Humpday Confessions and Hashtags

CONFESSION

for real tho

Time for a few confessions up in here today. Is it really Wednesday already? My week is plugging along quite nicely thank you very much,  so let's get right down to bidness shall we?

I confess.... My daughter got her drivers license yesterday. Someone I gave birth to is now driving my car... I am surprisingly pretty ok with it too. WTF. I hitched a ride to tennis practice last night and she took my car and her sister and brother and went to the grocery store for me. I needed a small list of things and I didn't have to go and get them myself. How sweet is that? She did however manage to "forget" toilet paper so a special trip back to the store was needed. I let her go and didn't say anything... because I'm cool like that. Yeah... forgot my ass #iwassixteenonce 

As I was walking out of work yesterday I was behind a girl whose black dress kept flipping around revealing her white Spanx. Part of me wanted to tell her but the other part of me smirked because the dress was clearly too short for work. I didn't tell her and I was good... I didn't quite have time to snap chat it. I did not need to see that. #spanxyouverymuch

I confess... I really, really love my new job. I feel like the other shoe is going to drop it's too perfect. I'm not super busy yet (not perfect) but everyone is just so freaking nice. People keep telling me I am working for one of the nicest guys in the Atlanta office and I am absolutely doing the inner happy dance because I feel so incredibly lucky. How did this happen? I am starting to feel hopeful...maybe I can fix the rest of my life too...#lizlemonismyspiritanimal

I haven't stepped on the scale in weeks because I am just focused on other stuff right now and losing more weight has taken a back seat. Or has it? I have been pretty damn on point with food 90% of the time (not counting alcohol) and my clothes are still feeling great, loose even. Except for this one effing pair of jeans... still tight.So it's possible that I still could be losing but...I need to get on the scale and face it. Time to hit it hard again. I don't really think you should focus on the number too much but maybe once a month  is a gut check. And I really don't care what the number is I am not giving up my wine...yet #bettydraperwouldbeproud

Linking up with Laura & Lauren!

Happy Humpday!

Hashtag Humpday • Humpday Confessions

Humpday Confessions and Hashtags

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

CONFESSION

for real tho

Time for a few confessions up in here today. Is it really Wednesday already? My week is plugging along quite nicely thank you very much,  so let's get right down to bidness shall we?

I confess.... My daughter got her drivers license yesterday. Someone I gave birth to is now driving my car... I am surprisingly pretty ok with it too. WTF. I hitched a ride to tennis practice last night and she took my car and her sister and brother and went to the grocery store for me. I needed a small list of things and I didn't have to go and get them myself. How sweet is that? She did however manage to "forget" toilet paper so a special trip back to the store was needed. I let her go and didn't say anything... because I'm cool like that. Yeah... forgot my ass #iwassixteenonce 

As I was walking out of work yesterday I was behind a girl whose black dress kept flipping around revealing her white Spanx. Part of me wanted to tell her but the other part of me smirked because the dress was clearly too short for work. I didn't tell her and I was good... I didn't quite have time to snap chat it. I did not need to see that. #spanxyouverymuch

I confess... I really, really love my new job. I feel like the other shoe is going to drop it's too perfect. I'm not super busy yet (not perfect) but everyone is just so freaking nice. People keep telling me I am working for one of the nicest guys in the Atlanta office and I am absolutely doing the inner happy dance because I feel so incredibly lucky. How did this happen? I am starting to feel hopeful...maybe I can fix the rest of my life too...#lizlemonismyspiritanimal

I haven't stepped on the scale in weeks because I am just focused on other stuff right now and losing more weight has taken a back seat. Or has it? I have been pretty damn on point with food 90% of the time (not counting alcohol) and my clothes are still feeling great, loose even. Except for this one effing pair of jeans... still tight.So it's possible that I still could be losing but...I need to get on the scale and face it. Time to hit it hard again. I don't really think you should focus on the number too much but maybe once a month  is a gut check. And I really don't care what the number is I am not giving up my wine...yet #bettydraperwouldbeproud

Linking up with Laura & Lauren!

Happy Humpday!

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Fours

I love it when I am looking for a good post idea and I happen across something fun on another blog that works for me too. Saw this yesterday over at Alanna & Company and I guess it's been going around but I apparently, am out of the loop as usual. Soooo... in need of writing prompts lately as I am knee deep in new routines and my brain is drained. Enter... my fours....

