Today is very quiet at work, which is a nice change.
A lot of North American companies, or at least in Washington State (which is quite a liberal state), do not take Good Friday or Easter Monday off of work. So I'm here at work, finally able to catch up a bit.
We switched computers here this past week. It was a great measure of our patience and godliness. I didn't succeed too well, I fear.
It made me genuinely resolved that when I go to Heaven, I don't want computers there. Even though our good Lord would literally be the perfect IT person...no computer for me. Please and thank you. After having them as a part of just about my whole life, I'll be ready for a peaceful life without them. :)
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I got the sweetest thing in the mail Wednesday!
My dad sent me a little brochure thingy which said that he and his men's Bible Study group prayed for me the Saturday before (March 24). It's a special form that this group created to send out to those they pray for. Every man there signs the form and it includes some special verses that they have selected for consideration. Is that so kind?
My dad included a special note on the front letting me know that he's praying for God's guidance and that he loves me. Every child should have a dad who encourages like that! I was (and still am) so touched by that.
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I have an Australian guest with me this weekend. I picked her up yesterday and will return her on Sunday after Easter lunch. She's one of my blogger friends, who is residing only 2 hours away for this year.
It's nice to have a friend to talk with and hang with. Especially one who has an accent worth imitating.
I've think I've almost nailed the Australian accent!
Ha...if only!
_______
Happy Easter!
He is risen...
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Friday, April 6
Friday, March 23
All sorts of crazy
The last couple weeks have been all sorts of craziness. And thankfully (hopefully) I'm starting to feel life relax a bit...I feel more "unwound" at the moment, which is good and lovely.
--I have been trying to sell my car, get it ready for sale which included 4 trips to the shop to get one thing fixed, and simultaneously look for a "new" car. Car shopping and car fixing bring a whole level of stress on their own...do I hear an amen? There were a few nights where my dreams were consumed with car details. I didn't enjoy those dreams, as one might imagine. But last week, my boss gave me a lecture (which wasn't entirely appreciated, although well-meaning) but one thing he did mentioned that I've taken to heart is the fact that I don't know what is happening next in my life. And if there's a possibility of me selling any "new" car within months, then I'd be financially better off if I just held onto my current car until then. So that's what I'm doing. My car has been fixed...the check engine light is off for the first time in the 5 months that I've owned my car...glory be! But all car shopping has been put on hold, which brings an element of relief.
--My church has a "missions week" at the end of January when two missionaries are brought to our church for a week of events...truly a highlight of each year. But this past Saturday-Monday, we had another "mini missions weekend." So my Saturday and Monday night, which are generally used for relaxation, were full, which, although I enjoyed and chose to participate in the events, did my make weekend and week feel immensely full.
--Work has been a zoo. I work for a "mom and pop" type of company. My boss really only wants/expects us to work 40 hours/week and because I'm not in-love with my job and don't get paid overtime, I have no problems complying with that. But I have been swamped. Work has picked up, which is a good thing (I suppose), but I'm getting behind on my duties. My job is no longer a 40 hour job but more like a 50 hour job. So sadly, I'm planning to come into work tomorrow for the sole purpose of working on invoices...I'm about 4-5 months behind...eek! I'll bring in some music, make some coffee, and try to make my time here as pleasant as possible...and as short as possible.
--Last bit of craziness is my own future. I'm not going to go into detail at this time but believe me, God is doing and planning something and life-changing decisions are having to be made (one decision needs to be made this weekend!!). So in the spare moments, while driving to and from work, church, or other commitments, I have been thinking over these things and have been shooting off popcorn prayers of pleas for God's wisdom and guidance. I don't know if this is the best way to make life-changing decisions but it's what my life has allowed lately. God can work even in that!
--I have been trying to sell my car, get it ready for sale which included 4 trips to the shop to get one thing fixed, and simultaneously look for a "new" car. Car shopping and car fixing bring a whole level of stress on their own...do I hear an amen? There were a few nights where my dreams were consumed with car details. I didn't enjoy those dreams, as one might imagine. But last week, my boss gave me a lecture (which wasn't entirely appreciated, although well-meaning) but one thing he did mentioned that I've taken to heart is the fact that I don't know what is happening next in my life. And if there's a possibility of me selling any "new" car within months, then I'd be financially better off if I just held onto my current car until then. So that's what I'm doing. My car has been fixed...the check engine light is off for the first time in the 5 months that I've owned my car...glory be! But all car shopping has been put on hold, which brings an element of relief.
--My church has a "missions week" at the end of January when two missionaries are brought to our church for a week of events...truly a highlight of each year. But this past Saturday-Monday, we had another "mini missions weekend." So my Saturday and Monday night, which are generally used for relaxation, were full, which, although I enjoyed and chose to participate in the events, did my make weekend and week feel immensely full.
--Work has been a zoo. I work for a "mom and pop" type of company. My boss really only wants/expects us to work 40 hours/week and because I'm not in-love with my job and don't get paid overtime, I have no problems complying with that. But I have been swamped. Work has picked up, which is a good thing (I suppose), but I'm getting behind on my duties. My job is no longer a 40 hour job but more like a 50 hour job. So sadly, I'm planning to come into work tomorrow for the sole purpose of working on invoices...I'm about 4-5 months behind...eek! I'll bring in some music, make some coffee, and try to make my time here as pleasant as possible...and as short as possible.
--Last bit of craziness is my own future. I'm not going to go into detail at this time but believe me, God is doing and planning something and life-changing decisions are having to be made (one decision needs to be made this weekend!!). So in the spare moments, while driving to and from work, church, or other commitments, I have been thinking over these things and have been shooting off popcorn prayers of pleas for God's wisdom and guidance. I don't know if this is the best way to make life-changing decisions but it's what my life has allowed lately. God can work even in that!
Monday, March 5
The stupid topic of contentment
So, the ladies' ministry at my church is doing this new thing, this year, offering 4 extra "classes" on various discipleship topics. The first was Silence and Solitude. The second was Scripture Memorization and Meditation. And this past Saturday was Contentment.
Although I went to the first two classes, I had no desire to go to this class and would have probably skipped altogether if the lady in charge didn't contact me to see if I would make the coffee for this gathering. I said yes (because I had nothing better to do, really) and went, knowing that this topic was probably something I needed to hear but didn't want to hear. Anyone with me on this?
(**Side note: It's snowing right now and there's a huge smile on my face and joy in my heart! If only it would stick...**)
Because you see, back on Valentine's Day, not even a month ago, I wrote about being content in my singleness. And while I am still (more often than not, at the current time) content at being single, the one area I am NOT content is my job and the direction of my future; because I'm ready to leave my current job and have no earthly idea what is next in my life.
No earthly idea.
In fact, just yesterday, I was chatting with a woman at church and told her "if you hear of anything, let me know..." to which she naturally replied, "well, what are you looking for?" Umm...yeah...I have no clue.
I didn't leave the class full of employment-contentment but as expected, I did leave convicted and challenged. The Lord, the same One who has called me and who has led me to this job in the first place, rebuked me regarding my attitude toward the job and various elements that frustrate me. His calling has me here, for this time, for His reasons. One very good reason would be to be a Christian example of integrity and love to my two non-Christian coworkers! And yet, last week, I was two steps away from chewing someone out in a very ugly way (see last post).
