Today is my last day at work - and it will definitely be a busy one for sure! I need to make sure I have all my work completed when I leave, and those that will be covering for me while I'm gone, have the information they need to do my job well. It bothers me some that they pulled me off of what I had been doing and created this new team last week, knowing that I would be leaving this week. But, they did, and I have done my best to get a flow created in this position. It will be torn apart and changed probably many times before I return.
That's what this past week has done - changed nearly every process several times. I know they are fine-tuning the process, but it drives me crazy for the lack of communication on what they are changing. And why would they even think to ask my input, the one who does the job.... just commenting.
Part of me is excited about the upcoming trip, the mini, visiting with family, and yet, it's change. I know I will have a good time, but I feel guilty about some things. Things like knowing hubby will be 'alone' and lonely. He isn't like me; I will call others to meet me for coffee, or lunch or whatever. He will sit at home and be lonely. I choose to find things to fill my time; he doesn't. We are really opposites in that respect.
Sometimes I'm fine being alone. I was alone last weekend while hubby chose to be alone at a retreat. I could have called someone to meet me, but I didn't. I don't get much alone time and I chose to accomplish some things that I wanted to get done. Had I gotten a phone call I would have jumped at the opportunity to get away, don't get me wrong. I just choose not to depend on others to fill my time. I love being with others, and enjoy my time with others. And sometimes it is ok to just be alone.
Hubby is going back to the doctor today; some tests he had done didn't come back very well and he is afraid. He tends to be afraid a lot so this morning in my quiet time I was looking for verses to give him to meditate on, that he will choose not to be afraid, that he will trust God for any outcome.
Reminds me of the movie Facing the Giants - one of my favorites, even though it is about football. In this movie the question is asked, (in my words) "If God doesn't give you what you ask for, will you still love Him?"
In other words, if you pray for favor of a job and don't get it, will you still love and trust Him? If you ask for healing, and don't get it, will you still believe in Him? If you ask for financial blessings and don't receive it, will you still trust Him?
I will. His Word has proven itself to me time and time again. No, I haven't always gotten what I have prayed for, but God sees the big picture and I don't. He knows better than I do what is needed, what I need. He hears me, of that I have no doubt. But His answers far exceed my requests. I don't always get what I want, but I know beyond all doubt that I can trust Him and trust His Word for He is always faithful. He will walk with me to the very end.
I have completed my training and am trusting God for the outcome in the marathon. I have prayed for good weather, in spite of predicted rain for Saturday. I am trusting in Him that if I am to walk in this mini-marathon, He will bring it all together. Even if I walk in the rain, it will be a fun memory.
I am hoping to weigh in this morning since I won't be here tomorrow to do so. I jumped on my scale at home and it looks like I may have lost some ounces - hey, every little bit helps. I was hoping to be down 15 pounds by now, but when you really don't work at it, it doesn't happen. But I may be down at least 12 so that is a good thing. Who knows, with all the walking this week, perhaps I can drop another pound or two by the time I weigh in next Wednesday!
And now I need to get started on a new day - lots to do and lots to finish up. My writings for this next week may be sparotic as I am not taking my laptop with me. I'll be able to get on my sissy's computer some so may add then. Besides, I'll be playing!
I would appreciate prayers for hubby today as he goes to the doctor, that he will receive a good report. I ask too that prayers for safe travel will be forthcoming for me. And good weather for the mini!!
Blessings!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
IT"S THIS WEEK!!
Only two days - today and tomorrow - and I will be packing and heading to the airport for my trip to Indiana! I'm still excited, but after seeing, and hearing, news reports of cold temperatures (anything below 80 is cold to me) - well, 73 is still chilly and that is what it is to get to there this week. And rain is predicted for Friday and Saturday.
But I'm going to be positive - last year rain was predicted too - instead it was, I think, 85 degrees and 90 percent humidity. I am so looking forward to walking in the mini again, and like I have said earlier, I want to make this a yearly thing. Yes, I know it involves a trip to Indiana to do this, but it's something I can look forward to every year. Something to train for. A goal to set and achieve.
The next walk after this that is 'on schedule' is Thanksgiving day. Three four family members besides me did the walk last year. We did a basic stroll because of Marley, but even if we need to get two groups going, one at a stroll and the other at a faster pace, I want to make this a yearly thing too. In fact, this year I'm planning to order t-shirts for those who do the walk. We could do an 8 mile for those who want to walk fast; and a 3 mile for those who want to stroll. We can also include friends who want to work up an appetite for their big turkey meal.
But I'm off subject. That is a few months away yet and we have a few holidays in before that.
It's Monday and I'm back at work - and have lots to do today and tomorrow; plus train someone to cover for me while I'm gone.
Hope to be able to weigh in tomorrow morning so that I can not miss this week; I won't be here Wednesday to weigh in. I've been 'good' over the weekend so hopefully all that I turned down will make a difference on the scale. Then while I'm gone I will need to watch it too. Heck of a way to spend a vacation; watching what I eat, but I have made a determination.