Four nicknames I've had:

1. Aimes
2. Aim
3. Princess - I wore pearls for years growing up. It was my thing.
4. Mrs. Robinson... only in jest, kinda, sorta

Four movies I have watched more than once:

1. Bridesmaids
2. Goodfellas
3. When Harry Met Sally
4. Dirty Dancing

Four jobs I've had:

1. Waitress
2. Telemarketer
3. Draftsperson
4. Interior Designer

Four things in my purse:

1. 4 nude lip glosses/lipsticks
2. a travel nail kit
3. Rose Bud Salve
4. a Larabar

Four places I've lived

1. Detroit
2. Tallahassee
3. Atlanta
4. to be continued...

Four places I've visited:

1. Maui
2. Vail
3. Canada
4. The Keys

Four places on my travel bucket list:

1. Greece
2. Italy
3. Bora Bora
4. Whistler

Four things I don't eat:

1. Liver
2. Oysters
3. Okra
4. Any other old country food... giblets, brains, tongue... gross

Four TV shows I watch:

1. The Walking Dead
2. All of the Real Housewives
3. Scandal
4. Catfish

Four cars I've driven

1. Escort GT
2. Honda Civic
3. Nissan Pathfinder
4. Yukon XL... see a pattern here??? Next up a Sherman Tank

Four things to look forward to in 2015:

1. A new career path
2. Getting healthier
3. Mo money, mo money, mo money
4. Love or lust... I could go either way

Happy Tuesday Folks!!!

Fours

Fours

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

I love it when I am looking for a good post idea and I happen across something fun on another blog that works for me too. Saw this yesterday over at Alanna & Company and I guess it's been going around but I apparently, am out of the loop as usual. Soooo... in need of writing prompts lately as I am knee deep in new routines and my brain is drained. Enter... my fours....

Four nicknames I've had:

1. Aimes
2. Aim
3. Princess - I wore pearls for years growing up. It was my thing.
4. Mrs. Robinson... only in jest, kinda, sorta

Four movies I have watched more than once:

1. Bridesmaids
2. Goodfellas
3. When Harry Met Sally
4. Dirty Dancing

Four jobs I've had:

1. Waitress
2. Telemarketer
3. Draftsperson
4. Interior Designer

Four things in my purse:

1. 4 nude lip glosses/lipsticks
2. a travel nail kit
3. Rose Bud Salve
4. a Larabar

Four places I've lived

1. Detroit
2. Tallahassee
3. Atlanta
4. to be continued...

Four places I've visited:

1. Maui
2. Vail
3. Canada
4. The Keys

Four places on my travel bucket list:

1. Greece
2. Italy
3. Bora Bora
4. Whistler

Four things I don't eat:

1. Liver
2. Oysters
3. Okra
4. Any other old country food... giblets, brains, tongue... gross

Four TV shows I watch:

1. The Walking Dead
2. All of the Real Housewives
3. Scandal
4. Catfish

Four cars I've driven

1. Escort GT
2. Honda Civic
3. Nissan Pathfinder
4. Yukon XL... see a pattern here??? Next up a Sherman Tank

Four things to look forward to in 2015:

1. A new career path
2. Getting healthier
3. Mo money, mo money, mo money
4. Love or lust... I could go either way

Happy Tuesday Folks!!!

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Weekending

So... I didn't do shit this weekend! No really... this is going to be the worst weekend recap ever. I would like to say that I was too busy out doing fun things but that's not even it. I had a half kid free weekend, and played a make up tennis match for last weekends rain out and and this weekends last match of the season on Sunday. The best news is my team is going to play offs!! We came in second in our division which means we go in as underdogs but we are still in the play off bracket! Woohoo! I won Saturday and Sunday... fucking baller!

Friday I picked up my free Lynyrd Skynyrd tickets from Kicks 101.5 that I won when I was home doing really important unemployed stuff... like calling radio stations. I also got a new leather and pearl ring from a friend of mine who recently went to the beach. She was with me when I bought one years ago that later broke because I wore it out. I have been on a hunt for a replacement forever and she found it for me. I only had a half kid free weekend because my daughter had to work and she ran a 5k on Saturday morning.  Saturday afternoon miraculously the rain cleared and and I got my match in... and got burnt thru the clouds... dammit. Later I had a little wine with friends, did some shopping, cooking and lounging around. I did not do laundry or housework. And the world did not end. Oh and also I got stood up for a date I was supposed to have on Saturday night. I guess someone chickened out again. Why in the hell do these guys ask me out and then neglect to follow thru??? Ugh... I am nearing the end of my days again for online dating... losers, all of them losers. A couple of months is all I can handle and then I need a break!

