I’m playing the parts of 3 different buyers today. All parties who are here to support me in my time of learning a new business are out of town. Even on a day like today, I know in my bones I am made to do this. I do not regret, even for a second, the choices and sacrifices I’ve made to be here. There are 3 things that have made me happy today :
1) The vending machine gave me 2 cookies by accident
2) Diet Coke
3) Wearing flip flops around the office because all of my superiors are on vacation and how fabulous my toes look because I had a pedicure last week
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Thursday, February 21, 2008
I am so sure....
The same girl who decided to respond to my concern for her well being by going on an hour-long rant about how everyone hates me because I'm so fake and seem to be perfect in every way thought for some reason that it was okay to email me and ask me to go out with her and some friends this weekend.
First of all, I generally decide against hanging out with people who apparently hate me - I wouldn't want to make anyone jealous of my so-called perfect life. Secondly, does it not occur to her that maybe the things she said and the way she said them stung a little and I don't really care to be her bff at the moment? Lastly, maybe I'm hanging out with perfect people this weekend......which obviously means she's not invited.
Just thought it was a little shocking. Some people have some nerve!
First of all, I generally decide against hanging out with people who apparently hate me - I wouldn't want to make anyone jealous of my so-called perfect life. Secondly, does it not occur to her that maybe the things she said and the way she said them stung a little and I don't really care to be her bff at the moment? Lastly, maybe I'm hanging out with perfect people this weekend......which obviously means she's not invited.
Just thought it was a little shocking. Some people have some nerve!
Monday, February 4, 2008
My So-Called Perfect Life
"People who are unhappy hate to see people who are happy. You are happy. Amen."
These sweet words were written on a sticky note that was left in my bag for me to find one day when I came home from my precious Aunt Ruby’s house. I’ve got the note on my refrigerator so I never forget to remind myself of this truth. The people in my life, whether close or distant, have always seen in me a confidence and the ability to be positive and optimistic in any situation. I’ve always enjoyed hearing that I’ve brightened someone’s day or enabled someone to see the good in a situation rather than dwell on the negative.
Recently, it seems that I’ve been surrounded by people who, for whatever reason, can’t seem to be happy for me right now. I understand it’s hard to be genuinely happy for someone else, especially when things aren’t falling into place. For this reason, I do not fault them. That being said, to the people who I’ve offended when I gave a positive (and apparently sometimes over-the-top) answer to “how are things with you”, I am truly sorry. My intent was never to hurt you or “rub it in” by telling you things are going well for me.
I spent most of Saturday upset to the point of tears when my character and personality came under attack by someone I’ve known for quite a while. While I understand there was a point to be made, there was perhaps a less hurtful way to go about it. I make no apologies for the way that I am. My parents make no apologies for raising an independent, strong daughter.
The facts of my life are these : I’m 26 and single; I have a wonderful relationship with my parents and extended family; my family and I are in good health; I have a fabulous job that I love and happen to be good at; I have a new car that I love; and I have a close community of the best friends anyone could ask for.
I don’t need to be pushed into a relationship with someone I’m still figuring out if I have anything in common with. It’s not a bad thing to take things slowly. When I’m asked how my dating life is going, an answer in the ilk of “great, I’m not sure if I’ll see _____ tonight, but things are going well” is not an incorrect one. The fact that I may not have the best dating advice, a result of my poor choices and limited dating experience, does not make me judgmental and insensitive to those who have more invested in their current, maybe unpleasant situations.
No member of my family has never deceived or intentionally hurt me or any other member of our family. My parents and I have a very open relationship that I’m able to appreciate now. There has never been a major, life-changing event in my immediate family except maybe the addition of a new dog. For this, I am so grateful. I could never have fabricated a family with 2 more supportive, trusting parents and 3 siblings with better values and closer relationships. Sure, we all have our quirks……who doesn’t? We love each other and that’s all that matters.