It occurred to me in the last week that I should pray for "my enemies" (aka the people who frustrate me) and I figured that God probably wouldn't change them as much as He would want to change me, since that's now He normally works.
So yeah...that's where I'm at. Back at work.
Trying to humble myself to God's will.
Trying to allow God's presence to shine through me.
Trying to love.
Trying to be diligent with the gift (job) God has given me.
Trying to allow for contentment to grow.
Although I went to the first two classes, I had no desire to go to this class and would have probably skipped altogether if the lady in charge didn't contact me to see if I would make the coffee for this gathering. I said yes (because I had nothing better to do, really) and went, knowing that this topic was probably something I needed to hear but didn't want to hear. Anyone with me on this?
(**Side note: It's snowing right now and there's a huge smile on my face and joy in my heart! If only it would stick...**)
Because you see, back on Valentine's Day, not even a month ago, I wrote about being content in my singleness. And while I am still (more often than not, at the current time) content at being single, the one area I am NOT content is my job and the direction of my future; because I'm ready to leave my current job and have no earthly idea what is next in my life.
No earthly idea.
In fact, just yesterday, I was chatting with a woman at church and told her "if you hear of anything, let me know..." to which she naturally replied, "well, what are you looking for?" Umm...yeah...I have no clue.
I didn't leave the class full of employment-contentment but as expected, I did leave convicted and challenged. The Lord, the same One who has called me and who has led me to this job in the first place, rebuked me regarding my attitude toward the job and various elements that frustrate me. His calling has me here, for this time, for His reasons. One very good reason would be to be a Christian example of integrity and love to my two non-Christian coworkers! And yet, last week, I was two steps away from chewing someone out in a very ugly way (see last post).
It occurred to me in the last week that I should pray for "my enemies" (aka the people who frustrate me) and I figured that God probably wouldn't change them as much as He would want to change me, since that's now He normally works.
So yeah...that's where I'm at. Back at work.
Trying to humble myself to God's will.
Trying to allow God's presence to shine through me.
Trying to love.
Trying to be diligent with the gift (job) God has given me.
Trying to allow for contentment to grow.
Tuesday, January 24
Long distance calling
Part of my job requires that I call companies who are out of the area. I work with companies across the United States and often call Illinois, New Jersey, California, Tennessee, etc.
Because of all the many technological advances, calling those far-away states is a piece of cake and the clarity in our connections, is normal...in fact, it's expected!
And yet...
One company that I call regularly is Tree Top...who is located a mere 1.5 hours away...on the other side of the mountains. Ironically my connection with them is almost always sketchy. It's become quite comical. Most of the time, whenever I call over there, I end up calling from some distant land. My Tree Top contact has caller ID and has told me, upon receiving my call, that instead of my area code (425) coming up, it will show some other random digits. So far, I've called from Florida, California, Argentina (I think), and today, Ohio.
My call is going out and somehow being re-routed through another state/country to connect with a person who is hardly long-distance. Isn't that funny?
When she calls me, there isn't any problem so it only happens when I initiate the calling.
It's give us something to laugh about, for sure.
Because of all the many technological advances, calling those far-away states is a piece of cake and the clarity in our connections, is normal...in fact, it's expected!
And yet...
One company that I call regularly is Tree Top...who is located a mere 1.5 hours away...on the other side of the mountains. Ironically my connection with them is almost always sketchy. It's become quite comical. Most of the time, whenever I call over there, I end up calling from some distant land. My Tree Top contact has caller ID and has told me, upon receiving my call, that instead of my area code (425) coming up, it will show some other random digits. So far, I've called from Florida, California, Argentina (I think), and today, Ohio.
My call is going out and somehow being re-routed through another state/country to connect with a person who is hardly long-distance. Isn't that funny?
When she calls me, there isn't any problem so it only happens when I initiate the calling.
It's give us something to laugh about, for sure.
Tuesday, November 22
On my potential move east
Boss: Is there anything we can do to keep you here longer?
Me: (long pause).....not really....
Boss: Well, I am praying over this. The Lord sure has answered a lot of my prayers lately.
Me: ummm.....okay.....
Last's weeks conversation keeps rolling around in my head. I'm not entirely sure what to make of that comment. But I'm not worrying about it.
I have my third interview tomorrow (Wednesday) at:
11am, Pacific Standard Time
2pm, Eastern Standard Time
8pm, Western Europe Time
5am Thursday morning for my Aussie friends?
I am still interested in this ministry (a holistic housing ministry for pregnant women) and believe that it would be a good yet challenging experience. However, if God wants to change my plans again (and subsequently answer my boss's prayers), then God's will be done.
Either way some change is a'comin.
**update...the phone interview went fine. There were three of their people on this phone call. I felt there was "connection" with two of the three...so we'll see. No job offer yet. Patience is a virture, they say.
Me: (long pause).....not really....
Boss: Well, I am praying over this. The Lord sure has answered a lot of my prayers lately.
Me: ummm.....okay.....
Last's weeks conversation keeps rolling around in my head. I'm not entirely sure what to make of that comment. But I'm not worrying about it.
I have my third interview tomorrow (Wednesday) at:
11am, Pacific Standard Time
2pm, Eastern Standard Time
8pm, Western Europe Time
5am Thursday morning for my Aussie friends?
I am still interested in this ministry (a holistic housing ministry for pregnant women) and believe that it would be a good yet challenging experience. However, if God wants to change my plans again (and subsequently answer my boss's prayers), then God's will be done.
Either way some change is a'comin.
**update...the phone interview went fine. There were three of their people on this phone call. I felt there was "connection" with two of the three...so we'll see. No job offer yet. Patience is a virture, they say.
Thursday, November 10
Oh. What. A. Day.
Thus far, this is the kind of day where...
The day hasn't been horrible...just a modge podge of good, bad, and ugly. The warm-ish (60 degrees) sunny day outside, complete with blue skies, varies from taunting me to encouraging me...depending on what is going on at my desk. :)
On the plus side, it is now 1:30pm and work is over half way done for the day!
And that pie was very yummy!
**Update: The crazy day ended with laughter. I went to Old Navy to return two shirts, that I had purchased Wednesday, which would give me back $18. As I walked into the store and realized that a couple fixtures had been changed from the day before. So I wondered if maybe some new things were on sale. (I used to work at Old Navy and knew they had a 7 day price adjustment...all you needed was to bring in a receipt.) One cardigan I had purchased the day before was a bit more expensive than I had anticipated. So I walked to where they were located and sure enough it was on sale! From $34 down to $20.50. Sah-weet!!! So I walked up the register, told the girl that I wanted to return the two shirts and that the one cardigan was now cheaper and could I get a price adjustment. SOOO, she scanned in my receipt and hello! another sweater I had purchased was also on sale!!! So instead of just getting $18 back, I ended up getting $46 back! I walked out laughing at how that all went down! A great way to start my evening!
- I wish I had a spouse waiting for me at home where I can unload, talking about thing after thing and having him ask attentive, sympathetic, and wise questions.
- I wish I had a spouse waiting for me at home who could just hold me if all I want to do is remain quiet and not verbally unload after a day of putting out "fires," which is probably more likely.
- I wish we could implement Daylight Savings Time so that we can move the clock forward an hour...then I'd only have 2.5 hours left of work.
