needs. I'd love to squeeze some personal exercise in there, on a consistent basis,. I manage a walk every couple of days.. But it is not be be this season.

But hey, I have packed my lunch so far this week. Better fro my wallet and my waistline.    

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Small Success -Examining the to-do list

Why is it so hard to find my successes. These are supposed to be small things. So let's go to my to do list:


  • Work on a Quilt - Nope
  • color my hair - yes, last night - Can I get a woo-hoo?
  • Cook Dinner - Monday was yes, Tuesday, leftovers, Last night - Hubby worked late. DS15 believe she got his Nephew's cold, so he wanted Chicken soup. Know what Chick soup looked like? A can of low sodium chick broth, water and concentrated stock, egg noodles cooked in the former and a couple of small cans of chicken thrown in. It is all gone.
  • Prepare chicken and noodles for 24 band kids on Friday. I cooked 2 whole chickens (ironically while making the above soup). I cooked them from frozen, and even got them deboned. 
  • Prepare 20 brownies for tailgating lunch at school. - Not yet, tonight. 
  • Take my grandson to get real shoes since he is walking and it is getting colder out. - His cold was making him unhappy hen i kept him Tuesday. We will try again tonight. 
Not so bad when I take a good look. I needed this this week. 

Linking up with Catholic Mom. 

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Small Success Thursday - Sept 18

Hello everyone,

I started a post last week, but enumerating successes was hard. So I am back.


  • Stood in for Hubby presiding over the Band Boosters meeting while he was out of town. Just call me Edith Wilson. 
  • I have been successful at not breaking down at my teenager's emotional pendulum swings this week. He was very grumpy when I was able to make it school to pick him up. I understand having to sit around and wait is frustrating. but my job pays his tuition. Although he did say that he thinks this Catholic school was a much better choice than  he local public school. It is just too bad the public school district decided to punish parents for levy failures by eliminating busing for high schoolers...
  • Sunday I defrosted mt freezer. Hubby and DS were getting frustrated that there were not the usual heat a serve-type dished there, but I needed to get is emptied to the point where I could get everything in the freezer of the refrigerator. Coming up, a trip to Costco... 
Jump on over to Catholic Mom to share and celebrate the little successes we all forget about. 

Thursday, September 04, 2014

It is Small Success Thursday...

Hi Folks, Here I am again, it is Thursday.

1. Last Friday was the first High School Football game of the season. We made it. The band is smaller (again) this year. So Sad. But the school is known for it's athletics. But here is a gratuitous picture of a couple of my favorite guys:

2. Last night was "meet the teacher" night. Hubby was fighting a cold, so I went by myself. I have to say my son is really enjoying the High School.

3. Biting my tongue about someone who gets so excited and posts videos of a certain almost 8-month-old (Pictured above)  walking and tags me. Sometimes I'd like to share family news with my Facebook friends and family my own way, not necessarily someone else' s video. Besides, He was doing that at my house earlier that same day. I just did not take video of it. LOL! 


So Check out Catholic Mom for more.

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Small Success Thursday


We've had a mild summer until now. Everyone is back in school and the hot, humid, muggy air comes in.

Anyways,
1. Had a very grumpy teenager yesterday. School had a late start yesterday due to a teacher meeting, but My work did not have a late start. Intellectually he understood that and blamed his anger on "Murphy's law". This quick-tempered Momma managed to keep her cool and her voice down instead of yelling.

2. Same teenager was allegedly the last one to access the freezer in the garage for a frozen breakfast sandwich. I came home Tuesday to a big puddle of water on the garage floor and defrosted items int eh freezer. I simply sighed and gave Thanks that I did not do a big stock up on the Costco run as I threw out Waffles, Breakfast sandwiches, homemade broth, Flank steak, Chicken, pulled pork...

3. Finally got Ponchos ordered for the Band. I have been looking at them. We have insulated raincoats that are good for 30-50 degrees, but in Aug and Early Sept, they are took heavy. Of course, the Team has won that State championships the last 2 years and the Late November and December games have been very cold.  I just felt like I was making decisions in a vacuum, but finally did it.

Linking up with Catholic Mom 

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Small Success Thursday - Back to school

My son started back to school this week. On crutches due to his torn ACL. He reluctantly allowed me to take a picture today, dressed in his Mass Day best.
I finally made an appointment to see my Primary Care Physician. Need refills on the meds. I need to get better about taking my prescribed meds. I get my morning does in 5 or so days a week, but usually for get my evening does. I need to work on that.