WHY AM I SETTLING FOR THIRD PLACE WHEN I CAN TAKE FIRST PLACE? Well, I think I can think first place, so why am I settling? We are on the down side of our 14 week challenge, I think we are in the 9th week - I still have time to kick it into gear (while others are confidently slowing down) and take the lead for the finish.
I just need to apply myself and hope they don't! I don't need to settle; I need to go for the GOLD!
And with that - I need to get off here and get started on work; overtime is going to be heavy today and tomorrow - lots to do!
Have a great day!
Blessings!
But I'm going to be positive - last year rain was predicted too - instead it was, I think, 85 degrees and 90 percent humidity. I am so looking forward to walking in the mini again, and like I have said earlier, I want to make this a yearly thing. Yes, I know it involves a trip to Indiana to do this, but it's something I can look forward to every year. Something to train for. A goal to set and achieve.
The next walk after this that is 'on schedule' is Thanksgiving day. Three four family members besides me did the walk last year. We did a basic stroll because of Marley, but even if we need to get two groups going, one at a stroll and the other at a faster pace, I want to make this a yearly thing too. In fact, this year I'm planning to order t-shirts for those who do the walk. We could do an 8 mile for those who want to walk fast; and a 3 mile for those who want to stroll. We can also include friends who want to work up an appetite for their big turkey meal.
But I'm off subject. That is a few months away yet and we have a few holidays in before that.
It's Monday and I'm back at work - and have lots to do today and tomorrow; plus train someone to cover for me while I'm gone.
Hope to be able to weigh in tomorrow morning so that I can not miss this week; I won't be here Wednesday to weigh in. I've been 'good' over the weekend so hopefully all that I turned down will make a difference on the scale. Then while I'm gone I will need to watch it too. Heck of a way to spend a vacation; watching what I eat, but I have made a determination.
WHY AM I SETTLING FOR THIRD PLACE WHEN I CAN TAKE FIRST PLACE? Well, I think I can think first place, so why am I settling? We are on the down side of our 14 week challenge, I think we are in the 9th week - I still have time to kick it into gear (while others are confidently slowing down) and take the lead for the finish.
I just need to apply myself and hope they don't! I don't need to settle; I need to go for the GOLD!
And with that - I need to get off here and get started on work; overtime is going to be heavy today and tomorrow - lots to do!
Have a great day!
Blessings!
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Just Marley and Me....
It's been an interesting weekend thus far. Hubby went off on a weekend retreat and left me home with Marley. Which isn't bad at all as next week I leave him for much longer with Marley.
Yesterday Marley and I had a good evening. She didn't eat much and kind of hung around me. I think she was missing hubby. Maybe. She kept wanting to sit in my lap. (Is she trying to make me think that he allows that? I know better!!) We went to bed a little after 9PM and I tried something new. She didn't know what to think. I left her out of the crate. I told her I was going to bed - and I did. I heard her come into the room, and told her 'out' for she knows she isn't allowed in our room. I can't break that rule too!
I finally got up and brought her bed into the kitchen. She didn't like that at all and refused to get on it. Her bed was out of place and no way was she going to get on it. So I left her alone and went to bed. It didn't take long for me to fall asleep for I was really tired. About 1-ish or so I woke up and went to see where Marley ended up at. She was in her crate. So I turned the light off and went back to bed, getting up around 5AM this morning. About 5:30AM here she comes strolling in the back room to see what I was doing.
It wasn't long after that I had to put her back in the crate for I was heading out for my walk with my best friend. We did the same route we have done the past two months; the first month it was 7.52 miles. We reversed the route and the second month it went to 7.82, I think it was. Today we went back to the first one and again it was 7.52. We haven't figured out the other one. May have to try it next month. Anyway - just under two hours we completed our 7.52 walk. I was starving by then so glad we were at Einsteens - decided on iced green tea versus coffee! The bacon Cheddar Egg sandwich on Asiago bagel was perfect. After a bit of conversation we went our separate ways.
I came home to Marley, who was glad to see me. After letting her out for awhile I took off and did a little shopping for my trip. Didn't find the capri exercise pants I was looking for - after three stops I quit. I should have bought what I found in the first location. Oh well, my sissy and I can go shopping that Thursday I get in and find what I'm looking for.
I have turquoise tennis shoes; I need to get turquoise striped capris and shirt, don't you think? Of course it is still cold there, I'm thinking. I may need to take my long sweats to wear. It could be a very difficult walk for me - for I don't do cold real well. Although, walking will warm up my body.
My brother posted a photo of his wife today at their favorite restaurant. She not only had on a hooded sweatshirt, she had a jacket thrown over her shoulders. That makes me more than a little nervous! But I'm trusting that the temperatures will be in the 70's by the time I get there. It will be a beautiful day for a long walk.