- I (partly) wish I could stop a bar on the way home and have a drink or two. I know...not necessarily a good habit (emotional drinking??) to start.
- I feel justified eating a very unhealthy piece of pie...I know, emotional eating is never a good thing.
- I wish I was one of those runner types that would pound out all the highs and lows of today. However if I tried that now, I don't think there would be any thought beyond trying to remember to breathe.
- I find myself daydreaming of warm tropical locations, far far away, when I should be diligently putting out more "fires."
- the bathroom almost seems like a place of refuge while at work.
The day hasn't been horrible...just a modge podge of good, bad, and ugly. The warm-ish (60 degrees) sunny day outside, complete with blue skies, varies from taunting me to encouraging me...depending on what is going on at my desk. :)
On the plus side, it is now 1:30pm and work is over half way done for the day!
And that pie was very yummy!
**Update: The crazy day ended with laughter. I went to Old Navy to return two shirts, that I had purchased Wednesday, which would give me back $18. As I walked into the store and realized that a couple fixtures had been changed from the day before. So I wondered if maybe some new things were on sale. (I used to work at Old Navy and knew they had a 7 day price adjustment...all you needed was to bring in a receipt.) One cardigan I had purchased the day before was a bit more expensive than I had anticipated. So I walked to where they were located and sure enough it was on sale! From $34 down to $20.50. Sah-weet!!! So I walked up the register, told the girl that I wanted to return the two shirts and that the one cardigan was now cheaper and could I get a price adjustment. SOOO, she scanned in my receipt and hello! another sweater I had purchased was also on sale!!! So instead of just getting $18 back, I ended up getting $46 back! I walked out laughing at how that all went down! A great way to start my evening!
Friday, March 18
Life is a bit chaotic.
Next Friday, I leave on vacation for two weeks. (Hooray! Can't wait!!!)
However, I also have to submit my infamous thesis paper by March 30th, in order to graduate this May. I was hoping/planning on having it all wrapped up and submitted by March 25, next Friday, but I'm thinking that's not going to happen. Here is what remains to be done:
Plus, seeing as I'm going on vacation, I have to tidy up my desk, trying to wrap up as many things as possible, so that I can effectively transfer everything to the lady who will be overseeing my desk while I'm gone. Work always gets more stressful right before a trip...at least in my experience.
Plus, I teach Sunday school this Sunday, which I'm 90% ready for.
Plus, my friend's last Sunday is this Sunday so there is a special commission service for them Sunday night.
Plus, I offered to make lemon bars and 7-layer bars for the food part of this service.
Plus, I have to renew my rent before leaving next week or make plans to move back into my parent's house come May, which is up for sale. (Hahaha...my parents would love that...oh dear...at least I get a chuckle from this!)
Plus, Plus, Plus
But (strangely?), I am, for the most part, at peace.
Is it because I'm making good use of my time?
Is it because I'm seeing progress on my work commitments?
Is it because I'm spending more time in prayer each day?
Is it because I recognize that there are some things outside my control...so why worry?
All I know is that God is good. He is faithful.
And despite the chaos swirling around me, He is very much in control.
I'm so thankful for that!
However, I also have to submit my infamous thesis paper by March 30th, in order to graduate this May. I was hoping/planning on having it all wrapped up and submitted by March 25, next Friday, but I'm thinking that's not going to happen. Here is what remains to be done:
- I am waiting to hear back from my advisor on chapter 4
- Revise chapter four and then submit chapter 5 (plus the revised chapters 1-4) to my advisor
- Wait to hear back from my advisor on chapter 5
- Make final revisions on the entire paper
- Submit the final copy to my advisor for approval
- Wait to hear back for his approval
- Then submit the whole kit and caboodle to the class/committee.
Plus, seeing as I'm going on vacation, I have to tidy up my desk, trying to wrap up as many things as possible, so that I can effectively transfer everything to the lady who will be overseeing my desk while I'm gone. Work always gets more stressful right before a trip...at least in my experience.
Plus, I teach Sunday school this Sunday, which I'm 90% ready for.
Plus, my friend's last Sunday is this Sunday so there is a special commission service for them Sunday night.
Plus, I offered to make lemon bars and 7-layer bars for the food part of this service.
Plus, I have to renew my rent before leaving next week or make plans to move back into my parent's house come May, which is up for sale. (Hahaha...my parents would love that...oh dear...at least I get a chuckle from this!)
Plus, Plus, Plus
But (strangely?), I am, for the most part, at peace.
Is it because I'm making good use of my time?
Is it because I'm seeing progress on my work commitments?
Is it because I'm spending more time in prayer each day?
Is it because I recognize that there are some things outside my control...so why worry?
All I know is that God is good. He is faithful.
And despite the chaos swirling around me, He is very much in control.
I'm so thankful for that!
Friday, March 11
musings
I'm applying for this job...whose application is a combined total of 12 pages. This doesn't include the references which is a total of another 10 pages. I think this may be the longest application. Needless to say, as I am working full time and trying to wrap up a thesis paper that is due March 25, I don't have lots of extra time to complete this application...so I've been doing a few questions a day. I'm making progress.
In the meanwhile, my friends who are moving to Mexico want me to pursue their same ministry...potentially to even work with them, which would be delightful! As I am genuinely interested in learning if I am "qualified" or if this ministry has potential for a person like me, I'm also checking into this too.
I feel like singing a Mindy-related song:
oh where, oh where, will this girl end up?
oh where, oh where, will she be?
in this state, this country or somewhere else?
oh where, oh where, will she be?
-------------------
On a different note, I had a fun little John Grisham-esque investigation yesterday. This one pecan company that we oh-so-briefly worked with, owes my company $4000. Well, I've been pestering my contact about payment...he kept putting me off saying his owner needs to write the check and that he would connect with the owner. (I believe this contact is genuine!) However, the last I heard from him was Dec. I've emailed once a month since and he hasn't written back...so I started to wonder if this pecan company was no more. So yesterday, I called every single phone number I could find and they were either disconnected or the call could not go through. So then I typed the company name into a search engine and found the owner's name and their CPA's name (I guess the CPA's name has to be filed for any business licenses...at least in TX.) So then I did a search on the owner who also has one other company...again, none of the phone numbers work. So then I went after the CPA...guess what? Out of business...not only that but his license was revoked back in 1998! I think this is when I started laughing. I ended up calling the state of Texas...the department that issues business licenses...and all they could tell me is that it shows in their system as a still-valid company "in good standing" but she had no phone number for them. Then my boss wanted me to see if I could find my original contact's home phone number. No such luck...not that I blame him for the dud companies he's worked for. Anyhow, I told my boss that I'm pretty certain we are out the $4000 unless he wants to send them to collections or file a lawsuit...which will probably cost our company at least that much money. This ended up being a fun little addition to my day.
---------------------
Lent...I have not normally observed Lent. It's not something my church promotes, encourages or even talks about really. But this year, I found a devotional that someone put together and so I decided to go for it. I removing a couple distractions and adding some designated prayer time. Three days in...so far so good. I think this will be a good experience, emotionally and spiritually.
In the meanwhile, my friends who are moving to Mexico want me to pursue their same ministry...potentially to even work with them, which would be delightful! As I am genuinely interested in learning if I am "qualified" or if this ministry has potential for a person like me, I'm also checking into this too.