I cooked a little... big breakfasts and a huge batch of paleo meatballs for the upcoming week. I got to Skype with one of my best guy friends who is currently in Kuwait serving our country and that was super special! Other than that... I did a whole lotta sleepin and laying around!

Hope you all had a good one!

Linking up with Biana!

Weekending

Weekending

Monday, April 27, 2015

So... I didn't do shit this weekend! No really... this is going to be the worst weekend recap ever. I would like to say that I was too busy out doing fun things but that's not even it. I had a half kid free weekend, and played a make up tennis match for last weekends rain out and and this weekends last match of the season on Sunday. The best news is my team is going to play offs!! We came in second in our division which means we go in as underdogs but we are still in the play off bracket! Woohoo! I won Saturday and Sunday... fucking baller!

Friday I picked up my free Lynyrd Skynyrd tickets from Kicks 101.5 that I won when I was home doing really important unemployed stuff... like calling radio stations. I also got a new leather and pearl ring from a friend of mine who recently went to the beach. She was with me when I bought one years ago that later broke because I wore it out. I have been on a hunt for a replacement forever and she found it for me. I only had a half kid free weekend because my daughter had to work and she ran a 5k on Saturday morning.  Saturday afternoon miraculously the rain cleared and and I got my match in... and got burnt thru the clouds... dammit. Later I had a little wine with friends, did some shopping, cooking and lounging around. I did not do laundry or housework. And the world did not end. Oh and also I got stood up for a date I was supposed to have on Saturday night. I guess someone chickened out again. Why in the hell do these guys ask me out and then neglect to follow thru??? Ugh... I am nearing the end of my days again for online dating... losers, all of them losers. A couple of months is all I can handle and then I need a break!

I cooked a little... big breakfasts and a huge batch of paleo meatballs for the upcoming week. I got to Skype with one of my best guy friends who is currently in Kuwait serving our country and that was super special! Other than that... I did a whole lotta sleepin and laying around!

Hope you all had a good one!

Linking up with Biana!

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Friday Favorites

It's Friday.....

Pretty much how I am feeling right at this very moment. This week seemed loooong, did it not? I hope the weekend follows suit. I have a crap ton of chores to do and I am thinking I already don't feel like it but I will get the laundry done because my bedroom floor is rivaling the 16 year old's for walking space at a premium. Bad, very bad. 

But on to good things... Favorites actually with Amanda...

RECIPE

I'm craving BLT Pasta salad. It's a favorite of mine for the summer months. Not eating much pasta these days but this one would definitely be worth the splurge. Who doesn't love the crisp freshness of a good BLT in the warmer weather. Full recipe here. Take this next time you need an easy dish for a gathering and I promise you will come home with an empty bowl. 

SONG

I get to see Mr. Blake Shelton here in Atlanta in just a few weeks at the Shaky Boots Festival and I can't wait to hear him... especially this song... Sangria. Did anyone else think it was weird that Miranda didn't thank him in any of her speeches at the ACM awards last weekend??? It's just not right, you thank your spouse woman. And who dresses her?

TATTOO

I  don't know if I could actually do this but... I love it. So dainty and delicate. Unique. 

SNACK

I am a protein bar addict. And anything chocolate mint is totally my jam. Did you see the new Quest bar unveiled this week? Mint Chocolate Chunk... Is it weird that I get excited about these kinds of things???

TV SHOW

Southern Charm is so good this season. So much so that I had to give you some gifs down below. I know it's really bad reality TV but I just love these South Carolinians. Thomas and his comical Senate run, Whitney and his mother Patricia (who needs her own show) and Kathryn who I am actually starting to really like. Please watch it so we can talk about it!

And then there is Shep... 35 years old and this...

Oh Thomas....

Patricia still has her butler serve her breakfast in bed. And wears maribou feather bed jackets.

And has her priorities straight. I love her. 

And it wouldn't be Friday without people falling down... and stuff.

Here let me help you...

Did he never see an escalator before?

Even with help... fail. Who thinks they can hurdle anything?

I love that the kid keeps reaching out, like she could stop a freight train.

Nailed It. Her.

