I've waited all week for this day! Well, not biggie on the day - but it IS Friday and the end of the work week. At least it usually is. I'm not planning on having to work tomorrow - but things are always subject to change. Wait, I can't work tomorrow! I'm walking in the morning with my friend, then we are having our family gathering. Yeah - I can't work tomorrow!!
Next weekend may be a different story! We are 'scheduled ' for holiday both Thursday AND Friday but the boss sent out an email yesterday and asked who could work Friday. Because of turnaround time I need to work - but as I pointed out to the director, unless one of the nurses works who processes the work to me, I won't have work. This will get interesting. How do you get someone who doesn't want to work, doesn't like the job, and is salaried, work a day designated as a day off - even for four hours? This could be interesting. I get paid double time I think because it's a holiday - so four hours would be like eight hours. But it doesn't matter, I need to work because it's my job. These turnaround times are crucial and I don't want us dinged because of my not getting the work out in time.
Had a nice chat with my Coach Olivia this morning. It was her monthly check in with me. I was able to tell her I had lost 15 pounds in the challenge. I have let my guard down the past couple weeks and have eaten things I had given up, and have eaten more than I should. But, now that I have done that, well, maybe after this Saturday get together, I will get back on track with my eating.
My biggest issue is that I haven't gotten any exercise in due to the long hours I've been putting in. That's my excuse right now anyway. When I don't get home until about 8PM, it's kind of hard to be energetic and get walking. I would like to get back at it at least a couple times a week. Plan on walking 5 miles tomorrow morning so that is a start.
So how are you doing with your 'stuff'? Are you maintaining where you have been? Are you refocusing on what you want? Are you making goals to reach goals?
Coach Olivia asked me what my goals were for the next three months. I hadn't thought that far ahead! My days have been so work consumed that it has been my only focus. However, supposedly we have been approved to hire a temp for me - to work with me - so once that gets done, and they get trained, my overtime should disappear and I will begin to regain my life.
Missing the overtime money will be a biggie, but, we don't need anything so we're good. Getting brakes put on my van this morning so I drove the hubby's car. He was more worried about his car than I am. LOL That's the way it always is. I'm more confident in driving his car now than I used to be. "It is what it is". :-)
Ok - time to get to work and get things done. Hope that you have a good day!
Take some time to set some goals for the end of September. Where would you like to be - financially, physically, mentally?
Blessings!
Friday, June 28, 2013
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Thursday already?
Or is it ... finally?
It has been an extremely busy, yet long, week. Or perhaps it is because I am getting tired. I did take off "early" yesterday. I left at 5:50 and I was pushing to get out then. We went out to dinner with friends and I met up with them at 6:30. Made it too; almost to the minute. It was fun getting 'out' and visiting with others rather than coming home, eating dinner, sitting down for an hour and going to bed. Broke up the routine some. It was fun. And I ate way too much. Went to Sizzler and although I had just the salad bar..... need I say any more?
Got back on the computer when I got home last night because I had some things to finish for work. Got a couple of them completed, but by the second time I got kicked out of the system I said 'enough' and quit. It is what it is. Took some time to relax then went to bed.
Wouldn't you know it, though, I woke up at 3AM and began thinking about work. I don't normally do that, but last night for the first time in a long time, I left work in my folder. Just didn't want to deal with bringing up all the screens a third time so I quit. Yep, the work is still there this morning. It didn't go away.
I might have been able to get everything completed if I hadn't been thrown a couple 'fast balls' in the last hour of work. We had two denials that had to go out - but the wording wasn't quite right. I kept waiting for one of the bosses to get back in the office so I could run it by them. I finally went to the chief medical officer and he made some suggestions. I contacted another medical director to get his feedback. And then I ended up doing it myself. I'm hoping we don't get 'dinged' on it by corporate. I did my best; that is all I can do. That isn't my job or any part of it; and I'm talking about the wording for how things should read. All I do is call the member and tell them we denied what they wanted (I hate that part) and why we denied it. And fax it to the provider. With my director off yesterday I had more of it to do. Oh well.
Today is a new day and I'm hoping it will go better. At least I don't have to rush out the door tonight to meet up with anyone. I'm hoping that soon I will be able to have more reasonable hours so that I can get home before 8PM. I don't mind staying until 6PM for I miss the traffic then.
Found out the other night we are having a family gathering on Saturday - carne asado. Love it. I'm getting up early to meet my girlfriend for an early morning walk at 6:30AM. Will do the walk, eat breakfast, chat for awhile, then head home before heading to our daughter's house. Some day maybe I can have some gatherings at our house. It's big enough; we just don't have enough things for the grandchildren to do, other than the wii. Some of the grandchildren have outgrown it. I haven't played with it in months. I enjoy the exercise program on it; it's just finding time to do it. I really do need to focus on excerise and start getting some again. These late hours have prevented any hope of exercise.
Our trainer just came by and passes out these words for us to put at our desk. "I am a member of a team, and I rely on the team, I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion."
It would be nice if the trainer even believed it. There are only 4 of us here in the office who work over to ensure the work gets completed. There are only 4 of us who labor extensively in getting the work completed correctly and timely. The rest are out of here by 5PM. And a couple of them while they are here, are doing homework, watching videos, well, lets just not go there today. Sore spot, especially when I'm working hard.
Looking forward to a relaxing weekend. We are supposed to be off work July 4 and July 5, but I have a feeling I will be working July 5 and will be checking the computer over the weekend. And I don't mind for that keeps my work load down. My problem is, if the nurses don't work it, then I don't have any work. It's a catch 22 for me; my work comes from the nurses and since they are salaried (and somewhat lazy at times), they only do what they have to do. They don't want to put in the extra effort unless it is mandatory for them to do so. They may have to work at least one day that weekend so that we can keep up on things. We are running too close on time frames for them to not work for 4 days. At least it won't be 'my fault' if they are out of compliance. I can't work them if I don't have them in my folder. Which makes me dependent upon others for my work.
With that being said, I suppose I ought to start turning my focus onto work and complete those few tasks I left in my folder last night. I told our VP that it wasn't fair for the nurses to 'dump' on me at 4PM and expect me to get everything out before I leave. That is why I've been staying until 7-8PM every night. I shouldn't have to stay beyond an hour finishing up the few that should come in. Some don't work until the last minute so they can share how much they had done. yeah, right.
Are you making weekend plans? It is to be really, really hot this weekend. Like the hotest all year. Like 118 degrees I think. I think I will even get in the pool and wear my new swimsuit. The water is probably like bath water by now. I'm such a wimp, I like the water to be at least 85 degrees before I get in. I'm sure it is now.
Hope that you have a good, productive day!
Blessings!
It has been an extremely busy, yet long, week. Or perhaps it is because I am getting tired. I did take off "early" yesterday. I left at 5:50 and I was pushing to get out then. We went out to dinner with friends and I met up with them at 6:30. Made it too; almost to the minute. It was fun getting 'out' and visiting with others rather than coming home, eating dinner, sitting down for an hour and going to bed. Broke up the routine some. It was fun. And I ate way too much. Went to Sizzler and although I had just the salad bar..... need I say any more?
Got back on the computer when I got home last night because I had some things to finish for work. Got a couple of them completed, but by the second time I got kicked out of the system I said 'enough' and quit. It is what it is. Took some time to relax then went to bed.
Wouldn't you know it, though, I woke up at 3AM and began thinking about work. I don't normally do that, but last night for the first time in a long time, I left work in my folder. Just didn't want to deal with bringing up all the screens a third time so I quit. Yep, the work is still there this morning. It didn't go away.
I might have been able to get everything completed if I hadn't been thrown a couple 'fast balls' in the last hour of work. We had two denials that had to go out - but the wording wasn't quite right. I kept waiting for one of the bosses to get back in the office so I could run it by them. I finally went to the chief medical officer and he made some suggestions. I contacted another medical director to get his feedback. And then I ended up doing it myself. I'm hoping we don't get 'dinged' on it by corporate. I did my best; that is all I can do. That isn't my job or any part of it; and I'm talking about the wording for how things should read. All I do is call the member and tell them we denied what they wanted (I hate that part) and why we denied it. And fax it to the provider. With my director off yesterday I had more of it to do. Oh well.
Today is a new day and I'm hoping it will go better. At least I don't have to rush out the door tonight to meet up with anyone. I'm hoping that soon I will be able to have more reasonable hours so that I can get home before 8PM. I don't mind staying until 6PM for I miss the traffic then.
Found out the other night we are having a family gathering on Saturday - carne asado. Love it. I'm getting up early to meet my girlfriend for an early morning walk at 6:30AM. Will do the walk, eat breakfast, chat for awhile, then head home before heading to our daughter's house. Some day maybe I can have some gatherings at our house. It's big enough; we just don't have enough things for the grandchildren to do, other than the wii. Some of the grandchildren have outgrown it. I haven't played with it in months. I enjoy the exercise program on it; it's just finding time to do it. I really do need to focus on excerise and start getting some again. These late hours have prevented any hope of exercise.