As I mentioned in earlier posts, my job has changed at work. I am so busy I usually end up drinking only two-three big glasses of water through out the day - rather than the 4-5 I normally drink. I just can't believe how busy I am. But it is a good busy, I think. But that is why I hadn't posted the past couple days - I have been helping someone else get caught up - and needed to start work around 7-ish. Left no time for a post.
I need to bake cookies tonight for men's ministry at church. They are having a barbeque after church and asked women's ministry to bake cookies. I bought a tub so will be doing that later on tonight. The temperature was 99 degrees today so am waiting until it starts falling some. I hate it we are already having to run our air conditioner. No, I didn't turn it on. Hubby turned it on some time ago. He couldn't stand it. I would suffer through it before I turned it on. I just don't touch it.
Now that I have rambled for awhile about nothing I guess that I'll get off and see what else I can do. Maybe I will get the dusting done.
Hope you have a good weekend! It's hard to believe this time next week I will be finished walking in the One America 500 Festival Mini Marathon! We start at7:30AM, I think - and are done by 10:30 at the latest. Sure hope my sissy doesn't back out on me.
Blessings!
Yesterday Marley and I had a good evening. She didn't eat much and kind of hung around me. I think she was missing hubby. Maybe. She kept wanting to sit in my lap. (Is she trying to make me think that he allows that? I know better!!) We went to bed a little after 9PM and I tried something new. She didn't know what to think. I left her out of the crate. I told her I was going to bed - and I did. I heard her come into the room, and told her 'out' for she knows she isn't allowed in our room. I can't break that rule too!
I finally got up and brought her bed into the kitchen. She didn't like that at all and refused to get on it. Her bed was out of place and no way was she going to get on it. So I left her alone and went to bed. It didn't take long for me to fall asleep for I was really tired. About 1-ish or so I woke up and went to see where Marley ended up at. She was in her crate. So I turned the light off and went back to bed, getting up around 5AM this morning. About 5:30AM here she comes strolling in the back room to see what I was doing.
It wasn't long after that I had to put her back in the crate for I was heading out for my walk with my best friend. We did the same route we have done the past two months; the first month it was 7.52 miles. We reversed the route and the second month it went to 7.82, I think it was. Today we went back to the first one and again it was 7.52. We haven't figured out the other one. May have to try it next month. Anyway - just under two hours we completed our 7.52 walk. I was starving by then so glad we were at Einsteens - decided on iced green tea versus coffee! The bacon Cheddar Egg sandwich on Asiago bagel was perfect. After a bit of conversation we went our separate ways.
I came home to Marley, who was glad to see me. After letting her out for awhile I took off and did a little shopping for my trip. Didn't find the capri exercise pants I was looking for - after three stops I quit. I should have bought what I found in the first location. Oh well, my sissy and I can go shopping that Thursday I get in and find what I'm looking for.
I have turquoise tennis shoes; I need to get turquoise striped capris and shirt, don't you think? Of course it is still cold there, I'm thinking. I may need to take my long sweats to wear. It could be a very difficult walk for me - for I don't do cold real well. Although, walking will warm up my body.
My brother posted a photo of his wife today at their favorite restaurant. She not only had on a hooded sweatshirt, she had a jacket thrown over her shoulders. That makes me more than a little nervous! But I'm trusting that the temperatures will be in the 70's by the time I get there. It will be a beautiful day for a long walk.
As I mentioned in earlier posts, my job has changed at work. I am so busy I usually end up drinking only two-three big glasses of water through out the day - rather than the 4-5 I normally drink. I just can't believe how busy I am. But it is a good busy, I think. But that is why I hadn't posted the past couple days - I have been helping someone else get caught up - and needed to start work around 7-ish. Left no time for a post.
I need to bake cookies tonight for men's ministry at church. They are having a barbeque after church and asked women's ministry to bake cookies. I bought a tub so will be doing that later on tonight. The temperature was 99 degrees today so am waiting until it starts falling some. I hate it we are already having to run our air conditioner. No, I didn't turn it on. Hubby turned it on some time ago. He couldn't stand it. I would suffer through it before I turned it on. I just don't touch it.
Now that I have rambled for awhile about nothing I guess that I'll get off and see what else I can do. Maybe I will get the dusting done.
Hope you have a good weekend! It's hard to believe this time next week I will be finished walking in the One America 500 Festival Mini Marathon! We start at7:30AM, I think - and are done by 10:30 at the latest. Sure hope my sissy doesn't back out on me.
Blessings!
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
What's YOUR Testimony?
Sometimes when I read books a second or third time, I pick up something that I didn't the first time, or I find something new. I find that happens all the time when I read the Bible. One day I can skim over verses and it not speak to me, and later I can read over those same verses and it's like 'I didn't see this before'! I try to read through the Bible at least once each year, so it does happen frequently.
One of the 'other' books that I'm re-reading - this time for the third time because I get so much out of it - is Mark Batterson's The 40 Day Prayer Challenge "Draw the Circle". Every time I read it I get something out of it.
That is what is on my mind this morning, and I may have written about this before. But even if I have, perhaps what I share today about my thoughts on it will be something new.