We have been eating at home. I have been very creative with what we have in the house. I did not make my beginning-of-the-month Costco run because I had cookies for the Wedding reception in my freezer. But we have been eating at home.

Hubby replaced our garage door opener yesterday. A Thunder-storm-induced power pop was the final blow. It only wanted to run in one direction. The lights on it stopped working in 2011 when we had a lightening strike that caused our chimney to explode and required roof repairs and replacement of a computer, tv and other items. I am just thankful we have never had a fire. I was surprised to learn that my township has an above average number of lightening strikes.

Linking up with Catholic Mom  

Saturday, August 16, 2014

My Son's Wedding


Pictures from my Son's Wedding:

My new Daughter-in-law and son


The Baby boy is the son of the Bride and Groom. 
Parents of the Groom



 It was a very lovely Wedding.

Thursday, August 14, 2014

Small Success Thursday - I've almost made it through!


So i wrote a post last week for SST but did not realize we were on a hiatus. So you can read it here if you'd like.

But the last few weeks have been jam-packed, most planned, but an unplanned event with far-reaching repercussions.


  • With the rest of everything, Hubby has had to take out of town trips at least 3 of the last 4 weeks. One was to India the same week 3 planes went down needlessly. 
  • My 14 YO spent all of July training with the high school soccer team. The first day of tryouts he hurt his knee, tearing his ACL. That resulted in surgery 2 days ago. So now he is in an immobilizing brace and on crutches and he took up residence on the recliner in the family room. Pleas offer up prayers that his Freshman orientation today and tomorrow are not too taxing for him. 
  • My 19 YO son got Married last Sunday (Civil ceremony, getting it recognized by the Church is a task on the "someday" list - Baby steps). There was everything that went along with it, including the 7 month old Grandson spending 3 days and nights at our house. 
  • My parents have been staying with us since July 31. Their help has been invaluable. They were the primary caretakers for the baby and they have helped greatly withe the 14YO. I gritted my teeth the 3 days that the 14YO as away at band camp and Hubby was out of town and I was all my Mom had to worry about. LOL! 
  • Oh yes, an I worked a full time job. As a contractor I don't; have paid vacation, I took off a total of 8 hours this week.  
So we have one more wedding event Saturday. We are throwing a reception for extended family members. I have a close family (3 generations of cousins) that we were not able to invite to the wedding. Then next Week the 14 yo starts back to school. 

and my 19 YO is signed up for College English. He will have a class at the same time as his wife, so she can make sure he gets to class. The she will have a class afterwards and told the 19 YO he will be doing his homework then. We will have the baby at least one of those 2 nights a week. 

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, August 07, 2014

Small Success Thursday Aug 7 Edition

This past week has been more crazy/busy than usual. My Son's Wedding is this weekend. My parents are in town for the festivities, Hubby's traveling, The 14 YO was trying out for the High school soccer team last Friday and tore his ACL. Then I shipped him off to Band camp with a bum kee. (Doctor approve, kid was ecstatic to go) So far I am holding it together, but there has been a benign event or two that has come close to reducing me to tears

I finished painting and decorating our old wagon as a means for my Grandson to ride up the aisle at his Parent's wedding,


Garter is in progress. Thanks to a product I found at JoAnn's I call garter on a role, I just have to sew the ends together and sew on a blue rhinestone button button.

I drove the  Band's extended van towing the 25 ft equipment trailer. I got lost and had an intimate encounter with a pole on a corner, taking out a tire, but the equipment got there, I called AAA to come out and change the tire, Hubby said the tires are in need of replacing anyways. Why was I driving, because Hubby was out of town and as of yet, no other Dad's have stepped up as willing to drive the thing.. This afternoon I get to go and bring it back. Say a prayer for me please.

Linking up with Catholic Mom.

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Thursday Again? Small Successes..

Diving right in

1. We snuck away for a long weekend to the other side of the state for hiking in Hocking Hills. A Co-worker of Hubby's rented his place to us for cheaper than one night at a local hotel. It was quiet and peaceful and us city folks had a relaxing time.

2. We spent the money and went ziplining. We had a great time. The heights made me nervous, but as long as I was hanging on to "something".
3. I am maintaining a positive attitude that Hubby will go out of town for several day, come home for a day and then fly out of the country for 7 days.