I feel like singing a Mindy-related song:
oh where, oh where, will this girl end up?
oh where, oh where, will she be?
in this state, this country or somewhere else?
oh where, oh where, will she be?
-------------------
On a different note, I had a fun little John Grisham-esque investigation yesterday. This one pecan company that we oh-so-briefly worked with, owes my company $4000. Well, I've been pestering my contact about payment...he kept putting me off saying his owner needs to write the check and that he would connect with the owner. (I believe this contact is genuine!) However, the last I heard from him was Dec. I've emailed once a month since and he hasn't written back...so I started to wonder if this pecan company was no more. So yesterday, I called every single phone number I could find and they were either disconnected or the call could not go through. So then I typed the company name into a search engine and found the owner's name and their CPA's name (I guess the CPA's name has to be filed for any business licenses...at least in TX.) So then I did a search on the owner who also has one other company...again, none of the phone numbers work. So then I went after the CPA...guess what? Out of business...not only that but his license was revoked back in 1998! I think this is when I started laughing. I ended up calling the state of Texas...the department that issues business licenses...and all they could tell me is that it shows in their system as a still-valid company "in good standing" but she had no phone number for them. Then my boss wanted me to see if I could find my original contact's home phone number. No such luck...not that I blame him for the dud companies he's worked for. Anyhow, I told my boss that I'm pretty certain we are out the $4000 unless he wants to send them to collections or file a lawsuit...which will probably cost our company at least that much money. This ended up being a fun little addition to my day.
---------------------
Lent...I have not normally observed Lent. It's not something my church promotes, encourages or even talks about really. But this year, I found a devotional that someone put together and so I decided to go for it. I removing a couple distractions and adding some designated prayer time. Three days in...so far so good. I think this will be a good experience, emotionally and spiritually.
Thursday, December 2
in trouble with the IRS...
I found out about an hour ago, that I, yes I, got my boss "in trouble" with the IRS (internal revenue services)! I know!!! Not everyone is lucky enough to say that. In light of Wesley Snipes current trip to the slammer for the next three years, due to tax evasion, I think this is all pretty timely.
So, the story!
As a refresher, I work for a small company...4 people on the payroll, to be exact. My boss and his wife own the company. I am the minion. Well, about a month ago or so, my boss' wife comes in to have a coffee break with her husband. While in the office, she mentions that the IRS has contacted them in order to audit their records for unpaid sales tax. Now, are you familiar with the show Monk? A delightful comedy about an OCD, germaphobic detective...it's brilliant. Watch it, if you haven't already seen it! My boss' wife admits that she is about two steps away from being as OCD as Monk. In fact, she can't even watch Monk because his mannerisms get her all wound up. So when she says that she have fastidious records, you know that she can account for every penny! As for unpaid sales tax, we all drew a blank.
Not every state pays sales tax but in Washington, you do! So everything we buy in the state, which is everything in our office, we have already paid sales tax on. Pens, Paperclips, Paper, Chairs, Computers, Phones, etc...you name it, we bought it locally in our state! How could the IRS think we have evaded sales tax? My boss and his wife, although they knew that this meeting was serious, they were confident that it would chalk up to be a waste of time as this IRS man would find nothing!
So the three of them met today and scoured the records for 4 hours, at least. At the end, going back two years ago, they found one thing...one thing that I purchased online for the company...one thing for which we were not charged sales tax, unbeknownst to me. It was our company brochure paper. We needed more, I offered to take care of it online and so I did.
Folks, we are talking about $5 of tax that we did not pay! Yep...that's all this IRS man gets to take back with him. (Honestly I have no idea how much the tax would be...I think the order was around $100...so somewhere between $5-10 dollars is what should have been paid.)
Funny, isn't it? Good ole' system!
I think I'll make Pumpkin Bread and bring coffee in for everyone tomorrow, due the troubles I've caused! I hope this doesn't go on my record. :)
So, the story!
As a refresher, I work for a small company...4 people on the payroll, to be exact. My boss and his wife own the company. I am the minion. Well, about a month ago or so, my boss' wife comes in to have a coffee break with her husband. While in the office, she mentions that the IRS has contacted them in order to audit their records for unpaid sales tax. Now, are you familiar with the show Monk? A delightful comedy about an OCD, germaphobic detective...it's brilliant. Watch it, if you haven't already seen it! My boss' wife admits that she is about two steps away from being as OCD as Monk. In fact, she can't even watch Monk because his mannerisms get her all wound up. So when she says that she have fastidious records, you know that she can account for every penny! As for unpaid sales tax, we all drew a blank.
Not every state pays sales tax but in Washington, you do! So everything we buy in the state, which is everything in our office, we have already paid sales tax on. Pens, Paperclips, Paper, Chairs, Computers, Phones, etc...you name it, we bought it locally in our state! How could the IRS think we have evaded sales tax? My boss and his wife, although they knew that this meeting was serious, they were confident that it would chalk up to be a waste of time as this IRS man would find nothing!
So the three of them met today and scoured the records for 4 hours, at least. At the end, going back two years ago, they found one thing...one thing that I purchased online for the company...one thing for which we were not charged sales tax, unbeknownst to me. It was our company brochure paper. We needed more, I offered to take care of it online and so I did.
Folks, we are talking about $5 of tax that we did not pay! Yep...that's all this IRS man gets to take back with him. (Honestly I have no idea how much the tax would be...I think the order was around $100...so somewhere between $5-10 dollars is what should have been paid.)
Funny, isn't it? Good ole' system!
I think I'll make Pumpkin Bread and bring coffee in for everyone tomorrow, due the troubles I've caused! I hope this doesn't go on my record. :)
Thursday, November 4
God at work...
I had decided that today I'd tell my boss, first thing in the morning before my other coworkers arrived, that I am going to apply for the job in Florida.
I couldn't do it. I chickened out and I'm not sure why.
_______________
I got to interview a friend of mine for a paper that is due next week on my interviewing skills. Spending time with a friend is always good. Hearing her story of adopting her last child was amazing. God's hand was all over choosing that boy to be a part of their family!
_______________
This Sunday is Orphan Sunday...a day to remember the oh-so-many orphans around the world. I think most of the time I shield my heart from thinking and empathizing on their behalf because the need is so huge and what can one person do? However, the reason why God charges us (the Church) to care of the widows and orphans is because they are the most vulnerable. And if God could use me to help just one person, then it's still worth it. Who knows how God might use that person to reach the world around them!
I clearly don't have all the answers because I presently do nothing...no Compassion or World Vision kids and no other consistent impact/giving to orphan ministries. But that has to change. God wants to use me and He wants to use you. The need is so great because perhaps the Church does so little...sorry, that sounds judgmental and it's not meant to be.
Sure, I'm still hoping to have a house full of orphans or vulnerable kids/youth one day...but God is calling me into action now.
_______________
Have you heard of Greg Laurie? I haven't really and feel like I should. Anyhow, he is coming to Seattle this weekend for a big event called "Harvest." There are going to be several bands: Katina, Kutless, Jars of Clay, and others. The point of this is to invite your non-Christians friends...like a revival or a crusade, I guess. They are heavily promoting it around here and on the radio. I'm not going as I have other things to do this weekend, namely homework and Sunday School preparation. But my sister mentioned that she might want to go...
