Bramell, Party of Five: May 2016

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Rest and Recovery

I've just reached the five-month mark of unemployment. That is surely something I never thought would happen. Let it be known that I'm still actively looking, but haven't found the right thing for me yet.

Now, if you know me well, I know what you are thinking. You are thinking that I am freaking out right about now, with a capital F. However, I'm really not. I'm really OK with waiting for the right job to come along; I don't want to settle and be unhappy.




What's interesting is that, over the past few months, I've seen a few friends that I don't see often. Each one commented to me in some way that I "look so relaxed" and seem so "refreshed and not stressed out." This really got me thinking about how I usually appeared to people--friends and strangers. Yes, I know I was uptight, stressed out, overworked and tired all the time. And guess what ? Now I AM NOT! I think I needed this break more than I could have imagined possible, and now I'm thankful for it. In 20 years, I've only had extended time off for having babies--and we all know that's no time to relax!!

Sure, there were some things that had to change due to tightening the budget, but it has all worked out.

1. We had to cancel our scheduled Spring Break trip to the Smoky Mountains.....boo! BUT, we got to spend a few days in Yellville with Lee's brothers and sister, who we rarely see. In fact, we had 15 people packed in the house and shared a lot of food, laughs and funny stories. The kids enjoyed seeing Uncle Rob's animals, riding the ATV, playing with little Pugsley and taking a hike around the Buffalo River.  Here are a few pics that I borrowed from Lee and his sister, Dee.










2. I got to be home for my kids. I've been home when they get off the bus, which gives us extra afternoon hours to play, watch movies, take walks and do homework before dinner.  I got to volunteer at their school, help with classroom parties and eat lunch with them, which would have been difficult if I was working. I've been able to get to all the 5:30 ball games without having to rush from work. What a blessing!

3.  I hate winter! And you know what? This winter, I didn't have to get out in it traveling back and forth to work. I got to stay home in my sweat pants. So, there.

4.  I was able to substitute teach in Springdale during April and May, which helped our bank account and helped me exercise my brain a little. I made some new teacher friends and spent many days with some sweet little pre-K kids that stole my heart.

5.  We had to delay putting new carpet in the house until later this year, but even that's OK, too. 

6. I got to attend a Moms on the Farm tour, which I've always wanted to do. The tours are always on weekdays, which is hard for a working gal. Even better, my mom was visiting and got to go with me! We had a blast and enjoyed the tours so much; we went to an operational dairy farm and a beef farm. If you are in Northwest Arkansas, I highly recommend this fun, free and educational activity.







In case you're wondering, I've had a couple of really promising interviews recently. I'm waiting to hear if I get called back for additional interviews or an offer. Stay tuned! I may be working soon, or I may be spending the summer at home going on adventures with my monkeys.


Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Twin Tuesday

It's Twin Tuesday! We've had a lot of stuff going on with end-of-school activities and sports. We are also getting ready for kindergarten graduation next week...I can't believe the school year is wrapping up! But I'm not sad about my babies growing up; we are having fun.

I had lunch at school with these two jokers yesterday. 




Here's a funny. We were getting ready for church on Sunday when the girls came into my bedroom in their pretty dresses. Girl Twin was up to something...

Her:  Mama, who looks prettier---me or Big Sis?

Me: Don't ask me that! You both look pretty.

Her: Well then, I'll just go ask Brother.


*Luckily, he didn't answer it either!! :)
 
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