Linking up with Catholic Mom 

Thursday, July 03, 2014

Thursday again - Small Successes - Independence Day edition

Hello,
Happy Thursday/Fake Friday,

It has been a busy few weeks. I started a new contract job. I feel so blessed. The old job was 25 Miles North of home and the department is in massive cost-cutting mode. I was not sure my contract was extended. It was a not-quite the last minute, but a new opportunity located 6 mile from home appeared. This is significant because in August when my 14YO starts high school, we will need to get him to and from school. This job is between home and school.

Also this week, the same 14YO is attending conditioning and pre-season workouts for soccer. The 6-9 puts a crimp in planning dinnertime.

So, my successes:
1) 6:20 AM right now and I have chicken baking. The 14YO may or may not eat it, but I can throw it in the freezer for lunches or quick dinner.  I am cooking at odd times so we can grab and go.

2) I am trying to quit milk or cream in my coffee. I struggle with my weight and pre-diabetes. Every little calorie counts. I am striving for health. Now I need to make exercise a priority.

3) Getting my footing at the new job.

Maggie

Linking up at Catholic Mom.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Happy Thursday,
It has been a good week with my new job, other than the fact that this post is from my phone.
* started this new job. So far I am enjoying it. I have made an effort to introduce myself to others in the office. Most of the people I will be working with are in other locations. I tested this morning and I am able to access corporate systems remotely, meaning I can run Friday's migration job from home.

* My eldest son is getting married in August. It will be a small wedding, so our guest list was limited. My son was disappointed he could not invite extended family members such as my cousins and their families, so we are throwing a party a week later. I got invitation out this week and have table decorations planned out. Now it is a matter of stopping by Hobby Lobby frequently to get a pkg of battery-operated tea lights with my 40% off coupon.

*We've cooked dinner at home every night this week. The streak will be broken tonight as Hubby has golf league and the 14yo has both a bass guitar lesson and the band practice tonight.

linking up with Catholic Momwww.Catholicmom.com

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Small Success Thursday - Well, here I am edition

Hello folks,

My parents went home Monday after staying here for 10 day. They are great to have around, Mom will cook dinner for me. (I try to have it planned), but I feel bad about sitting around on my laptop in the evenings. And then, even though school is out, The High School band is practicing 2 nights a week, toos in a meeting for Freshman, Hubby is the booster org president, I volunteered to assist with fitting marching uniforms and seem to have taken over as secretary... Evening last week were busy.

At work I am transitioning my responsibilities as tomorrow will be my last day at this position. i will be moving to another contract position that is closer to home and requesting a prayer or two that it leads to a permanent position, or at least longer than 3 months...

So my successes are revolving around taking care of me. This Mom who works outside the home has a ahrd time with that.
1. Made an appointment to redeem the gift certificate Hubby gave me for Mother's day for a Massage. That is tomorrow night.

2. I went and had a pedicure last night. My toes nails were getting long and I tend to tear rather than cut. And when I cut, they are not straight.

3. I am recognizing when I am stress-eating. I may not be stopping it as much as I should, but I am recognizing it when I am in the middle of it.

Linking up with Catholic Mom.

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Small Success Thursday

Happy Thursday, I feel like it should be Friday already. I has been a busy week. I am looking forward to the long weekend in the US.

1. My work is currently on a contract basis. I work in IT and have been at the same company as a contractor since October 2012. All last year every three months my contract was renewed. In December, I was convinced I was not going to be renewed when 2 days before the end, I was notified that my manager was able to renew me, and for 6 months. Lately I have watched other contractors being terminated early as part of a massive cost-cutting effort. I am trying to put it all in God's hands. I am being contacted about other opportunities. So I do feel like I am being looked after. Fortunately Hubby's job is well-paying with benefits. My pay is used to pay DS14's high school tuition and extras.

2. I got myself out of bed M&W and did a quick workout on my rowing machine. A few weeks ago we moved out a couch that was simply a catch-all for the 14YO's stuff. I did not like going down there.  Now that it is a bit more organized, I am more willing to spend time down there.

3. Well.. I have been doing what is expected of me. Making dinner, going to work and focusing on what I am there for, looking after my family, did laundry over the weekend...

Linking up with Catholic Mom.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Small successes April 10

This week is a culminating week in our house. Hubby has been putting a lot of time and effort into studying for a certification test his company wants him to have. This is the second of 2 two test. The first test he passed in the Fall on his third sitting for it. This time we sprung for a preparation class.  This time around he also did a class. This was 5 weeks of having both Friday and Saturday ties up from 11 AM – 6:30 (with a 1.5 hour break 2:00-3:30).  I have been trying to hold down the fort at home. But this week, I have been feeling the stress of trying to help him as much as I can as well as stuff going on at the office. But so far I have done a pretty good job of keeping it together. I did snap Monday night that I had had a not-so-great day as we were lightly bickering about what “who does what” with dirty dishes in the kitchen.