Day 32 - Get a Testimony. It's based on the scripture in Revelations 12:11:
"They triumphed over him
by the blood of the Lamb
and by the word of their testimony."
When God answers one of our prayers, no matter how big it is, or how small it is, we need to share that testimony with others. It's a stewardship issue. It isn't bragging about what you got, or bragging that things fell in to place, or that you got a better job, or that you won a game. Giving testimony is the way we give God all the glory. Don't say 'I did this' or 'I did that', for you are taking God's glory - and NOT a wise thing to do. It is being prideful. Instead, when you have an answer to a prayer or special favor, praise God and tell others of the wonderful things God has done for you.
Why do we need to share it? Because others need to hear it. They need to be encouraged in their own walk and encouraged to remain steadfast, no matter what they are going through. And even in the tough times, they have their own testimony, for they get through each day.
Jesus broke the curse of sin so that we can break the cycle of sin. We seal that victory of Jesus triumphing over the enemy by the shedding of His blood on Calvary's cross. Our testimonies don't remind us that the victory has already been won, (I read the end of the Book - WE WIN), but they remind the enemy that he has been defeated.
When we share God's faithfulness, His grace, His mercy, we are loaning our faith to others. When we listen to a testimony, we are borrowing faith from others. We are rejoicing with those who rejoice, just as they rejoice with us when we share our testimonies.
A first-person witness is more credible because they are either in the story, or they have seen it happen first hand. A second-hand story is like hearsay. You heard about it, you didn't see, nor experience it. It's kind of like going on a date. You can take your spouse out on a date and share where you went, what food you ate, where you sat, what you discussed, and so on. You were there, you know all about the evening. So you share something funny that was said that night to another person. They enjoyed the story so much they share it with someone else. But they weren't there. They don't know if they are telling it right. They don't know how it fit into your conversation, nor how those actually involved responded. They can only tell about. They 'borrow' your excitement, your joy, your laughter. But the greater excitement and joy and laughter - was yours. It was your testimony of a great evening.
When God does something supernatural for us, or blesses us however He chooses, we need to share His goodness and faithfulness. Whether it is in answer to an unspoken prayer or a spoken request. We need to share every day His faithfulness to us.
I have prayed for miracles, I have seen miracles happen. Even when they don't happen the way I think they should, I can still give God the glory in answer to my prayers. I pray for lots of things - I've prayed for healing in friends, but don't see it happen. I can still give God glory for it because through disease and death, God has touched lives that I'm not even aware of.
I have prayed for supernatural financial blessings - and have been the recipient of God's mercy and favor. When I think I am ready to hit bottom, I have felt His hand pick me up, dust me off, and set me on my feet.
There comes a point when you will grow weary of hearing other people's stories. You need a story of your own. It's got to have your name on it. You've got to see it, hear it, taste it, feel it, touch it, and smell it for yourself. You need to go get a testimony, and then you need to share it.
How nice! I have received two notes, one just right now. This one is from our director. "Just wanted you to know that having you on our team makes all the difference. It truly is a pleasure to work with you. Thank you for all you do. Diane." I received one the other day that was from my supervisor. "I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for all the extra hard work you do to keep us "in compliance"! Thanks, too, for always looking to see where you can help others and make a difference! Sincerely, Mary."
Yeah, I have those where I can re-read them occasionally when things get really hectic. I may not always keep them out where I can see them, but for now, that is where they are. They are encouraging to me - and since I have experienced the receipt of them, it is first-hand. Some day things get pretty crazy - yesterday was one of them. Sometimes just a kind word is needed to encourage and uplift. It helps you get through the tough times.
What's your testimony? Did you lose a pound or more the last time you got on the scale? Did you work out just a little bit more than you thought you could? Did you find your strength has increased? Did something special happen that you weren't expecting? Did your children get an award? Testimonies.
Be ready and willing to share yours. Encourage others by your testimony. If you can have them, so can they.
Blessings!
One of the 'other' books that I'm re-reading - this time for the third time because I get so much out of it - is Mark Batterson's The 40 Day Prayer Challenge "Draw the Circle". Every time I read it I get something out of it.
That is what is on my mind this morning, and I may have written about this before. But even if I have, perhaps what I share today about my thoughts on it will be something new.
Day 32 - Get a Testimony. It's based on the scripture in Revelations 12:11:
"They triumphed over him
by the blood of the Lamb
and by the word of their testimony."
When God answers one of our prayers, no matter how big it is, or how small it is, we need to share that testimony with others. It's a stewardship issue. It isn't bragging about what you got, or bragging that things fell in to place, or that you got a better job, or that you won a game. Giving testimony is the way we give God all the glory. Don't say 'I did this' or 'I did that', for you are taking God's glory - and NOT a wise thing to do. It is being prideful. Instead, when you have an answer to a prayer or special favor, praise God and tell others of the wonderful things God has done for you.
Why do we need to share it? Because others need to hear it. They need to be encouraged in their own walk and encouraged to remain steadfast, no matter what they are going through. And even in the tough times, they have their own testimony, for they get through each day.