I have been blessed with the strength to take my career into my own hands and, while the people around me could never understand my decision to leave Neiman Marcus, I couldn’t be happier with my decision. With the knowledge that I am better than the job I was able to do and the faith that, with the Lord on my side, I was bigger than the circumstance that made me so miserable, I set out for bigger and better things. I have started in a position with a company that my peers would never have put me in, and frankly, neither would I, but I am able to do what I always knew I could. I know that, at least for the time being, I am meant to be a Buyer. Michaels is providing me with the opportunity to prove that to the world and, most importantly, to myself. I’ve learned that my work does not have to control me and become who I am, but can be an added joy in my life. Furthermore, I enjoy coming to work in the morning….as I should.
Lastly, each of my friends has been put in my life for a very different reason than all others. Each one provides me with encouragement, sisterhood, and support that I’d be lost without. They don’t share my flaws with others, rather they offer me support in working through things that are tough for me. They don’t judge me. They don’t force me into things that I know are wrong for me. They don’t put words in my mouth then use them against me. Lastly, and very importantly, they don’t call me names or attack me for who I am.
“…For of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.” This statement is made twice in the Bible – once in Matthew 12:34 and again in Luke 6:45. My heart is so overfilled with joy from the blessings in my life, that there is no room for despair. Even the worst thing I deal with during the day pales in comparison to the trials some are going through. For this reason, I have no right to focus on them, but only to rejoice in the Lord for the blessings He so graciously continues to give me. His mercies are new every morning. Praise Him for His faithfulness.
My attitude does not make me fake. My inability to relate directly with hardship does not make me unable to empathize. My words are not judgmental. I truly am a simple person and, I believe, happier for it. If this is perceived as a façade of perfection and strength, I’ll apologize for your jealousy, but for nothing else. Rather, I’ll invite you to share in my joy as I share in yours.
These sweet words were written on a sticky note that was left in my bag for me to find one day when I came home from my precious Aunt Ruby’s house. I’ve got the note on my refrigerator so I never forget to remind myself of this truth. The people in my life, whether close or distant, have always seen in me a confidence and the ability to be positive and optimistic in any situation. I’ve always enjoyed hearing that I’ve brightened someone’s day or enabled someone to see the good in a situation rather than dwell on the negative.
Recently, it seems that I’ve been surrounded by people who, for whatever reason, can’t seem to be happy for me right now. I understand it’s hard to be genuinely happy for someone else, especially when things aren’t falling into place. For this reason, I do not fault them. That being said, to the people who I’ve offended when I gave a positive (and apparently sometimes over-the-top) answer to “how are things with you”, I am truly sorry. My intent was never to hurt you or “rub it in” by telling you things are going well for me.
I spent most of Saturday upset to the point of tears when my character and personality came under attack by someone I’ve known for quite a while. While I understand there was a point to be made, there was perhaps a less hurtful way to go about it. I make no apologies for the way that I am. My parents make no apologies for raising an independent, strong daughter.
The facts of my life are these : I’m 26 and single; I have a wonderful relationship with my parents and extended family; my family and I are in good health; I have a fabulous job that I love and happen to be good at; I have a new car that I love; and I have a close community of the best friends anyone could ask for.
I don’t need to be pushed into a relationship with someone I’m still figuring out if I have anything in common with. It’s not a bad thing to take things slowly. When I’m asked how my dating life is going, an answer in the ilk of “great, I’m not sure if I’ll see _____ tonight, but things are going well” is not an incorrect one. The fact that I may not have the best dating advice, a result of my poor choices and limited dating experience, does not make me judgmental and insensitive to those who have more invested in their current, maybe unpleasant situations.
No member of my family has never deceived or intentionally hurt me or any other member of our family. My parents and I have a very open relationship that I’m able to appreciate now. There has never been a major, life-changing event in my immediate family except maybe the addition of a new dog. For this, I am so grateful. I could never have fabricated a family with 2 more supportive, trusting parents and 3 siblings with better values and closer relationships. Sure, we all have our quirks……who doesn’t? We love each other and that’s all that matters.