Our trainer just came by and passes out these words for us to put at our desk. "I am a member of a team, and I rely on the team, I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion."
It would be nice if the trainer even believed it. There are only 4 of us here in the office who work over to ensure the work gets completed. There are only 4 of us who labor extensively in getting the work completed correctly and timely. The rest are out of here by 5PM. And a couple of them while they are here, are doing homework, watching videos, well, lets just not go there today. Sore spot, especially when I'm working hard.
Looking forward to a relaxing weekend. We are supposed to be off work July 4 and July 5, but I have a feeling I will be working July 5 and will be checking the computer over the weekend. And I don't mind for that keeps my work load down. My problem is, if the nurses don't work it, then I don't have any work. It's a catch 22 for me; my work comes from the nurses and since they are salaried (and somewhat lazy at times), they only do what they have to do. They don't want to put in the extra effort unless it is mandatory for them to do so. They may have to work at least one day that weekend so that we can keep up on things. We are running too close on time frames for them to not work for 4 days. At least it won't be 'my fault' if they are out of compliance. I can't work them if I don't have them in my folder. Which makes me dependent upon others for my work.
With that being said, I suppose I ought to start turning my focus onto work and complete those few tasks I left in my folder last night. I told our VP that it wasn't fair for the nurses to 'dump' on me at 4PM and expect me to get everything out before I leave. That is why I've been staying until 7-8PM every night. I shouldn't have to stay beyond an hour finishing up the few that should come in. Some don't work until the last minute so they can share how much they had done. yeah, right.
Are you making weekend plans? It is to be really, really hot this weekend. Like the hotest all year. Like 118 degrees I think. I think I will even get in the pool and wear my new swimsuit. The water is probably like bath water by now. I'm such a wimp, I like the water to be at least 85 degrees before I get in. I'm sure it is now.
Hope that you have a good, productive day!
Blessings!
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
More of the same....
I can not believe how much work there is for me to do! I was here again until 8PM last night - working straight through from 7:30AM. Of course this time there were three nurses sending me work, not just one. I succeeded in getting all that out, but had to neglect another part of my job. I must attack it first thing this morning before the other starts in again. One thing about it, this ensures job security, I think. I finally did 'win' on one account - I am to get a temp to help me. That in itself is exciting, for I know that when I am really busy I tend to make mistakes. I'm probably harder on myself than anyone when I make those mistakes, for they are things that shouldn't happen - but they do. Yesterday I called 28 people; some 2-3 times, leaving messages or actually getting to talk with them, plus printing letters, doing notations in the system, and sending out fed ex. My arms are still tired from all the typing, calling, etc. It may not seem like much over a 12.5 hour period, but it is. I'm really glad I'm getting some help.
Today is already full - I have 18 admits facing me this morning - and that is just what I didn't get done yesterday. But, I came in early so I could write a bit here and then jump on over and start working.
I actually can think of a few things to share, but I do need to get things going and get busy. But for now, I think I will eat my oatmeal, drink my tea, and get busy. Others are starting to come in and start talking so it's hard to keep my thinking process going.
Planning to leave by 5:30PM tonight - have dinner plans with another couple at Sizzler. Crossing my fingers that I won't have to stay; and that I won't have to get back on the computer at home if I do leave when I want. I do have that advantage; I can work from home if I need to.
Wow - I'm already getting interrupted so must stop. Hopefully soon I can get back into writing again.
Hope your day is UNinterrupted and fun!
Blessings!
Today is already full - I have 18 admits facing me this morning - and that is just what I didn't get done yesterday. But, I came in early so I could write a bit here and then jump on over and start working.
I actually can think of a few things to share, but I do need to get things going and get busy. But for now, I think I will eat my oatmeal, drink my tea, and get busy. Others are starting to come in and start talking so it's hard to keep my thinking process going.
Planning to leave by 5:30PM tonight - have dinner plans with another couple at Sizzler. Crossing my fingers that I won't have to stay; and that I won't have to get back on the computer at home if I do leave when I want. I do have that advantage; I can work from home if I need to.
Wow - I'm already getting interrupted so must stop. Hopefully soon I can get back into writing again.
Hope your day is UNinterrupted and fun!
Blessings!
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Changes on the way...
Changes. No one likes them. Especially if you are the one who needs to change, or if the change - well, changes what you do.
I believe I have mentioned changes in different things over the past few weeks - changes in my body, of course, from the weight loss. Changes in my job in which I was moved into another section to focus on one thing versus what I was doing. Changes in people being taken out of my area and put in another because they wouldn't do the job right. Changes in jobs; changes in weather, changes in people.
Yesterday another change came down. The nurse I work with missed a critical deadline. Rather than accept responsibility for missing it, she was blaming everyone else. Not thinking it through, rather than threaten it, she gave her two weeks notice. She came by to tell me after she left our director's office. I was surprised. It's one thing to think it, but with no job in the immediate future, it's kind of dumb to follow through with it. But that is what she did.
She continued to work throughout the day. About 4PM she came by and said that she was called to the director's office - that it would be either to talk about giving the notice, or pack her bag and go. She was back in a very short time with her papers. She was to pack her things up and leave. She didn't make a big deal of packing up, but did so quietly and since I sit across from her she was verbalizing how they have screwed up her vacation over July 4th because now she wouldn't be paid for July 4th and 5th. She won't be working the 3rd so you don't get the holiday pay. So she is now gone and we have a part time nurse who just recently started learning how to input these authorizations who lives in Prescott, and has stated many times she is not going to move to Phoenix. She will either work from home or ..... This should be interesting.
It will make my job more crazy. I will do my work as it comes in, but when it comes in from different directions, I'm not always sure of what the person's meaning is for things. The 'previous' nurse and I had a set system - if it was critical she would stand up and tell me over the wall of our cubicles I needed to work it asap. It will be a learning phase for me again.
Some of us were discussing the situation after every one left last night. I understand the director is getting ready to 'clean house'. Not sure what that means. I know there are a couple others that don't want to work steady - meaning they only work enough to get by on. I wonder if it will happen today or tomorrow.
I'm not worried about my job. I work hard and make sure that everything I have to do that is critical is out of my folder and completed before I go home at night. Which is why I've stayed so late the past few weeks. I'm not sure what will unfold now. I've been getting out around 6PM this week, which has been nice. I had 32 hours overtime last pay period and that is without working the weekends. But working all that has been a strain. I'm needing to just rest some - which is what I've been doing the past week in the evenings and last weekend I didn't do anything either.
So today we are starting with changes - or no changes - not sure what is going to happen. Stay tuned - I may share within a few days. For now, it's time for me to get off here and start thinking ahead to my day.
Hope that all your changes are good ones.
Blessings!
I believe I have mentioned changes in different things over the past few weeks - changes in my body, of course, from the weight loss. Changes in my job in which I was moved into another section to focus on one thing versus what I was doing. Changes in people being taken out of my area and put in another because they wouldn't do the job right. Changes in jobs; changes in weather, changes in people.
Yesterday another change came down. The nurse I work with missed a critical deadline. Rather than accept responsibility for missing it, she was blaming everyone else. Not thinking it through, rather than threaten it, she gave her two weeks notice. She came by to tell me after she left our director's office. I was surprised. It's one thing to think it, but with no job in the immediate future, it's kind of dumb to follow through with it. But that is what she did.
She continued to work throughout the day. About 4PM she came by and said that she was called to the director's office - that it would be either to talk about giving the notice, or pack her bag and go. She was back in a very short time with her papers. She was to pack her things up and leave. She didn't make a big deal of packing up, but did so quietly and since I sit across from her she was verbalizing how they have screwed up her vacation over July 4th because now she wouldn't be paid for July 4th and 5th. She won't be working the 3rd so you don't get the holiday pay. So she is now gone and we have a part time nurse who just recently started learning how to input these authorizations who lives in Prescott, and has stated many times she is not going to move to Phoenix. She will either work from home or ..... This should be interesting.
It will make my job more crazy. I will do my work as it comes in, but when it comes in from different directions, I'm not always sure of what the person's meaning is for things. The 'previous' nurse and I had a set system - if it was critical she would stand up and tell me over the wall of our cubicles I needed to work it asap. It will be a learning phase for me again.
Some of us were discussing the situation after every one left last night. I understand the director is getting ready to 'clean house'. Not sure what that means. I know there are a couple others that don't want to work steady - meaning they only work enough to get by on. I wonder if it will happen today or tomorrow.
I'm not worried about my job. I work hard and make sure that everything I have to do that is critical is out of my folder and completed before I go home at night. Which is why I've stayed so late the past few weeks. I'm not sure what will unfold now. I've been getting out around 6PM this week, which has been nice. I had 32 hours overtime last pay period and that is without working the weekends. But working all that has been a strain. I'm needing to just rest some - which is what I've been doing the past week in the evenings and last weekend I didn't do anything either.
