Work Update

It's been so long since I've blogged, that I figure I have to dedicate at least one whole post to work.

*collective groan*

(This isn't work - it's from when I was in Oregon. I just think it's a FABULOUS shot of us. Plus, I love my outfit/shoes.)

There is no other way to put it: I am a workaholic. That is ALL I do.

I was recently made manager of our newest (and largest EVER) Client. The day before I left for Oregon, Nick (the manager of the program I manage - It makes sense, just trust me) came to my boss, Christy and closed her door, which never happens. She came in a few minutes later as I was closing up for the weekend and told me that we had to change my signature in my emails. She changed it from "Content Associate" to "Content Manager" and then said, "Congratulations." It was great! I was so overwhelmed for quite a while there, but after last week (this update will come in a minute...keep reading) everything took a turn for the better.

When I was in Oregon, John called me to tell me that he had an interview and test set up for my department the Wednesday I came back from vacation. That was quite an experience. It was super weird hearing him in an interview and then seeing him for the first time in almost one year. I don't think there are words. Christy and Mayu both loved him in the interview and then his test was surprising in a few ways. He didn't use "track changes" correctly - he did it the hard way - and he got REALLY far. He's been with us for almost 2 weeks and is doing really well.

Thursday, 14 October was our all hands meeting at work where they do all the major updates for the past 2 months and announce the employees of the approaching 2 months. Mayu was announced as one employee of the month and then Christy kept talking and announced the second employee of the month was yours truly: ME! I was so touched by the things she was saying about me. There is no better feeling than hearing how appreciated you are by your co-workers (and superiors). I'm so greatful that I could make her proud and ease some of her stress at work. I love her and the leadership she brings to our department.

Ok. I think that's it for the work updates for now.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I told you all that John would be in more posts, more frequently. Maybe one day I'll even put a picture up or something.

2. Chelsea is getting to know John a lot now because she works with him, goes to church with him, and John lives with one of Chelsea's closer friends. She is constantly telling me how John is NOT AT ALL what she pictured. hahahaha. I never said I had good taste or that I was only going to date the popular kid.

3. I have 2 new books to read. ...I just need to find the time.

4. Along with employee of the month came a bonus. I'm putting toward my next big purchase.

5. John sings in the choir that I joined with my boss. He is EVERYWHERE.

Trip to See a Friend

I needed to take a vacation before work spiralled out of control. So, I packed up and flew to Klamath to see my Stella!

I flew right in to Klamath and guess what? NO ONE WAS WAITING FOR ME!

*guilt trip*

It turns out, my flight arrived like half an hour early. So really, I was only alone for approximately 3.8 minutes and then Alli and Nic were there to get me. With a sign. Hahaha!

I cannot thank Alli and especially Nic enough for letting me come and crash at their place. I don't think that Nic knew what he was getting himself into when he agreed to let me come for the entire weekend.








We went hot tubbing at Alli's parents house.

Nic had coupons for free 15 minute fabulous water massages (I don't think I've been more relaxed since before Gramps died).

We, of course, made treats, treats, and more treats.

This is just scratching the surface. Needless to say, I was SUPER depressed to come home. I can't wait to go back one day.

Thank you again, Nic, for letting me steal your wife's attention for a few days. I love you both!!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. United screwed me on my flight home. BUT, I got a $150 certificate to use on any flight in the US. Now, I just have to decide if I want to use it to go to Shauna's homecoming (HOLY COW she'll be home soon) or go to Seattle to see my sibs/nieces.

2. I love having my sister-in-law (future) live with me. She's a constant buddy and I adore her. She fits right in with all of us. And John commented on how close we are last night. (Yes, John is back...brace yourselves for future posts.)

3. I've started going to choir practice with my boss from work and I am in HEAVEN. I can't comprehend how it is that something as simple as singing is relieving so much of my stress...

4. I have so much going through my head 24/7. I can't think...

Blue October ...again...

I'm super behind in my blogging and I apologize. Allow me to back-blog for the next few days.

In case you all haven't noticed, I'm a HUGE Blue October fan.

Their latest tour is called, "Pick up the Phone," and goes towards raising suicide awareness. There's a suicide hotline out there that the lead singer, Justin, is a large advocate for because he's called it.

The opening act was Parlotones from Johannesburg, South Africa. They were slightly more emo (in fashion) than I prefer, but they were actually pretty legit and decent. I'm going to look into buying their CD as soon as I have life enough to go and search a music shop.

I always enjoy seeing newer bands that don't have that much live exposure because of their quirks. For example, the Parlotones drummer was visibly keeping time. I could read his lips and see the beat count. It was classic.

Then, Blue October came out.

OH.

MY.

GOSH.

I still can't believe how amazing they are live, even after all of this time. Just thinking about it makes me yearn for another concert!!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. CB Hudson.

2. Justin Furstenfeld.

3. Ryan Delahoussaye.

4. Matt Noveskey.

5. Jeremy Furstenfeld.

6. Chelsea. Thanks for going with me again. :)