Jesus broke the curse of sin so that we can break the cycle of sin. We seal that victory of Jesus triumphing over the enemy by the shedding of His blood on Calvary's cross. Our testimonies don't remind us that the victory has already been won, (I read the end of the Book - WE WIN), but they remind the enemy that he has been defeated.
When we share God's faithfulness, His grace, His mercy, we are loaning our faith to others. When we listen to a testimony, we are borrowing faith from others. We are rejoicing with those who rejoice, just as they rejoice with us when we share our testimonies.
A first-person witness is more credible because they are either in the story, or they have seen it happen first hand. A second-hand story is like hearsay. You heard about it, you didn't see, nor experience it. It's kind of like going on a date. You can take your spouse out on a date and share where you went, what food you ate, where you sat, what you discussed, and so on. You were there, you know all about the evening. So you share something funny that was said that night to another person. They enjoyed the story so much they share it with someone else. But they weren't there. They don't know if they are telling it right. They don't know how it fit into your conversation, nor how those actually involved responded. They can only tell about. They 'borrow' your excitement, your joy, your laughter. But the greater excitement and joy and laughter - was yours. It was your testimony of a great evening.
When God does something supernatural for us, or blesses us however He chooses, we need to share His goodness and faithfulness. Whether it is in answer to an unspoken prayer or a spoken request. We need to share every day His faithfulness to us.
I have prayed for miracles, I have seen miracles happen. Even when they don't happen the way I think they should, I can still give God the glory in answer to my prayers. I pray for lots of things - I've prayed for healing in friends, but don't see it happen. I can still give God glory for it because through disease and death, God has touched lives that I'm not even aware of.
I have prayed for supernatural financial blessings - and have been the recipient of God's mercy and favor. When I think I am ready to hit bottom, I have felt His hand pick me up, dust me off, and set me on my feet.
There comes a point when you will grow weary of hearing other people's stories. You need a story of your own. It's got to have your name on it. You've got to see it, hear it, taste it, feel it, touch it, and smell it for yourself. You need to go get a testimony, and then you need to share it.
How nice! I have received two notes, one just right now. This one is from our director. "Just wanted you to know that having you on our team makes all the difference. It truly is a pleasure to work with you. Thank you for all you do. Diane." I received one the other day that was from my supervisor. "I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for all the extra hard work you do to keep us "in compliance"! Thanks, too, for always looking to see where you can help others and make a difference! Sincerely, Mary."
Yeah, I have those where I can re-read them occasionally when things get really hectic. I may not always keep them out where I can see them, but for now, that is where they are. They are encouraging to me - and since I have experienced the receipt of them, it is first-hand. Some day things get pretty crazy - yesterday was one of them. Sometimes just a kind word is needed to encourage and uplift. It helps you get through the tough times.
What's your testimony? Did you lose a pound or more the last time you got on the scale? Did you work out just a little bit more than you thought you could? Did you find your strength has increased? Did something special happen that you weren't expecting? Did your children get an award? Testimonies.
Be ready and willing to share yours. Encourage others by your testimony. If you can have them, so can they.
Blessings!
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
It's nice to be appreciated.....
This week is Employee Appreciation Week. Instead of just celebrating the Administrative Professionals on Wednesday (their set holiday), this company prefers to celebrate everyone all week. Yesterday my supervisor passed out really nice notes to everyone, personal notes. Mine read "I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for all the extra hard work you do to keep us 'in compliance'! Thanks, too, for always looking to see where you can help others and make a difference." It was nice to receive.
We also have a bulletin 'wall' on which colorful index cards are written on and pinned. Things like, 'Barbara, thank you for your patience in answering my questions' and 'Thank you Barbara and Betty for handling the expedites while I was on vacation'. Then there are the funny ones 'Thank you Betty for making the sun shine and us giggle here in the busy times' (she really does do that - she cracks me up some days with her comments. She'll be talking with a provider, mute the phone and make some comment before continuing the call. And she is usually loud enough EVERYONE can hear her.
Actually, everyone can just about hear everyone no matter how soft you talk. I hear one two cubicles over from me when she's on the phone. And I know they hear me, although I try to talk softly. The other day I had to make a call to a member with a denial. I got through the little comments I had to make, and got off the phone. One of my co-workers who at that time was 3 rows over, hollers out, that was so cool - "thank you for choosing....".
Yesterday though two of my co-workers gave me a nice compliment. As we sit fairly close now, they really do hear what I have to say on the phone. When I hung up from one member, one of them commented that I am the perfect person for the job of calling the members for my voice is soft and light, and friendly, not loud and hard (definitely not loud!). We have some here that speak VERY loudly so everyone definitely hears what they are saying. But it still puts me out of my comfort zone. Especially when I have to tell someone their request is denied for whatever reason.