I would really like to put out more of my Easter decorations, but I am trying to be mindful that it is still Lent.  But Spring is starting to make itself know outside and I am ready to bring it inside. But I am taking it slow…


I have managed to cook dinner for my family every night. I did not plan last night so I ended up with Breakfast for dinner.  Even though Hubby has been home, he has been heads down studying. He did call Tuesday to ask if I wanted him to do something with the chicken breasts thawing in the fridge. I was able to bring myself to say ‘Keep studying, I will make something when I get home.” Once home and cooking, the 14YO asked “what are you making”. I responded, “I don’t know, I am winging it”.  And no complaints were heard… 

Linking up with Catholic Mom 

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Small Success Thursday - March Madness edition





My husband graduated from the University of Dayton in 2005. We were married with 2 kids, so I take credit for supporting him during that time. So I am proudly wearing one of his UD shirts in honor of their appearance in a Sweet 16 game tonight.

But this week has felt rather routine, even though it is a new routine. My 14YO's rec soccer league started practices. We got an email Sunday form the coach that practice would be Tuesday. Sunday was busy with his band concert, so Monday we went to buy new cleats, etc. We went to the Soccer store near us and brought home a pair of cleats that cost north of $160. One of those I did not realize until I was looking at the receipt since we also got a goalie jersey and gloves. Good grief, for Recreational soccer. So took my Lunch hour on Tuesday to the big-box sporting goods store near my office and found a reasonable-priced Men's sized  13 soccer cleats. My son declared them good and I returned the expensive ones.

I have been making my breakfast  this week and lunch 3 of the 4 day since lunch out was planned for Wednesday. Sometime sit is hard to do that. I am also trying ta eat an apple per day. I am not much of a fruit eater. Give me vegetables instead.

Actually made an appointment to have my hair cut on Saturday. I like to keep my hair short. But I hate making the stupid appointment. But it is done and scheduled for Saturday.

Why does this all seem so lame.. I guess I am getting up each day and going to work, the kitchen is stocked with food to keep us from starving, my son is getting to the places and activities he wants to. So I am accomplishing my mission as wife and Mom.

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, March 06, 2014

Small Success Thursday


Back at it again this week. I am really hoping winter goes away soon. I was sad that I was unable to make a Mass for ashes, but my vocation of a Wife and Mom has me working full time, being at home to cook dinner and meetings the window salesman Hubby had made an appointment with.


1. I said "yes" to chaperoning a group of High School students (plus my 8th grader) to an overnight Jazz festival. Hubby has gone in the past with the older boy, but he is taking an online class for the next few weekends. I drove up and back with another Mom for company ans the "girl time", which sorely lacks in my life, was just what I needed.

2. I was able to elicit smiles form my 8 week old Grandson. How delightful!

3. Working from home today. I was on the fence since I made arrangements to WFH on Thursday's so I can get my 14YO to Jazz band practice at the High school. But no practice today. So I was going into the office. But the uber-healthy 14YO is miserable with a cold and decided to stay home. I find myself giggling because his behavior is so uncharacteristic. He just does not know what to do. I cheerfully filled his glass with water when I went down to get myself a glass of water.  

Joining up at Catholic Mom

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Small Successes Thursday - Feburary Thaw edition

Hello,,
Well I missed last week and the week before I linked up to the previous week's post...

On Valentines day, we had a snowstorm and my favorite Valentine's flight home was cancelled. He came in Saturday afternoon where I fixed him a steak and potatoes dinner. But the night was not lost as I babysat my 6 week old Grandson.

Filed our taxes. I was waiting on one last statement. and realized we had sold some stock. Ugh, But it was finished and filed. With the refund I don;t think I will need to make any changes to account for losing a dependent for 2014.

I don't know if it is a pair of new shoes or Arnica Gel, but my chronically sore ankle is feeling better. I have flat feet that give me plantar fasciitis and a sore ankle. My orthotics and athletic shoes were not helping. But this si not an excuse to not call the podiatrist (And I need a new one... Yuck).

So after 2 days of tems above freezing, we still have snow on the ground. Here in Sw Ohio, we usually have several freeze-Thaw cycles. But this snow has been around for a few weeks and the pile had been growing. Here's praying we don't get flooding.