And she's outta there.

Have a great weekend!

Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites

Friday, April 24, 2015

It's Friday.....

Pretty much how I am feeling right at this very moment. This week seemed loooong, did it not? I hope the weekend follows suit. I have a crap ton of chores to do and I am thinking I already don't feel like it but I will get the laundry done because my bedroom floor is rivaling the 16 year old's for walking space at a premium. Bad, very bad. 

But on to good things... Favorites actually with Amanda...

RECIPE

I'm craving BLT Pasta salad. It's a favorite of mine for the summer months. Not eating much pasta these days but this one would definitely be worth the splurge. Who doesn't love the crisp freshness of a good BLT in the warmer weather. Full recipe here. Take this next time you need an easy dish for a gathering and I promise you will come home with an empty bowl. 

SONG

I get to see Mr. Blake Shelton here in Atlanta in just a few weeks at the Shaky Boots Festival and I can't wait to hear him... especially this song... Sangria. Did anyone else think it was weird that Miranda didn't thank him in any of her speeches at the ACM awards last weekend??? It's just not right, you thank your spouse woman. And who dresses her?

TATTOO

I  don't know if I could actually do this but... I love it. So dainty and delicate. Unique. 

SNACK

I am a protein bar addict. And anything chocolate mint is totally my jam. Did you see the new Quest bar unveiled this week? Mint Chocolate Chunk... Is it weird that I get excited about these kinds of things???

TV SHOW

Southern Charm is so good this season. So much so that I had to give you some gifs down below. I know it's really bad reality TV but I just love these South Carolinians. Thomas and his comical Senate run, Whitney and his mother Patricia (who needs her own show) and Kathryn who I am actually starting to really like. Please watch it so we can talk about it!

And then there is Shep... 35 years old and this...

Oh Thomas....

Patricia still has her butler serve her breakfast in bed. And wears maribou feather bed jackets.

And has her priorities straight. I love her. 

And it wouldn't be Friday without people falling down... and stuff.

Here let me help you...

Did he never see an escalator before?

Even with help... fail. Who thinks they can hurdle anything?

I love that the kid keeps reaching out, like she could stop a freight train.

Nailed It. Her.

And she's outta there.

Have a great weekend!

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Thursty Thursday: Summer Brews

Summer is right around the corner at least here in GA. It was 80 degrees yesterday in the dirty south and I am not hating it. Maybe because I dropped a few elle bee's over the winter, maybe because I have a J O B again, maybe because summer means beer season and I am all about that. So joining the ladies for Thursty Thursday today with my two favorite summer brews. 

LEINENKUGEL'S SUMMER SHANDY

If you like an Arnold Palmer but dig a little beer too then this is the beer for you. Summer Shandy is a Beer/Lemonade mix and it is the bomb. Light and refreshing, it is only available March thru August so I suggest you stock up. I have become a beer snob so I am always looking for a great craft beer but they can be pricey. Leinenkugel's is tres affordable at $12.99 for a twelve... really can't go wrong. Bonus, it comes in regular cans and tall boys so it's perfect for the pool, beach and the tennis courts. If you bring glass to any summer venue I will find you and I will hunt you down... bare feet and glass don't mix. Try this for summer and you will not be disappointed!

SHINER RUBY REDBIRD

Shiner Bock is kind of a cult classic when it comes to beer here in the south but I discovered Shiner Ruby Redbird last summer and I love it. I am a huge grapefruit fan. Who knew they made grapefruit beer??? Shiner does and it is full on Ruby Red goodness with a little kick of ginger in there. It's light and a little fruity so maybe the guys might turn their nose up but Shiner is a manly man's beer so I'm thinking even they would like it. Just don't tell them there is fruit in it.

What are your favorite summer beers?

Beer me...

Summer Beer • Thursty Thursday Link Up

Thursty Thursday: Summer Brews

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Summer is right around the corner at least here in GA. It was 80 degrees yesterday in the dirty south and I am not hating it. Maybe because I dropped a few elle bee's over the winter, maybe because I have a J O B again, maybe because summer means beer season and I am all about that. So joining the ladies for Thursty Thursday today with my two favorite summer brews. 