Me: Really? You might go?
Amy: Yeah, except that I don't need harvesting.
Me: HAHAHAHA...you don't need to be harvested? Wow, that could have a few meanings.
Amy: hehehehe...
I love my sister.
I couldn't do it. I chickened out and I'm not sure why.
_______________
I got to interview a friend of mine for a paper that is due next week on my interviewing skills. Spending time with a friend is always good. Hearing her story of adopting her last child was amazing. God's hand was all over choosing that boy to be a part of their family!
_______________
This Sunday is Orphan Sunday...a day to remember the oh-so-many orphans around the world. I think most of the time I shield my heart from thinking and empathizing on their behalf because the need is so huge and what can one person do? However, the reason why God charges us (the Church) to care of the widows and orphans is because they are the most vulnerable. And if God could use me to help just one person, then it's still worth it. Who knows how God might use that person to reach the world around them!
I clearly don't have all the answers because I presently do nothing...no Compassion or World Vision kids and no other consistent impact/giving to orphan ministries. But that has to change. God wants to use me and He wants to use you. The need is so great because perhaps the Church does so little...sorry, that sounds judgmental and it's not meant to be.
Sure, I'm still hoping to have a house full of orphans or vulnerable kids/youth one day...but God is calling me into action now.
_______________
Have you heard of Greg Laurie? I haven't really and feel like I should. Anyhow, he is coming to Seattle this weekend for a big event called "Harvest." There are going to be several bands: Katina, Kutless, Jars of Clay, and others. The point of this is to invite your non-Christians friends...like a revival or a crusade, I guess. They are heavily promoting it around here and on the radio. I'm not going as I have other things to do this weekend, namely homework and Sunday School preparation. But my sister mentioned that she might want to go...
Me: Really? You might go?
Amy: Yeah, except that I don't need harvesting.
Me: HAHAHAHA...you don't need to be harvested? Wow, that could have a few meanings.
Amy: hehehehe...
I love my sister.
Monday, November 1
Tidbits
1. I made 6 loaves of zucchini bread yesterday. My sister and I got two huge zucchini's from a lady at our church. I made Zucchini Coconut bread, Zucchini Pumpkin bread, and Chocolate Zucchini Bread. Hopefully they are all good...I diverted from the recipe. Que sera, sera!
2. I have a 7 page paper due on Wednesday, reviewing a culture. I have 6.5 pages left to type.
3. I also am scheduled to teach Sunday School, this Sunday, on Jeremiah 1-26, to middle schoolers.
4. Between 2 and 3, I have a lot of work to do this week.
5. I actually got trick and treaters yesterday! The first time that's happened since I've lived in the apartment.
6. I was on the radio this morning, oh so briefly. The discussion theme on the radio today was to share your favorite Bible verse at the moment. I called in to share Habakkuk 2:3. Hearing yourself on the radio is a strange thing.
7. I'm considering a job in Florida. The diagonally opposite corner from where I live. Florida!?!?!?! It's a job at a camp...I emailed the head lady a couple questions. Depending on what she says will determine if I apply or not.
2. I have a 7 page paper due on Wednesday, reviewing a culture. I have 6.5 pages left to type.
3. I also am scheduled to teach Sunday School, this Sunday, on Jeremiah 1-26, to middle schoolers.
4. Between 2 and 3, I have a lot of work to do this week.
5. I actually got trick and treaters yesterday! The first time that's happened since I've lived in the apartment.
6. I was on the radio this morning, oh so briefly. The discussion theme on the radio today was to share your favorite Bible verse at the moment. I called in to share Habakkuk 2:3. Hearing yourself on the radio is a strange thing.
7. I'm considering a job in Florida. The diagonally opposite corner from where I live. Florida!?!?!?! It's a job at a camp...I emailed the head lady a couple questions. Depending on what she says will determine if I apply or not.
Friday, August 13
Sweet Speech
Who I am:
I am a fairly optimistic person...a glass-half-full type of gal. I tend to believe the best of people, giving them the benefit of the doubt, time after time. I am also more introverted than extroverted although I love spending time with people...what this usually means is that I am the listener and the entertained, by the things others say. Sure, I can be witty, entertaining, and talkative...but I naturally tend to absorb more than I tend to expend.
What this means:
This means that I listen to others. A lot. This also means that I am more of a peace-keeping type of person and often am given counselor or advisory type roles. I tend to show compassion and understanding even if I also understand the other side of the story too. There is a confrontational side of me (in addition to the counselor side of me)...this is the side that will offer suggestions of how to fix the problem, will offer the other side of the story and will, rarely though it may be, tell some one that its time to move past the problem.
How this affects me:
Because I am often the listener, I hear a lot of words...and not always welcomed words. Because I am often a counselor/consoler, people want to hear feedback from me. What I have learned in my lifetime thus far is just how important words are. Negative words, cruel words, bitter words...these are all like poison...quick to hit the target and spread their pain. Remarkably, they hurt not only the person who receives them but also the person who speaks them. Sweet words, positive words, and charming words...these are like life...they have the ability to breathe life and encouragement to people and can propel others to do good. And again, they have an equally good effect on the speaker as well as the receiver.
I want to be more than just someone who is good at listening and consoling.
I want to be a speaker of sweet words.
I want to look continually for the good in all things, in all people and to encourage others to do likewise.
Maybe that's why God has given me the last 5 years...
Time to practice.
I am a fairly optimistic person...a glass-half-full type of gal. I tend to believe the best of people, giving them the benefit of the doubt, time after time. I am also more introverted than extroverted although I love spending time with people...what this usually means is that I am the listener and the entertained, by the things others say. Sure, I can be witty, entertaining, and talkative...but I naturally tend to absorb more than I tend to expend.
What this means:
This means that I listen to others. A lot. This also means that I am more of a peace-keeping type of person and often am given counselor or advisory type roles. I tend to show compassion and understanding even if I also understand the other side of the story too. There is a confrontational side of me (in addition to the counselor side of me)...this is the side that will offer suggestions of how to fix the problem, will offer the other side of the story and will, rarely though it may be, tell some one that its time to move past the problem.
How this affects me:
Because I am often the listener, I hear a lot of words...and not always welcomed words. Because I am often a counselor/consoler, people want to hear feedback from me. What I have learned in my lifetime thus far is just how important words are. Negative words, cruel words, bitter words...these are all like poison...quick to hit the target and spread their pain. Remarkably, they hurt not only the person who receives them but also the person who speaks them. Sweet words, positive words, and charming words...these are like life...they have the ability to breathe life and encouragement to people and can propel others to do good. And again, they have an equally good effect on the speaker as well as the receiver.
I want to be more than just someone who is good at listening and consoling.
I want to be a speaker of sweet words.
I want to look continually for the good in all things, in all people and to encourage others to do likewise.
Maybe that's why God has given me the last 5 years...
Time to practice.
Tuesday, August 10
After the beep...
One regular part of my job involves calling people for any variety of reasons. In the 3 years I have been here, I have come to dislike leaving messages, to a degree.
Voicemail (VM): You've reach the desk of John Smith. I'm either away from my desk or on the other line (or out playing golf, or off work at 1pm (!!!) or on a 3 week vacation but my voicemail won't tell you any of this). Please leave a message and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you.