I have been blessed with the strength to take my career into my own hands and, while the people around me could never understand my decision to leave Neiman Marcus, I couldn’t be happier with my decision. With the knowledge that I am better than the job I was able to do and the faith that, with the Lord on my side, I was bigger than the circumstance that made me so miserable, I set out for bigger and better things. I have started in a position with a company that my peers would never have put me in, and frankly, neither would I, but I am able to do what I always knew I could. I know that, at least for the time being, I am meant to be a Buyer. Michaels is providing me with the opportunity to prove that to the world and, most importantly, to myself. I’ve learned that my work does not have to control me and become who I am, but can be an added joy in my life. Furthermore, I enjoy coming to work in the morning….as I should.
Lastly, each of my friends has been put in my life for a very different reason than all others. Each one provides me with encouragement, sisterhood, and support that I’d be lost without. They don’t share my flaws with others, rather they offer me support in working through things that are tough for me. They don’t judge me. They don’t force me into things that I know are wrong for me. They don’t put words in my mouth then use them against me. Lastly, and very importantly, they don’t call me names or attack me for who I am.
“…For of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.” This statement is made twice in the Bible – once in Matthew 12:34 and again in Luke 6:45. My heart is so overfilled with joy from the blessings in my life, that there is no room for despair. Even the worst thing I deal with during the day pales in comparison to the trials some are going through. For this reason, I have no right to focus on them, but only to rejoice in the Lord for the blessings He so graciously continues to give me. His mercies are new every morning. Praise Him for His faithfulness.
My attitude does not make me fake. My inability to relate directly with hardship does not make me unable to empathize. My words are not judgmental. I truly am a simple person and, I believe, happier for it. If this is perceived as a façade of perfection and strength, I’ll apologize for your jealousy, but for nothing else. Rather, I’ll invite you to share in my joy as I share in yours.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Corporate America : What Was the Rush?
Tuesday, January 22, 2008 : Things about which I've heard stories in the office today :
Male Chauvinism
Babies
Recipes
Livable Suburbs
Sports
Babies
Paycheck Flubs
Dogs
Business
Babies
Girl Scouts
It’s not a mistake that BABIES is listed more than once. I’m sure every couple thinks their kid is the cutest on the planet, and if they want to spend all day watching the “mommy cam” at the daycare center, that’s their business, but I don’t need to know every single time your child has a bowel movement or spits up on her shirt. Okay?
It’s a wonder anyone gets anything done around here with all the distractions!!
Male Chauvinism
Babies
Recipes
Livable Suburbs
Sports
Babies
Paycheck Flubs
Dogs
Business
Babies
Girl Scouts
It’s not a mistake that BABIES is listed more than once. I’m sure every couple thinks their kid is the cutest on the planet, and if they want to spend all day watching the “mommy cam” at the daycare center, that’s their business, but I don’t need to know every single time your child has a bowel movement or spits up on her shirt. Okay?
It’s a wonder anyone gets anything done around here with all the distractions!!
King Ranch Chicken and Shiner Bock Beer
Maybe it's because I'm a girl, maybe it's because I'm Mexican, maybe it's because I like to eat, but there is nothing more attractive than a guy who knows his way around the kitchen. Something about a man who owns (and knows how to use) a garlic press just ...well, it's just sexy. Whatever has been going on between this guy and me the past few weeks, I'm not sure, but one thing I found out last night is he sure can cook. I don't even care if King Ranch Chicken is the only thing he knows how to make; he's one up on me, that's for sure!
He invited me over last night for dinner. He told me to be there at a certain time to ensure all preparation was done before I arrived and promptly invited me to sit as soon as I walked in. There was music going, fabulous food (all dishes and condiments were home-made) and great conversation.
By the way, this one is the one I thought I threw in the "pooper" and the one who used the phrase "it's not you, it's me". Update time : We're completely on the same page, want the same things, and are in agreement on where things stand. It took a little convincing, but I finally dragged out of him why he felt like he needed to walk on eggshells around me. We've both been through a situation we wouldn't wish on an enemy, so there's no reason to rush into anything. As long as we enjoy seeing one another, there's no reason not to. I'm so relieved! The best part? There's no pressure - - Maybe it'll work out, maybe it won't, but it's fun for now and that's all that matters!