LEINENKUGEL'S SUMMER SHANDY

If you like an Arnold Palmer but dig a little beer too then this is the beer for you. Summer Shandy is a Beer/Lemonade mix and it is the bomb. Light and refreshing, it is only available March thru August so I suggest you stock up. I have become a beer snob so I am always looking for a great craft beer but they can be pricey. Leinenkugel's is tres affordable at $12.99 for a twelve... really can't go wrong. Bonus, it comes in regular cans and tall boys so it's perfect for the pool, beach and the tennis courts. If you bring glass to any summer venue I will find you and I will hunt you down... bare feet and glass don't mix. Try this for summer and you will not be disappointed!

SHINER RUBY REDBIRD

Shiner Bock is kind of a cult classic when it comes to beer here in the south but I discovered Shiner Ruby Redbird last summer and I love it. I am a huge grapefruit fan. Who knew they made grapefruit beer??? Shiner does and it is full on Ruby Red goodness with a little kick of ginger in there. It's light and a little fruity so maybe the guys might turn their nose up but Shiner is a manly man's beer so I'm thinking even they would like it. Just don't tell them there is fruit in it.

What are your favorite summer beers?

Beer me...

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Humpday Confessions & Hashtags

Another round of humpday confessions & hashtags coming at you guys today. I don't know if I am coming or going right now. Feeling a little overwhelmed with the new work schedule and juggling everything at home again. Soooo.... here goes...

This is a horrible confession but... I need a 100% kid free weekend. I mean one hundo.  Now that my oldest has a job, half the time even on her Dad's weekends she winds up here with me because I have to get her to work and he can't be trusted. But... this is majorly screwing up my Amy time. I have to plan my nights around taking her and picking her up which means I am stuck and not able to plan anything that lasts more than a couple of hours. And I can't exactly entertain man friends with her in the house... ya pickin up what I'm layin down here? #notevenkidding

This makes me angry, angry that my ex douchehole still gets to fuck up my life. Now that I am back to work and feeling all kinds of badassery my rage for him is back in full force. #sendmesomezen

I confess I have been sucking at cooking lately. Like I am mostly eating things that require no cooking or thought because... my brain is tired from working. And sometimes I opt for drinking my calories. There I said it. #blameitonthealcohol

I am planning another Mother's Day tattoo (I did one last year) but I can't figure out where I want it. I have the artist and the design picked out though. I am finally going to get some work done at the legendary Live Free Tattoo by Alan Berg... as soon as I book it that is. But don't tell anyone, it's a secret.

#butitsnotforfree

I added one more show to my summer concert series. I couldn't resist. Now I have May, June, July & August covered. Luke Bryan is the August addition. I know this is a completely unnecessary expense but I also do not care one bit. #becausedatassdoe

Hope everyone has a killer Wednesday!

Linking up with Lolo & Lauren...

Hashtag Humpday • Humpday Confessions

Humpday Confessions & Hashtags

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Another round of humpday confessions & hashtags coming at you guys today. I don't know if I am coming or going right now. Feeling a little overwhelmed with the new work schedule and juggling everything at home again. Soooo.... here goes...

This is a horrible confession but... I need a 100% kid free weekend. I mean one hundo.  Now that my oldest has a job, half the time even on her Dad's weekends she winds up here with me because I have to get her to work and he can't be trusted. But... this is majorly screwing up my Amy time. I have to plan my nights around taking her and picking her up which means I am stuck and not able to plan anything that lasts more than a couple of hours. And I can't exactly entertain man friends with her in the house... ya pickin up what I'm layin down here? #notevenkidding

This makes me angry, angry that my ex douchehole still gets to fuck up my life. Now that I am back to work and feeling all kinds of badassery my rage for him is back in full force. #sendmesomezen

I confess I have been sucking at cooking lately. Like I am mostly eating things that require no cooking or thought because... my brain is tired from working. And sometimes I opt for drinking my calories. There I said it. #blameitonthealcohol

I am planning another Mother's Day tattoo (I did one last year) but I can't figure out where I want it. I have the artist and the design picked out though. I am finally going to get some work done at the legendary Live Free Tattoo by Alan Berg... as soon as I book it that is. But don't tell anyone, it's a secret.

#butitsnotforfree

I added one more show to my summer concert series. I couldn't resist. Now I have May, June, July & August covered. Luke Bryan is the August addition. I know this is a completely unnecessary expense but I also do not care one bit. #becausedatassdoe

Hope everyone has a killer Wednesday!

Linking up with Lolo & Lauren...