Anyway - back to Employee Appreciation Week. Yesterday we did the index cards and wrote nice things. Today is free jean day (no, not free jeans, but we can wear jeans without paying to wear them) and we were to wear a Hawaiian shirt (which I remembered the jeans and forgot the shirt). Tomorrow is NERD day - we can wear jeans and dress like a NERD. No thank you. I won't even wear jeans tomorrow for it is weigh in day and I don't want the extra weight of the jeans. Thursday is another free jean day and they have some game planned about 'getting to know you' scavenger hunt. Like who has time for that? Not our department! Friday is jeans for charity again - which means we can wear jeans (as on every Friday) but we pay $2 and the money collected goes to a charity each month.
It's nice to be appreciated.
We took hubby out for dinner last night with family. It is such a joy for me to get all the children and grandchildren together and really have time together. For family gatherings at our daughter's house, the kids go to the computers, the adults gather around the television or kitchen table. We're together - but not together. Last night was really nice, I think. The kids were down at one end of the long tables, laughing and cutting up amongst themselves. Us adults were able to chat and actually hear one another. We actually were 'family'. And it was nice. I think he appreciated the attention. I had a blast going around to each one and taking my picture with them. I posted some of them on facebook last night - most I look horrible in, but it's not about me. It's about a memory with those I love.
So what are you appreciative about? Take some time to tell those closest to you how much you appreciate the things they do - for you and for your family. You will be glad you did.
Blessings!
We also have a bulletin 'wall' on which colorful index cards are written on and pinned. Things like, 'Barbara, thank you for your patience in answering my questions' and 'Thank you Barbara and Betty for handling the expedites while I was on vacation'. Then there are the funny ones 'Thank you Betty for making the sun shine and us giggle here in the busy times' (she really does do that - she cracks me up some days with her comments. She'll be talking with a provider, mute the phone and make some comment before continuing the call. And she is usually loud enough EVERYONE can hear her.
Actually, everyone can just about hear everyone no matter how soft you talk. I hear one two cubicles over from me when she's on the phone. And I know they hear me, although I try to talk softly. The other day I had to make a call to a member with a denial. I got through the little comments I had to make, and got off the phone. One of my co-workers who at that time was 3 rows over, hollers out, that was so cool - "thank you for choosing....".
Yesterday though two of my co-workers gave me a nice compliment. As we sit fairly close now, they really do hear what I have to say on the phone. When I hung up from one member, one of them commented that I am the perfect person for the job of calling the members for my voice is soft and light, and friendly, not loud and hard (definitely not loud!). We have some here that speak VERY loudly so everyone definitely hears what they are saying. But it still puts me out of my comfort zone. Especially when I have to tell someone their request is denied for whatever reason.
Anyway - back to Employee Appreciation Week. Yesterday we did the index cards and wrote nice things. Today is free jean day (no, not free jeans, but we can wear jeans without paying to wear them) and we were to wear a Hawaiian shirt (which I remembered the jeans and forgot the shirt). Tomorrow is NERD day - we can wear jeans and dress like a NERD. No thank you. I won't even wear jeans tomorrow for it is weigh in day and I don't want the extra weight of the jeans. Thursday is another free jean day and they have some game planned about 'getting to know you' scavenger hunt. Like who has time for that? Not our department! Friday is jeans for charity again - which means we can wear jeans (as on every Friday) but we pay $2 and the money collected goes to a charity each month.
It's nice to be appreciated.
We took hubby out for dinner last night with family. It is such a joy for me to get all the children and grandchildren together and really have time together. For family gatherings at our daughter's house, the kids go to the computers, the adults gather around the television or kitchen table. We're together - but not together. Last night was really nice, I think. The kids were down at one end of the long tables, laughing and cutting up amongst themselves. Us adults were able to chat and actually hear one another. We actually were 'family'. And it was nice. I think he appreciated the attention. I had a blast going around to each one and taking my picture with them. I posted some of them on facebook last night - most I look horrible in, but it's not about me. It's about a memory with those I love.
So what are you appreciative about? Take some time to tell those closest to you how much you appreciate the things they do - for you and for your family. You will be glad you did.
Blessings!
Monday, April 22, 2013
I've Moved, Hubby's birthday, and other thoughts.....
First of all, I've moved. No, not out of the house, but my desk here at work. My job got officially changed this past weekend from a 'regular worker' to a 'specialized worker'. No, it doesn't make a difference in pay. But it does mean that God has answered my prayer for favor here at work. He has shown me favor by giving me a specialized assignment. I was (nearly) always out of work and having to ask others for work to do. It was frustrating me to have to continually ask for work from others when there was so much work to be done and I couldn't get much to do. In this new position I will be dealing ONLY with a certain business unit. Unfortunately, it will also get me out of my comfort zone for I will be having to call these members when we not only approve their doctor's request for different things (MRIs, PT/OT, etc) but I will also have to call and tell them when we deny it. I had to make about 8 such calls last week. All went fairly well, but one, and I had to listen and then continue on with my blurb about if you want to appeal, please call..... and so on. Hopefully I won't have many of those. And I should always have work to do. This morning it will be just trying to get a flow going on how to complete these tasks I must do and figure out what to do when.