So today we are starting with changes - or no changes - not sure what is going to happen. Stay tuned - I may share within a few days. For now, it's time for me to get off here and start thinking ahead to my day.
Hope that all your changes are good ones.
Blessings!
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Headache disturbances....
They are such a pain - literally! I'm not sure what is going on within the weather system, but I know I had a dull headache all day yesterday, giving me an icky overall feeling. I took 'stuff' to help get rid of the headache with no relief, but I slept pretty sound last night - except about 3:30AM when I awoke with a terrible calf cramp and had to jump up out of bed to force my foot flat again. I'm sometimes afraid I'm going to snap a bone because of pushing to get my foot back in place.
My headache was gone when I got up this morning, but since I have arrived at work, it has returned. Maybe it is work related? Who knows. Hope that it doesn't drain me like it did yesterday. My work is such that it requires detailed attention; I can't afford to slack off because my head hurts. With Corporate monitoring our work I need to make sure mine is done correctly.
I may be wrong in blaming my headache on the weather, I mean, it is definitely 'hot' out at 107 degrees. However, yesterday I began to think back over my diet of recent days.
For 15 weeks I purged things from my diet - yes, I still ate some carbs, but I limited myself and didn't over indulge in them. And, for me, being a carb-holic, choco-holic, well, eliminating those things was hard - but good for me. But then the 14 weeks challenge was over.
I began to eat more carbs than my body has been used to. Eating more things that I had previously given up. I gave thought to it yesterday afternoon and realized how much more 'stuff' I had been eating. Ice cream drumsticks (I'm so glad we finished off the last of the box last night). Chips. Candy. I indulged because I could now and not worry about needing to lose weight.
I felt better before I started indulging again. I've heard it said that when you quit eating all that stuff you can have headaches, achy bodies, etc. because your body is getting rid of the toxins from the processed food. I felt so much better when I wasn't eating it.
I think I have over indulged in my carbs and things I gave up - and that is what is bringing on my headaches. Nothing major, of course, but because I had eliminated so much, starting to put processed foods back into my diet is making me toxic again.
I need to make my own french fries in the oven. I need to give up the Whataburger buns (white bread). I need to lay off the chocolate. And I especially need to quit eating the ice cream.
Ok, maybe not give up my ice cream and chocolate, but cut back. I don't need to make up for what I gave up. Make sense?
So starting today I am going to go back to eating healthy. I don't like feeling weighted down; I don't enjoy the achy feeling in my head and body. I want to have energy and feel like doing things.
I want to live life to the fullest.
What about you? Been eating way too much 'stuff' that you know really isn't good for you? Not that a small portion is bad for you, but have you been eating a lot of that small portion? How about walking this journey with me....
Starting today, let's make a pact to choose better in what we eat and drink. Let's cut back on portion sizes. Let's start backing off processed foods and try to eat more raw foods (like in fresh fruits and vegetables) and less foods that come in a box.
I am starting today - I want to live life - not survive it. Be careful what you put in your body today - it can damage it for tomorrow. What if you really needed energy for something you wanted to do - and your body wouldn't let you because you had filled it with junk? With toxic food and drink? Desire to run, ro walk, to live a life full. You only have one life - make it an enjoyable one.
Blessings!
My headache was gone when I got up this morning, but since I have arrived at work, it has returned. Maybe it is work related? Who knows. Hope that it doesn't drain me like it did yesterday. My work is such that it requires detailed attention; I can't afford to slack off because my head hurts. With Corporate monitoring our work I need to make sure mine is done correctly.
I may be wrong in blaming my headache on the weather, I mean, it is definitely 'hot' out at 107 degrees. However, yesterday I began to think back over my diet of recent days.
For 15 weeks I purged things from my diet - yes, I still ate some carbs, but I limited myself and didn't over indulge in them. And, for me, being a carb-holic, choco-holic, well, eliminating those things was hard - but good for me. But then the 14 weeks challenge was over.
I began to eat more carbs than my body has been used to. Eating more things that I had previously given up. I gave thought to it yesterday afternoon and realized how much more 'stuff' I had been eating. Ice cream drumsticks (I'm so glad we finished off the last of the box last night). Chips. Candy. I indulged because I could now and not worry about needing to lose weight.
I felt better before I started indulging again. I've heard it said that when you quit eating all that stuff you can have headaches, achy bodies, etc. because your body is getting rid of the toxins from the processed food. I felt so much better when I wasn't eating it.
I think I have over indulged in my carbs and things I gave up - and that is what is bringing on my headaches. Nothing major, of course, but because I had eliminated so much, starting to put processed foods back into my diet is making me toxic again.
I need to make my own french fries in the oven. I need to give up the Whataburger buns (white bread). I need to lay off the chocolate. And I especially need to quit eating the ice cream.
Ok, maybe not give up my ice cream and chocolate, but cut back. I don't need to make up for what I gave up. Make sense?
So starting today I am going to go back to eating healthy. I don't like feeling weighted down; I don't enjoy the achy feeling in my head and body. I want to have energy and feel like doing things.
I want to live life to the fullest.
What about you? Been eating way too much 'stuff' that you know really isn't good for you? Not that a small portion is bad for you, but have you been eating a lot of that small portion? How about walking this journey with me....
Starting today, let's make a pact to choose better in what we eat and drink. Let's cut back on portion sizes. Let's start backing off processed foods and try to eat more raw foods (like in fresh fruits and vegetables) and less foods that come in a box.
I am starting today - I want to live life - not survive it. Be careful what you put in your body today - it can damage it for tomorrow. What if you really needed energy for something you wanted to do - and your body wouldn't let you because you had filled it with junk? With toxic food and drink? Desire to run, ro walk, to live a life full. You only have one life - make it an enjoyable one.
Blessings!
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Life in the fast lane.... or is it the slow one?
"Life is what you make of it." How many times have we heard that saying? Do you really believe it? Do you really think that is all that 'life' is?
In one sense, I guess it can be true. Your life consists of what you make of it. But what about those things that come at you that you have no power to change? What about the issues that weigh you down that are not your fault? What about those 'little things' that you thought were nothing, but turned out to be 'big things'?
I've come to the conclusion that ALL LIFE is ABOUT LIFE. How you deal with your life; how you respond to the issues and things that come at you, reflect a lot about who you are, and on Whom you depend. Do you agree?
I spoke to my youngest son last night and got to hear about his latest life changes/life struggles/life issues. All I can do is shake my head for he sets himself up every time. Yes, son, I know you read these, but come on. You are nearly 40 years old; it's time to grow up and accept responsibility as a man and start behaving as one who has some sense. I love you and I will always love you, but someone needs to tell you - GET A LIFE!! Find meaning in who you are; become responsible and someone your children will look up to. You are setting an example for them; BE ONE. Granted, everything that has transpired has not been your fault. I understand that. However, with saying that, if you had listened to YOUR MOTHER, and everyone else who told you NOT to do this, you wouldn't have this issue right now. But then, you may not have met your current 'girlfriend' either. Ok - enough of this. It was your turn so there you have it. :-) Love you son.
Life can sometimes throw us hurdles that we have to jump over. Those things I sometimes call 'bumps in the road'. We are working on one 'bump' in our road right now. I'm sure many of you are as well. We all have our struggles, our family issues, health issues, money issues, children issues, parent issues, in law issues, well, just about any issue, I guess. We all go through many of these at different times.
But how do you deal with these things? These issues?
Do you ignore them and pretend they aren't there - until they go away? Or bury them with other things so that you don't have to deal with them?
Or do you face them head-on and determine to work your way through whatever it is and deal with the outcome as it comes about?
Life isn't always easy, I grant you that. I know a lot of 'issues' I've had over the years I have brought on myself. They are the results of things I did - whether what I did was right or wrong. Friendships are formed and some fade away. Some I need to let go of for my own survival. Some I need to look at and see why I have that friendship. Some are so good for me that I need to build on that relationship.
What friendships do you have that you need to let go of? Those that are toxic? What friendships do you need to work on keeping? Those that inspire you; build you up; give you a bond that is growth producing?
Some times life comes at us so fast we don't stop to weigh the things we do - and say. We re-act, instead of pro-act. Be ready to speak good; be ready to stand firm. Don't let the little things slide when one word from you can set them straight and keep it good.
Take your time walking this journey called life. Sometimes you will wonder where your life went. What did you accomplish all these years of your life. When you turn 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, or even 90 or 100, will you look back on your life and be pleased with what you see? Will you see joy and fulfillment in things, good memories, special times? Or will your life be remembered as one full of turmoil, discontent, troubles, anxiety, upheaval?
Whatever and wherever you are at right now, today, stop and think where you want to be a year from now. Then start to build on that - one day at a time.
It's like losing weight. You can't lose 20 pounds overnight. It can only come off one ounce at a time. A long, slow process. Only then will it stay off.
Resolve to make the necessary changes you need to in life. Be more loving, more kind, more thoughtful. Be someone others will look up to. Be YOU, wonderful, delightful, creative, fun, joyful - YOU.