Read More

Job Lost and Found - What I Learned, What I Did & How It Changed Me

Have you ever lost your job unexpectedly? Let me tell you, I have, twice now... and it sucks big hairy balls. If you are new here let's get you caught up. I lost my job due to a RIF last November. MUTHER FUCKING NOVEMBER. And I just got a new one last week. That's 23 weeks of unemployment folks. I was almost off for half the year. How is that possible? More importantly I survived it. Me... broke single Mom with more issues than Vogue. I made it. Not without the help of family, friends and anything else I could find that was available to me. No shame. I did get 20 weeks of unemployment which helped some (and no, it's not a lot of $$$) but mostly I made the executive decision to just wait, use my savings and wait for the right thing to come along. I am still not sure if this is the absolute right thing but new job has serious potential. 

Somehow I managed to not just make it through the lean times but really take control over a few things in my life that I could control and here are  few things that I either learned or already knew that the universe just threw in my face again... because Amy can be a lil bit slooooowwww. 

Everything happens for a reason.

Be careful what you wish for. I was at the point of hating my old job and cursing it daily. Well, the universe took care of that for me.

Eggs are cheap and so are potatoes.Breakfast all day is budget friendly and pleases the masses.

Fleetwood Mac or really any music form the 70's fights depression, especially the Rumors album. It also inspires creativity. Play it loud and on repeat if possible. Drink every time Stevie talks to the crowd.

Find something else to focus on while you are unemployed. I mean you have to focus on getting a job but pick another big thing and tackle it. What else have you got goin' on? Here's your answer... a whole lotta nuthin.

Look at the time off as a gift. I know this seems odd because no money coming in is highly stressful for most of us and not like a gift at all. I got to spend 100% more time with my kids these last few months and believe me, their excitement about this was not lost on me. I got to be a stay at home Mom again, maybe for the last time, who knows. I did not hate more time with my people.

The holidays were my most relaxing since I got divorced because I really had time to enjoy them and not worry about the stuff... no money means less stuff and more time with people.

People asking how the job search is going 24/7 need to just chill the fuck out.

I had one major meltdown during the last 4 months. Hysterical, ugly, can't breathe crying on the phone to my mother and some times you just need to let it all out. It's ok, you don't have to go anywhere tomorrow when your face is swollen and hideous.

It's ok to be a little bit lazy while you're not working. When else can you really get away with it? People will understand and not judge you as long as you say "I just lost my job man and it sucks so bad". Rock dem PJ's.

This time was different than the last time for me. Last time I was unemployed I was still married but had already begun the divorce process. I freaked out and had major panic attacks not only over the job loss but because I knew not working would prevent me from moving forward in my life. Freaking out and stressing out does not help at all. The number one thing I learned this time and really embraced was just stay calm, stay focused and do what you can do everyday. Something will come, and it will.

I think I am stronger for this experience. No. I know I am. There are times in life when things happen and you think, that's it... I'm done. There is no way that I can get through this one more thing... but I keep learning, after all these years, that you can. It really takes deciding who you want to be. I see people in my life, my old life, who have given up and let circumstances defeat them and it really is just that simple. You make the choice.

Again, thanks to all of you my cheer leaders! You just don't know how the words you wrote or texted or spoke kept me going.

And stay tuned as I am sure the huge bldg. I now work in will lend itself to a plethora of entertaining snap chats. Hit me up...

Stay cool...

Job Loss • Life Changes • Unemployment

Job Lost and Found - What I Learned, What I Did & How It Changed Me

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Have you ever lost your job unexpectedly? Let me tell you, I have, twice now... and it sucks big hairy balls. If you are new here let's get you caught up. I lost my job due to a RIF last November. MUTHER FUCKING NOVEMBER. And I just got a new one last week. That's 23 weeks of unemployment folks. I was almost off for half the year. How is that possible? More importantly I survived it. Me... broke single Mom with more issues than Vogue. I made it. Not without the help of family, friends and anything else I could find that was available to me. No shame. I did get 20 weeks of unemployment which helped some (and no, it's not a lot of $$$) but mostly I made the executive decision to just wait, use my savings and wait for the right thing to come along. I am still not sure if this is the absolute right thing but new job has serious potential. 

Somehow I managed to not just make it through the lean times but really take control over a few things in my life that I could control and here are  few things that I either learned or already knew that the universe just threw in my face again... because Amy can be a lil bit slooooowwww. 

Everything happens for a reason.