And today is hubby's 76th birthday. I gave him a couple books we had discussed last week that he wanted to take a look at. I was already on Amazon on my Kindle Fire and we were talking about the books - so I just went ahead and ordered them right then and there. They arrived Saturday so I was able to give them to him first thing this morning. He wants a new pair of tennis shoes too, so if the kids don't give him money or gift card to apply towards them, I'll get them for him. We are meeting the rest of the family at Old Country Buffet at 6:30PM tonight to celebrate his birthday. I always enjoy getting the family together for any reason, and this is a valid one. Don't get much 1:1 time, but I do enjoy just being with the children and grandchildren. Fun times.
Less than two weeks before the One America 500 Festival Mini Marathon. I haven't gotten the walking in that I did last year, but I feel that I have gotten in enough that I will be ok. I'm meeting a friend on Saturday morning and we are walking the 7.75 miles that we have walked the past couple months. It will be a good start and hopefully we'll get a short walk in before the mini after I arrive in Indiana just to warm the bones back up. I am looking forward to doing this with my little sister. It will be her first time. We are hoping to make this a yearly things for us to do as 'sisters'. With living apart like we do, doing anything together is difficult. Now I need to find something out here to get her to come out for and do with me.
Lots of things going on in my life right now with the changes here at work, planning the trip to Indiana, trying to come up with a good study to facilitate at church this fall, and just life itself. Every day I bring my day before God and ask Him to walk me through it - help me to let go of the things that I don't need to do, but remind me of what I do need to accomplish and help me to get the job done. Martin Luther once said that he had so much to do that if he didn't spend at least 3 hours in prayer before the start of each day, he'd never get it accomplished.
I feel the same way, but I don't spend three hours in prayer before I leave. I wish I had the time to do that, but the hour I spend reading my Bible and in prayer in the mornings is about all I can get done - besides the quick prayers I do throughout the entire day. And yet, I know that I God walks me through each day, because I ask Him to.
So how is your Monday looking? Pretty scattered and busy? Take some time to take a deep breath and ask God to put it all into focus and let it all fall into place. He will, you know. Sometimes you just need to ask Him. Have a great Monday!
Blessings!!
And today is hubby's 76th birthday. I gave him a couple books we had discussed last week that he wanted to take a look at. I was already on Amazon on my Kindle Fire and we were talking about the books - so I just went ahead and ordered them right then and there. They arrived Saturday so I was able to give them to him first thing this morning. He wants a new pair of tennis shoes too, so if the kids don't give him money or gift card to apply towards them, I'll get them for him. We are meeting the rest of the family at Old Country Buffet at 6:30PM tonight to celebrate his birthday. I always enjoy getting the family together for any reason, and this is a valid one. Don't get much 1:1 time, but I do enjoy just being with the children and grandchildren. Fun times.
Less than two weeks before the One America 500 Festival Mini Marathon. I haven't gotten the walking in that I did last year, but I feel that I have gotten in enough that I will be ok. I'm meeting a friend on Saturday morning and we are walking the 7.75 miles that we have walked the past couple months. It will be a good start and hopefully we'll get a short walk in before the mini after I arrive in Indiana just to warm the bones back up. I am looking forward to doing this with my little sister. It will be her first time. We are hoping to make this a yearly things for us to do as 'sisters'. With living apart like we do, doing anything together is difficult. Now I need to find something out here to get her to come out for and do with me.
Lots of things going on in my life right now with the changes here at work, planning the trip to Indiana, trying to come up with a good study to facilitate at church this fall, and just life itself. Every day I bring my day before God and ask Him to walk me through it - help me to let go of the things that I don't need to do, but remind me of what I do need to accomplish and help me to get the job done. Martin Luther once said that he had so much to do that if he didn't spend at least 3 hours in prayer before the start of each day, he'd never get it accomplished.
I feel the same way, but I don't spend three hours in prayer before I leave. I wish I had the time to do that, but the hour I spend reading my Bible and in prayer in the mornings is about all I can get done - besides the quick prayers I do throughout the entire day. And yet, I know that I God walks me through each day, because I ask Him to.
So how is your Monday looking? Pretty scattered and busy? Take some time to take a deep breath and ask God to put it all into focus and let it all fall into place. He will, you know. Sometimes you just need to ask Him. Have a great Monday!
Blessings!!
Friday, April 19, 2013
Believing God....
in the good times and in the bad, I believe God will answer our prayers. I believe that He will provide for our needs. I believe that He is always faithful, that He will always walk with us throughout whatever journey we are on.
I have been praying for a friend recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She is scheduled for surgery this afternoon. I asked God earlier this week that they would do another test prior to the surgery and she would be declared cancer free. I didn't know whether they would do a test or not, but I hear this morning they are going to do some test on her this morning, with the surgery later on. Is this in answer to my prayer and that they will find her cancer free? I don't know. I do know that I'm trusting God; that He will decide the outcome of this test, that if she must have surgery, He will guide the doctors in all they do. And I'm believing that God will answer my prayers for my friend.