And when you are, life becomes all the more fun.
Blessings!
In one sense, I guess it can be true. Your life consists of what you make of it. But what about those things that come at you that you have no power to change? What about the issues that weigh you down that are not your fault? What about those 'little things' that you thought were nothing, but turned out to be 'big things'?
I've come to the conclusion that ALL LIFE is ABOUT LIFE. How you deal with your life; how you respond to the issues and things that come at you, reflect a lot about who you are, and on Whom you depend. Do you agree?
I spoke to my youngest son last night and got to hear about his latest life changes/life struggles/life issues. All I can do is shake my head for he sets himself up every time. Yes, son, I know you read these, but come on. You are nearly 40 years old; it's time to grow up and accept responsibility as a man and start behaving as one who has some sense. I love you and I will always love you, but someone needs to tell you - GET A LIFE!! Find meaning in who you are; become responsible and someone your children will look up to. You are setting an example for them; BE ONE. Granted, everything that has transpired has not been your fault. I understand that. However, with saying that, if you had listened to YOUR MOTHER, and everyone else who told you NOT to do this, you wouldn't have this issue right now. But then, you may not have met your current 'girlfriend' either. Ok - enough of this. It was your turn so there you have it. :-) Love you son.
Life can sometimes throw us hurdles that we have to jump over. Those things I sometimes call 'bumps in the road'. We are working on one 'bump' in our road right now. I'm sure many of you are as well. We all have our struggles, our family issues, health issues, money issues, children issues, parent issues, in law issues, well, just about any issue, I guess. We all go through many of these at different times.
But how do you deal with these things? These issues?
Do you ignore them and pretend they aren't there - until they go away? Or bury them with other things so that you don't have to deal with them?
Or do you face them head-on and determine to work your way through whatever it is and deal with the outcome as it comes about?
Life isn't always easy, I grant you that. I know a lot of 'issues' I've had over the years I have brought on myself. They are the results of things I did - whether what I did was right or wrong. Friendships are formed and some fade away. Some I need to let go of for my own survival. Some I need to look at and see why I have that friendship. Some are so good for me that I need to build on that relationship.
What friendships do you have that you need to let go of? Those that are toxic? What friendships do you need to work on keeping? Those that inspire you; build you up; give you a bond that is growth producing?
Some times life comes at us so fast we don't stop to weigh the things we do - and say. We re-act, instead of pro-act. Be ready to speak good; be ready to stand firm. Don't let the little things slide when one word from you can set them straight and keep it good.
Take your time walking this journey called life. Sometimes you will wonder where your life went. What did you accomplish all these years of your life. When you turn 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, or even 90 or 100, will you look back on your life and be pleased with what you see? Will you see joy and fulfillment in things, good memories, special times? Or will your life be remembered as one full of turmoil, discontent, troubles, anxiety, upheaval?
Whatever and wherever you are at right now, today, stop and think where you want to be a year from now. Then start to build on that - one day at a time.
It's like losing weight. You can't lose 20 pounds overnight. It can only come off one ounce at a time. A long, slow process. Only then will it stay off.
Resolve to make the necessary changes you need to in life. Be more loving, more kind, more thoughtful. Be someone others will look up to. Be YOU, wonderful, delightful, creative, fun, joyful - YOU.
And when you are, life becomes all the more fun.
Blessings!
Monday, June 17, 2013
Monday is here again - already!
It was a nice, somewhat quiet, weekend. I did some extra cooking on Saturday for I fixed a meal for a family whose father's memorial service was Saturday and I wanted to do something for them. We took it over to them Saturday afternoon and as they had plans to go to an inlaws for dinner, were planning on having it yesterday. I did a double batch so we had it for dinner Saturday, dinner last night, and although I stuck some in the freezer for another time, I'm having some for lunch today too. The key lime pie can not be frozen so guess we'll just have to eat it. :-) At least it is a weight watcher recipe.
Today I'm back at work and am already wondering how crazy this day will be. What I don't like is that my work volume, my work processes, are all dependent upon other people getting their work done. One coworker initiates the process; and a nurse has to review then create the letter which goes in the directors folder to review. After she reviews and approves the letter, THEN I get it to call the member, mail the letter, etc. In the meantime, since I clean out my box daily due to deadlines, I don't have the much to do the first couple hours of the morning. My afternoons, though, are overwhelming and I am here until at least 6PM and lately sometimes til 7:30PM.
I don't mind the working until 6PM as traffic begins to clear up, but I want to do it because I choose to, not because I have to. But, with all that said, the overtime is nice. I just hope hubby is taking advantage of the extra money and putting it against bills or saving it as he manages the checkbook; he won't give it back to me. But, the overtime will soon be coming to a halt and I'm hoping it doesn't put us in a bind for having it taken away.
We had a good weekend, I guess. Like I mentioned above, I did some cooking on Saturday - which I truly enjoy doing. I like cooking and may just start planning that in my schedule; it just gets expensive sometimes. Just remembered I fixed some ribs too, not many, but some just for us. They are still in the refrigerator; maybe we'll have those tonight.
Sunday was church of course, and Father's Day. It was 'ugly tie' contest time at church, and surprisingly hubby chose not to participate; stating that he had given away all his ugly ties. I wish he would lighten up and join in the fun, but most times he refuses on whatever his mood is. He could have had fun with it, but chose not to.
We had fun at lunch yesterday after church; our daughter in law and three grandsons joined us for lunch at Whataburger, my favorite fast food place, next to El Pollo Loco. It was fun playing talking with them. I love being around ALL my grandchildren and wish they were able to be around more often. They keep me young.
I did get a surprise myself yesterday. Another grandson and I had discussed IPADs before. He had told me then I could have his because he didn't use it anymore. I refused to take it because he wouldn't sell it to me. Well, yesterday his mother and sister stopped by with a father's day gift for hubby, and brought me the IPAD. I called him and offered to pay him for it - in installments of course - but he refused it. I feel bad for taking it, but love that he wanted to give it to me.
I had fun yesterday afternoon figuring out how to use some of the items. I called my brother and he helped me get some things set up so that my information on my iphone transferred to it. Hubby is reluctant to have me add to our verizon so that I can use it elsewhere, but I may have to in order to use it outside of wifi areas. For example, I can't use it here at work because they won't let me on the wifi. I wanted it for meetings; need to get into the emails for when the notes are emailed. Will have to get the IPAD for Dummies book I guess so that I can figure it out.
And now it's time to get to work; get through my many emails from fed ex stating they have delivered my packages. This is the boring time-consuming part; matching the creating, picking up, delivering emails and then attaching them to the member's summary for that authorization. Very time consuming. Oh well.
Hope you have a good day today - think positive thoughts and do something productive!
Blessings!
Today I'm back at work and am already wondering how crazy this day will be. What I don't like is that my work volume, my work processes, are all dependent upon other people getting their work done. One coworker initiates the process; and a nurse has to review then create the letter which goes in the directors folder to review. After she reviews and approves the letter, THEN I get it to call the member, mail the letter, etc. In the meantime, since I clean out my box daily due to deadlines, I don't have the much to do the first couple hours of the morning. My afternoons, though, are overwhelming and I am here until at least 6PM and lately sometimes til 7:30PM.
I don't mind the working until 6PM as traffic begins to clear up, but I want to do it because I choose to, not because I have to. But, with all that said, the overtime is nice. I just hope hubby is taking advantage of the extra money and putting it against bills or saving it as he manages the checkbook; he won't give it back to me. But, the overtime will soon be coming to a halt and I'm hoping it doesn't put us in a bind for having it taken away.
We had a good weekend, I guess. Like I mentioned above, I did some cooking on Saturday - which I truly enjoy doing. I like cooking and may just start planning that in my schedule; it just gets expensive sometimes. Just remembered I fixed some ribs too, not many, but some just for us. They are still in the refrigerator; maybe we'll have those tonight.
Sunday was church of course, and Father's Day. It was 'ugly tie' contest time at church, and surprisingly hubby chose not to participate; stating that he had given away all his ugly ties. I wish he would lighten up and join in the fun, but most times he refuses on whatever his mood is. He could have had fun with it, but chose not to.
We had fun at lunch yesterday after church; our daughter in law and three grandsons joined us for lunch at Whataburger, my favorite fast food place, next to El Pollo Loco. It was fun playing talking with them. I love being around ALL my grandchildren and wish they were able to be around more often. They keep me young.
I did get a surprise myself yesterday. Another grandson and I had discussed IPADs before. He had told me then I could have his because he didn't use it anymore. I refused to take it because he wouldn't sell it to me. Well, yesterday his mother and sister stopped by with a father's day gift for hubby, and brought me the IPAD. I called him and offered to pay him for it - in installments of course - but he refused it. I feel bad for taking it, but love that he wanted to give it to me.
