Let me start off by saying, "Blech!" Saturday morning my brother in law and father in law came to work on an estimate for fixing our leaky bathroom. Since they don't have x-ray vision and we wouldn't let them just start ripping into the flooring, they had to guess what the problem was. By guess I mean, make educated assumptions based on a process of elimination.
After a couple of guesses, they were able to figure out that our problem is one of two things. To be honest, I have no clue what those two things are! I didn't ask. I think I would rather not know. Send me to the store to pick out paint and tiles and I'll be good! Phil also decided to take up the carpet in the hallway (where the water leaks up through the foundation) and discovered that the padding is moldy. I could have told you that, but that's another story. So they were curious and cut two small patches out of two walls in the bathroom and guess what, mold. Freaking fantastic. No wonder my allergies have been nasty even with daily meds!
I now get to pick out new paint for the bathroom, tile for the bathroom, a color of paint for the vanity (just going to fix it and paint it), and now carpet. I am glad that this is all getting done, but blech. I have no clue what color or "theme" to go with in our "new" bathroom. Any suggestions?
So they are now going to have to take out our toilet, washer, dryer, vanity, and cupboard. Then rip out the drywall, take down the rest of the wallpaper, jack hammer up the slab. Then they must fix the pipe (the only part of the ordeal our insurance won't cover bc they say it is a maintenance problem. How I am supposed to maintain a pipe buried in cement is beyond me!). After the pipe is fixed, new cement will be poured and then we have to wait for it to cure. While we are waiting we will paint and redo the vanity. Then comes the new paint, window treatment, tile. Then back comes the washer, dryer, and toilet. Then the vanity and cupboard will be re-installed. Then comes carpet. Blech, just thinking about it makes me tired!
So this morning I get a call from a lady at our insurance office. This was not the person we normally deal with. She wanted to know where our estimate was. I informed her that after our contractor looked at it, he decided to call our flooring company to get a better estimate (they are at my house right now). She seemed annoyed that we hadn't sent our estimate yet. Well, we wanted it to be accurate. I told her as soon as I got the estimate I would fax them a copy. She was genuinely annoyed that I couldn't fax her an estimate now. I didn't know what to say so I just said, "As soon as my contractor gets the estimate written, I will send it to you!" You would think they would be happy about not having to cut me a check!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Older House Curse
I love my house. It has it's issues, but most older homes do. I fell in love with my house the instant we stepped inside. I think I liked it so much because it is very much like the house I grew up in. I also love the neighborhood and my back yard is HUGE for being in town. I love the "climbing" tree in the front yard. I love the fact that the Sheriff lives across the street and that someone from dispatch lives next door. I love that it is a semi-quiet (stupid ppl do drive a bit to fast down our street) neighborhood.
Now to the issues with our house. We moved in November of 2007. In January of 2008, we began having issues. You'd flush the toilet and water (it was clean water, not the dirty toilet water) would come up in the shower (the lady we bought the house from was older and had her bath tub converted to a shower type thingy with bench). After months of trying different things, we decided to tear into the pipe that takes the dirty water away from our house and into the city's pipes. Our "drain pipe" runs right between the two trees in our front yard. Low and behold, we found that a piece of the old clay pipe was busted, causing the back up. So, Ayron used a saw and made a clean cut on the old pipe, he also managed to cut the water line. We did have them come and mark before we began our little excavation, but they marked wrong. So poor Ayron and Josh O. were stuck in a huge hole while water shot out of the ground like a fountain, turning our front yard into a mud pit. They managed to get everything fixed and all was well. This spring we were finally able to get grass to grow around our trees again!
About a month ago, I decided to run a load of laundry. I started the washer and took the boys (TJ and Scooter) outside. When we came in, and I was walking down the hallway I heard a "squish" and realized that our hallway carpet was soaked. I thought that maybe I had just overfilled the washer. Well after a panicked phone call to Ayron and some talking with Tom (my father in law) we have come to the conclusion that the pipe under the bathroom floor (our house is on a slab) is cracked and water is seeping up and into our bathroom. Freaking great! You can see the water come up between the tile (I think it's just the peel and stick linoleum). I have stopped doing laundry at home and thus, the wet spot in the hallway is gone, but you can see where it was at.
Looking for an excuse to tear into the bathroom, I called our insurance agent this morning. It seems that our policy has an endorsement that would allow us, at no cost, to have up to $5k of "clean up" done. That would cover mold removal (if we have it...I hope we don't). We have a $500 deductible for the rest of the work (jackhammering up the slab, pouring new cement, retile, etc). What gets me is that our insurance doesn't actually cover the cost of repairing the pipe because they say that is "maintenance." I had to laugh. How am I supposed to maintain a pipe that is buried in cement? I asked my insurance agent that and he laughed too. He said he thought it was asinine as well. The good thing is, we just need to get a formal estimate and send it into our agent. Seeing as how I married into a construction business....I think I know who I'll call for our estimate. I also found out that we wouldn't actually pay the $500 deductible. Let's say that Tom says the job will cost $10,000 (these are the #'s our agent used, I have no clue how much it could cost!). We send in the estimate and the insurance company would send us a check for $9,500. They would keep out that $500 and treat it like we paid our deductible.
I don't really know much about insurance, but I think that we wouldn't really have any out of pocket expense. Sure, we would be inconvenienced for a while, but we can easily figure that out.
I guess I am looking for thoughts, ideas, suggestions? Anyone else have any "old house" horror stories that makes my situation look silly?
Now to the issues with our house. We moved in November of 2007. In January of 2008, we began having issues. You'd flush the toilet and water (it was clean water, not the dirty toilet water) would come up in the shower (the lady we bought the house from was older and had her bath tub converted to a shower type thingy with bench). After months of trying different things, we decided to tear into the pipe that takes the dirty water away from our house and into the city's pipes. Our "drain pipe" runs right between the two trees in our front yard. Low and behold, we found that a piece of the old clay pipe was busted, causing the back up. So, Ayron used a saw and made a clean cut on the old pipe, he also managed to cut the water line. We did have them come and mark before we began our little excavation, but they marked wrong. So poor Ayron and Josh O. were stuck in a huge hole while water shot out of the ground like a fountain, turning our front yard into a mud pit. They managed to get everything fixed and all was well. This spring we were finally able to get grass to grow around our trees again!
About a month ago, I decided to run a load of laundry. I started the washer and took the boys (TJ and Scooter) outside. When we came in, and I was walking down the hallway I heard a "squish" and realized that our hallway carpet was soaked. I thought that maybe I had just overfilled the washer. Well after a panicked phone call to Ayron and some talking with Tom (my father in law) we have come to the conclusion that the pipe under the bathroom floor (our house is on a slab) is cracked and water is seeping up and into our bathroom. Freaking great! You can see the water come up between the tile (I think it's just the peel and stick linoleum). I have stopped doing laundry at home and thus, the wet spot in the hallway is gone, but you can see where it was at.
Looking for an excuse to tear into the bathroom, I called our insurance agent this morning. It seems that our policy has an endorsement that would allow us, at no cost, to have up to $5k of "clean up" done. That would cover mold removal (if we have it...I hope we don't). We have a $500 deductible for the rest of the work (jackhammering up the slab, pouring new cement, retile, etc). What gets me is that our insurance doesn't actually cover the cost of repairing the pipe because they say that is "maintenance." I had to laugh. How am I supposed to maintain a pipe that is buried in cement? I asked my insurance agent that and he laughed too. He said he thought it was asinine as well. The good thing is, we just need to get a formal estimate and send it into our agent. Seeing as how I married into a construction business....I think I know who I'll call for our estimate. I also found out that we wouldn't actually pay the $500 deductible. Let's say that Tom says the job will cost $10,000 (these are the #'s our agent used, I have no clue how much it could cost!). We send in the estimate and the insurance company would send us a check for $9,500. They would keep out that $500 and treat it like we paid our deductible.
I don't really know much about insurance, but I think that we wouldn't really have any out of pocket expense. Sure, we would be inconvenienced for a while, but we can easily figure that out.
I guess I am looking for thoughts, ideas, suggestions? Anyone else have any "old house" horror stories that makes my situation look silly?
Monday, September 21, 2009
Rest In Peace Mark Wilmes
This weekend the DeKalb High School Class of 2001 lost another classmate. Mark Wilmes was killed in a two car accident in Lagrange County on Saturday. After over correcting, his car was in the path of an oncoming car, and the collision occurred.
This is the second classmate that we have lost (that I know of, and I hope there aren't any more). We lost Jerry C. the summer before our Senior year in a car accident, and now Mark has passed as well.
While I didn't really "know" Mark, I know we had a few classes together. We attended the same school from 1st grade through graduation. I was driving to work this morning when I heard about the accident (on the radio), and I immediately felt my stomach churn. I can only imagine the loss his family and friends are feeling at this moment. No one wants to bury their child, and now they must. He was 8 credits shy of graduating from IPFW with his mechanical engineering degree. I think that broke my heart a little more. To be so close, and then not be able to complete something you have worked so hard for.
I didn't really know Mark, but I do remember a funny story. We had Mr. Howard for Math our 6th grade year. I think it was 4th or 5th period. Mark always had several questions, and we all know that Mr. Howard's patience level was not the greatest. One day, after seeing Mark's hand shoot up for the millionth time Mr. Howard nicknamed Mark "Question Mark." I don't know why, but that is the first memory that popped into my head this morning when I heard about the accident.
What do you remember about Mark or Jerry? Am I correct in saying that those are the only 2 classmates we have lost?
This is the second classmate that we have lost (that I know of, and I hope there aren't any more). We lost Jerry C. the summer before our Senior year in a car accident, and now Mark has passed as well.
While I didn't really "know" Mark, I know we had a few classes together. We attended the same school from 1st grade through graduation. I was driving to work this morning when I heard about the accident (on the radio), and I immediately felt my stomach churn. I can only imagine the loss his family and friends are feeling at this moment. No one wants to bury their child, and now they must. He was 8 credits shy of graduating from IPFW with his mechanical engineering degree. I think that broke my heart a little more. To be so close, and then not be able to complete something you have worked so hard for.
I didn't really know Mark, but I do remember a funny story. We had Mr. Howard for Math our 6th grade year. I think it was 4th or 5th period. Mark always had several questions, and we all know that Mr. Howard's patience level was not the greatest. One day, after seeing Mark's hand shoot up for the millionth time Mr. Howard nicknamed Mark "Question Mark." I don't know why, but that is the first memory that popped into my head this morning when I heard about the accident.
What do you remember about Mark or Jerry? Am I correct in saying that those are the only 2 classmates we have lost?
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Encouraging Words
So I have received several encouraging comments about my previous note. I tend to be a bit pessimistic by nature so I have to wonder if that is why my mood is the way it is.
I can't help but think, "Easier said than done." It is really easy to offer people words of encouragement, etc. It is easy to say that it will all work out. It is harder to believe it. At least it is for me.
I know that I need to trust and pray, but I like big obvious signs from God. I don't do subtle. When I do start to look for signs that He is listening and taking care of me, I turn every small thing into a sign. Was the robin in my tree a sign from Him? I get paranoid and I cannot let myself get that way.
I just talked with Ayron on the phone and they are continuing their hourly wages for the rest of the week and the change will happen on Monday. One of the marketers who has been with the company the longest comes back tomorrow and she has not been told (to our knowledge) of the change. We are hoping that they can all ban together and present a united front and present their side of the situation.
I just wish that I could sit outside and talk with Him, but alas I am chained to my laptop in an office built with cinder block and cement. It is very hard to be encouraged by Him when all you see is the dimples in cinder block, and the dead computers next to you.
I can't help but think, "Easier said than done." It is really easy to offer people words of encouragement, etc. It is easy to say that it will all work out. It is harder to believe it. At least it is for me.
I know that I need to trust and pray, but I like big obvious signs from God. I don't do subtle. When I do start to look for signs that He is listening and taking care of me, I turn every small thing into a sign. Was the robin in my tree a sign from Him? I get paranoid and I cannot let myself get that way.
I just talked with Ayron on the phone and they are continuing their hourly wages for the rest of the week and the change will happen on Monday. One of the marketers who has been with the company the longest comes back tomorrow and she has not been told (to our knowledge) of the change. We are hoping that they can all ban together and present a united front and present their side of the situation.
I just wish that I could sit outside and talk with Him, but alas I am chained to my laptop in an office built with cinder block and cement. It is very hard to be encouraged by Him when all you see is the dimples in cinder block, and the dead computers next to you.
Seeking Prayers and Advice
So yesterday some life changing news was dropped on Ayron at work. They are taking away the marketing departments hourly wages and going to commission only. This is a big blow to many people. They also fired 4 people. While I do recognize that he still has a job and I am fortunate enough to have a secure job, it is still a blow.
We are looking into several options and wondering if Ayron could get some kind of unemployment compensation to make up for losing his hourly pay. He will be considered an independent contractor now. We are hoping he can then set his own hours and possibly do some work from home. That could help with child care costs.
We have already decided to stop all unnecessary spending. We had already cut way back, but now we are stopping it. Maybe I am jumping the gun a bit, but I would rather be prepared than caught off guard.
Ayron keeps saying he has a calm feeling about everything and I wish I could say that I did. I am not really worried, I just want to know what is going to happen. I want God to send a skywriter to spell it out for me. Maybe an email or text message? Something?
We did pray together for the first time in a long time last night (I am ashamed to admit that) and that did ease my mind and I was able to sleep some. We have already asked some people for advice and I have to wonder why 3 people suggested he go out for the police department.
I know that I need to be grateful for what I have and I am continuing to pray for everyone else effected by this change. I know that others are struggling worse that we are and I pray for them everyday. I just wish I knew His plan.
We are looking into several options and wondering if Ayron could get some kind of unemployment compensation to make up for losing his hourly pay. He will be considered an independent contractor now. We are hoping he can then set his own hours and possibly do some work from home. That could help with child care costs.
We have already decided to stop all unnecessary spending. We had already cut way back, but now we are stopping it. Maybe I am jumping the gun a bit, but I would rather be prepared than caught off guard.
Ayron keeps saying he has a calm feeling about everything and I wish I could say that I did. I am not really worried, I just want to know what is going to happen. I want God to send a skywriter to spell it out for me. Maybe an email or text message? Something?
We did pray together for the first time in a long time last night (I am ashamed to admit that) and that did ease my mind and I was able to sleep some. We have already asked some people for advice and I have to wonder why 3 people suggested he go out for the police department.
I know that I need to be grateful for what I have and I am continuing to pray for everyone else effected by this change. I know that others are struggling worse that we are and I pray for them everyday. I just wish I knew His plan.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Big Fight
I have a friend who is getting married this fall and one day while were talking she said, "We haven't had a big fight yet. I want to have one before we get married so we know how each other fights."
As the date for the wedding draws nearer and I watch their relationship grow and strengthen, I can't stop thinking about her comment. I have to wonder if her comment comes from past hurt in previous relationships. I don't see her future husband as the fighting type so I don't see him entering into a battle willingly.
I started to think about my relationship with Ayron and realized that we have never really fought either. Sure, we have petty little tifts about stupid things, but nothing big. Most of our little tifts are due to bad communication or hormones (I am a girl after all, we are allowed to have those days).
We have been together since New Years Eve of 2000/2001. We've survived going away to college, living with his parents, unemployment, tough times, pregnancy, childbirth, traveling at a moments notice (for work), and much more and yet we are still together. It actually does amaze me that we've made it this far. I have no doubt that we are meant for each other, who else would put up with my crap? Seeing as how we haven't ever willingly spent a night apart since we said "I do" I don't see any fights in our future.
I do believe it is important to learn how to "fight" fair. I don't mean physically fight. I think it's important for each person to learn their partner's way of thinking and communicating. A while back our church did a "Mens' Brains Womens' Brains" seminar (over several sessions). It helped me a lot. Men can only have one thought box open at a time. Women have at least 3 or 4 thought boxes open at one time. I have to constantly ask Ayron to "close the 'tv' box" and open the "listen to your wife" box.
If you have never seen the "Mens' Brains Womens' Brains" seminar, I encourage you to search for them on youtube.
So what do you think? Is fighting really necessary?
As the date for the wedding draws nearer and I watch their relationship grow and strengthen, I can't stop thinking about her comment. I have to wonder if her comment comes from past hurt in previous relationships. I don't see her future husband as the fighting type so I don't see him entering into a battle willingly.
I started to think about my relationship with Ayron and realized that we have never really fought either. Sure, we have petty little tifts about stupid things, but nothing big. Most of our little tifts are due to bad communication or hormones (I am a girl after all, we are allowed to have those days).
We have been together since New Years Eve of 2000/2001. We've survived going away to college, living with his parents, unemployment, tough times, pregnancy, childbirth, traveling at a moments notice (for work), and much more and yet we are still together. It actually does amaze me that we've made it this far. I have no doubt that we are meant for each other, who else would put up with my crap? Seeing as how we haven't ever willingly spent a night apart since we said "I do" I don't see any fights in our future.
I do believe it is important to learn how to "fight" fair. I don't mean physically fight. I think it's important for each person to learn their partner's way of thinking and communicating. A while back our church did a "Mens' Brains Womens' Brains" seminar (over several sessions). It helped me a lot. Men can only have one thought box open at a time. Women have at least 3 or 4 thought boxes open at one time. I have to constantly ask Ayron to "close the 'tv' box" and open the "listen to your wife" box.
If you have never seen the "Mens' Brains Womens' Brains" seminar, I encourage you to search for them on youtube.
So what do you think? Is fighting really necessary?
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Are they for real?
We recently purchased DishNetwork and it is amazing what is on tv! I found myself caught up in a show on VH1 about celebrities and their "entourage." I was amazed at the people celebrities pay to be their friends? Isn't that really what an entourage is?
For example, P. Diddy pays someone to hold an umbrella. Are P. Diddy's arm's broken? I have to wonder if the umbrella toting friend would be such a great friend if he weren't making $4000 a week.
Whitney Houston pays someone to check the bathwater temperature in hotels. Really? Is she incapable of dipping her toes into the water to judge the temperature?
What has happened to these people that they can no longer do these simple tasks for themselves. I saw another celebrity that pays someone to fasten her shoes. Really? Is bending over THAT difficult? Who fills their head with the garbage that makes them believe that they should pay someone to do simple tasks.
I have to wonder what I would be like if I became a celebrity and hired an "entourage." Who would I hire and what would I have them do? I hate cleaning my glasses at night, so maybe I would hire someone to clean them for me. In the winter I hate pumping gas, so maybe I'd hire someone to do that for me.
Who would you hire and what would you have them do?
For example, P. Diddy pays someone to hold an umbrella. Are P. Diddy's arm's broken? I have to wonder if the umbrella toting friend would be such a great friend if he weren't making $4000 a week.
Whitney Houston pays someone to check the bathwater temperature in hotels. Really? Is she incapable of dipping her toes into the water to judge the temperature?
What has happened to these people that they can no longer do these simple tasks for themselves. I saw another celebrity that pays someone to fasten her shoes. Really? Is bending over THAT difficult? Who fills their head with the garbage that makes them believe that they should pay someone to do simple tasks.
I have to wonder what I would be like if I became a celebrity and hired an "entourage." Who would I hire and what would I have them do? I hate cleaning my glasses at night, so maybe I would hire someone to clean them for me. In the winter I hate pumping gas, so maybe I'd hire someone to do that for me.
Who would you hire and what would you have them do?
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Whatever You're Doing
I had never heard of Sanctus Real before this afternoon. I decided to put my headphones on, turn on yahoo radio and tackle the tasks I dislike. The song "Whatever You're Doing" came on and it was like He was beating me upside the head and screaming, "Listen to the words of this song!!" Man, I was blown away.
I know that several of my friends are feeling the same way right now and it is just nice to hear a song that sums it all up!!
It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
All I can do is surrender
[Chorus]
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
But I'm giving in to something heavenly
Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Reevaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow your will
Or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is you want from me
I give everything I surrender... To...
[Chorus]
Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to to release all my held back tears
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Something heavenly
It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time breathe in and let everything out
I know that several of my friends are feeling the same way right now and it is just nice to hear a song that sums it all up!!
It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
All I can do is surrender
[Chorus]
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
But I'm giving in to something heavenly
Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Reevaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow your will
Or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is you want from me
I give everything I surrender... To...
[Chorus]
Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to to release all my held back tears
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Something heavenly
It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time breathe in and let everything out
Monday, August 03, 2009
House For Sale
I am sad to say that our in-laws have put their house up for sale. I LOVE THE HOUSE! If Ayron and I could afford to buy it, I would. I wouldn't even think twice about it. If you know anyone looking for a house in the Auburn area, check it out. It is a great house, with plenty of space (inside and out).
http://actionr.net/index.php?action=listingview&listingID=573&PageID=Home
http://actionr.net/index.php?action=listingview&listingID=573&PageID=Home
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Can't Save Them All
I have learned that I can't save every student that crosses my path. Learning this hasn't stopped me from trying though. While I realize that I have been a bit jaded (this past school year) I need to believe that each student can be helped back onto the path to a productive life. I was reminded this morning that not every student will take (or want) the help that is offered to them.
Three years ago I had a 13 year old kid in my after school program. He was a handful! I always felt like I was banging my head against a wall when it came to him. Nothing seemed to work. I tried to help him in every way possible, but when he, and the family fought us every step of the way, there wasn't much we could do.
This morning I learned that he, along with a 23 year old male, sexual assaulted/beat up/raped a woman. He was arrested as a juvenile and then re-arrested as an adult due to the nature of the crime. I read the article and wanted to vomit. How does someone get so twisted (sick in the head, call it whatever you want) that they feel that is ok to do? Furthermore, what is a 23 year old doing being buddy buddy with a 16 year old? My former student now faces 20 years in prison as an adult and frankly, I hope he gets what he deserves. I know we have tried to utilize EVERY county resource with him and his family and it is not working. Maybe some time behind bars will allow him to realize the errors of his ways.....unfortunately, I doubt it will.
It is sad to give up on someone, but my heart sank a little this morning and I have to wonder if anything will work for him. Please pray for him, the other male involved and more importantly the female they assaulted.
Three years ago I had a 13 year old kid in my after school program. He was a handful! I always felt like I was banging my head against a wall when it came to him. Nothing seemed to work. I tried to help him in every way possible, but when he, and the family fought us every step of the way, there wasn't much we could do.
This morning I learned that he, along with a 23 year old male, sexual assaulted/beat up/raped a woman. He was arrested as a juvenile and then re-arrested as an adult due to the nature of the crime. I read the article and wanted to vomit. How does someone get so twisted (sick in the head, call it whatever you want) that they feel that is ok to do? Furthermore, what is a 23 year old doing being buddy buddy with a 16 year old? My former student now faces 20 years in prison as an adult and frankly, I hope he gets what he deserves. I know we have tried to utilize EVERY county resource with him and his family and it is not working. Maybe some time behind bars will allow him to realize the errors of his ways.....unfortunately, I doubt it will.
It is sad to give up on someone, but my heart sank a little this morning and I have to wonder if anything will work for him. Please pray for him, the other male involved and more importantly the female they assaulted.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
I will not turn and run
This blog was written in an attempt to vent hopefully organize my thoughts.
So work is getting frustrating lately. The other office is growing like crazy and apparently they feel that I should be forgoing what I feel is important to work on their menial tasks. It's just frustrating. I did not go to school for 5 years to not enjoy my job.
I am beginning to wonder if I made the right choice to hang around for another year. I think I know that I will make it, but I also know that it won't be without a fight. I feel like I am taken advantage of, but when I speak up I get labeled "bitchy." I feel like I don't really fit in with most of my co-workers and it's like being back in middle school again. If I take my ipod and listen to my music while I do the crap work, then I am not being social. If I try to participate in their drama filled office, then I get looked at like I am some kind of contagious outsider.
I genuinely asked my boss if I would have time to get things done for my program and he told me
"probably not." So why do my students have to suffer because another office is busy? I need time to rearrange and prepare for this upcoming school year, but apparently no one else sees it but me.
I am trying to pray about this whole situation but it just brings frustration and tears because I don't know if I am doing what I am supposed to be doing. Do I stay here and put up with another year of being stepped on or do I try get out of dodge while I still have some dignity?
So work is getting frustrating lately. The other office is growing like crazy and apparently they feel that I should be forgoing what I feel is important to work on their menial tasks. It's just frustrating. I did not go to school for 5 years to not enjoy my job.
I am beginning to wonder if I made the right choice to hang around for another year. I think I know that I will make it, but I also know that it won't be without a fight. I feel like I am taken advantage of, but when I speak up I get labeled "bitchy." I feel like I don't really fit in with most of my co-workers and it's like being back in middle school again. If I take my ipod and listen to my music while I do the crap work, then I am not being social. If I try to participate in their drama filled office, then I get looked at like I am some kind of contagious outsider.
I genuinely asked my boss if I would have time to get things done for my program and he told me
"probably not." So why do my students have to suffer because another office is busy? I need time to rearrange and prepare for this upcoming school year, but apparently no one else sees it but me.
I am trying to pray about this whole situation but it just brings frustration and tears because I don't know if I am doing what I am supposed to be doing. Do I stay here and put up with another year of being stepped on or do I try get out of dodge while I still have some dignity?
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Immaturity
I don't know if I've ignored it in the past or just didn't notice it, but it seems like immaturity is everywhere these days! I think I have just tried to ignore it, but lately it has been too great to ignore any longer.
Why do people think that spreading rumors will make them look good and the person in the rumor bad? Do they not realize that true people realize it is the rumor starter who is the immature one? Rumors only hurt and will eventually backfire, then who looks stupid? The person that started and spread the lie, that is who!
I also have to wonder why people can't just fess up and say, "I screwed up, I'm sorry, what can I do to fix it?" What is with these half attempts at apologies. Why not own your mistakes and do what it takes to fix it. Is pride really that hard to swallow? I know it can be bitter, but it can be swallowed. Why do people then spread loads of bull poo to try to back up their lies? That only adds poo to your pride, and swallowing a poo covered pride is not only more difficult, but nasty as well.
When someone IS willing to admit to their mistakes and ask for help in fixing them, you should be willing to help them. Don't keep pointing out the mistake, they know the mistake, they are trying to fix it!
Rant done!
Why do people think that spreading rumors will make them look good and the person in the rumor bad? Do they not realize that true people realize it is the rumor starter who is the immature one? Rumors only hurt and will eventually backfire, then who looks stupid? The person that started and spread the lie, that is who!
I also have to wonder why people can't just fess up and say, "I screwed up, I'm sorry, what can I do to fix it?" What is with these half attempts at apologies. Why not own your mistakes and do what it takes to fix it. Is pride really that hard to swallow? I know it can be bitter, but it can be swallowed. Why do people then spread loads of bull poo to try to back up their lies? That only adds poo to your pride, and swallowing a poo covered pride is not only more difficult, but nasty as well.
When someone IS willing to admit to their mistakes and ask for help in fixing them, you should be willing to help them. Don't keep pointing out the mistake, they know the mistake, they are trying to fix it!
Rant done!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Missing It
I feel like I am missing something. Like He is trying to show/teach me something and I just can't see/understand it. It's frustrating because I'm pretty sure it is starring me in the face and yet I can't get it. I know that He isn't frustrated with me, but I think I would feel better if He would (even though I know He won't). I don't even have any idea what I am missing, but I know I am missing something. I've prayed, talked, doodled, gotten mad, etc. I don't think He is teaching me patience because I see Him doing that in other areas of my life (work).
I'm aggravated because I know it's just out of my grasp, yet even with all my stretching I can't even get a finger on it. Sometimes I wish I could just wake up and find an email from Him and that email would tell me what is expected of me and what I am supposed to be doing here, that would simplify a lot of things!
I'm aggravated because I know it's just out of my grasp, yet even with all my stretching I can't even get a finger on it. Sometimes I wish I could just wake up and find an email from Him and that email would tell me what is expected of me and what I am supposed to be doing here, that would simplify a lot of things!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Coupons, Cutouts, and Creativity (How I save)
I have had several people ask me how I save so much money when I go grocery shopping. It is a multi-step system that I use, and it does take some planning, but I like know that I am saving $!
First, we are attempting to grow our own garden this year, so that works out well for fresh produce. It is expensive to eat healthy food, so we decided to attempt some home grown goodness.
I hate grocery shopping, so I try to do one big trip a month and be done with it. I started by getting organized. Since we do a majority of our shopping at Wal-Mart I created a chart based on the Auburn store lay out. I then created half an envelope for each category on my chart. I labeled each envelope with the same heading from my chart (see pictures below). I hang an empty chart on the fridge after each trip and if we run out of something, I add it to the chart/list.
I then go coupon crazy. I clip every coupon I see. You just never know. It may be something I don't use, but I'm more than happy to pass the savings along to a friend who does use that product. I also use the following sites to gather coupons.
http://www.couponloop.com/ is one of my favorites.
http://www.couponmom.com/ is another good one.
http://www.couponbug.com/ works well.
http://www.coolsavings.com/ not really my favorite, but I find some good coupons every once in awhile.
http://www.kraft.com/ I use this a lot too.
If I am looking for a coupon for a specific item, I will search that makers website. If you are looking for a dog food coupon, go to the company site that makes the food your dog eats, etc.
I then organize my coupons by putting them in the corresponding envelopes. Coupons for cheese, milk, etc, go in the "dairy" envelope. Coupons for cereal and granola bars goes in the "cereal, Syrup, Pop Tarts, Granola Bars" envelope. Easy enough to understand right?
I then gather the local "in store" ads. Since I work in Angola, I make a point to run out to Meijer and grab an ad. The Kroger ad comes in the mail. I will look for items that we like that are on sale as well as items that we want to try that I already have a coupon for. If I want to try something new, and it's on sale at Kroger, I'll get on line and search for a coupon as well. I cut out the ad and take the clippings with me. Trust me, I know cashiers hate this. I used to be a cashier and I am now the type of customer I hated. It is there job to take care of you at check out, so just pretend to be happy and apologize for the cut outs. When I unload my cart I attempt to put all of the items I have a cut out for at the start of the line. It makes it easier for the cashier. They can get all of the price changes out of the way at first and then fly through the rest. If I have a "buy one, get one" coupon I also hand that to the cashier first so they can remember to write down the amount.
The next step is to plan your meals. I print out a monthly calendar and plan meals based on what is on sale and what I plan to buy. The key to this is flexibility. Who knows what you are going to be craving in two weeks! I allow us to swap nights. Often Ayron will call and say, "I looked at the menu this morning and pasta doesn't sound good. Can we trade tonight for Thursday's meal?" This works really well for us. As I am getting breakfast around, I can glance at the calendar and I immediately know what I need to get around for dinner. If I need chicken, I know to pull it out of the freezer and let it thaw while I am at work. Saves a ton of time! I also build in "fun" meals. Saturday night we always "eat out with the gang" after church. Sunday is always "leftovers or pizza" night. If there aren't any left overs, then we make our own pizza. We'll do breakfast type foods for dinner, or a picnic dinner the park, etc.
After I make my calendar, I double check my chart/list to make sure I have all the ingredients and food needed to make all the meals on the calendar. I will sometimes wait to buy the fresh produce till closer to the night we are eating it. I then pull all the coupons I plan on using and paper clip them to my chart. I always take along all my coupons, but pulling out the ones you already plan on using in advance saves time.
That is how I do it. It takes some time and planning, but I think it take a lot of headache out of the "What am I going to cook for dinner?" situation that would happen every night if I didn't do it.
Here are some other tips that I have.
* Buy generic. It won't kill you to buy the store brand. Now I break this rule when it comes to certain types of foods. I can't eat cheap mac and cheese, I just can't. It's Kraft or nothing! Some of the store brand foods I like better than the name brand. Taylor loves the generic version of "Nutragrain" bars, but will not eat the actual brand kind!
* Ladies, if you can help it, DO NOT TAKE THE KIDS OR YOUR HUSBAND to the store with you!! It's just easier and you're not constantly saying, "Put that back."
* Eat a meal right before you go, that way if you have to take the kids and hubby, they aren't as hungry and they don't start suddenly craving everything they see!
* Take your own bags. I LOVE MY REUSABLE BAGS FROM ALDI'S! If you are buy an Aldi's stop in and get their cloth bags (have a cardboard insert in the bottom). I think I paid $2 for each of them, but they are HUGE and they hold so much more than the reusable Wal-Mart bags!
* Buy in bulk when possible. We have a Sam's Club membership and we buy some things in bulk. I also take this approach when buying meat and cheese. We get a lot of our meat from Albrights. The "Fill the Freezer" pack lasts us forever! We also bought a pork loin (that was already cut into about 20 chops) last night for $10. Tonight I will repackage those into serving sizes and freeze them! We also bought a sirloin roast that was on sale. Ayron will cut it into sirloin steaks, and ta da...We'll get about 8-10 steaks out of it for a total of $10. We eat a lot of cheese, so we buy the GIANT bags at Sam's Club, and then I repackage them into 2 cup sizes (baggies are our friends!) and put them in the freezer.
*Create connections to farmers! We are lucky enough that Ayron's brother does some "mini" farming. They have taken an interest in chicken farming. We recently got 5 chickens for $4 a piece. Can't beat that! In about another two weeks we will get another 10 chickens. They raise them, and then Ayron goes out and helps with the processing. We plan on giving some away as gifts. I have a friend who we are going to quarter at least 1, if not 2 up, and give them to her (pss..Evil Poptart, I'm talking about you!). We also have an Uncle who raises cows and once a year, we all pitch in and buy cow and process it our self. We split the meat up, and that fills our freezer (It helps that we have a HUGE deep freeze) too. We also know a hog farmer who will sell us hogs for cheap. When the fire department is getting ready for a hog roast, we might purchase another one (he sells them to us for cheap since Ayron's brother is a firefighter) and butcher it ourselves. We make roasts, ham, chops, bacon, sausage links, sausage patties, etc. All of this takes some time and effort and the ability to get your hands dirty, but if you have the connections, use them!
So there you have it, that is how I save! Hope it helps all of you out there. If you want my chart for the Auburn Wal-Mart let me know and I will be happy to email it to you!
A pic (taken w/ my phone so the quality is crap) of my chart.
My coupon envelopes. They are just a sealed envelope cut in half.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Plenty of Notice
I require plenty of notice, especially when it comes to work issues. I have a family and several other outside (of work) commitments. My boss is a single guy (lives with girlfriend) who can pick up and go with the drop of a hat. I can't do that. He has, once again, dropped a bomb on me with all of like 1 1/2 notice. He has signed me up for training in Elkhart. It's a week long training. I am going to have to explain to him tomorrow that I cannot go for several reasons.
A.) Short notice
B.) Only one car in our household and if I take it to Elkart, how will Ayron get around?
C.) With Ayron's crazy work schedule, who would take care of TJ?
D.) I don't believe in this training. I don't believe in the effectiveness of the program. I think it is a program the state created to make themselves feel good, but I have yet to see it work. Having this feeling, makes it hard to be excited about going to this training.
So how do I approach with subject with my boss? I plan on asking him if we can meet and I am going to tell him the following: In order for me to attend training I need AT LEAST a month notice. If Ayron is out of town or has an in town auction, I will be unavailable. I will try to remember to up date my schedule on the officer calendar so that he is aware of my schedule. It is very difficult to plan time for me to be away from Auburn due to my other commitments. I would also appreciate being asked if I would like to attend training. I have several things due to state that week and would rather have the time in my office to proof read the final drafts and collect official signatures.
Any advice?
A.) Short notice
B.) Only one car in our household and if I take it to Elkart, how will Ayron get around?
C.) With Ayron's crazy work schedule, who would take care of TJ?
D.) I don't believe in this training. I don't believe in the effectiveness of the program. I think it is a program the state created to make themselves feel good, but I have yet to see it work. Having this feeling, makes it hard to be excited about going to this training.
So how do I approach with subject with my boss? I plan on asking him if we can meet and I am going to tell him the following: In order for me to attend training I need AT LEAST a month notice. If Ayron is out of town or has an in town auction, I will be unavailable. I will try to remember to up date my schedule on the officer calendar so that he is aware of my schedule. It is very difficult to plan time for me to be away from Auburn due to my other commitments. I would also appreciate being asked if I would like to attend training. I have several things due to state that week and would rather have the time in my office to proof read the final drafts and collect official signatures.
Any advice?
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Marriage
I am currently experiencing marriage in every phase of it's existence. I have two friends who are engaged and getting married within 3 weeks of each other (and I'm in both!) at opposite ends of the country! Ayron and I are coming up on our 4 year wedding anniversary (been together 8 1/2 years). I am also experiencing the heartache of a marriage ending. I find myself experiencing all the emotions of each stage and it makes me wonder and appreciate my husband all the more.
Engagement
I have two friends who are getting married this fall and it's fun to watch the planning and be apart of the planning. T and C are getting married Oct. 10th in the Seattle area, and although I've only met her once, I know C is the right one for T. This wedding strikes me as particularly cool for two reasons: we get to travel (actually kind of nervous about that part) to the wedding and I get to stand up front on T's side! Yeppers, I will be standing up with the guys. I think that is cool! D and K are recently engaged and getting married Nov. 7. I will also be upfront (a part of the "fruit salad" of bridesmaids / inside joke). We recently went dress shopping and it was fun to watch D try on all types of dresses. You could tell when she found the one because her demeanor changed, she became quiet and D is not quiet.
It's fun to watch these couples get excited about marriage, about finding their life partner. I get to relive all of those emotions without the stress (no bridezilla freak outs or anything!). I get to be apart of their happiest day and I will do my part to make it a happy day for all! It's fun to see the loving look in their eyes and see how they can't get enough of each other.
Marriage
Ayron and I are coming up on our 4th anniversary and I tend to find myself looking back in time. I never planned on getting married. I was gonna move to Austria and become a nun (yet another inside joke). I can't believe that in the span of 4 years, we have accomplished and survived so much! We have a house in a great neighborhood (minus the random act of juvenile delinquency), have a dog, and the most surprising thing...a child! It's so cool to know that we created that life and now he is a human. It's just fascinating.
We've survived so many obstacles and it has only made us stronger. We lived with his parents while I finished up student teaching, dealt with a job loss and promotions, the agony of house shopping and the joy of signing the closing paperwork, and we are both now in jobs that we love that allow us to live a comfortable life. Life is good and I am glad that I have a wonderful partner to share it with.
Divorce
I also have a friend dealing with a not so good side of marriage, a divorce. I know the Bible is against divorce, but I see so many situations where both individuals would be better off if they went their separate ways. I didn't say it would be easy, and it should not be taken lightly, but I feel that in some situations, it is the best option.
I was at my friends house the other day when her soon to be ex came over to get some of his things. I swear I could feel her heart break. I felt like my chest was going to explode with sadness. I just wanted to hold her and tell her it would all be ok. Eventually it will be ok, but right now it is difficult for all involved. I also felt the anger her father was feeling. He was there with us as well and you could read the frustration of his face. I also wonder if he felt some what heartbroken because he wasn't able to protect his baby girl from experiencing this tragic situation.
She has a great out look on life and knows she will eventually find someone who loves her for her and I admire her for that. She has so much more strength than she knows and I pray for her, and him, daily. Just sitting here thinking about the situation, I find myself experiencing some of the emotions she must deal with (no where near to the extent she does) on a daily basis. I just want to wisk her away from this situation and make it all better, but I can't. I have to keep reminding myself that God will use this as a learning experience for all involved.
I will say that after being at her house the other night, I did appreciate my marriage and Ayron a lot more. Living in these stages of marriage (vicariously through my friends) has allowed me to remember how I once felt and deepen my love for Ayron.
Engagement
I have two friends who are getting married this fall and it's fun to watch the planning and be apart of the planning. T and C are getting married Oct. 10th in the Seattle area, and although I've only met her once, I know C is the right one for T. This wedding strikes me as particularly cool for two reasons: we get to travel (actually kind of nervous about that part) to the wedding and I get to stand up front on T's side! Yeppers, I will be standing up with the guys. I think that is cool! D and K are recently engaged and getting married Nov. 7. I will also be upfront (a part of the "fruit salad" of bridesmaids / inside joke). We recently went dress shopping and it was fun to watch D try on all types of dresses. You could tell when she found the one because her demeanor changed, she became quiet and D is not quiet.
It's fun to watch these couples get excited about marriage, about finding their life partner. I get to relive all of those emotions without the stress (no bridezilla freak outs or anything!). I get to be apart of their happiest day and I will do my part to make it a happy day for all! It's fun to see the loving look in their eyes and see how they can't get enough of each other.
Marriage
Ayron and I are coming up on our 4th anniversary and I tend to find myself looking back in time. I never planned on getting married. I was gonna move to Austria and become a nun (yet another inside joke). I can't believe that in the span of 4 years, we have accomplished and survived so much! We have a house in a great neighborhood (minus the random act of juvenile delinquency), have a dog, and the most surprising thing...a child! It's so cool to know that we created that life and now he is a human. It's just fascinating.
We've survived so many obstacles and it has only made us stronger. We lived with his parents while I finished up student teaching, dealt with a job loss and promotions, the agony of house shopping and the joy of signing the closing paperwork, and we are both now in jobs that we love that allow us to live a comfortable life. Life is good and I am glad that I have a wonderful partner to share it with.
Divorce
I also have a friend dealing with a not so good side of marriage, a divorce. I know the Bible is against divorce, but I see so many situations where both individuals would be better off if they went their separate ways. I didn't say it would be easy, and it should not be taken lightly, but I feel that in some situations, it is the best option.
I was at my friends house the other day when her soon to be ex came over to get some of his things. I swear I could feel her heart break. I felt like my chest was going to explode with sadness. I just wanted to hold her and tell her it would all be ok. Eventually it will be ok, but right now it is difficult for all involved. I also felt the anger her father was feeling. He was there with us as well and you could read the frustration of his face. I also wonder if he felt some what heartbroken because he wasn't able to protect his baby girl from experiencing this tragic situation.
She has a great out look on life and knows she will eventually find someone who loves her for her and I admire her for that. She has so much more strength than she knows and I pray for her, and him, daily. Just sitting here thinking about the situation, I find myself experiencing some of the emotions she must deal with (no where near to the extent she does) on a daily basis. I just want to wisk her away from this situation and make it all better, but I can't. I have to keep reminding myself that God will use this as a learning experience for all involved.
I will say that after being at her house the other night, I did appreciate my marriage and Ayron a lot more. Living in these stages of marriage (vicariously through my friends) has allowed me to remember how I once felt and deepen my love for Ayron.
Grow Up
I logged onto my blog this morning to moderate comments and found a rather stupid comment from an "anonymous" reader calling my child "fugly." Wow, really mature. Nothing says, "I'm an ignorant moron" than insulting someones child publicly. Grow up! I love the ability to moderate comments and decide to "REJECT" such immature comments from people who don't even have the guts to own up to their idiotic thoughts.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Mystery Gift
Last Thursday I came home to find a HUGE box sitting in front of my door. The box weighed 28lbs! Inside the mystery box was a fantastic pedal car, yet no clue as to who sent it. I was still in my detective mode (since my purse had been stolen) so I decided to look up the company on the return address. I then gave Mr. Dixey a call and told him that we had no clue who sent the package and would like to know so we could send a thank you card. Turns out, my mom's cousin Dan saw it in a catalogue and decided that TJ needed one since Ayron now works with classic cars.
We aren't sure if Taylor likes his gift, what do you think?
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Dear IDIOTS
(This is my "letter" to the morons who decided to break into cars on IWO street during the early morning hours of June 10, 2009).
Dear Idiots,
I bet you think you are pretty slick. Breaking into several cars, stealing money and a pocket knife. I would like to inform you that you are not slick, you are slimy as well as stupid. I don't know much about stealing, seeing as how I've never done it and never will do it, but I know more than you do.
For instance, if you are going to pick a street to burglarize, don't pick the street that the sheriff, ex sheriff, head of dispatch, 2 local police, 2 sheriff deputies, and 1 state police officer live on. We don't take crime lying down in our town, let alone our street.
I have to wonder why you only took a pocket knife from Mr. M's truck. Were you too blind to see the 4 guns in his backseat and the boxes of ammunition (He had gone to the shooting range that day)? If you wanted to be "armed" so badly that you broke into vehicles, why only take a pocket knife.
Secondly, you used my stolen credit card at 2 gas stations, McDonalds, and two Meijer stores. Let me tell you something....ALL OF THOSE PLACES HAVE CAMERAS. Here is another hint, when someone reports a card stolen and you try to use it, it comes up on the Meijer computer as STOLEN CARD. I bet you didn't know that the Angola Meijer has THE BEST security cameras in the area. Thanks for being dumb enough to steal my card and then use it at the place with the best cameras!
Thank you for ditching my ATM card RIGHT NEXT TO MY BANK. You are moronic. You made me wonder, "Did they try to use my card at the ATM machine? I called the bank and they are running the card now and pulling the video as I type this.
I bet you didn't know that the two police officers they assigned to this case are friends of my husband. One went to high school with Ayron and the other one does some part time security work for the company my husband works for. Thanks! It has been nice catching back up with them as they work to NAIL YOUR BUTT TO THE WALL!!!
Did you know you were robbing someone who works for community corrections and knows the law? Were you expecting me to shrug my shoulders and say "Oh well." I won't! You may have gotten some cash and bought some crap at Meijer, but in the end, JUSTICE WILL WIN. I will not be made to feel insecure and violated in my own home. I will not allow you to make my safe neighborhood feel corrupt. I have talked to all my neighbors, we all know. You better believe when we have a name to match with your slimy face I will tell everyone your name too.
Sincerely,
Carma "I'm not afraid of you and your slimy ways" Reeves
Dear Idiots,
I bet you think you are pretty slick. Breaking into several cars, stealing money and a pocket knife. I would like to inform you that you are not slick, you are slimy as well as stupid. I don't know much about stealing, seeing as how I've never done it and never will do it, but I know more than you do.
For instance, if you are going to pick a street to burglarize, don't pick the street that the sheriff, ex sheriff, head of dispatch, 2 local police, 2 sheriff deputies, and 1 state police officer live on. We don't take crime lying down in our town, let alone our street.
I have to wonder why you only took a pocket knife from Mr. M's truck. Were you too blind to see the 4 guns in his backseat and the boxes of ammunition (He had gone to the shooting range that day)? If you wanted to be "armed" so badly that you broke into vehicles, why only take a pocket knife.
Secondly, you used my stolen credit card at 2 gas stations, McDonalds, and two Meijer stores. Let me tell you something....ALL OF THOSE PLACES HAVE CAMERAS. Here is another hint, when someone reports a card stolen and you try to use it, it comes up on the Meijer computer as STOLEN CARD. I bet you didn't know that the Angola Meijer has THE BEST security cameras in the area. Thanks for being dumb enough to steal my card and then use it at the place with the best cameras!
Thank you for ditching my ATM card RIGHT NEXT TO MY BANK. You are moronic. You made me wonder, "Did they try to use my card at the ATM machine? I called the bank and they are running the card now and pulling the video as I type this.
I bet you didn't know that the two police officers they assigned to this case are friends of my husband. One went to high school with Ayron and the other one does some part time security work for the company my husband works for. Thanks! It has been nice catching back up with them as they work to NAIL YOUR BUTT TO THE WALL!!!
Did you know you were robbing someone who works for community corrections and knows the law? Were you expecting me to shrug my shoulders and say "Oh well." I won't! You may have gotten some cash and bought some crap at Meijer, but in the end, JUSTICE WILL WIN. I will not be made to feel insecure and violated in my own home. I will not allow you to make my safe neighborhood feel corrupt. I have talked to all my neighbors, we all know. You better believe when we have a name to match with your slimy face I will tell everyone your name too.
Sincerely,
Carma "I'm not afraid of you and your slimy ways" Reeves
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Stolen Purse
I woke up this morning to see a police officer talking to a couple who lives across the street. All of the truck doors were open and I told Ayron, "I think someone broke into Meyer's truck."
We piled in the car and got ready to take TJ to the sitter and noticed that some things from the glove box were sitting on the passenger seat. Then I realized that I left my purse in the car last night. I panicked. (Let me backtrack. When I got home yesterday TJ was fussing and I just grabbed him and came into the house. I forgot to go back out and get my purse or lock the car).
I ran across the street and Mr. Meyers met me and we talked. He said he became suspicious when he found a set of keys and small pouch on his wife's car (my keys and my pouch of medicine). I called the police and Officer Fuller came out to my house. He had my keys and my pouch.
When Mr. Meyers gave him the keys, the officer took them out to BP and scanned my reward points tag and discovered they belonged to me. He knew who we were because he went to school with Ayron.
After talking with the police officer, we discovered another car a couple houses down had been broken into as well. I then talked to another neighbor and had them check their car and it was apparent someone had gone through it. We weren't the only one, but we did lose the most. They think it happened between 2 - 4am. The crazy thing is our neighborhood is FULL or barking dogs who go psycho is a leaf moves, yet none of them barked last night.
We immediately called the credit card company and had that card closed. Turns out they used the card at Speedway, McDonalds, the Angola Meijer, a Marathon gas station, and attempted to use it at Mejier on Lima road (by that time we had cancelled the card). We called Speedway and they pulled a tape (who really buys gas at 4:30am?) and the police are reviewing it. They are also reviewing a tape from McDonalds and attempting to get a tape from the Marathon gas station.
We went to the bank and had the checking account closed and found out that they didn't attempt to use my debit card, THANK GOD! The new account is set up and all is taken care of.
Basically, they got away with my library card and $100 in cash. It's just a pain because I spent all morning at the BMV and the social security office, etc.
As I was driving Ayron out to work we witnessed an accident. A driver lost control turning (it was raining) and went up over the sidewalk and down into a ditch. When I gave the 911 dispatcher my name she laughed and asked, "Do you have a police fetish today?" She recognized my name from earlier.
I have to keep reminding myself that I am only out $100. I am still just so mad at myself. I also feel violated. I have my keys, I have my health, my child, my family, etc. but the fact that it happened up and down the street right under our nose and no one heard a thing. I am sitting here with the house all locked up and I keep thinking, "Is that truck driving too slow? Have I seen those people before?" I know that I can't do that, it will only drive me crazy, but I still feel violated.
I hope the videos give the police a license plate number. I don't expect to get the $100 back, but I want justice. Here is what really gets me. My neighbor is an avid hunter and had just come back from target practice last night. He had several shot guns and hand guns in his truck along with ammunition. They didn't touch that, but they took his pocket knife from his center console. They were obviously after cash, and I had it.
We piled in the car and got ready to take TJ to the sitter and noticed that some things from the glove box were sitting on the passenger seat. Then I realized that I left my purse in the car last night. I panicked. (Let me backtrack. When I got home yesterday TJ was fussing and I just grabbed him and came into the house. I forgot to go back out and get my purse or lock the car).
I ran across the street and Mr. Meyers met me and we talked. He said he became suspicious when he found a set of keys and small pouch on his wife's car (my keys and my pouch of medicine). I called the police and Officer Fuller came out to my house. He had my keys and my pouch.
When Mr. Meyers gave him the keys, the officer took them out to BP and scanned my reward points tag and discovered they belonged to me. He knew who we were because he went to school with Ayron.
After talking with the police officer, we discovered another car a couple houses down had been broken into as well. I then talked to another neighbor and had them check their car and it was apparent someone had gone through it. We weren't the only one, but we did lose the most. They think it happened between 2 - 4am. The crazy thing is our neighborhood is FULL or barking dogs who go psycho is a leaf moves, yet none of them barked last night.
We immediately called the credit card company and had that card closed. Turns out they used the card at Speedway, McDonalds, the Angola Meijer, a Marathon gas station, and attempted to use it at Mejier on Lima road (by that time we had cancelled the card). We called Speedway and they pulled a tape (who really buys gas at 4:30am?) and the police are reviewing it. They are also reviewing a tape from McDonalds and attempting to get a tape from the Marathon gas station.
We went to the bank and had the checking account closed and found out that they didn't attempt to use my debit card, THANK GOD! The new account is set up and all is taken care of.
Basically, they got away with my library card and $100 in cash. It's just a pain because I spent all morning at the BMV and the social security office, etc.
As I was driving Ayron out to work we witnessed an accident. A driver lost control turning (it was raining) and went up over the sidewalk and down into a ditch. When I gave the 911 dispatcher my name she laughed and asked, "Do you have a police fetish today?" She recognized my name from earlier.
I have to keep reminding myself that I am only out $100. I am still just so mad at myself. I also feel violated. I have my keys, I have my health, my child, my family, etc. but the fact that it happened up and down the street right under our nose and no one heard a thing. I am sitting here with the house all locked up and I keep thinking, "Is that truck driving too slow? Have I seen those people before?" I know that I can't do that, it will only drive me crazy, but I still feel violated.
I hope the videos give the police a license plate number. I don't expect to get the $100 back, but I want justice. Here is what really gets me. My neighbor is an avid hunter and had just come back from target practice last night. He had several shot guns and hand guns in his truck along with ammunition. They didn't touch that, but they took his pocket knife from his center console. They were obviously after cash, and I had it.
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