I have also been praying for favor here at work. I enjoy what I currently am doing, but I pray every day that I will remember every step of every thing I need to do, that I will do my work completely and accurately. I pray for favor that I can do everything well. Yesterday I was called into my director's office. She asked me 'what do you do?' and I proceeded to tell her what I could think of. She then advised that there were going to be some changes made and we were going to have a specialized team put together to focus on one type of members. She wanted me to be on this team. I was curious what that meant so was glad she continued a little further. I will be taken off of what I am currently doing and be given new responsibilities. It kind of sounds like I will be having more contact with some of our members on a telephone basis. A little out of my comfort zone, but I believe, again, that God will give me what I need to do this part well.
I don't know much of what it is about, this change. We have to work tomorrow (Saturday) and I have heard they plan to have a meeting on this tomorrow to tell us all, and that it is effective Monday morning. It should make for an interesting day.
Yesterday my supervisor and I were sending IM messages back and forth and at one point she commented that 'there are changes coming down the road that affect me'. Thank goodness this was after my meeting with my director so I knew something and didn't need to feel uneasy. I decided to play like I didn't know what she was talking about, for I don't really know what it is all about. So I just commented 'Oh, O...K....'. She didn't respond with anything else, so a little later I added to that, "I've been praying for favor with my job". She responded with 'Then you need to start thanking Him'. That really made me take notice. I now really wonder what they have planned for I haven't been given much information thus far.
I hope they don't give me a lot to do right away - I go on vacation May 1 and who is going to do it while I'm gone? Perhaps this is just for me to get it organized. I'm honored they selected me to work with this new team. I don't even know who is going to be on this team. I'm excited I get to learn something new. I have always believed God directed me to this company for all this, whatever is ahead of me. It's going to be a ride.
So what are you believing God for this morning? Sit back and close your eyes. Whether you believe in God and in His love for you or not, sit back and think of all He has done for you. He has provided what you need each day. You wake up every morning to a new day. He gives you each day as a 'do over'. He knows when you need help; many times He is just waiting for you to ask Him to intervene. Sometimes He lets you hit bottom, so that He can help you up.
I have been praying for a friend recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She is scheduled for surgery this afternoon. I asked God earlier this week that they would do another test prior to the surgery and she would be declared cancer free. I didn't know whether they would do a test or not, but I hear this morning they are going to do some test on her this morning, with the surgery later on. Is this in answer to my prayer and that they will find her cancer free? I don't know. I do know that I'm trusting God; that He will decide the outcome of this test, that if she must have surgery, He will guide the doctors in all they do. And I'm believing that God will answer my prayers for my friend.
I have also been praying for favor here at work. I enjoy what I currently am doing, but I pray every day that I will remember every step of every thing I need to do, that I will do my work completely and accurately. I pray for favor that I can do everything well. Yesterday I was called into my director's office. She asked me 'what do you do?' and I proceeded to tell her what I could think of. She then advised that there were going to be some changes made and we were going to have a specialized team put together to focus on one type of members. She wanted me to be on this team. I was curious what that meant so was glad she continued a little further. I will be taken off of what I am currently doing and be given new responsibilities. It kind of sounds like I will be having more contact with some of our members on a telephone basis. A little out of my comfort zone, but I believe, again, that God will give me what I need to do this part well.
I don't know much of what it is about, this change. We have to work tomorrow (Saturday) and I have heard they plan to have a meeting on this tomorrow to tell us all, and that it is effective Monday morning. It should make for an interesting day.
Yesterday my supervisor and I were sending IM messages back and forth and at one point she commented that 'there are changes coming down the road that affect me'. Thank goodness this was after my meeting with my director so I knew something and didn't need to feel uneasy. I decided to play like I didn't know what she was talking about, for I don't really know what it is all about. So I just commented 'Oh, O...K....'. She didn't respond with anything else, so a little later I added to that, "I've been praying for favor with my job". She responded with 'Then you need to start thanking Him'. That really made me take notice. I now really wonder what they have planned for I haven't been given much information thus far.
I hope they don't give me a lot to do right away - I go on vacation May 1 and who is going to do it while I'm gone? Perhaps this is just for me to get it organized. I'm honored they selected me to work with this new team. I don't even know who is going to be on this team. I'm excited I get to learn something new. I have always believed God directed me to this company for all this, whatever is ahead of me. It's going to be a ride.
So what are you believing God for this morning? Sit back and close your eyes. Whether you believe in God and in His love for you or not, sit back and think of all He has done for you. He has provided what you need each day. You wake up every morning to a new day. He gives you each day as a 'do over'. He knows when you need help; many times He is just waiting for you to ask Him to intervene. Sometimes He lets you hit bottom, so that He can help you up.
Philippians 4:6
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
Philippians 4:12
"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
What - or WHOM - are you believing in?
Blessings!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)