This, my friends, is why I'm happy being single. No pressure, no strings attached, and no commitment, because frankly, that stuff freaks me out a little.
He invited me over last night for dinner. He told me to be there at a certain time to ensure all preparation was done before I arrived and promptly invited me to sit as soon as I walked in. There was music going, fabulous food (all dishes and condiments were home-made) and great conversation.
By the way, this one is the one I thought I threw in the "pooper" and the one who used the phrase "it's not you, it's me". Update time : We're completely on the same page, want the same things, and are in agreement on where things stand. It took a little convincing, but I finally dragged out of him why he felt like he needed to walk on eggshells around me. We've both been through a situation we wouldn't wish on an enemy, so there's no reason to rush into anything. As long as we enjoy seeing one another, there's no reason not to. I'm so relieved! The best part? There's no pressure - - Maybe it'll work out, maybe it won't, but it's fun for now and that's all that matters!
This, my friends, is why I'm happy being single. No pressure, no strings attached, and no commitment, because frankly, that stuff freaks me out a little.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
It's Not You....It's Me
The words we all love to hear....right? NOT!! You may be thinking that this is the update I promised to "In the Pooper", but it's not. I did hear these words uttered by the person that entry was about, but not in the context in which it's usually delivered. This came in response to "What's wrong? Why was your day so bad?". Truth is, we've all heard it and we've all used it.
Here are my issues with this statement :
1) It should never be used
2) It's usually followed with "It's just that you...."
3) Truth is...it might not be me, but it is, in most cases, your reaction to something about me....so, spit it out
4) If you're being grumpy pants and don't want to talk about your day or anything going on, DON'T CALL ME!
5) Finally......STOP SAYING "IT'S NOT YOU, IT'S ME"!!!!
Here are my issues with this statement :
1) It should never be used
2) It's usually followed with "It's just that you...."
3) Truth is...it might not be me, but it is, in most cases, your reaction to something about me....so, spit it out
4) If you're being grumpy pants and don't want to talk about your day or anything going on, DON'T CALL ME!
5) Finally......STOP SAYING "IT'S NOT YOU, IT'S ME"!!!!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Lillies....my favorite!
I got flowers at work today. Not from anyone who is, or ever will be, a love interest, but from a friend who just wanted to wish me a “wonderful day” in the midst of my recent craziness. Now, there are 2 schools of thought here : 1) he’s trying to pursue me and by doing this, he has ensured that each and every one of my coworkers will stop to ask who they’re from and why I’m not dating him…thus, putting him front of mind for potential likeability. Or 2) he genuinely wanted me to have a good day and thought that, by reminding me that I’m special, a good day is a guarantee. Knowing this friend and the situation, I can assure you, it's the latter.
People don’t get or give flowers enough. It’s such a simple gesture….not the huge arrangements that cause a scene when the delivery guy carries them into the building and past the offices of everyone you know….but a simple “thinking of you” stem or bouquet.
Sometimes when we get beat down by the little things that build up and make us look forward to the weekend, it’s nice to know someone thinks I'm invincible. Someone thinks I'm funny and witty and brilliant and a great friend and ….. special. No matter who the reminder comes from, it’s nice to be reminded.
I propose that all boys reading this send flowers to their girlfriends. I also propose that all girls reading this send flowers to a girlfriend, mom, grandmother, or sister….and when you receive this thoughtful gift, be sure to tell them how special it made you feel – this will ensure it happens again.
People don’t get or give flowers enough. It’s such a simple gesture….not the huge arrangements that cause a scene when the delivery guy carries them into the building and past the offices of everyone you know….but a simple “thinking of you” stem or bouquet.
Sometimes when we get beat down by the little things that build up and make us look forward to the weekend, it’s nice to know someone thinks I'm invincible. Someone thinks I'm funny and witty and brilliant and a great friend and ….. special. No matter who the reminder comes from, it’s nice to be reminded.
I propose that all boys reading this send flowers to their girlfriends. I also propose that all girls reading this send flowers to a girlfriend, mom, grandmother, or sister….and when you receive this thoughtful gift, be sure to tell them how special it made you feel – this will ensure it happens again.
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