Me: (Press 2--big sigh)
VM: Please record.
Me: (Press 2--frustrated and grumbling)
VM: Please record.
Me: (Press 2--take a deep breath)
VM: Please record.
Me: (Press 2)
VM: Please record.
(hang up)
Voicemail (VM): You've reach the desk of John Smith. I'm either away from my desk or on the other line (or out playing golf, or off work at 1pm (!!!) or on a 3 week vacation but my voicemail won't tell you any of this). Please leave a message and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you.
...Beep...
Me: (spoken calmly but with importance) Hi John, this is Mindy from Northwest Ingredients. I'm calling in regards to your coconut order. I was just notified by the coconut company that their warehouse only has 42 of the 112 cases that you ordered. They are expecting more to arrive by next Monday so we can either ship the 42 cases or wait until Monday and ship everything all at once. Please give me a......Beep...
VM: This is the voicemail system. To review your message, press 1. To delete and re-record your message, press 2. To send, press 3 or simply hang up.Me: (Press 2--big sigh)
VM: Please record.
...Beep...
Me: (Less calm, more direct) Hi John, this is Mindy from Northwest Ingredients. I'm calling in regards to your coconut order. I was just notified that the warehouse only has 42 of the 112 cases that......Beep...
VM: This is the voicemail system. To review your message, press 1. To delete and re-record your message, press 2. To send, press 3 or simply hangup.Me: (Press 2--frustrated and grumbling)
VM: Please record.
...Beep...
Me: (Frustrated by trying to not let it come across) Hi John, this is Mindy from Northwest Ingredients. I'm calling in re......Beep...
VM: This is the voicemail system. To review your message, press 1. To delete and re-record your message, press 2. To send, press 3 or simply hangup.Me: (Press 2--take a deep breath)
VM: Please record.
...Beep...
Me: HiJohnthisisMindyfromNorthwestIngredients......Beep...
VM: This is the voicemail system. To re...Me: (Press 2)
VM: Please record.
...Beep...
Me: No coconut!(hang up)
Monday, July 26
The Lump in my Throat
The past few days have been kind of stinky.
My cell phone went kaputz...well, technically my number did but the one little problem cause hours and hours of phone conversations with the cell-phone company. Even now, I have been issued a new cell phone number but my phone is only about 75% fixed. I no longer care about the stupid phone. I've decided to not spend more hours on the phone with them.
Then work...we had a major problem which started Thursday, spilled over into Friday and kind of blew up on Friday, and then spilled over into today's workload. It's a problem where I can do nothing right because the only option we are being given is to do what the customer (Costco) wants, which isn't possible. I hate being set up to fail from the very beginning. *Sigh* I was supposed to get off work on Friday at 2pm but didn't make it out of there until 3:30pm. I had never felt so drained...all I wanted to do was to crawl into a dark hole and fall asleep, without dreaming of Costco, who was not my favorite company at that moment.
Finally, on Saturday, I went to a wedding. Weddings are supposed to be joyous celebrations. Instead, this one broke my heart, even though it was indeed beautiful. The bride's family have been life-long family friends. Our parents met before I was born. I am smack dab in between their two first sons, whom I still consider my friends, along with their wives. Simply put, I love this family.
I remember one time, maybe in high school (?) I sent a letter to the mom (we'll call her Jane Doe) telling her how much I loved her family and that her and John were such good parents. I loved how close their family was and of course, that they all loved Jesus. Sweet, isn't it?
One summer break from college, while I was still at my parents home, I called up the oldest son and his wife to say hi and invite them over for dinner since my parents were on vacation. They proceeded to tell me his parents were getting divorced. Their news made me catch my breath in shock. Never, ever would I have guessed this. This sweet close family, that I've know my whole life...divorce...what??? As soon as I got off the phone, I started sobbing. It's been approximately 10 years since then and I still get a lump in my throat when I think about this family.
The bride was beautiful...the wedding was full of happiness...but what stood out to me was that the dad, John Doe, wasn't invited to his daughter's wedding and the oldest son and his wife didn't come either. How heartbreaking! I cried almost the whole way home. Families aren't meant to be like this.
May this next week be productive. May it include unexpected blessings. May I be a blessing to others. May there be laughter instead of tears, unless the tears come from abundant laughter.
My cell phone went kaputz...well, technically my number did but the one little problem cause hours and hours of phone conversations with the cell-phone company. Even now, I have been issued a new cell phone number but my phone is only about 75% fixed. I no longer care about the stupid phone. I've decided to not spend more hours on the phone with them.
Then work...we had a major problem which started Thursday, spilled over into Friday and kind of blew up on Friday, and then spilled over into today's workload. It's a problem where I can do nothing right because the only option we are being given is to do what the customer (Costco) wants, which isn't possible. I hate being set up to fail from the very beginning. *Sigh* I was supposed to get off work on Friday at 2pm but didn't make it out of there until 3:30pm. I had never felt so drained...all I wanted to do was to crawl into a dark hole and fall asleep, without dreaming of Costco, who was not my favorite company at that moment.
Finally, on Saturday, I went to a wedding. Weddings are supposed to be joyous celebrations. Instead, this one broke my heart, even though it was indeed beautiful. The bride's family have been life-long family friends. Our parents met before I was born. I am smack dab in between their two first sons, whom I still consider my friends, along with their wives. Simply put, I love this family.
I remember one time, maybe in high school (?) I sent a letter to the mom (we'll call her Jane Doe) telling her how much I loved her family and that her and John were such good parents. I loved how close their family was and of course, that they all loved Jesus. Sweet, isn't it?
One summer break from college, while I was still at my parents home, I called up the oldest son and his wife to say hi and invite them over for dinner since my parents were on vacation. They proceeded to tell me his parents were getting divorced. Their news made me catch my breath in shock. Never, ever would I have guessed this. This sweet close family, that I've know my whole life...divorce...what??? As soon as I got off the phone, I started sobbing. It's been approximately 10 years since then and I still get a lump in my throat when I think about this family.
The bride was beautiful...the wedding was full of happiness...but what stood out to me was that the dad, John Doe, wasn't invited to his daughter's wedding and the oldest son and his wife didn't come either. How heartbreaking! I cried almost the whole way home. Families aren't meant to be like this.
May this next week be productive. May it include unexpected blessings. May I be a blessing to others. May there be laughter instead of tears, unless the tears come from abundant laughter.
Friday, June 18
The day I fought for 83 cents
As part of my job, I have to match the invoices to the orders and then make sure we receive brokerage for each order. It can be tedious at time but it's important.
Sometimes in my paper shuffling, spreadsheet entering, and whatnots, I'll find some old orders that we haven't been paid for. When this happens, I usually email the company with the list of customer names and purchase order numbers and ask them to dig back into their system and see if they paid us (because I could have missed something) or to pay us accordingly.
Well, this happened one time with the dairy company we work with, Challenge Dairy. I found 9 orders that we hadn't been paid for. So off went my email asking for our money. Back and forth our emails when as they did some research and I gave them more information where possible. We finally figured out that three of the orders had been paid but the remaining six had not been.
Now, each of these 9 orders were special orders, sold to Costco, for 1 bag (55 lbs) of milk powder, which I was aware of. Another thing I was aware of was that for milk powder, Challenge Dairy only paid us .25% per pound. That's right...not a whole lot. But I didn't do before starting this whole fiasco was to figure out exactly how much money was at stake here.