Oh My goodness - Monday - A Holiday (not that contractors get paid for Holidays..) But it was a very productive day at home. I actually used powertools and installed 2 sliding shelves in one of my kitchen cabinets. I also ran some errands that had been nagging at me, Took the 14 yo to get new shoes (size 13 people!) Made a pot of homemade Chicken noodle soup for the same son's lunches... Wow, I got a lot done! I needed that day...

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Small Successes - Jan 30


Hello everyone,

This week is a bit sad for me as I don't currently have a kid in Catholic schools for the first time since 2001. But that will change next year when my younger son moves on to the Catholic high school. Even though his public Junior High is a wonderful place, I am ready for him to go back to being immersed in Catholic values throughout his entire school day. (Gory details of how I yanked him from the Catholic school in 2010 can be found here.)

But anyways, My successes for this week:

- Went with Hubby to the gym twice, Sunday and Tuesday. We will go again tonight. Although my foot\Ankle hurts, I will go and ride the bike or use the rowing machine.

- I have all my paperwork together to do our taxes. I plan to install my software later today and get started.

- Got the scrapbook for My Grandson started. I orders prints form his Baptism, but all the pcitures take his first 2 weeks are nicely scrapbooked.

Joining up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Small Successes - Passing on the Faith Edition


1. This isn't so small, but we were passing on the faith to our children.
Saturday my grandson was baptized at the request of his young parents. They want to bring him up in the faith. Then Sunday my youngest son was Confirmed.



2. I made 2 Cross-shaped cakes for the events. And the first try stuck in the poorly-prepared pan. I did not freak out.

3. Had a made-ahead dinner ready for after the Confirmation and it was proclaimed delicious. I don;t think I hit full panic made at all.

(And I did not think I had much. Forgot the weekend is included.)

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Small Successes - Jan 16

1. Survived three meetings in 3 evenings at the High school where I don't currently have a son enrolled.

2. Asked for a received permission to work from home on Thursdays so I can get my 8th grader to the high school to practice with the high school Jazz band.

3. Got the registration and enrollment forms completed so Hubby can be at the High school for registration day tomorrow and make the tuition deposit.

Linking up with Catholic Mom

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Favorite Five


 My grandson, born Tues, Jan 7. See this post for more of the story. But here are 5 of my favorite pictures of him.
Dad and Son
Looking at Grandma (Me)
Just like Daddy
With his Uncle/Godfather
After his first bath

 Linking up with Hallie

Thursday, January 09, 2014

Small Sucesses - Grandma edition

Hello everyone,

So I became a Grandma this week. You can read about it in this post.

-Getting along with very excited family members who were not always thinking.. For exampy, the other Grandma, in her excitement put up a Facebook post tagging me about going to the hospital. I (nicely, I hope) asked her to untag me since her tag makes the news show up to my friends in the feed. She did apologetically.

- I got frustrated that Great Aunts were trying to hold the baby before all the Grandmas and Grandpas did. (Oh the little things)

- I did get to spend a about an hour and a half just me and the new little family. I worked hard to be supportive of every decision and to gently guide them away from the idea that they need to get pre-made formula bottles for babysitters...

-and woo-hoo, he will be Baptized in a week and a half. His uncle will be confirmed that weekend, so the baby's great-grandparents will be in town.

Scroll down to the previous 2 posts for pictures.

Joint the fun at Catholic Mom

Another Grandson picture...

He was 20.5 Inches long, 8 lb 14 OZ.
His Baptism is schedule for Jan 18. Yes, a whole 11 Days old, but his Uncle is being Confirmed on the 19th and My parents will be in town. We will have a very Holy Weekend.

This was sent to us last night as a text.



Tuesday, January 07, 2014

Just call me Grandma....

Today was a big day, my first Grandchild came in to the world, a health baby boy.  While I am thrilled with this little boy, there is still the feeling that he came in to the world way too early. you see his parents are only 18 and graduated from High School last spring. I have to fight the feeling that I did something wrong as a Mom, but then again I take comfort in a few facts:

My Son and his Girlfriend have been seeing each other for over three years.
They decided to give this unexpected baby life
They are staying together and planning a Summer 2015 Wedding.

So as parents whoa re pro-life, we are working to find a balance between helping out the kids and helping them to develop their independence.

Dad and Baby:

 Grandpa and Baby:
 Me and Baby: