You know, sometimes I'm just not good at keeping up with regular blog posts. Not that it really matters because I don't know who really reads these. But I feel like sometimes I have so much to say that I'll have like three blog posts I'll want to put up all within like three days. Other times, like now, I have nothing to say for a month. Oh well, such is life I suppose. We don't always have blog-worthy events going on at home!
But since it has been a month, I figured I better update you all on our life! January was a good month for us. Nothing too big or exciting but I would say a pretty good start to the new year. AJ got quickly back into the swing of things at school, preparing for upcoming solo/ensemble contest and then large group contest later down the road. Although I think I speak for AJ and probably all the kids at school, that because of the mild winter we've been having, they're a little disappointed that they haven't had any snow days yet this year! But who knows, winter could definitely still come and surprise us! We'll just have to wait and see.
AJ did get some exciting news a couple of weeks ago though about a possible summer job! There is a community theater in Macedonia, which is just about 10 minutes down the road from Oakland and part of the school district. They are putting on a summer production of "Annie" and want AJ to be the musical director! It should be a great gig for him too! The performances would be at the end of June so he'd be able to get some extra cash and still have the month of July to relax and enjoy his summer vacation. Plus, AJ is is exciting for the experience, to meet some new people, network and to get in some practice before he has to put on another musical next fall at the high school.
AJ also got some other news a couple of weeks ago, although I'm not sure this one is as exciting. AJ has to get his wisdom teeth removed. They've been bothering him for a while and I think he's ready to have them out! So we go in this Friday for the procedure. And then I will get to spend all weekend taking care of him! :) I'm a little excited to see if he swells up and looks like a cute chipmunk! haha But in all seriousness, your thoughts and prayers would be greatly appreciated that the procedure goes well and for a fast recovery! We all know how much AJ loves to talk so hopefully he'll be back up and talking again shortly afterwards! :)
Things at my job are going great right now as well. It's starting to pick up and get busy again. I'll be visiting high schools here starting next month and doing some college fairs in March. While the spring is definitely quieter than my fall travel season, I'll still be plenty busy. Another great thing about my job is that I still have my job! When I first started, a year ago as of January 18th (woot!), it was only for a one year temporary position. Thankfully it was extended for another year and hopefully I'll even be hired on in a full time position - at least that's what we're working on! :) I also have to say that I've been very thankful for the mild winter so far. With my drive being a lot longer than AJ's into work, I'm glad we haven't really had any nasty weather. It's made my commute much more easier!
AJ and I are also trying to get a head of our finances. Even after two years of marriage, there are still things that surprise us, or that we argue about when it comes to finances. I think it's probably a struggle for a lot of people. So we're taking some financial planning courses. Maybe you've heard of Dave Rasmey, but he has these Financial Peace University courses that are taught all over the country. And there's actually a class taking place at the church in Oakland that we attend. So starting tomorrow, Feb. 1st, we'll be attending a 13-week course. It should be pretty interesting and hopefully we'll learn a lot and get a lot out of it. Maybe we'll even figure out how to do our taxes! I have to say that when this time comes every year it makes me nervous. I hate filing taxes. You never know what to expect. And this year is even more difficult with me working in one state and living in another. I think the whole process is entirely too difficult for the average person to understand. So I think AJ and I might just bite the bullet and meet with someone to help us this year.
Well, that's about it. That's all we've been up to recently. More to come as soon as more happens. :)
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Happy New Year!
Well, as quickly as they came, the holidays are now gone. But I think I speak for both Austin and I when I say that we had a great holiday season this year.
Last year over the holidays, I was unemployed. As such, we were able to spend more time with family since AJ has a bigger break over the holidays off from school and so it worked out very nicely! But then of course I got this job. Come to find out, the university shuts down the week between Christmas and the New Year so we were able to enjoy just as much of a relaxing break this year with our families!
We started out in Tipton, spending the actual holidays with Austin's family. We had a blast - as we always do! :) We played board games, Wii games, ate A LOT of food and of course, had our traditional scavenger hunt! AJ's parents would always make a scavenger hunt for the kids growing up and it's something they continue to do, only now Matt and I get to join in on the fun as well! But this year, I decided to mix it up a little bit - we created a scavenger hunt for them! It was fun to see them "run" around the house and yard looking for their clues to find their present this year! Although, I'm not sure we'll make them do it every year... :) We even had time to make some awesome gingerbread houses... and one boat. haha Overall, it was great to be back in Tipton and spend some much needed time together with the family! It had been way too long! Here are some pictures from our time there!
After spending some time in Tipton, we headed up to Minnesota to see my family. I think they were eager for us to get there because they were waiting on us to open presents! :) Again, we enjoyed being able to just spend some relaxing time with family and seeing old friends while we were there. We also enjoyed watching an old video that we made last Christmas while our parents were away... it was quite funny. :) We even got some snow while we were there - very little!! - but enough to make it feel a little bit more like Christmas. Otherwise it was a very brown Christmas - everywhere (home in Oakland, Tipton and Minnesota!). And I mean brown, no snow whatsoever. Not even piles in the ditch. It was very sad. But anyway, we did get a light dusting in Minnesota just in time to celebrate the Reedstrom family Christmas. We had a houseful and it was so much fun! We always have a great time!
We did celebrate Mom's birthday while we were around on Friday night before we all had to leave as well! We decided to drive back home on the 31st so that we could spend a relaxing New Year's Eve at our house - really just being a boring old couple. :) But it was good to be home after being gone for so long. We really wish the rest of our family would just decide to move so that they would all be closer to us! ;-) And it was nice to have a relaxing day on Sunday before AJ had to go back to work on Monday. AJ had a professional development day on Monday, so no kids yet and then he even got the afternoon off. But that meant he was stuck at home with me cleaning the house, putting away Christmas decorations and re-organizing all of his clothes! :) I would say it was a very productive day!
Over break, AJ did have some excitement when it comes to his high school choir! They were featured on a local radio station that was featuring local talent singing Christmas songs! The recording he sent in is absolutely great (if you haven't heard it already!) and the radio even did a little bit of a back story!! You can listen to it here and you really should!!
And now it's back to the old routine of things, but in a new year. I love the start of a new year. It's a new beginning, a fresh start. A time for resolutions, although who really ever keeps those... haha The new year is a time to make new commitments. New ideas. A time for new adventures. And that's really what AJ and I are hoping for this year. We have some new ideas, some new plans and hopefully some new adventures in the works!
But, at the same time, you have to stay somewhat down to earth. You have to also realize that things don't always work out. Resolutions aren't always kept. Plans don't always go accordingly. But that's okay too. Because in one year, there will be a chance for another fresh start.
Last year over the holidays, I was unemployed. As such, we were able to spend more time with family since AJ has a bigger break over the holidays off from school and so it worked out very nicely! But then of course I got this job. Come to find out, the university shuts down the week between Christmas and the New Year so we were able to enjoy just as much of a relaxing break this year with our families!
We started out in Tipton, spending the actual holidays with Austin's family. We had a blast - as we always do! :) We played board games, Wii games, ate A LOT of food and of course, had our traditional scavenger hunt! AJ's parents would always make a scavenger hunt for the kids growing up and it's something they continue to do, only now Matt and I get to join in on the fun as well! But this year, I decided to mix it up a little bit - we created a scavenger hunt for them! It was fun to see them "run" around the house and yard looking for their clues to find their present this year! Although, I'm not sure we'll make them do it every year... :) We even had time to make some awesome gingerbread houses... and one boat. haha Overall, it was great to be back in Tipton and spend some much needed time together with the family! It had been way too long! Here are some pictures from our time there!
After spending some time in Tipton, we headed up to Minnesota to see my family. I think they were eager for us to get there because they were waiting on us to open presents! :) Again, we enjoyed being able to just spend some relaxing time with family and seeing old friends while we were there. We also enjoyed watching an old video that we made last Christmas while our parents were away... it was quite funny. :) We even got some snow while we were there - very little!! - but enough to make it feel a little bit more like Christmas. Otherwise it was a very brown Christmas - everywhere (home in Oakland, Tipton and Minnesota!). And I mean brown, no snow whatsoever. Not even piles in the ditch. It was very sad. But anyway, we did get a light dusting in Minnesota just in time to celebrate the Reedstrom family Christmas. We had a houseful and it was so much fun! We always have a great time!
Over break, AJ did have some excitement when it comes to his high school choir! They were featured on a local radio station that was featuring local talent singing Christmas songs! The recording he sent in is absolutely great (if you haven't heard it already!) and the radio even did a little bit of a back story!! You can listen to it here and you really should!!
And now it's back to the old routine of things, but in a new year. I love the start of a new year. It's a new beginning, a fresh start. A time for resolutions, although who really ever keeps those... haha The new year is a time to make new commitments. New ideas. A time for new adventures. And that's really what AJ and I are hoping for this year. We have some new ideas, some new plans and hopefully some new adventures in the works!
But, at the same time, you have to stay somewhat down to earth. You have to also realize that things don't always work out. Resolutions aren't always kept. Plans don't always go accordingly. But that's okay too. Because in one year, there will be a chance for another fresh start.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
December already?
I've decided it was time for another update blog post. I mean, I know how much you all love these! ;-)
November came and was quickly gone again. Sometimes I can't believe it's already December! But November was still a fairly busy time for us. I was busy finishing up my high school visits and AJ was busy preparing for his all-school talent show. I spent some time up in Minnesota for a friend's baby shower and it was so good to see my high school friends. We always have a great time whenever we can get together! But you can tell we're all getting older as our gatherings now include babies! :)
The all-school talent show went great for AJ and I think he was really pleased with all the acts and how well all of his students did. And then we even had some visitors! Amber and Ariel came over and the three of us (we left AJ at home...) went to go see Breaking Dawn. We've seen the last two Twilight movies together so it's become a fun tradition for us!
And then it was already Thanksgiving! We spent the weekend up in Minnesota with my family. It was great to not only have some time with just our immediate family, but to also spend Thanksgiving day with our extended family as well. And again, you can tell we're all growing up as we now have little ones to entertain us throughout the day. :) AJ especially had fun playing Ring-Around-the-Rosie with them! We spent the rest of the weekend relaxing and enjoying our time off from work. We did do some Black Friday shopping - but not until later in the morning! And seeing some other friends while we were home as well. Overall, it was a great weekend! And plenty to be thankful for!
And now it's December! We welcomed December with a bit of snow on the first but nothing that really stuck. And then that first Saturday we had quite a bit of snow! It was one of those really beautiful snowfalls with the big fluffy flakes. Unfortunately, we were in Omaha for the day as I was at work and we had some shopping to do. Luckily though, we didn't run into too many problems on the drive home. Now however, all of snow has melted! And I must admit, I don't like it. I'm a big fan of having a white Christmas! Must be the whole growing up in Minnesota thing... :) But I need to have snow on Christmas. And from what my parents tell me, they don't have any snow back at home either! So here's hoping that we do get another snowfall that sticks - here, in Tipton and in Minnesota! Give me snow! :)
On Dec. 2nd, AJ had his Middle School Winter Concert. The fun part about that is that he had family that came over to surprise him! I knew ahead of time and it was fun to see his surprised face at the concert! His Mom, Grandma, Aunt Lisa and Amber all came for the concert. It was fun to have AJ walk around the corner and see them standing there! We are so blessed to have such amazing family that supports us so much! The concert itself was also amazing! Especially for a middle school concert, the sound was very good. The students were engaged and focused on what they were doing! AJ definitely knows what he's doing. I think his family were very impressed with the quality of concert it was as well, for being a middle school concert.
This past weekend we had some guests come and hang out with us! My friend Amanda and her baby Thor drove down for the weekend! The visit had been a long time coming and we were so happy it finally happened! We had a fun-filled weekend of playing with Thor and getting in some quality clans-people time! :) On Saturday we spent most of the day in Omaha at one of the malls. Amanda wanted to take Thor to see Santa! And the pictures she got were priceless! Definitely worth the 45 minutes we spent waiting in line! We all got some shopping done and ended the day at the Cheesecake Factory - which made my husband very happy! :) On Sunday we all just relaxed and didn't really do much of anything! Although we did give Thor a bath and taught him how to splash... haha They drove back home yesterday (Monday) and it was sad to see them go! We had a lot of fun! And we got a pretty good idea of what it's like to have a baby around 24/7! :) Not quite sure if we're ready for that yet... haha
Our string of visitors didn't stop there however! Yesterday we also welcomed my parents into town! They came down to see AJ's concert last night! It was wonderful of them to drive down and always great to see them! Plus, it was the first time my mom had seen our new apartment! After the concert we all went out for dinner and definitely had a good time! No offense to my sister and brother, but it was nice to spend some quality time with just AJ and my parents. I'm not sure we've really ever gotten the chance to do that. And it was really great. Again, we are truly blessed to have such supportive families! :) And today, before they headed back home to Minnesota, they drove into Omaha to see where I work and walk around UNO's campus! It's always fun to show off the place where I work and tell them about campus! :) I was even treated with a Jones Bros Cupcake before they left! Lucky me! And AJ... we of course bought one for him too!
So, as I mentioned, last night was AJ's High School Winter Concert - and his last concert for the year. The concert was incredible! It's been amazing to see how far the choir has progressed in just one short year! AJ has tripled his choir size and you could definitely tell the difference in the concert last night. Their sound was so good and the level of singing has definitely improved. AJ just has a way with students and knows how to get them to focus on what they're doing and to really put on a great show. The level of one of the songs they did was so impressive - it was a very difficult song - an All-State song, especially for such a young choir like AJ's but they did outstanding! Like I said, they've come a long way in just one year and it'll be exciting to see how Contest will go this spring and what will happen next year! It was a great concert!
I was thinking last night during the concert about when AJ first got offered the job at Riverside. I remember thinking that after he accepted the job, even though I somehow knew it was the right decision, I couldn't imagine leaving Northeast Iowa... I couldn't imagine living in Council Bluffs, in a place that was so foreign and far away from our family and friends. It was hard for me to picture what our life would be like here. But last night, as I watched AJ conduct the choir and watch how the kids responded to him, I can't imagine us being anywhere else right now.
Yes we're far away from our family. But this is where we're suppose to be. I know that without a doubt. This job at Riverside has been the perfect job for AJ. It's allowed him to really build up a program. It's allowed him to start making a name for himself. It's helped him to really develop his teaching skills and styles and to develop the program. We're in a community that has welcomed us with open arms and one that simply adores AJ. I love tagging behind AJ after a concert to listen to all the amazing compliments he receives from parents and members of the community. I love hearing AJ come home and tell me the nice things that the principal said to him that day after observing his class. I love reading emails that AJ gets from mentors or parents that talk about how they've never seen a skill and energy level like his from a second year teacher. I love being able to be so proud of my husband.
Not only has this place been great for AJ and his career, it's also been perfect for mine. I remember having to leave Kruger, a place where I've become comfortable and try to figure out what I was going to do over here. I remember applying for job and job, just trying to find anything. And then I was lucky enough to interview at UNO for the Admissions Counselor position. Getting in to admissions work in higher education is something I've always wanted to do since I graduated. I worked as a student in Wartburg's Admissions Office and loved it! But it can be hard to get into the field without having experience! So I have been so grateful for the opportunity I've been given here at UNO. And I believe that this job has helped me realize that I want to continue my career in higher education. Trying to figure out what I've wanted to do with my life has been a struggle of mine since college. And while I still don't know entirely what I want to do in life, I know I would like to stay within education - specifically higher education. And that's a good feeling.
I know I say this a lot, but God really does know what He's doing. It's just always amazing when you think back over the past year or two and you can see how everything has fallen into place exactly like it's suppose to. Looking back and and then looking at the present, seeing everything is how it's suppose to be, it makes going through those rough patches easier. It's helpful to know that those rough patches are sometimes necessary to make you stronger or to help get you to the place you are now.
Everything just takes time. Time and patience. And that's something that not a lot of us have. God's timeline is much different than ours but His is the one that counts. And it's always good when you can finally see that.
So, I strayed a bit and didn't just keep this an update blog but hopefully that's okay. :) And anyhow... right now I think AJ and I are both looking forward to Christmas break! One thing I love about my job is that we get the week off in between Christmas and New Year's! And since AJ also has a break, this means that we get some extended time with our families!! Which we love!! :) So next week we'll be heading to Tipton for a Zaruba Christmas and then the following week we're driving up to Minnesota for a late Reedstrom Christmas. It should be a great, fun and relaxing time! Now if it would just hurry up and get here! :)
November came and was quickly gone again. Sometimes I can't believe it's already December! But November was still a fairly busy time for us. I was busy finishing up my high school visits and AJ was busy preparing for his all-school talent show. I spent some time up in Minnesota for a friend's baby shower and it was so good to see my high school friends. We always have a great time whenever we can get together! But you can tell we're all getting older as our gatherings now include babies! :)
The all-school talent show went great for AJ and I think he was really pleased with all the acts and how well all of his students did. And then we even had some visitors! Amber and Ariel came over and the three of us (we left AJ at home...) went to go see Breaking Dawn. We've seen the last two Twilight movies together so it's become a fun tradition for us!
And then it was already Thanksgiving! We spent the weekend up in Minnesota with my family. It was great to not only have some time with just our immediate family, but to also spend Thanksgiving day with our extended family as well. And again, you can tell we're all growing up as we now have little ones to entertain us throughout the day. :) AJ especially had fun playing Ring-Around-the-Rosie with them! We spent the rest of the weekend relaxing and enjoying our time off from work. We did do some Black Friday shopping - but not until later in the morning! And seeing some other friends while we were home as well. Overall, it was a great weekend! And plenty to be thankful for!
And now it's December! We welcomed December with a bit of snow on the first but nothing that really stuck. And then that first Saturday we had quite a bit of snow! It was one of those really beautiful snowfalls with the big fluffy flakes. Unfortunately, we were in Omaha for the day as I was at work and we had some shopping to do. Luckily though, we didn't run into too many problems on the drive home. Now however, all of snow has melted! And I must admit, I don't like it. I'm a big fan of having a white Christmas! Must be the whole growing up in Minnesota thing... :) But I need to have snow on Christmas. And from what my parents tell me, they don't have any snow back at home either! So here's hoping that we do get another snowfall that sticks - here, in Tipton and in Minnesota! Give me snow! :)
On Dec. 2nd, AJ had his Middle School Winter Concert. The fun part about that is that he had family that came over to surprise him! I knew ahead of time and it was fun to see his surprised face at the concert! His Mom, Grandma, Aunt Lisa and Amber all came for the concert. It was fun to have AJ walk around the corner and see them standing there! We are so blessed to have such amazing family that supports us so much! The concert itself was also amazing! Especially for a middle school concert, the sound was very good. The students were engaged and focused on what they were doing! AJ definitely knows what he's doing. I think his family were very impressed with the quality of concert it was as well, for being a middle school concert.
This past weekend we had some guests come and hang out with us! My friend Amanda and her baby Thor drove down for the weekend! The visit had been a long time coming and we were so happy it finally happened! We had a fun-filled weekend of playing with Thor and getting in some quality clans-people time! :) On Saturday we spent most of the day in Omaha at one of the malls. Amanda wanted to take Thor to see Santa! And the pictures she got were priceless! Definitely worth the 45 minutes we spent waiting in line! We all got some shopping done and ended the day at the Cheesecake Factory - which made my husband very happy! :) On Sunday we all just relaxed and didn't really do much of anything! Although we did give Thor a bath and taught him how to splash... haha They drove back home yesterday (Monday) and it was sad to see them go! We had a lot of fun! And we got a pretty good idea of what it's like to have a baby around 24/7! :) Not quite sure if we're ready for that yet... haha
Our string of visitors didn't stop there however! Yesterday we also welcomed my parents into town! They came down to see AJ's concert last night! It was wonderful of them to drive down and always great to see them! Plus, it was the first time my mom had seen our new apartment! After the concert we all went out for dinner and definitely had a good time! No offense to my sister and brother, but it was nice to spend some quality time with just AJ and my parents. I'm not sure we've really ever gotten the chance to do that. And it was really great. Again, we are truly blessed to have such supportive families! :) And today, before they headed back home to Minnesota, they drove into Omaha to see where I work and walk around UNO's campus! It's always fun to show off the place where I work and tell them about campus! :) I was even treated with a Jones Bros Cupcake before they left! Lucky me! And AJ... we of course bought one for him too!
So, as I mentioned, last night was AJ's High School Winter Concert - and his last concert for the year. The concert was incredible! It's been amazing to see how far the choir has progressed in just one short year! AJ has tripled his choir size and you could definitely tell the difference in the concert last night. Their sound was so good and the level of singing has definitely improved. AJ just has a way with students and knows how to get them to focus on what they're doing and to really put on a great show. The level of one of the songs they did was so impressive - it was a very difficult song - an All-State song, especially for such a young choir like AJ's but they did outstanding! Like I said, they've come a long way in just one year and it'll be exciting to see how Contest will go this spring and what will happen next year! It was a great concert!
I was thinking last night during the concert about when AJ first got offered the job at Riverside. I remember thinking that after he accepted the job, even though I somehow knew it was the right decision, I couldn't imagine leaving Northeast Iowa... I couldn't imagine living in Council Bluffs, in a place that was so foreign and far away from our family and friends. It was hard for me to picture what our life would be like here. But last night, as I watched AJ conduct the choir and watch how the kids responded to him, I can't imagine us being anywhere else right now.
Yes we're far away from our family. But this is where we're suppose to be. I know that without a doubt. This job at Riverside has been the perfect job for AJ. It's allowed him to really build up a program. It's allowed him to start making a name for himself. It's helped him to really develop his teaching skills and styles and to develop the program. We're in a community that has welcomed us with open arms and one that simply adores AJ. I love tagging behind AJ after a concert to listen to all the amazing compliments he receives from parents and members of the community. I love hearing AJ come home and tell me the nice things that the principal said to him that day after observing his class. I love reading emails that AJ gets from mentors or parents that talk about how they've never seen a skill and energy level like his from a second year teacher. I love being able to be so proud of my husband.
Not only has this place been great for AJ and his career, it's also been perfect for mine. I remember having to leave Kruger, a place where I've become comfortable and try to figure out what I was going to do over here. I remember applying for job and job, just trying to find anything. And then I was lucky enough to interview at UNO for the Admissions Counselor position. Getting in to admissions work in higher education is something I've always wanted to do since I graduated. I worked as a student in Wartburg's Admissions Office and loved it! But it can be hard to get into the field without having experience! So I have been so grateful for the opportunity I've been given here at UNO. And I believe that this job has helped me realize that I want to continue my career in higher education. Trying to figure out what I've wanted to do with my life has been a struggle of mine since college. And while I still don't know entirely what I want to do in life, I know I would like to stay within education - specifically higher education. And that's a good feeling.
I know I say this a lot, but God really does know what He's doing. It's just always amazing when you think back over the past year or two and you can see how everything has fallen into place exactly like it's suppose to. Looking back and and then looking at the present, seeing everything is how it's suppose to be, it makes going through those rough patches easier. It's helpful to know that those rough patches are sometimes necessary to make you stronger or to help get you to the place you are now.
Everything just takes time. Time and patience. And that's something that not a lot of us have. God's timeline is much different than ours but His is the one that counts. And it's always good when you can finally see that.
So, I strayed a bit and didn't just keep this an update blog but hopefully that's okay. :) And anyhow... right now I think AJ and I are both looking forward to Christmas break! One thing I love about my job is that we get the week off in between Christmas and New Year's! And since AJ also has a break, this means that we get some extended time with our families!! Which we love!! :) So next week we'll be heading to Tipton for a Zaruba Christmas and then the following week we're driving up to Minnesota for a late Reedstrom Christmas. It should be a great, fun and relaxing time! Now if it would just hurry up and get here! :)
Monday, November 28, 2011
I'm thankful for...
So I know I'm a couple of days late on this post, but really Thanksgiving isn't the only day you can remember all that you're thankful for! So that's what this is post is for! Creating a list of all that I am thankful for and so grateful to be blessed by God! I have so much to be thankful for. So much that I'm not sure I'll even be able to write it all down! :)
I am thankful that Austin and I have a place to call our own. We have a roof over our head. We have a place we can come home to every night and relax. And if I'm being honest here, I'm thankful for my jet whirlpool tub! ;-) We have a kitchen and plenty of food to eat. I am thankful that we always have food and never go hungry. I'm thankful for a husband that will cook for me so I don't go hungry!
I'm thankful that we live in a small town and a great community that has welcomed us with open arms. I'm thankful we have found a church that has always welcomed us in and is eager to help us become more involved in the church and community.
I'm thankful for mine and Austin's good health. I'm thankful we don't have thousands or even hundreds of dollars in medical bills. I'm thankful we're both able to do what we love. I'm thankful we have jobs that we not only love, but pay the bills - especially in a hard economy. I'm thankful that we can pay our bills - even if we don't want to! I'm thankful for co-workers that have made us each feel like we belong.
I'm thankful for my friends. Friends who have made my life better. I'm thankful for old friends and the fact we can still get together, if only a couple times a year, and still be able to pick up like it was only yesterday. I'm thankful for friends with whom I can enjoy an evening of conversation and a bottle of wine. I'm thankful for friends that will always let me stop by their house to see them, even when they know I'm really only there to see my little clans-baby. ;-) I'm thankful for all my friends and for all that they've done for me, for the impact they've made, for the jokes and stories they've share, for the memories they've created.
I'm thankful for my family. My crazy, goofy, lovable family. I'm thankful that they always put up with my nonsense. I'm thankful for all the fun times that we share together. I'm thankful they always welcome Austin and I back home whenever we want. I'm thankful for their support - whether it be financial, physical or emotional. I'm thankful for the way they've raised me throughout the years. I'm thankful for their company. I'm even thankful for their bad jokes. ;-) I'm thankful that no matter what, my family is always there. I'm thankful that we've grown closer as we've grown older. And don't think I'm not also talking about my wonderful in-laws! I'm thankful for having married into such an amazing family and one that has accepted me as their own.
I'm thankful - so thankful - for my incredible husband, Austin. I'm thankful that I have found my soulmate. He is truly my other half. I'm thankful for our two years of marriage. I'm thankful for every day we have to spend together. I'm even thankful for our time apart as it really does make us appreciate our time together even more. I'm thankful I can be my complete goofy self with him and he can do the same. I'm thankful for those lazy Saturdays we spend together. I'm thankful for our crazy road trips. I'm thankful for our fun date nights. I'm thankful for all our good times and all our bad times. I'm thankful we've been able to grow together and learn to love each other even more. I'm thankful that he appreciates me for all that I am and I'm thankful I can do the same to him. I'm thankful for his nerdy, goofy personality. I'm thankful for his passion of music and teaching. I'm thankful for his cooking skills. I'm thankful that he loves me for me. I'm thankful for his desire to always look out and take care of me. I'm thankful to be married to my best friend.
I'm thankful for so much. God has blessed me beyond belief. And I am so grateful.
I am thankful that Austin and I have a place to call our own. We have a roof over our head. We have a place we can come home to every night and relax. And if I'm being honest here, I'm thankful for my jet whirlpool tub! ;-) We have a kitchen and plenty of food to eat. I am thankful that we always have food and never go hungry. I'm thankful for a husband that will cook for me so I don't go hungry!
I'm thankful that we live in a small town and a great community that has welcomed us with open arms. I'm thankful we have found a church that has always welcomed us in and is eager to help us become more involved in the church and community.
I'm thankful for mine and Austin's good health. I'm thankful we don't have thousands or even hundreds of dollars in medical bills. I'm thankful we're both able to do what we love. I'm thankful we have jobs that we not only love, but pay the bills - especially in a hard economy. I'm thankful that we can pay our bills - even if we don't want to! I'm thankful for co-workers that have made us each feel like we belong.
I'm thankful for my friends. Friends who have made my life better. I'm thankful for old friends and the fact we can still get together, if only a couple times a year, and still be able to pick up like it was only yesterday. I'm thankful for friends with whom I can enjoy an evening of conversation and a bottle of wine. I'm thankful for friends that will always let me stop by their house to see them, even when they know I'm really only there to see my little clans-baby. ;-) I'm thankful for all my friends and for all that they've done for me, for the impact they've made, for the jokes and stories they've share, for the memories they've created.
I'm thankful for my family. My crazy, goofy, lovable family. I'm thankful that they always put up with my nonsense. I'm thankful for all the fun times that we share together. I'm thankful they always welcome Austin and I back home whenever we want. I'm thankful for their support - whether it be financial, physical or emotional. I'm thankful for the way they've raised me throughout the years. I'm thankful for their company. I'm even thankful for their bad jokes. ;-) I'm thankful that no matter what, my family is always there. I'm thankful that we've grown closer as we've grown older. And don't think I'm not also talking about my wonderful in-laws! I'm thankful for having married into such an amazing family and one that has accepted me as their own.
I'm thankful - so thankful - for my incredible husband, Austin. I'm thankful that I have found my soulmate. He is truly my other half. I'm thankful for our two years of marriage. I'm thankful for every day we have to spend together. I'm even thankful for our time apart as it really does make us appreciate our time together even more. I'm thankful I can be my complete goofy self with him and he can do the same. I'm thankful for those lazy Saturdays we spend together. I'm thankful for our crazy road trips. I'm thankful for our fun date nights. I'm thankful for all our good times and all our bad times. I'm thankful we've been able to grow together and learn to love each other even more. I'm thankful that he appreciates me for all that I am and I'm thankful I can do the same to him. I'm thankful for his nerdy, goofy personality. I'm thankful for his passion of music and teaching. I'm thankful for his cooking skills. I'm thankful that he loves me for me. I'm thankful for his desire to always look out and take care of me. I'm thankful to be married to my best friend.
I'm thankful for so much. God has blessed me beyond belief. And I am so grateful.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
A year ago...
It's hard to believe it's been a year. A year has past since Austin and I were put through some things. A year has past since we made some hard decisions. A year has past since we've been at some of our lowest points. A year has past since I've really tested my trust in God.
A year ago this month, Austin and I went through some hard times. I didn't discuss the details on this blog back then and I'm not going to now. A lot of things happened and every event that took place tested us in a variety of ways. It tested our personal strength, our marriage, our jobs. It's hard to image what things were like a year ago. I really try not to think about it and not to focus on it. We've moved on. We're past it. But I also believe it's good to think back and reflect on it every once and a while.
I went back and re-read the blogs I had written during that time. Reading the struggles I was having brought them back to the surface. I remember the anxiety. I remember the pain. I remember the sadness. I remember worrying. I remember wanting everything to be okay but not having any idea how to make it be okay.
Leaving my job a year ago was both the hardest and the easiest thing I've ever had to do. It was hard to give up a good paying job, one that I enjoyed and had friends at. But it was easy to give up for my husband. For my marriage. And that was what mattered in the end. Like the verse from our wedding from Ruth - "I will go where you go." I meant that. Unemployment was hard. I was questioning God a lot. Did we make the right decisions? Are we doing the right things? It was hard to believe things were ever going to get better.
And now here we are, a year later. I ended up finding a job - one that I love and enjoy doing so much. And while yeah, I did take a pay increase, I'm now doing something I've wanted to do since I graduated from college - working in college admissions. I know that this is what I'm suppose to be doing - and it wouldn't have happened if it weren't for what happened a year ago.
Austin is enjoying his second year so much better and is really getting to know his kids and getting to know the community. We love living in Oakland and are trying to get involved however we can. We are grateful the community and the school district have accepted us as much as they have in just a year.
I also believe that our marriage is in a much better place. We are in a better place because of what happened a year ago. Those events tested our marriage. But we endured. And we are stronger because of it. We are closer as husband and wife and have a better understanding of things now. We have learned to appreciate the little things in life and not take them for granted. We have learned a lot. We've made a lot of changes throughout the year and I think we're better because of all of them. And yeah, we still have some ups and downs but everyone does. But we are in a much better place now overall. We have recently celebrated two wonderful years of marriage and we know there are going to be several more years to celebrate as well.
In the end, I guess God does know what He's doing. :)
A year ago this month, Austin and I went through some hard times. I didn't discuss the details on this blog back then and I'm not going to now. A lot of things happened and every event that took place tested us in a variety of ways. It tested our personal strength, our marriage, our jobs. It's hard to image what things were like a year ago. I really try not to think about it and not to focus on it. We've moved on. We're past it. But I also believe it's good to think back and reflect on it every once and a while.
I went back and re-read the blogs I had written during that time. Reading the struggles I was having brought them back to the surface. I remember the anxiety. I remember the pain. I remember the sadness. I remember worrying. I remember wanting everything to be okay but not having any idea how to make it be okay.
Leaving my job a year ago was both the hardest and the easiest thing I've ever had to do. It was hard to give up a good paying job, one that I enjoyed and had friends at. But it was easy to give up for my husband. For my marriage. And that was what mattered in the end. Like the verse from our wedding from Ruth - "I will go where you go." I meant that. Unemployment was hard. I was questioning God a lot. Did we make the right decisions? Are we doing the right things? It was hard to believe things were ever going to get better.
And now here we are, a year later. I ended up finding a job - one that I love and enjoy doing so much. And while yeah, I did take a pay increase, I'm now doing something I've wanted to do since I graduated from college - working in college admissions. I know that this is what I'm suppose to be doing - and it wouldn't have happened if it weren't for what happened a year ago.
Austin is enjoying his second year so much better and is really getting to know his kids and getting to know the community. We love living in Oakland and are trying to get involved however we can. We are grateful the community and the school district have accepted us as much as they have in just a year.
I also believe that our marriage is in a much better place. We are in a better place because of what happened a year ago. Those events tested our marriage. But we endured. And we are stronger because of it. We are closer as husband and wife and have a better understanding of things now. We have learned to appreciate the little things in life and not take them for granted. We have learned a lot. We've made a lot of changes throughout the year and I think we're better because of all of them. And yeah, we still have some ups and downs but everyone does. But we are in a much better place now overall. We have recently celebrated two wonderful years of marriage and we know there are going to be several more years to celebrate as well.
In the end, I guess God does know what He's doing. :)
Friday, October 21, 2011
Keeping Busy...
So, I realized that I haven't done an update blog on our lives in a very long time. To say the least, we've been keeping very busy around the Zaruba household! If you've read my post on "Life as an Admissions Counselor", you have an idea of what I've been doing. Honestly I haven't had much time for anything else.
AJ has been busy with school, getting ready for his fall concert - which is next week! - and preparing students for their All-State auditions, which are happening this weekend. He's also helping put together the All-School Talent Show which will take place in November. But they've been doing a lot of pre-planning and having auditions and interviews before hand. It's actually good that I've been gone so much because AJ has been working early mornings and late in the evenings with all these different activities! And whenever I am home, I like him to be home too, so it's good he's been keeping busy!
A couple of fun things that we've gotten to do this fall...
At the end of last month, we spent a weekend back home in Minnesota. My mom had managed to get tickets to the NDSU vs. U of M football game in the Twin Cities! With Dan being a freshman at NDSU and in the Marching Band, they were going to be at that game and perform during half time. So AJ and I went up along with my parents and we met my sister there. It was a blast! The game itself was awesome!! With NDSU winning! ;-) The people were a little crazy... it was my first Big 10 football game and I'm not sure I'd ever do it again... haha But the band performance at half time was awesome! It was so fun to watch! We even managed to find Dan with the binoculars we had brought and got to talk with him after the game for a little bit. It was a great time.
We were also able to go to a local apple orchard near my parents house and get some famous Minnesota apples and the best caramel there is! :) Definitely made the entire trip worth it! haha
Last weekend, AJ and I also got to head back to our old stomping grounds. We actually meet there because I was coming from Minnesota... but we were able to both head back for Homecoming at Wartburg! We even managed to make it back for the Wartburg Choir alumni reunion and open rehearsal.
For those of you that don't remember, it was actually through the Wartburg Choir that AJ and I met. And it was on our European Tour that we got engaged. The Wartburg Choir holds a very special place in both of our hearts. We learned about a special concert they want to do next year at Homecoming with about 5 or 6 pieces sung by an alumni choir! We really hope that we're going to be able to attend and be a part of that! At the rehearsal, it was great to listen to such an amazing group sing - even if it was just the practice! They've come along way with the new director and I think he's going to do some awesome things with the choir! Sometimes I hope that maybe someday down the road, that will be AJ conducting the Wartburg Choir! :) One of the greatest things that happened at the rehearsal was that Dr. Nelson actually invited all the alumni to join in and sing "Give Me Jesus". That song is a traditional song of the Wartburg Choir and is sung at the end of every concert. The choir actually circles the Chapel and holds hands. Being back in a large group of people like that, so passionate about music, was amazing. Even though it's been a couple years since I've sung that song, as soon as it began it all comes back. I wish I could describe what it felt like to be singing that song again with the Wartburg Choir, but I can't. I know for anyone else that was there singing it with us, they'd understand. But the feelings were so powerful. After the last note of the song, I think it either took your breath away or you were holding you breath in. That feelings of belong, unity, family, praise, meaning - it all hung in the air. It was unbelievable.
On Saturday, we spent the day walking around campus and meeting up with old friends! You couldn't even walk 10 steps without being stopped by someone you knew! It's an awesome feeling. Wartburg, I believe, will always feel like home to me. It's where AJ and I both meet some incredible people who we consider to be life-long friends. It's where we meet. It's where we got married. It's the place that's helped define us. It will also be home to us. I think that's another reason why I love to go back every year to Homecoming. Homecoming will always fall right around our anniversary, and since campus is where we got married, it's fun to be able to go back every year and not only celebrate homecoming and see all of our friends, but to also celebrate us and our marriage.
On Saturday night, we drove down to Tipton to see AJ's parents! It had been a long time since we had seen them and so it was nice to be able to spend some time with them! AJ was able to stay the night and I unfortunately had to leave that night to drive down to St. Louis for work. But it was still great seeing them! They even got me a birthday cake that we were able to enjoy before I left! And I must admit, it was nice to just hang out there in front of the fireplace before I had to leave! :) We're looking forward to the next time we'll be able to make it back over there and spend some more time with them!
So, overall I think it's been a good fall. I think we're both looking forward to the upcoming holidays and things slowing down a little bit to enjoy each others' company and see some family. But until then, we'll just keep going along!
AJ has been busy with school, getting ready for his fall concert - which is next week! - and preparing students for their All-State auditions, which are happening this weekend. He's also helping put together the All-School Talent Show which will take place in November. But they've been doing a lot of pre-planning and having auditions and interviews before hand. It's actually good that I've been gone so much because AJ has been working early mornings and late in the evenings with all these different activities! And whenever I am home, I like him to be home too, so it's good he's been keeping busy!
A couple of fun things that we've gotten to do this fall...
At the end of last month, we spent a weekend back home in Minnesota. My mom had managed to get tickets to the NDSU vs. U of M football game in the Twin Cities! With Dan being a freshman at NDSU and in the Marching Band, they were going to be at that game and perform during half time. So AJ and I went up along with my parents and we met my sister there. It was a blast! The game itself was awesome!! With NDSU winning! ;-) The people were a little crazy... it was my first Big 10 football game and I'm not sure I'd ever do it again... haha But the band performance at half time was awesome! It was so fun to watch! We even managed to find Dan with the binoculars we had brought and got to talk with him after the game for a little bit. It was a great time.
We were also able to go to a local apple orchard near my parents house and get some famous Minnesota apples and the best caramel there is! :) Definitely made the entire trip worth it! haha
Last weekend, AJ and I also got to head back to our old stomping grounds. We actually meet there because I was coming from Minnesota... but we were able to both head back for Homecoming at Wartburg! We even managed to make it back for the Wartburg Choir alumni reunion and open rehearsal.
For those of you that don't remember, it was actually through the Wartburg Choir that AJ and I met. And it was on our European Tour that we got engaged. The Wartburg Choir holds a very special place in both of our hearts. We learned about a special concert they want to do next year at Homecoming with about 5 or 6 pieces sung by an alumni choir! We really hope that we're going to be able to attend and be a part of that! At the rehearsal, it was great to listen to such an amazing group sing - even if it was just the practice! They've come along way with the new director and I think he's going to do some awesome things with the choir! Sometimes I hope that maybe someday down the road, that will be AJ conducting the Wartburg Choir! :) One of the greatest things that happened at the rehearsal was that Dr. Nelson actually invited all the alumni to join in and sing "Give Me Jesus". That song is a traditional song of the Wartburg Choir and is sung at the end of every concert. The choir actually circles the Chapel and holds hands. Being back in a large group of people like that, so passionate about music, was amazing. Even though it's been a couple years since I've sung that song, as soon as it began it all comes back. I wish I could describe what it felt like to be singing that song again with the Wartburg Choir, but I can't. I know for anyone else that was there singing it with us, they'd understand. But the feelings were so powerful. After the last note of the song, I think it either took your breath away or you were holding you breath in. That feelings of belong, unity, family, praise, meaning - it all hung in the air. It was unbelievable.
On Saturday, we spent the day walking around campus and meeting up with old friends! You couldn't even walk 10 steps without being stopped by someone you knew! It's an awesome feeling. Wartburg, I believe, will always feel like home to me. It's where AJ and I both meet some incredible people who we consider to be life-long friends. It's where we meet. It's where we got married. It's the place that's helped define us. It will also be home to us. I think that's another reason why I love to go back every year to Homecoming. Homecoming will always fall right around our anniversary, and since campus is where we got married, it's fun to be able to go back every year and not only celebrate homecoming and see all of our friends, but to also celebrate us and our marriage.
 |
| Trying to recreate a wedding picture :) |
So, overall I think it's been a good fall. I think we're both looking forward to the upcoming holidays and things slowing down a little bit to enjoy each others' company and see some family. But until then, we'll just keep going along!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Life as an Admissions Counselor
I thought for this blog, I would give everyone a taste of what my life as an College Admissions Counselor is like - at least during the fall recruiting season, because that is the most exciting time. :) Maybe if I'm lucky, I'll be able to get Austin to write a blog about "Life as a Music Teacher"!
So, the fall is the busiest time of year for college recruiters. There are high school visits, college fairs and also a lot of students coming to campus to check us out before applying. This busy season goes from September to about mid-November when it slows down again until around March. During the spring we pick up again with some more high school visits and college fairs, although not quite as many. When I first started at UNO, I started about a month and half before that Spring recruiting season began. During the last spring, I did about two, two and half weeks of college fairs and visited about 23 high schools that were in the three counties in Iowa that were part of a program we offer those students to get a reduced tuition. This fall, we've decided to step things up a notch.
The MAP program that was originally offered in three Western Iowa counties has now been expanded to 11 counties which now means I have 52 high schools to visit this fall. We are also trying to recruit more in Minnesota and Kansas. This month, October, is by far my busiest month. I will be in the office for roughly 4 days out of the month. I've rented a car from Enterprise for the entire month, which I'm currently contemplating keeping for another couple of weeks in November for my remaining high school visits.
It's only October 7th and I've had my rental car for one week. Today when I was in the office I determined that I have already been on the road for about 24 hours total and driven just under 1500 miles. In just seven days!! I'm both a little scared and excited to see what those numbers will look like at the end of this month.
To give you a little bit of idea of what I'm doing this month (and if you're curious why you might not hear much from me), here is my schedule - starting with October 1st.
On Saturday Oct 1st, AJ drove with me to Council Bluffs to pick up my rental car. From there I went into work for our Homecoming Open House. On Sunday, AJ and I drove to Des Moines where he hung out with his sister and brother-in-law while I was at the first college fair of the month. On Monday I had three high school visits before going back into the office to get some things done before leaving. Kristina and I then drove to Minneapolis where we worked the National College Fair on Tuesday (two 4-hour parts) and Wednesday morning. We drove home on Wednesday night where I enjoyed the night back in my own bed. On Thursday, I drove down to Topeka, KS for a college fair and home again that night. Today I was back in the office for a Friday Mav Day (a fairly large visit day on campus). I'm home this weekend until Sunday when I'm heading back to Minnesota for the week. I have college fairs Monday through Thursday. Thursday night I'll be able to stay at my parent's house for a quick hello before leaving again Friday to head to Waverly, IA. AJ plans on meeting me there so we can attend Wartburg's Homecoming. The party will be short lived as I head off to St. Louis on Saturday night for another National College Fair down there on Sunday - my birthday. :) Then it'll be a long 7 hour drive home to get back for some more high school visits on Monday. Tuesday I'll have some time back in the office again before leaving around mid-day to head back to Kansas for a college fair that night and two more on Wednesday. After driving home late Wednesday night, I'll be back in the office on Thursday and some of the day on Friday before doing another high school visit. Another short weekend as I leave again that Sunday for another round of college fairs in Minnesota, this time along I-90. The good thing about this is I'll be able to see my parents and some friends along the way! Those college fairs go from Monday until Thursday where I'll crash at my parent's again before driving home on Friday. Saturday will be my day of rest before we have a large college fair on campus on Sunday along with an Open House for a couple of colleges on campus. And on Monday, October 31st, I'll be back in the office for an Information Session (a campus visit).
And there you have it. My October. Exhausted just reading it? Yeah, me too. I could tell you about the start of November which is filled with the remainder of my high school visits, a conference and a couple more college fairs, but I won't. :) Welcome to the life of an Admissions Counselor!
So, the fall is the busiest time of year for college recruiters. There are high school visits, college fairs and also a lot of students coming to campus to check us out before applying. This busy season goes from September to about mid-November when it slows down again until around March. During the spring we pick up again with some more high school visits and college fairs, although not quite as many. When I first started at UNO, I started about a month and half before that Spring recruiting season began. During the last spring, I did about two, two and half weeks of college fairs and visited about 23 high schools that were in the three counties in Iowa that were part of a program we offer those students to get a reduced tuition. This fall, we've decided to step things up a notch.
The MAP program that was originally offered in three Western Iowa counties has now been expanded to 11 counties which now means I have 52 high schools to visit this fall. We are also trying to recruit more in Minnesota and Kansas. This month, October, is by far my busiest month. I will be in the office for roughly 4 days out of the month. I've rented a car from Enterprise for the entire month, which I'm currently contemplating keeping for another couple of weeks in November for my remaining high school visits.
It's only October 7th and I've had my rental car for one week. Today when I was in the office I determined that I have already been on the road for about 24 hours total and driven just under 1500 miles. In just seven days!! I'm both a little scared and excited to see what those numbers will look like at the end of this month.
To give you a little bit of idea of what I'm doing this month (and if you're curious why you might not hear much from me), here is my schedule - starting with October 1st.
On Saturday Oct 1st, AJ drove with me to Council Bluffs to pick up my rental car. From there I went into work for our Homecoming Open House. On Sunday, AJ and I drove to Des Moines where he hung out with his sister and brother-in-law while I was at the first college fair of the month. On Monday I had three high school visits before going back into the office to get some things done before leaving. Kristina and I then drove to Minneapolis where we worked the National College Fair on Tuesday (two 4-hour parts) and Wednesday morning. We drove home on Wednesday night where I enjoyed the night back in my own bed. On Thursday, I drove down to Topeka, KS for a college fair and home again that night. Today I was back in the office for a Friday Mav Day (a fairly large visit day on campus). I'm home this weekend until Sunday when I'm heading back to Minnesota for the week. I have college fairs Monday through Thursday. Thursday night I'll be able to stay at my parent's house for a quick hello before leaving again Friday to head to Waverly, IA. AJ plans on meeting me there so we can attend Wartburg's Homecoming. The party will be short lived as I head off to St. Louis on Saturday night for another National College Fair down there on Sunday - my birthday. :) Then it'll be a long 7 hour drive home to get back for some more high school visits on Monday. Tuesday I'll have some time back in the office again before leaving around mid-day to head back to Kansas for a college fair that night and two more on Wednesday. After driving home late Wednesday night, I'll be back in the office on Thursday and some of the day on Friday before doing another high school visit. Another short weekend as I leave again that Sunday for another round of college fairs in Minnesota, this time along I-90. The good thing about this is I'll be able to see my parents and some friends along the way! Those college fairs go from Monday until Thursday where I'll crash at my parent's again before driving home on Friday. Saturday will be my day of rest before we have a large college fair on campus on Sunday along with an Open House for a couple of colleges on campus. And on Monday, October 31st, I'll be back in the office for an Information Session (a campus visit).
And there you have it. My October. Exhausted just reading it? Yeah, me too. I could tell you about the start of November which is filled with the remainder of my high school visits, a conference and a couple more college fairs, but I won't. :) Welcome to the life of an Admissions Counselor!
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