So imagine my surprise when I receive the following:
CD: I will add them to next month’s commission payment (payment for these 6 orders totals $.83).
Me: The total for all six is $0.83?? Woop-de-doo…had I known that I’d probably would have ignored them. Oh well…thanks for checking into it. We’ve already spent that amount just in me typing these emails.
CD: Yeah – I thought that whopping amount was pretty funny. I tried to keep the sarcasm out of my email when I gave you the total amount owed. Glad you saw the humor in it too.
I promptly informed my boss that he MUST spend that $0.83 very wisely...I had worked so hard for it. I can just imagine that my co-workers at Challenge Dairy must have had a good laugh over this. I know we did at this office!
Sometimes in my paper shuffling, spreadsheet entering, and whatnots, I'll find some old orders that we haven't been paid for. When this happens, I usually email the company with the list of customer names and purchase order numbers and ask them to dig back into their system and see if they paid us (because I could have missed something) or to pay us accordingly.
Well, this happened one time with the dairy company we work with, Challenge Dairy. I found 9 orders that we hadn't been paid for. So off went my email asking for our money. Back and forth our emails when as they did some research and I gave them more information where possible. We finally figured out that three of the orders had been paid but the remaining six had not been.
Now, each of these 9 orders were special orders, sold to Costco, for 1 bag (55 lbs) of milk powder, which I was aware of. Another thing I was aware of was that for milk powder, Challenge Dairy only paid us .25% per pound. That's right...not a whole lot. But I didn't do before starting this whole fiasco was to figure out exactly how much money was at stake here.
So imagine my surprise when I receive the following:
CD: I will add them to next month’s commission payment (payment for these 6 orders totals $.83).
Me: The total for all six is $0.83?? Woop-de-doo…had I known that I’d probably would have ignored them. Oh well…thanks for checking into it. We’ve already spent that amount just in me typing these emails.
CD: Yeah – I thought that whopping amount was pretty funny. I tried to keep the sarcasm out of my email when I gave you the total amount owed. Glad you saw the humor in it too.
I promptly informed my boss that he MUST spend that $0.83 very wisely...I had worked so hard for it. I can just imagine that my co-workers at Challenge Dairy must have had a good laugh over this. I know we did at this office!
Friday, June 4
National Donut Day
Today is National Donut Day, all thanks to the Salvation Army, as the story goes.
Today at work, there are only three of us...the other lady is home sick. With a mind to celebrate this fair day, my boss decided to go buy some donuts. Well, him and I were the only ones interested as the other guy has lunch plans.
When Jim returns, he's carrying a small bag...no big deal.
Moments later, he places a plate on my desk with three maple-covered old-fashioned donuts, which makes me pause because I knew only two people would be doing the eating. But maybe he means for us to have 1.5 donuts each. ...Okay...
BUT THEN, Jim goes to the back and makes some comment about his donut be back there.
Me: What do you mean your donut is back there? There are three donuts sitting on my desk!!!
Jim: Well, in case Kirk wants one. We need to celebrate Donut Day.
Kirk: No way am I having one!
Me: I'm not eating three donuts!!!
Can you imagine? If I ate three donuts I would need to spent the whole weekend running just to burn those calories. Oh geez...I think my boss got a bit too excited, like a kid in a candy store. Only now I have two extra donuts sitting behind me that I am not going to think about or eat.
If anyone wants to join the celebration, you know where to come...I'll have coffee ready!
Today at work, there are only three of us...the other lady is home sick. With a mind to celebrate this fair day, my boss decided to go buy some donuts. Well, him and I were the only ones interested as the other guy has lunch plans.
When Jim returns, he's carrying a small bag...no big deal.
Moments later, he places a plate on my desk with three maple-covered old-fashioned donuts, which makes me pause because I knew only two people would be doing the eating. But maybe he means for us to have 1.5 donuts each. ...Okay...
BUT THEN, Jim goes to the back and makes some comment about his donut be back there.
Me: What do you mean your donut is back there? There are three donuts sitting on my desk!!!
Jim: Well, in case Kirk wants one. We need to celebrate Donut Day.
Kirk: No way am I having one!
Me: I'm not eating three donuts!!!
Can you imagine? If I ate three donuts I would need to spent the whole weekend running just to burn those calories. Oh geez...I think my boss got a bit too excited, like a kid in a candy store. Only now I have two extra donuts sitting behind me that I am not going to think about or eat.
If anyone wants to join the celebration, you know where to come...I'll have coffee ready!
Tuesday, April 20
An Interesting Conversation
I work with one other lady who I've mentioned can be difficult to work with at times. I decided to go to work this week with a better attitude...having a spirit of gratitude instead of frustration...looking for God's blessings and provisions rather than what I don't have.
Maybe it was because of this mental switch or just through divine appointment but I had a "Christian" discussion with my co-worker, which is the first time this has happened in the almost three years I've been at this job. It was a bit amazing.
My co-worker asked about my weekend. I told her that I finished my TESOL certificate and have officially started my thesis paper research. She casually asked again what my thesis paper is about (I love it when people ask me...perfect opportunity to share a snippet about God). I told her it was on Suffering and I ended my comment there. Normally I expand but this time I didn't. But she took the bait and asked if it was on why some people suffer and others don't. I explained that it was more about what the Bible has to say about suffering, what the "normal" Christian thinks and how it impacts missions.
Since her look appeared interested, I went on to say that what I know of the Bible, it seems that God basically promises suffering to those who follow Him. Her remark, desiring to assist with my explanation, was, "those who deserve it...." And I gently corrected her saying that no, it was more that whoever was going to follow and try to be more like Jesus would suffer by following His example. She slowly nodded but didn't comment on that.
From there, we discussed church health. I found out that she had attended a Congregational Church growing up but left because all they apparently preached was the need for money.
Ultimately, in my perspective, there was no great seed planted or life-changing moment but I tell you what...this was the longest "religious" conversation I've had with her ever...and that excites me. She has always seemed a bit closed off. Even my boss, who has worked with her for 20 years, has mentioned to me a time or two that when it comes to spiritual matters, she never seems interested.
May God continue to use me.
Maybe it was because of this mental switch or just through divine appointment but I had a "Christian" discussion with my co-worker, which is the first time this has happened in the almost three years I've been at this job. It was a bit amazing.
My co-worker asked about my weekend. I told her that I finished my TESOL certificate and have officially started my thesis paper research. She casually asked again what my thesis paper is about (I love it when people ask me...perfect opportunity to share a snippet about God). I told her it was on Suffering and I ended my comment there. Normally I expand but this time I didn't. But she took the bait and asked if it was on why some people suffer and others don't. I explained that it was more about what the Bible has to say about suffering, what the "normal" Christian thinks and how it impacts missions.
Since her look appeared interested, I went on to say that what I know of the Bible, it seems that God basically promises suffering to those who follow Him. Her remark, desiring to assist with my explanation, was, "those who deserve it...." And I gently corrected her saying that no, it was more that whoever was going to follow and try to be more like Jesus would suffer by following His example. She slowly nodded but didn't comment on that.
From there, we discussed church health. I found out that she had attended a Congregational Church growing up but left because all they apparently preached was the need for money.