I had fun yesterday afternoon figuring out how to use some of the items. I called my brother and he helped me get some things set up so that my information on my iphone transferred to it. Hubby is reluctant to have me add to our verizon so that I can use it elsewhere, but I may have to in order to use it outside of wifi areas. For example, I can't use it here at work because they won't let me on the wifi. I wanted it for meetings; need to get into the emails for when the notes are emailed. Will have to get the IPAD for Dummies book I guess so that I can figure it out.
And now it's time to get to work; get through my many emails from fed ex stating they have delivered my packages. This is the boring time-consuming part; matching the creating, picking up, delivering emails and then attaching them to the member's summary for that authorization. Very time consuming. Oh well.
Hope you have a good day today - think positive thoughts and do something productive!
Blessings!
Friday, June 14, 2013
Weighty problems....
Why is it that some issues don't weigh anything - and yet others weigh a whole bunch? That is my question to you this morning.
Is it that the little things just don't bother us - and the big things do? But what classifies as a 'big thing' and what classifies as a 'little thing'?
How would you classify these two issues.....
A co worker comes into work early and starts her online college homework. She continues it throughout the day. She is printing things like 'how to be a fashion designer' or 'how to run a Starbucks business' or any other thing she is looking at. She is always whining she is behind in her work; she is always complaining she has too much to do and needs help. Yet, come 4:30 she jumps up and is out of here.
I had asked a long time ago to get my hours changed to 7-4PM or even 7:30-4:30PM - and was told no. Other people wanted to change their hours and they were told no. But this person just does it and no one says a word to her.
Big issue or little issue?
Then there is this other co-worker. Yesterday I overheard a phone call on a member that I had been involved with the original case. I had done exactly as I was told, including moving the line item from my folder into another folder. I know I did it. Anyway, I overheard the call inquiring about the authorization. I heard the person say there was no auth in the system. Curious, I went to that person's file and no, there wasn't. There should have been.
So I went to the coworker's completed folder to see where the fax was. It wasn't there. I checked another one. Still no. I went back to mine - and there it was in MY completed folder. I'm pretty confident I didn't put it there, but I don't know of any other way it could have gotten there.
I pulled the fax and because we were on day 13 of a 14 day turnaround limit to be in compliance, I forwarded the fax to a coworker to 'shell' and send to a nurse to review, approve, and let's move on with it. Well, our nurse who does these was out yesterday. My coworker created the authorization based on the information on the fax, then notified our 'trainer' that it needed to be processed. She was told to void the authorization, which she did. The 'trainer' created a whole new auth, erroneously stating it was a phone auth request and ignoring the fax and what it was for, created the auth for something it wasn't.
Knowing that our guidelines state I am to call the member if beyond 10 days and send the authorization letter out via FED EX Overnight Priority, I went ahead and did that. Although with the authorization being put in as a 'phone auth' gives us an additional 14 days and all I had to do was mail the letter regular mail. I did what I knew I was supposed to do. I corrected the letter to what it should be and faxed it to the provider. I printed and sent to member. I called the member. I followed the rules for the original, true, request.
Now my coworker and I are still in a turmoil this morning over this. The authorization is still incorrect and it won't pay when the bill comes in. The letter (which I copied before I changed it) contained incorrect information. Was it done this way to keep from being 'dinged' by corporate? I don't know.
I told my coworker this morning that I can't get it off my mind (and neither can she) so I have decided, since corporate is still auditing us daily, if they ask me why I called the member and sent out FED EX overnight priority when it was a phone auth, I will deal with the situation today. If they miss it and do not catch all the erroneous information, I will wait until my friend and I go for our monthly walk in a week or so (she is the VP) and I will tell her what happened. She needs to know about the situation. She needs to know how it came about. We were still in compliance at day 13; the auth could have been completed correctly.
Big issue or little issue?
So that is how my morning is going thus far; that is weighing on my mind. I don't know which to hope for - the audit catching it or waiting until I can process all of it. Still have not figured out how it got in to my completed folder. Checked the history and it doesn't show anyone else touching it. Or that I forwarded it. It is really weird for there is no way it can be deleted or disappear. I have no excuses; I don't know how it happened. But we caught it in time.
So with all this - it's time to get to work. I was able to get out at 6PM last night - nice. Hoping I can get out early tonight as well. I'm ready for the weekend.
Hope all your issues today are light ones!
Blessings!
Is it that the little things just don't bother us - and the big things do? But what classifies as a 'big thing' and what classifies as a 'little thing'?
How would you classify these two issues.....
A co worker comes into work early and starts her online college homework. She continues it throughout the day. She is printing things like 'how to be a fashion designer' or 'how to run a Starbucks business' or any other thing she is looking at. She is always whining she is behind in her work; she is always complaining she has too much to do and needs help. Yet, come 4:30 she jumps up and is out of here.
I had asked a long time ago to get my hours changed to 7-4PM or even 7:30-4:30PM - and was told no. Other people wanted to change their hours and they were told no. But this person just does it and no one says a word to her.
Big issue or little issue?
Then there is this other co-worker. Yesterday I overheard a phone call on a member that I had been involved with the original case. I had done exactly as I was told, including moving the line item from my folder into another folder. I know I did it. Anyway, I overheard the call inquiring about the authorization. I heard the person say there was no auth in the system. Curious, I went to that person's file and no, there wasn't. There should have been.
So I went to the coworker's completed folder to see where the fax was. It wasn't there. I checked another one. Still no. I went back to mine - and there it was in MY completed folder. I'm pretty confident I didn't put it there, but I don't know of any other way it could have gotten there.
I pulled the fax and because we were on day 13 of a 14 day turnaround limit to be in compliance, I forwarded the fax to a coworker to 'shell' and send to a nurse to review, approve, and let's move on with it. Well, our nurse who does these was out yesterday. My coworker created the authorization based on the information on the fax, then notified our 'trainer' that it needed to be processed. She was told to void the authorization, which she did. The 'trainer' created a whole new auth, erroneously stating it was a phone auth request and ignoring the fax and what it was for, created the auth for something it wasn't.
Knowing that our guidelines state I am to call the member if beyond 10 days and send the authorization letter out via FED EX Overnight Priority, I went ahead and did that. Although with the authorization being put in as a 'phone auth' gives us an additional 14 days and all I had to do was mail the letter regular mail. I did what I knew I was supposed to do. I corrected the letter to what it should be and faxed it to the provider. I printed and sent to member. I called the member. I followed the rules for the original, true, request.
Now my coworker and I are still in a turmoil this morning over this. The authorization is still incorrect and it won't pay when the bill comes in. The letter (which I copied before I changed it) contained incorrect information. Was it done this way to keep from being 'dinged' by corporate? I don't know.
I told my coworker this morning that I can't get it off my mind (and neither can she) so I have decided, since corporate is still auditing us daily, if they ask me why I called the member and sent out FED EX overnight priority when it was a phone auth, I will deal with the situation today. If they miss it and do not catch all the erroneous information, I will wait until my friend and I go for our monthly walk in a week or so (she is the VP) and I will tell her what happened. She needs to know about the situation. She needs to know how it came about. We were still in compliance at day 13; the auth could have been completed correctly.
Big issue or little issue?
So that is how my morning is going thus far; that is weighing on my mind. I don't know which to hope for - the audit catching it or waiting until I can process all of it. Still have not figured out how it got in to my completed folder. Checked the history and it doesn't show anyone else touching it. Or that I forwarded it. It is really weird for there is no way it can be deleted or disappear. I have no excuses; I don't know how it happened. But we caught it in time.
So with all this - it's time to get to work. I was able to get out at 6PM last night - nice. Hoping I can get out early tonight as well. I'm ready for the weekend.
Hope all your issues today are light ones!
Blessings!
Thursday, June 13, 2013
And Now It's Official.....
I did not even place in the top three on our weight loss challenge. I had been in the top three numerous times, meaning, third place for numerous times, but in the final weight loss totals, I fell out of the top three. I have to admit I am sad, somewhat, because I wanted the money for a specific thing. But it isn't the end of the world, and I DID lose 10% of my weight, which still makes me a winner!
I must also admit it is good to be able to eat again as I feel like it. I had really cut back the past two weeks of the challenge. That is probably why I ended up only losing like 1/2 pound both weeks. I'm not going crazy eating things I shouldn't be eating regardless, but if I want an chocolate dipped cone at DQ, I am going to have one.
Moderation is the key, I feel. Diets shouldn't be all about salads and chicken and fish. It's about eating REAL food, and learning to eat smaller portions. Of course I need to watch how it is prepared too; deep fried probably isn't the best thing if one wants to lose weight.
However, with saying that, we went to Fast Eddie's last Friday night for their fish fry. All you can eat fish fry. For $9.99. That is the only evening they are open. We decided to try it after it being recommended again to us. Oh yum. They bring out three nice size pieces of cod, deep fried but not greasy, laying on top of a place of french fries. Side bowl of coleslaw, which was good too. We ate the three fish, a few of the french fries, and asked for more fish. They brought us two more each. We were so stuffed that we wished we had stopped at the three we started with! A friend of ours goes there and tells them to forget the fries, just bring the fish and coleslaw. The waitress says there are others that do that as well. This guy says he eats about 10-14 pieces of the fish. I feel that is over-doing it, but it is unlimited! It WAS really good and we would go again.