Be careful what you wish for. I was at the point of hating my old job and cursing it daily. Well, the universe took care of that for me.

Eggs are cheap and so are potatoes.Breakfast all day is budget friendly and pleases the masses.

Fleetwood Mac or really any music form the 70's fights depression, especially the Rumors album. It also inspires creativity. Play it loud and on repeat if possible. Drink every time Stevie talks to the crowd.

Find something else to focus on while you are unemployed. I mean you have to focus on getting a job but pick another big thing and tackle it. What else have you got goin' on? Here's your answer... a whole lotta nuthin.

Look at the time off as a gift. I know this seems odd because no money coming in is highly stressful for most of us and not like a gift at all. I got to spend 100% more time with my kids these last few months and believe me, their excitement about this was not lost on me. I got to be a stay at home Mom again, maybe for the last time, who knows. I did not hate more time with my people.

The holidays were my most relaxing since I got divorced because I really had time to enjoy them and not worry about the stuff... no money means less stuff and more time with people.

People asking how the job search is going 24/7 need to just chill the fuck out.

I had one major meltdown during the last 4 months. Hysterical, ugly, can't breathe crying on the phone to my mother and some times you just need to let it all out. It's ok, you don't have to go anywhere tomorrow when your face is swollen and hideous.

It's ok to be a little bit lazy while you're not working. When else can you really get away with it? People will understand and not judge you as long as you say "I just lost my job man and it sucks so bad". Rock dem PJ's.

This time was different than the last time for me. Last time I was unemployed I was still married but had already begun the divorce process. I freaked out and had major panic attacks not only over the job loss but because I knew not working would prevent me from moving forward in my life. Freaking out and stressing out does not help at all. The number one thing I learned this time and really embraced was just stay calm, stay focused and do what you can do everyday. Something will come, and it will.

I think I am stronger for this experience. No. I know I am. There are times in life when things happen and you think, that's it... I'm done. There is no way that I can get through this one more thing... but I keep learning, after all these years, that you can. It really takes deciding who you want to be. I see people in my life, my old life, who have given up and let circumstances defeat them and it really is just that simple. You make the choice.

Again, thanks to all of you my cheer leaders! You just don't know how the words you wrote or texted or spoke kept me going.

And stay tuned as I am sure the huge bldg. I now work in will lend itself to a plethora of entertaining snap chats. Hit me up...

Stay cool...

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Weekending

Hey there ! Monday again... after a lovely lazy weekend for me! It has been raining for what seems like days on end here and this weekend was no different. It wasn't all that bad though. I did a whole lotta nothing exciting but it was a couple of days perfect for regrouping and recharging.

I got some meals prepped for this week... The Paleo Kitchen cookbook's Four Layer Beef & Bacon Casserole turned out great! Highly recommend that book!

I did make it to Target on Sunday but not at the crack of dawn so all the Lilly stuff was long gone and the displays being dismantled and hauled away. What a disappointment. I mean I knew it would go fast but come on. And to all of the women who ran in there like it was their life's mission, loaded up carts full and went home and listed it all on Ebay... you fucking suck. Get a life losers. And charging double or more for it? For shame.

My daughter went to her first prom and she looked amazing. Luckily she was able to borrow a dress from her cousin so I did not have to shell out a ton of money. She even bought her own shoes and paid for her own mani/pedi. She is awesome! They looked so cute and had fun. I felt like my Mother a little which was weird. I do not like this lol.

Now  I can get back to drooling all over the ACM's... holy crap Sam Hunt. Hope everybody had a good one and has a great week coming up! Happy Monday.

Linking up with Biana!

Weekending

Weekending

Monday, April 20, 2015

Hey there ! Monday again... after a lovely lazy weekend for me! It has been raining for what seems like days on end here and this weekend was no different. It wasn't all that bad though. I did a whole lotta nothing exciting but it was a couple of days perfect for regrouping and recharging.

I got some meals prepped for this week... The Paleo Kitchen cookbook's Four Layer Beef & Bacon Casserole turned out great! Highly recommend that book!

I did make it to Target on Sunday but not at the crack of dawn so all the Lilly stuff was long gone and the displays being dismantled and hauled away. What a disappointment. I mean I knew it would go fast but come on. And to all of the women who ran in there like it was their life's mission, loaded up carts full and went home and listed it all on Ebay... you fucking suck. Get a life losers. And charging double or more for it? For shame.