Ultimately, in my perspective, there was no great seed planted or life-changing moment but I tell you what...this was the longest "religious" conversation I've had with her ever...and that excites me. She has always seemed a bit closed off. Even my boss, who has worked with her for 20 years, has mentioned to me a time or two that when it comes to spiritual matters, she never seems interested.
May God continue to use me.
Tuesday, March 30
hee hee...hoo hoo...hee hee....hoo hoo
No I'm not pregnant....the girl isn't even married
However, I am a bit stressed and in serious need of relaxation.
My coworker was out sick two days last week and then yesterday and today as well. I'm going CRAZY. I am running on coffee and adrenaline. There is no rest for the weary at work.
This feeling of being busy for 8 hours a day is not normal for me. Typically, I have more down time than I'd like whereas the yesterday and today, I've had almost zero down time. I guess that means I am a productive worker who is earning my salary but it also means that my mind is squished full of details that some details are slipping out. And it also means that I feel too busy to even take a break. Like this morning for example, I got a cup of coffee first thing upon arrival and even though I was ready and wanted my 2nd cup of coffee by 8:20am, it was about 9:30am before I finally allowed myself to pause and refill my cup. And my lunch hour...what lunch hour?
All I want to do is to collapse on my couch and lose myself in a novel or with a good movie. But as there is no rest for the weary, I find myself facing youth group tonight and know that I won't be able to collapse until about 9pm. May the good Lord breathe energy into my mind and body, lest I faint, throw a temper tantrum, or starting banging my head on a wall while hanging out with the youth tonight.
I think I can, I think I can...
**Oh, I just talked my coworker...there is a chance she may not be in tomorrow...**whimper, whimper**
However, I am a bit stressed and in serious need of relaxation.
My coworker was out sick two days last week and then yesterday and today as well. I'm going CRAZY. I am running on coffee and adrenaline. There is no rest for the weary at work.
This feeling of being busy for 8 hours a day is not normal for me. Typically, I have more down time than I'd like whereas the yesterday and today, I've had almost zero down time. I guess that means I am a productive worker who is earning my salary but it also means that my mind is squished full of details that some details are slipping out. And it also means that I feel too busy to even take a break. Like this morning for example, I got a cup of coffee first thing upon arrival and even though I was ready and wanted my 2nd cup of coffee by 8:20am, it was about 9:30am before I finally allowed myself to pause and refill my cup. And my lunch hour...what lunch hour?
All I want to do is to collapse on my couch and lose myself in a novel or with a good movie. But as there is no rest for the weary, I find myself facing youth group tonight and know that I won't be able to collapse until about 9pm. May the good Lord breathe energy into my mind and body, lest I faint, throw a temper tantrum, or starting banging my head on a wall while hanging out with the youth tonight.
I think I can, I think I can...
**Oh, I just talked my coworker...there is a chance she may not be in tomorrow...**whimper, whimper**
Thursday, March 25
Because I need this...
Reasons I like my job or am thankful for my job:
- I can take off for doctor appts without any problem
- My boss sometimes treats us to Starbucks
- I get to listen to music while I'm working
- It pays for my expenses and schooling
- I have made friends with a handful of people who make me laugh
- We go out to eat for birthday lunches
- I get lots of encouragement and thankfulness that I am here
- I get coffee every day at work
- If we need something my boss is willing to listen and help
- It's close to my house...only about 20 minutes away
- I can walk in a grocery store and see things that I had a small part of
- Consistent hours, M-F, 8am-5pm
- Weekends off
- My boss lets us leave early on Fridays
- We have friendly (and good looking) UPS drivers
- I can get free samples of a variety of ingredients, if I want
- There are chocolate samples at work, which I raid periodically
- It's not the worst job I've ever had or could have
- I can wear casual clothes and walk around without shoes
- I can cook/bake things and bring them in to help them get eaten
- It allows me to maintain my blog...should I be admitting that???
- and finally, my boss brought doughnuts into work today
Thursday, March 18
The Path Not Chosen
Do you ever feel like you've missed the boat?
That you've walked onto the wrong pier or got onto a wrong boat?
I've been wondering about that lately for my life. When I look at my life at a "step-by-step" basis, I still get to the same place I am today. But when I "zoom out" or even simply look at where I am today, I wonder if I should have gone left instead of right or maybe just waited at the fork a moment longer to see what might have happened.
I know it does no good to think about the "what ifs" or any should've, could've or would'ves.
But what if I had stayed in Germany another two years? Well, then I would have come home in 2008. I would have missed my one friend's final days and the chance to minister to her. I would be a year behind in my schooling, meaning I'd be done in 2011. I would have found healing and renewed joy, serving in ministry instead of floundering at home.
What if I had sought more counsel regarding my Master's degree or had just waited a bit longer before starting? Well, then maybe I would be working on an Old Testament degree instead of Intercultural Leadership. But then maybe not. I didn't realize how much I love teaching the Old Testament until I started working with the youth this school year.
What if I had sought a ministry-related position instead of going into the food industry? Well, then I might not have been able to afford school or my apartment. But I probably would have found purpose and joy in what I do compared to my current job. But then if I had, I wouldn't have the few good relationships that I have built through my job. And my job is a great opportunity for ministry...perhaps moreso than a ministry position. But then maybe I'd be further along in my missionary candidacy if I had been in some ministry position instead.
What if I have followed God all along and am exactly where He wants me to be? Then I can be confident that He has a plan for my life that is much greater than I can foresee right now and that everything that has been or has not been in my life are going to be used accordingly. And if I have missed some boat then God will use that too and will correct my steps as I continue to trust and listen to Him.
In that, I can breathe deeply and let go.
That you've walked onto the wrong pier or got onto a wrong boat?
I've been wondering about that lately for my life. When I look at my life at a "step-by-step" basis, I still get to the same place I am today. But when I "zoom out" or even simply look at where I am today, I wonder if I should have gone left instead of right or maybe just waited at the fork a moment longer to see what might have happened.
I know it does no good to think about the "what ifs" or any should've, could've or would'ves.
But what if I had stayed in Germany another two years? Well, then I would have come home in 2008. I would have missed my one friend's final days and the chance to minister to her. I would be a year behind in my schooling, meaning I'd be done in 2011. I would have found healing and renewed joy, serving in ministry instead of floundering at home.
What if I had sought more counsel regarding my Master's degree or had just waited a bit longer before starting? Well, then maybe I would be working on an Old Testament degree instead of Intercultural Leadership. But then maybe not. I didn't realize how much I love teaching the Old Testament until I started working with the youth this school year.
What if I had sought a ministry-related position instead of going into the food industry? Well, then I might not have been able to afford school or my apartment. But I probably would have found purpose and joy in what I do compared to my current job. But then if I had, I wouldn't have the few good relationships that I have built through my job. And my job is a great opportunity for ministry...perhaps moreso than a ministry position. But then maybe I'd be further along in my missionary candidacy if I had been in some ministry position instead.
What if I have followed God all along and am exactly where He wants me to be? Then I can be confident that He has a plan for my life that is much greater than I can foresee right now and that everything that has been or has not been in my life are going to be used accordingly. And if I have missed some boat then God will use that too and will correct my steps as I continue to trust and listen to Him.
In that, I can breathe deeply and let go.
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