Still working many 12 hour work days so haven't been on here for a couple days. Need to get started on my work in about 3 minutes. I set aside time when I can that I can add to my blog. The past couple days I was so far behind I didn't have time to write. Lots of things going on as well.
So - with all that - even though I didn't win third place; I lost 10% and so I'm still a winner. In fact, I did check the scale this morning and I'm down another 1/2 pound. And I've eaten more than usual. Maybe my body was in rebellion the past couple weeks for my 'starving it'. NOT. But I have learned how to eat better. It's ok to cheat occasionally, just don't make it a daily habit.
Hope that you have a good day. Look at the positive side of things rather than the negative. It makes life easier to live.
Blessings!
I must also admit it is good to be able to eat again as I feel like it. I had really cut back the past two weeks of the challenge. That is probably why I ended up only losing like 1/2 pound both weeks. I'm not going crazy eating things I shouldn't be eating regardless, but if I want an chocolate dipped cone at DQ, I am going to have one.
Moderation is the key, I feel. Diets shouldn't be all about salads and chicken and fish. It's about eating REAL food, and learning to eat smaller portions. Of course I need to watch how it is prepared too; deep fried probably isn't the best thing if one wants to lose weight.
However, with saying that, we went to Fast Eddie's last Friday night for their fish fry. All you can eat fish fry. For $9.99. That is the only evening they are open. We decided to try it after it being recommended again to us. Oh yum. They bring out three nice size pieces of cod, deep fried but not greasy, laying on top of a place of french fries. Side bowl of coleslaw, which was good too. We ate the three fish, a few of the french fries, and asked for more fish. They brought us two more each. We were so stuffed that we wished we had stopped at the three we started with! A friend of ours goes there and tells them to forget the fries, just bring the fish and coleslaw. The waitress says there are others that do that as well. This guy says he eats about 10-14 pieces of the fish. I feel that is over-doing it, but it is unlimited! It WAS really good and we would go again.
Still working many 12 hour work days so haven't been on here for a couple days. Need to get started on my work in about 3 minutes. I set aside time when I can that I can add to my blog. The past couple days I was so far behind I didn't have time to write. Lots of things going on as well.
So - with all that - even though I didn't win third place; I lost 10% and so I'm still a winner. In fact, I did check the scale this morning and I'm down another 1/2 pound. And I've eaten more than usual. Maybe my body was in rebellion the past couple weeks for my 'starving it'. NOT. But I have learned how to eat better. It's ok to cheat occasionally, just don't make it a daily habit.
Hope that you have a good day. Look at the positive side of things rather than the negative. It makes life easier to live.
Blessings!
Sunday, June 9, 2013
It's Sunday..... and it's still all about Grace....
and here I am on my own computer - first time in a few days. By the time I get home between 7:30 and 8:00PM, I don't want to look at another computer after staring at two screens at work for 12 straight hours.
Didn't get to sleep in yesterday; got up early and was at Market on the Move by 5:30AM - they had asked us to be there at 5, but, well, long story short, I didn't make it. I did stay until 10AM and helped man the tables. Or is that 'woman' the tables.
Regardless, by the time I got home yesterday I was pretty tired after such a busy week at work. Didn't do much yesterday afternoon and we watched a movie last night before heading to bed. I did sleep sound last night - all night - and woke up at 6AM this morning. I could have gone back to sleep but I realized as I awoke that I did sleep for 8 hours straight, so I got up to get some quiet time in before Tom woke up and before time to get ready for church.
After church this morning we had our annual business meeting then headed over to the activity center to celebrate our children's director and send she and her husband on their way on a new journey. I believe they are heading to Spain for awhile. Not sure what that is about; he is a musician wanting to further his career. Perhaps it is a vacation or a missionary trip. I don't know.
Anyway - after we had eaten I saw this young man I have been praying for over the past few months. At a leadership meeting about six months ago he was in my '3-people' group where we share lives and ask for prayer. He had shared some things and I have been praying for him. Periodically I would run into him at church and ask how I can pray for him. Today I saw him and we talked for about 20 minutes I think, him sharing how his life has bubbled over with the Grace of God. I won't share details; but all I can and will say, God is amazing in His forgiveness and love. For me to feel a kinship with this young man is so wild - he is a bit on the wild side - or used to be I guess. Me, I've never desired a tattoo or jewelry in places they shouldn't be - but God has put us on a prayer path together for whatever reason. That in itself is amazing.
Grace. We all need it. We all want it. What does Grace consist of? Forgiving when the world would shut you out. I think that is a good way to say it. God has taught me about Grace. I never understood Grace until that moment I received it. And my young friend said basically the same thing to me today.
Can you recall a time when you received Grace? Forgiveness without punishment? Forgiveness without being shut out? There is a story about Grace. Let's see if I can remember the story enough to share it.....
"If a young man is killed through some random act of violence and the father tracks down the guilty person and kills him, we would call it vengeance. However, if the father calls the police and the murderer is arrested, tried, convicted, and executed, we’d call that justice. If, at the trial, the father pleads for the guilty man’s life to be spared and the judge and jury consent, we’d call that mercy.
Didn't get to sleep in yesterday; got up early and was at Market on the Move by 5:30AM - they had asked us to be there at 5, but, well, long story short, I didn't make it. I did stay until 10AM and helped man the tables. Or is that 'woman' the tables.
Regardless, by the time I got home yesterday I was pretty tired after such a busy week at work. Didn't do much yesterday afternoon and we watched a movie last night before heading to bed. I did sleep sound last night - all night - and woke up at 6AM this morning. I could have gone back to sleep but I realized as I awoke that I did sleep for 8 hours straight, so I got up to get some quiet time in before Tom woke up and before time to get ready for church.
After church this morning we had our annual business meeting then headed over to the activity center to celebrate our children's director and send she and her husband on their way on a new journey. I believe they are heading to Spain for awhile. Not sure what that is about; he is a musician wanting to further his career. Perhaps it is a vacation or a missionary trip. I don't know.
Anyway - after we had eaten I saw this young man I have been praying for over the past few months. At a leadership meeting about six months ago he was in my '3-people' group where we share lives and ask for prayer. He had shared some things and I have been praying for him. Periodically I would run into him at church and ask how I can pray for him. Today I saw him and we talked for about 20 minutes I think, him sharing how his life has bubbled over with the Grace of God. I won't share details; but all I can and will say, God is amazing in His forgiveness and love. For me to feel a kinship with this young man is so wild - he is a bit on the wild side - or used to be I guess. Me, I've never desired a tattoo or jewelry in places they shouldn't be - but God has put us on a prayer path together for whatever reason. That in itself is amazing.
Grace. We all need it. We all want it. What does Grace consist of? Forgiving when the world would shut you out. I think that is a good way to say it. God has taught me about Grace. I never understood Grace until that moment I received it. And my young friend said basically the same thing to me today.
Can you recall a time when you received Grace? Forgiveness without punishment? Forgiveness without being shut out? There is a story about Grace. Let's see if I can remember the story enough to share it.....
"If a young man is killed through some random act of violence and the father tracks down the guilty person and kills him, we would call it vengeance. However, if the father calls the police and the murderer is arrested, tried, convicted, and executed, we’d call that justice. If, at the trial, the father pleads for the guilty man’s life to be spared and the judge and jury consent, we’d call that mercy.
Let’s
take it another step. In addition to
pleading for the guilty one to be spared, the father actually appeals to the
judge to release the murderer into his custody and care, and miraculously gaining
approval, the father takes the young man into his heart and home, adopting him
as his own son……that would be grace."
God's Grace is better than anything you will ever receive. But He gives us many opportunities to give that Grace to others. Do you need to offer Grace to someone? Do you need to receive it?
I'm going to let you ponder on that today. I had said I would work from home for a little while today and since I don't want to be on here most of the day, need to get started.
Hope you have a Grace-filled day.
Blessings!
Friday, June 7, 2013
Another day has dawned.....
and here I am back at the office already. Group was cancelled last night so I stayed a little later, but not as late as usual. I was craving Whataburger, and since the challenge is over, I asked hubby if we could go there for dinner. We Did. It was sooooo good! And we topped it off with a small DQ chocolate dipped cone. Yeah, my bad. But! I had had salad for lunch - does that count?
Yesterday was busy, and the afternoon was frustrating. Another issue with part of my job. The 'suck up' person is driving me crazy. She changed something else yesterday - and when I questioned her on it, and even provided emails showing the original change by her, she denied it. Frustrated, I decided I would go talk to the director and get an answer. It was on my mind most of the evening.
We went to bed about 9:30-ish. Yeah, fell asleep and somewhere in the early morning hours I started to have a dream. About work. About this issue. Here is my dream.