My daughter went to her first prom and she looked amazing. Luckily she was able to borrow a dress from her cousin so I did not have to shell out a ton of money. She even bought her own shoes and paid for her own mani/pedi. She is awesome! They looked so cute and had fun. I felt like my Mother a little which was weird. I do not like this lol.

Now  I can get back to drooling all over the ACM's... holy crap Sam Hunt. Hope everybody had a good one and has a great week coming up! Happy Monday.

Linking up with Biana!

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Friday Favorites: We Made It

Celebrate.

Woohoo!!! I have almost officially made it through my first week back to work and I feel great! Yes, it has been a really good week for me. I love my new job, at least so far. There is always the getting to know everything curve so a little slow getting started but I think it is going to be really, really good. Great company, great boss, great people and by far the most laid back atmosphere I have ever seen. One guy said to me "yeah, they treat us like adults here".

Having come from a place where the employees were micromanaged by the nutella shrew a few this is the answer to my prayers! I am soooo psyched! Thank you all for all your words of encouragement this week, you guys are the best!

So it would not be Friday without favorites and with my favorite newlywed Amanda. So lezzzz goooo...

SONG

Just love this girl... music so sexy.

PIN 

I pre-ordered this book, The Paleo Patisserie, and I have yet to get it. Get ur shit together Amazon and send it already since it came out on April 7. I am so making this for my next birthday because I am, in fact, a carrot cake fanatic.

SHOES

Why do these have to be so expensive? Tieks...I want them in every color for work. Or maybe just the leopard because it goes with everything right? If you have them are they worth it? Anyone know a good copy cat?

POF FREAK OF THE WEEK

Ladies... I give up. I ask for tattoos and a beard. I get an attorney that sends poetry.

JEANS

Did anyone see Carole Radziwell rocking these Balmain Red Biker Jeans this week on RHONY? I died. I want these, if I win the lottery I will buy them at $1117.00... yeah. What about these people is real exactly? Still love her though as she is my cougar kin. I predict she totally bone's LouAnne's personal chef.

And since the weekend is perfect for falling down, I give you people falling down and generally acting a fool.

This would be me. 

Wtf is exactly happening here? Pants falling off always funny.

Who wears jeans and a belt to workout. This guy. 

Yet another reason not to run. 

I know this goes with none of the previous stuff but dammit, sometimes I miss Jackass. Banana pranks, also always funny. 

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! Think of me when you eat that banana.

Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites: We Made It

Friday, April 17, 2015

Celebrate.

Woohoo!!! I have almost officially made it through my first week back to work and I feel great! Yes, it has been a really good week for me. I love my new job, at least so far. There is always the getting to know everything curve so a little slow getting started but I think it is going to be really, really good. Great company, great boss, great people and by far the most laid back atmosphere I have ever seen. One guy said to me "yeah, they treat us like adults here".

Having come from a place where the employees were micromanaged by the nutella shrew a few this is the answer to my prayers! I am soooo psyched! Thank you all for all your words of encouragement this week, you guys are the best!

So it would not be Friday without favorites and with my favorite newlywed Amanda. So lezzzz goooo...

SONG

Just love this girl... music so sexy.

PIN 

I pre-ordered this book, The Paleo Patisserie, and I have yet to get it. Get ur shit together Amazon and send it already since it came out on April 7. I am so making this for my next birthday because I am, in fact, a carrot cake fanatic.

SHOES

Why do these have to be so expensive? Tieks...I want them in every color for work. Or maybe just the leopard because it goes with everything right? If you have them are they worth it? Anyone know a good copy cat?

POF FREAK OF THE WEEK

Ladies... I give up. I ask for tattoos and a beard. I get an attorney that sends poetry.

JEANS

Did anyone see Carole Radziwell rocking these Balmain Red Biker Jeans this week on RHONY? I died. I want these, if I win the lottery I will buy them at $1117.00... yeah. What about these people is real exactly? Still love her though as she is my cougar kin. I predict she totally bone's LouAnne's personal chef.

And since the weekend is perfect for falling down, I give you people falling down and generally acting a fool.

This would be me. 

Wtf is exactly happening here? Pants falling off always funny.

Who wears jeans and a belt to workout. This guy. 

Yet another reason not to run. 

I know this goes with none of the previous stuff but dammit, sometimes I miss Jackass. Banana pranks, also always funny. 

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! Think of me when you eat that banana.

Read More