Just hanging

Not much going on here.

Last week was Spring Break and all regularly scheduled activities were canceled. Post was quiet. I would have never thought so many people in charge could take off at the same time.

This past weekend we went to visit Jack Bauer's uncle who lives about 3 hours from here. We hadn't seen him since our wedding 10 years ago. I met one of Jack's cousins for the first time. We got to hang by the pool, do a little hiking, and learn shuffleboard (not the Love Boat kind). Turns out that shuffleboard is way fun and I almost beat Jack's uncle who's been playing for a zillion years. We'll have to go back to play some more. (While I understand that shuffleboards are frequently found in bars out West, this shuffleboard was on their backyard patio. I'm not likely to take up bar hopping here in Cav Canyon just to play shuffleboard.)

Otherwise, just keeping busy with my Tastefully Simple business and getting some exercise and working on getting organized.

Wanted: Carpet Steamer

You think I can rent a carpet steamer on post? We've had, um, a few accidents around here. (Poor poochies. Poor BW.)

Where do you think I should start my search? Jack Bauer said something about Self-Help and MWR Rents. Has anyone done this?

Getting into a groove

I'm getting back into a groove, having my days to myself. There are several areas I want my days to focus on: fitness, social networking, my Tastefully Simple business, and housekeeping. I've scheduled time in my day for each of these. What do those of you who aren't going off to work everyday schedule your days?

Fitness: I'm walking the dogs in the early morning, which is great because the sunrises here are just beautiful. (And there are no rattlesnakes out!) I'm increasing the distance a little each day. And I'm doing a little pilates and yoga on top. I know that if I don't start off slow, I'll either injure myself or get frustrated and quit. So it is slow going to start. I'll make it up to the level of these ladies: Sara (with crossfit), Wendy (with running), and ABW (with running). You gals are an inspiration! Who else is working the fitness?

Social Networking: Checking Facebook and reading more blogs. And, of course, posting here more.

Tastefully Simple: You all have been so supportive of me getting my business started. And I am so lovin' it! I had such a great time in San Diego at the conference. This is such a fantastic company: debt-free AND growing AND hiring! I've shared this opportunity with some of you, but unfortunately I don't have everyone's email address. So if you are looking for an income or just something fun to do, email me at butterfly.wife.life AT gmail.com. I would LOVE to tell you more about how much FUN you could be having. :D

Housekeeping: With two dogs and a cat, there is always cleaning to be done! These beasties shed faster than I can vacuum it up. Beyond basic cleaning, I will be working on getting the one junk room turned into a working, resting, reading space for me!

Blogoversery

Today this blog turns 2! Holy cow! It's hard to believe I've been here in the blogosphere that long. But here I am. I've met here and in person some great people. You all helped me more than you will ever know, especially while Jack Bauer was deployed. Thank you!!!

God must have other things in store for me

I am unemployed. Again. After three weeks of work, I am back home in the middle of the day. My employment was conditional and that condition was not met.

I took a long drive to clear my head. I drove out to the small border town where my father went to high school. Last time I was there was 30 years ago. Can't say that it seemed much different. It looked like many small towns I've seen across the country. Its heyday has past, but there is a spirit that is undying. Down, yes. Out, no. Like so many, the jobs may come and go, but the life goes on, struggling through the tough times. Waiting, hoping, praying, and slowing working to get back on its feet.

I called my dad while I was there. He had me drive by the old apartment house he lived in with his father and brother. Not much to look at. Weeds overgrowing the front. A fresh paint job within the last 5 years. But 50 years my dad slept there in a small room he shared with his brother.

And then I drove home. To this gorgeous 3-bedroom + den, 2-bath, 3-car garage house with gourmet kitchen, soaking tub, walk-in shower, and entire living/dining room that we don't know what to do with, all sitting on 1.5 acres with views on the mountains on three sides. I want for nothing.

So God must have another plan for me right now. I am thinking I need to take better care. Of myself, the housekeeping, my dogs, my husband (not necessarily in that order). I can work on all of that.

I do have another job I am applying for later this week. And we'll just go from there.

And while I have your attention, who wants to have a Tastefully Simple Catalog Party? Seriously. Email me if you want to earn free products and our host collection. I'm still going to have FUN.