I'm sitting in the director's office and I'm asking for clarification on how to complete this task that keeps changing. By changing I mean that 'someone' doesn't remember the original decision and changes it, even when I give her the original instructions. All I want is clarification on how to do my job correctly. Anyway, back to the dream.
I'm talking with the director and this man walks in. Clean cut, shaven, has on a white dress shirt, open collar, and tan pants. He is staring at me, and smiling. My director and I stop talking and look at him. Nothing is said, so I ask if he is there to meet with my director, or did he need me for something. He said no, he didn't need me, and he had a meeting later with the director. He continues to stand there and smile at me. I look back at my director and she is just sitting there, not saying anything. I look back at the man, and he is still just standing there smiling at me, never looking at the director.
All of a sudden my director comments to me, "You just don't like change". (I'm thinking, huh? where did that come from?!) I look back at my director, hold up my right index finger and say, "No, that is not a true statement. I ACCEPT change".
Then I woke up. It was 2:45AM. Of course I laid there and tried to figure out what that all meant, never coming up with any idea of what it meant. I tossed and turned for awhile and finally said to God, "If I'm still awake at 3:30 I'll just get up". Well, I was still awake at 3:30AM so did get up. I still don't know what that dream was about.
And here I sit at the office, almost ready to start a new day. I'm sure before low I will be ready to take a nap! Will probably go to bed somewhat early; whenever I get home that is. It is already proving to be a very busy day today.
Tomorrow is Market on the Move at church and since they changed the times to 7AM - 10AM for people to come pick up the food, they are asking for us volunteers to be there at 5AM. So much for sleeping in a little bit tomorrow. But I do like to volunteer when I can. I can always nap later.
If you decipher my dream, let me know. I'm still trying to figure out who the man was - I have no clue. And I do accept change. Just make it clear what you want and why and I'll do it. :-)
Hope you have a good day!
Blessings!!
Yesterday was busy, and the afternoon was frustrating. Another issue with part of my job. The 'suck up' person is driving me crazy. She changed something else yesterday - and when I questioned her on it, and even provided emails showing the original change by her, she denied it. Frustrated, I decided I would go talk to the director and get an answer. It was on my mind most of the evening.
We went to bed about 9:30-ish. Yeah, fell asleep and somewhere in the early morning hours I started to have a dream. About work. About this issue. Here is my dream.
I'm sitting in the director's office and I'm asking for clarification on how to complete this task that keeps changing. By changing I mean that 'someone' doesn't remember the original decision and changes it, even when I give her the original instructions. All I want is clarification on how to do my job correctly. Anyway, back to the dream.
I'm talking with the director and this man walks in. Clean cut, shaven, has on a white dress shirt, open collar, and tan pants. He is staring at me, and smiling. My director and I stop talking and look at him. Nothing is said, so I ask if he is there to meet with my director, or did he need me for something. He said no, he didn't need me, and he had a meeting later with the director. He continues to stand there and smile at me. I look back at my director and she is just sitting there, not saying anything. I look back at the man, and he is still just standing there smiling at me, never looking at the director.
All of a sudden my director comments to me, "You just don't like change". (I'm thinking, huh? where did that come from?!) I look back at my director, hold up my right index finger and say, "No, that is not a true statement. I ACCEPT change".
Then I woke up. It was 2:45AM. Of course I laid there and tried to figure out what that all meant, never coming up with any idea of what it meant. I tossed and turned for awhile and finally said to God, "If I'm still awake at 3:30 I'll just get up". Well, I was still awake at 3:30AM so did get up. I still don't know what that dream was about.
And here I sit at the office, almost ready to start a new day. I'm sure before low I will be ready to take a nap! Will probably go to bed somewhat early; whenever I get home that is. It is already proving to be a very busy day today.
Tomorrow is Market on the Move at church and since they changed the times to 7AM - 10AM for people to come pick up the food, they are asking for us volunteers to be there at 5AM. So much for sleeping in a little bit tomorrow. But I do like to volunteer when I can. I can always nap later.
If you decipher my dream, let me know. I'm still trying to figure out who the man was - I have no clue. And I do accept change. Just make it clear what you want and why and I'll do it. :-)
Hope you have a good day!
Blessings!!
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Coffee, coffee, and more of it!
I am weary this morning. Not just tired, but weary. Weary of overtime, weary of people demanding more of me than I can give, weary of not being able to do things I want to do, weary of people telling me what to do.
But that is life, isn't it!
And this second cup of coffee is almost already gone and I think I may do an unusual for me anymore and get a third cup! I just need that extra 'ump' this morning. I'm feeling beaten up.
Reminds me of Paul in the Bible who says he has been beaten up but is not defeated. I will fight to the finish! LOL Just kidding! Not a physical battle, but there is a political and control battle here in this department and one person wants to run it and she isn't the boss! She sucks up to the director and the two of them proceed with her desires - so it seems - as the director doesn't know what is going on. It appears that way, anyway. It is frustrating for us who see it. And then there are these few who suck up to the one who sucks up to the director. Sickening.
I just look at them and think 'for real?' You talk behind her back and you suck up when she's here?
Oh well. My 'job' is to keep my own focus on MY issues, MY work and MY things. I am not to concern myself with those who want to stir up problems. All this stuff when you see and hear it daily tends to drag you down and beat up on you.
BUT NO MORE!! I'm ready for a third cup of coffee and then I'll be 'ready to roll'!!
Oh - as for the weigh in yesterday...... only lost .2 and it was disappointing for my scales at home showed I lost over a pound. Guess I didn't eliminate all the water before I went to weigh in. :-( Although I hear that stress keeps weight hanging on too. Stay tuned for the final results on the challenge. I am hoping I was able to hang on to 3rd place, but it doesn't look real good. We shall see soon enough, I guess!
And now I need to get that third cup of coffee and get to work. It is going to be another busy, busy day and I must get out on time tonight because it is group study night at our house. Three more weeks and we are going to stop for the rest of the summer.
Hope that you are rising above the bumps in your days and not letting the battle wear you down. As I reach up my hand for help, God's hand is reaching down to me to pull me up. It will be just fine.
Keep reaching!
Blessings!
But that is life, isn't it!
And this second cup of coffee is almost already gone and I think I may do an unusual for me anymore and get a third cup! I just need that extra 'ump' this morning. I'm feeling beaten up.
Reminds me of Paul in the Bible who says he has been beaten up but is not defeated. I will fight to the finish! LOL Just kidding! Not a physical battle, but there is a political and control battle here in this department and one person wants to run it and she isn't the boss! She sucks up to the director and the two of them proceed with her desires - so it seems - as the director doesn't know what is going on. It appears that way, anyway. It is frustrating for us who see it. And then there are these few who suck up to the one who sucks up to the director. Sickening.
I just look at them and think 'for real?' You talk behind her back and you suck up when she's here?
Oh well. My 'job' is to keep my own focus on MY issues, MY work and MY things. I am not to concern myself with those who want to stir up problems. All this stuff when you see and hear it daily tends to drag you down and beat up on you.
BUT NO MORE!! I'm ready for a third cup of coffee and then I'll be 'ready to roll'!!
Oh - as for the weigh in yesterday...... only lost .2 and it was disappointing for my scales at home showed I lost over a pound. Guess I didn't eliminate all the water before I went to weigh in. :-( Although I hear that stress keeps weight hanging on too. Stay tuned for the final results on the challenge. I am hoping I was able to hang on to 3rd place, but it doesn't look real good. We shall see soon enough, I guess!
And now I need to get that third cup of coffee and get to work. It is going to be another busy, busy day and I must get out on time tonight because it is group study night at our house. Three more weeks and we are going to stop for the rest of the summer.
Hope that you are rising above the bumps in your days and not letting the battle wear you down. As I reach up my hand for help, God's hand is reaching down to me to pull me up. It will be just fine.
Keep reaching!
Blessings!
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
One more day to the FINAL!!
One more l-o-n-g day until the final day. For what? For the weigh in of our challenge here at work. I'm so ready for this to be over with! Why? Because I enjoy food, and although I have been losing weight, and hope I continue to do so, I want to feel free to enjoy some things I have denied myself these past 14 weeks. Ok, so I haven't denied myself much, but especially the Sunday - Tuesdays before weigh in - yes, I do limit myself.
I got on my scale this morning at home, just to see how I was doing, and I finally broke a marker for me. I'm hoping I can keep it off through tomorrow morning. Going to watch it really close today. I even got on the treadmill last night and did interval walking/running for 30 minutes last night. I plan to do it again tonight. It doesn't burn many calories, but at least it is getting my body moving. I'm hoping it will make a difference.
We finally got an update on standings yesterday. I am still in third place. However, as we all know from watching the Biggest Loser, that can change overnight. And since third place is the last paying place, I am hoping to secure that spot tomorrow, if not move into the second spot. It's doubtful I can go into second, but who knows - that person may have a 'bad' week. The person who had captured first place for several weeks isn't even in the top three now. Guess they got tired of having to control their cravings. But, then, they could come back with a vengeance tomorrow and take it all.
