Work Woes

I need to vent today. I've been working in my current position as an executive assistant for a small firm in the community for almost three years. When I returned to work after maternity leave, I requested part time hours, which my boss generously granted on the condition that I would still be able to keep up with the daily routine. I did, it worked beautifully, and we were all happy (I was saving the company money). I was challenged, busy and fulfilled at work. I looked forward to my office hours each day.

Several months ago, a once full time, then very part-time employee, was hired back full time. Suddenly, I find myself with no responsibility - except to occasionally send a fax or file something. Said tasks are ordered of me from this particular co-worker (not my boss). She's incredibly bright, though her people skills are quite harsh. We compliment each other nicely when we work together. The problem is, she has taken over everything! Literally, everything, including my boss. I haven't heard two words from him (besides questioning the way I handled my only task yesterday) in months. Oh wait, on Tuesday I politely waited for his attention to remind him that I had a Dr.'s appointment the following morning. He interrupted me with a sharp, "I don't care. I'm much to busy to worry about that!" Sheesh, it wasn't like I was going to go into detail about what the appointment was for. I just wanted him to know that I would be about 15 minutes late. I'm confused, upset, and frankly, bored out of my gourd. I was raised to work hard and excel at what I do. Up until recently, I thought I was right on track.

Now, I know I should probably sit down and discuss these matters with my boss, but I just don't have the heart anymore. The last time we had a discussion about my position here, I ended up paying for lunch (his and mine), and nothing was accomplished except for empty promises. I don't necessarily want to look elsewhere for several reasons. One, the flexibility of my hours is very hard to find. Another is that when I was busy, I loved my work. I love the excitement and creativity of the advertising world. It's just not coming across my desk anymore.

That said, I'm done feeling sorry for myself. God has a plan, and I trust that He will help to lead me down the proper path. For now, I will count my blessings. The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and I have a great life. One of the many reasons I love this blog is because writing helps to put things into perspective and bring me back around to optimism.

On a bright note, I have had 2 wonderful afternoons with the twins (they turn 4 mos. today). They are very laid-back babies. Today I plan to tackle the double stroller and take us for a walk. I did say I wanted a challenge!

Murray woke with a fever of 102 degrees on Tuesday night, so Craig was home with him yesterday. He's been a very sad boy, but today seemed to be back to his normal cheery self. I'm hoping it was just a 24 hour bug.

I'm off to read my book for another hour until it's time to go.

Memorial Day Pictures

Me in the Kayak before I tipped over.

We caught some northerns and one big bass weighing in at 5 lbs.

Below is a picture that I took standing on the dock looking down. The water is pristine, especially this time of year.

We are grateful to our fallen soldiers and current troops. I can't imagine what our world would be like if not for these heroic men and women.

Weekend Frenzy

Note: Edited for lack of a title.

I am at my desk, almost falling asleep. I am completely exhausted from the events of the weekend.

Maggie's commencement was wonderful. . .except for the keynote speaker. I don't recall ever having heard such a narcissistic speech in my entire life. He droned on and on about himself and his accomplishments. Everyone in the auditorium pretty much stopped listening after about 20 minutes. I feel sorry for him; if they don't review the speaker's speech before the ceremony, they really should. It had little -to - nothing to do with the graduates.

Other than that, the party was a success. We went to the lake on Saturday to help with the docks and lifts. It was a bit chilly, but was still the most beautiful weather we've had on dock day in years. It's usually raining, snowing, and windy.

My dad built the cutest children's picnic table for Murray. He LOVES it! He ate his lunch and his snack out side yesterday. Owen and Jon came over to play and the boys had fun playing (and fighting) with each other. I wasn't able to capture the funniest moments, but I did get some good video footage and still shots.

Da, da da da, dum, dum. . .

Congratulations to my sister, Maggie, who will take her final college exam at noon today! We are so proud of her accomplishments. I can't wait to attend commencement tomorrow. I'm going to be the crazy sister in the front yelling and taking a million pictures!

I chose to post this picture of Murray and Maggie together (one of many) because today Murray is officially 1 1/2 years old! Wow! Mags and Murray are two of my favorite people in my life. It's a very exciting week. I can hardly contain myself.

On Saturday, we will head to the lake to put the docks in. A bit late this year, but dock day always marks the beginning of summer for me.

I hate to end on a sad note, but please send prayers for my blogger/mommy friend Roxane, who is grieving the unexpected loss of a beloved family member. We're thinking of you, Roxane!

Celebrations

My beautiful bouquet and tree.

Murray decorating his Mother's day card for Grandma Kate.

Mother's day was a bittersweet day, as I expect it will be for the rest of my time here on earth. It was a busy day too! Maggie and I and Murray went to the lake on Saturday to visit with Grandpa and Grandma. We had such a nice time; they have been in Florida since November, so it was fun for them to see the changes in Murray's personality and how much he has grown.

On Sunday, I arrived home to find a bouquet of mini carnations from Murray, and a huge umbrella plant from Craig. I've been missing my ficus tree, which sadly passed away this winter, so this was a perfect and most thoughtful gift.

Murray and I went to visit with my aunt Sue (Flynn's mom) for a while while Craig finished cutting the grass, and then we visited the cemetery. This wonderful man even had the foresight to purchase flowers for Mom's grave. After that, we went to Craig's Mom and Dad's home to celebrate with Mary. Craig cooked me a fabulous dinner of ribs on the grill and I went to bed feeling blessed and relaxed.

I am so thankful for my family. This week we are preparing to celebrate another exciting family event. Maggie will graduate from MSUM with her BSA in Paralegal on Friday morning. She's worked tirelessly, never giving up, and faced many obstacles. It will be a very special day!

Marie's Big Adventure

Where to begin? My trip was wonderful. It was super to "find myself" again. I missed Murray and DH terribly, but I enjoyed my alone time. I discovered that I can be adventurous, even if I'm on my own.

I arrived in Las Vegas at 8:30am. Let me tell you, I wish I could afford to fly first class on every trip. Free beverages in REAL glasses! Needless to say, I was a bit tipsy when I arrived but that didn't stop me. I couldn't check into the Luxor until 11:00am, so I found the nearest salon and had a pedicure while I waited.

Upon check in, it took me literally an hour to find my room. Every hotel attendant I asked instructed me to find the elevator's by the Starbuck's. Do you know how many Starbuck's are in the hotel? I lost count after 10, and I know there are more. By the time I arrived in my room on the 20th floor I needed a nap.

Other events of the weekend included a day at the pool - there is definitely a reason why Las Vegas is nicknamed Sin City. I'll leave out the details, but I thought I was pretty worldly until I witnessed some of the things that take place at the pool.

The weather was gorgeous. It was 90 degrees and sunny all three days. I shopped, did some sight seeing and a lot of reading and relaxing. The most fun that I had as far as gambling was learning how to play craps. I even won $100.00! Who knew I would be brave enough to even try? Thanks to the nice guy next to me who was my teacher. I also won $85.00 at video poker, but that was the extent of my winnings. I certainly didn't come out ahead, but I had a ball.

To sum up the city of Las Vegas, I would say ANYTHING GOES! I can't wait to visit again with DH.