Regardless of whether or not I place, I am still a winner. Based on what my scale said this morning, I have succeeded in losing 10% of my body weight. Of course I didn't have clothes on yet and hadn't eaten or even had my coffee. All these little things can change all that.
Tomorrow. The BIG FINALE. Stay tuned.
Auditors are supposed to be here today and begin auditing our work.... I hope they take in consideration that our team has only been working together about a month. It's been a learning curve for all of us, working in a special business unit and doing all the little things they are requiring now. It's becoming more routine for us now, but I still have to stop and think about what I need to do to get things done.
Hubby is having a talk with a couple of the children today. He will catch up with the youngest one later. Maybe I will suggest he take him out to dinner and talk with him. With me working late, we haven't been doing much for dinner. Last night I was home around 7PM. Early for a change. I had told hubby I would let him talk with the children about this issue. Son, if you are reading this before you meet with him, I will just say it is serious, yet not overwhelming. But to hubby, it's personal. I try to be sensitive to his own fear, his own emotions. He doesn't want everyone to know; therefore no prayer chains, etc. You will find out what it is soon enough. No fear. Be sensitive.
Need to get off here and get to work - auditors will be arriving soon and I want to get some things completed. One coworker who was off yesterday was greeted with an enormous amount of work; our other coworker did not touch her folder. Therefore, my day will be filled with phone calls and letters, moreso than usual. Going to be a long day in this area too.
Looking for this day to be over! Hope you are going to have a good day!!
Blessings!!
I got on my scale this morning at home, just to see how I was doing, and I finally broke a marker for me. I'm hoping I can keep it off through tomorrow morning. Going to watch it really close today. I even got on the treadmill last night and did interval walking/running for 30 minutes last night. I plan to do it again tonight. It doesn't burn many calories, but at least it is getting my body moving. I'm hoping it will make a difference.
We finally got an update on standings yesterday. I am still in third place. However, as we all know from watching the Biggest Loser, that can change overnight. And since third place is the last paying place, I am hoping to secure that spot tomorrow, if not move into the second spot. It's doubtful I can go into second, but who knows - that person may have a 'bad' week. The person who had captured first place for several weeks isn't even in the top three now. Guess they got tired of having to control their cravings. But, then, they could come back with a vengeance tomorrow and take it all.
Regardless of whether or not I place, I am still a winner. Based on what my scale said this morning, I have succeeded in losing 10% of my body weight. Of course I didn't have clothes on yet and hadn't eaten or even had my coffee. All these little things can change all that.
Tomorrow. The BIG FINALE. Stay tuned.
Auditors are supposed to be here today and begin auditing our work.... I hope they take in consideration that our team has only been working together about a month. It's been a learning curve for all of us, working in a special business unit and doing all the little things they are requiring now. It's becoming more routine for us now, but I still have to stop and think about what I need to do to get things done.
Hubby is having a talk with a couple of the children today. He will catch up with the youngest one later. Maybe I will suggest he take him out to dinner and talk with him. With me working late, we haven't been doing much for dinner. Last night I was home around 7PM. Early for a change. I had told hubby I would let him talk with the children about this issue. Son, if you are reading this before you meet with him, I will just say it is serious, yet not overwhelming. But to hubby, it's personal. I try to be sensitive to his own fear, his own emotions. He doesn't want everyone to know; therefore no prayer chains, etc. You will find out what it is soon enough. No fear. Be sensitive.
Need to get off here and get to work - auditors will be arriving soon and I want to get some things completed. One coworker who was off yesterday was greeted with an enormous amount of work; our other coworker did not touch her folder. Therefore, my day will be filled with phone calls and letters, moreso than usual. Going to be a long day in this area too.
Looking for this day to be over! Hope you are going to have a good day!!
Blessings!!
Monday, June 3, 2013
It's Monday..... in more ways than one....
I did not sleep well last night. Lots of things on the mind, causing me to actually think about these things.... and it was hard to get up this morning. When things aren't exactly 'pleasant' at home when I leave, then it makes the day especially more difficult, unless I can put it out of my mind.
When I'm really busy - which I am nowadays - I can't think about anything else but work. So many details I have to follow, so many things I have to do. If I miss one, I get emails from corporate. Alas, this morning I have already received two. I read one of them, and decided the other could wait a little bit.
I did check online on Saturday to see what my work looked like, and it was do-able for a Monday morning. I got back on again around 8:30 last night to check on what I would face this morning and a coworker was online so we chatted a few minutes. I am getting bombarded with admits this morning. She told me about them last night, but I was not going to stay up another two hours to complete them. I wouldn't have known about them if I hadn't asked her anyway as she had not put them yet in my folder. Rationale? Perhaps.
This morning is another protein bar and strong cup of coffee morning. Just couldn't get moving at home fast enough to fix a shake for breakfast. I had thought about an egg sandwich, and could have fixed it here at work, but just don't want to bother. I feel like I am fighting a sea of heaviness this morning. Personal issues and business issues.
I received a challenge from a girlfriend this past weekend (along with several others) to find a book of the Bible for this month and stay in it; read it daily, ask the who what when where why questions, and meditate on it. Feed on it. Glean it. I started reading Colossians yesterday as my chosen book. I started on Chapter 3 today and couldn't get past the first couple sentences. Oh I read the entire chapter, but I have a feeling that is where I am going to be camping for awhile. I know what I want to do, but like Paul in his letters, my mind and body do things I don't want it to do. My attitude isn't always what it should be. My actions speak louder than my words do. I'm already feeling beaten up - but I choose not to be defeated.
No matter what LIFE throws at me, I will prevail. No matter how much pain I go through, physical, mental, or imagined, I choose to rise above it. Doesn't mean I won't be sad. Doesn't mean I won't grow weary. But I will choose JOY to live. I will rise about the heartaches, the frustrations, the disagreements, and all that other stuff, for that is all that it is. Stuff.
With God's help, I will prevail and be the child He created me to be. I have failed Him so many times; I have been defeated. I'm tired of it all. I don't want to live a defeated life. I choose to live my life to the fullest - in Him.
What are you going through today? Lots of bills? Disagreements with the spouse? Children driving you crazy?
Be thankful. It's all part of the journey. What are you doing about it to make it a better one? Sit back and think of a way to make it better. Pull yourself out of your mood, if it's not a good one, and do something good for another person. Say yes when you'd rather say no. Love them just the way they are. Only ONE is perfect, and that person is not you nor I.
Have a good day - it's time to get to work! Hope it isn't another 12 hour day.
Blessings!
When I'm really busy - which I am nowadays - I can't think about anything else but work. So many details I have to follow, so many things I have to do. If I miss one, I get emails from corporate. Alas, this morning I have already received two. I read one of them, and decided the other could wait a little bit.
I did check online on Saturday to see what my work looked like, and it was do-able for a Monday morning. I got back on again around 8:30 last night to check on what I would face this morning and a coworker was online so we chatted a few minutes. I am getting bombarded with admits this morning. She told me about them last night, but I was not going to stay up another two hours to complete them. I wouldn't have known about them if I hadn't asked her anyway as she had not put them yet in my folder. Rationale? Perhaps.
This morning is another protein bar and strong cup of coffee morning. Just couldn't get moving at home fast enough to fix a shake for breakfast. I had thought about an egg sandwich, and could have fixed it here at work, but just don't want to bother. I feel like I am fighting a sea of heaviness this morning. Personal issues and business issues.
I received a challenge from a girlfriend this past weekend (along with several others) to find a book of the Bible for this month and stay in it; read it daily, ask the who what when where why questions, and meditate on it. Feed on it. Glean it. I started reading Colossians yesterday as my chosen book. I started on Chapter 3 today and couldn't get past the first couple sentences. Oh I read the entire chapter, but I have a feeling that is where I am going to be camping for awhile. I know what I want to do, but like Paul in his letters, my mind and body do things I don't want it to do. My attitude isn't always what it should be. My actions speak louder than my words do. I'm already feeling beaten up - but I choose not to be defeated.
No matter what LIFE throws at me, I will prevail. No matter how much pain I go through, physical, mental, or imagined, I choose to rise above it. Doesn't mean I won't be sad. Doesn't mean I won't grow weary. But I will choose JOY to live. I will rise about the heartaches, the frustrations, the disagreements, and all that other stuff, for that is all that it is. Stuff.
With God's help, I will prevail and be the child He created me to be. I have failed Him so many times; I have been defeated. I'm tired of it all. I don't want to live a defeated life. I choose to live my life to the fullest - in Him.
What are you going through today? Lots of bills? Disagreements with the spouse? Children driving you crazy?
Be thankful. It's all part of the journey. What are you doing about it to make it a better one? Sit back and think of a way to make it better. Pull yourself out of your mood, if it's not a good one, and do something good for another person. Say yes when you'd rather say no. Love them just the way they are. Only ONE is perfect, and that person is not you nor I.
Have a good day - it's time to get to work! Hope it isn't another 12 hour day.
Blessings!
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