Golden

7:44am the phone rang.  Caller ID showed:  Walmart and a phone number not from around here.   The DC's District Manager, Debbie Hodges, was calling as promised.  She was super friendly and very nice.  She didn't know that the DC had already taken care of me and she was glad that they did.

She understood my reserve to name names but promised that the information that I gave her would be regarded with the strictest of confidence and that Jerry and I will never see any ramifications from my conversation with her.  She wants to use my "issue" as a learning tool.  Whereas, this should never happen to another associate.  While the policy is that after an LOA, I am given 30 days to find a position within the facility BUT the DC made a couple mistakes and I was put through something that should never of happened. 

FIRST - I should have been told everything up front.  Communication is key.  I went into the office before Maternity Leave knowing that I was going to go over the 12-weeks LOA and asked straight out how this was going to affect my job.  Not once was termination every mentioned.  Not once did they say I would have to reapply for positions.  The only thing that was told to me is that I would have a position just not my position when I returned. 

SECOND - When I was able to return, since my job was not filled or even posted yet, I should have been offered the position on August 4th, not a month later.  It should have been HR's priority to get me back working.

We spent about 30 to 40 minutes talking on the phone.  Debbie was really curious as to what I thought was the biggest issues at the DC.  She likes to take a little knowledge away from every issue that she deals with and she wanted to know what I thought.  I told her that working in a store and working at the DC were completely different - as they should be.  But I said that management in the DC looses sight of the people.  In a store, you are reminded everyday why you are there.  You are there to service the customer.  Because without them, you wouldn't have a job, a paycheck or a company.  In the DC it's not as transparent.  We are up against production and how fast we can ship groceries to our customers, the stores.  It's all business, no play.  And while I believe it needs to be business orientated, I look at it like this:  To management, we, the associates, should be their customer.  We come to work and do the job, without us there would be no business to run.  We make them look good.  If we fail at something it looks bad on them and the iron fist comes down.  But if we succeed, they look good and get promotions.  HR is the Human Resources Department, they should bend over backwards to help every associate that crossed their desks.  I literally got shoved from desk to desk with a different answer from everyone.  Not a person in there treated me as if I was important.  I was just another needy associate who was wasting their time because they had something better to do.

A while I was promised by both Debbie (DM) and Kathy (GM), that what stems from my issue will be much more than a conversation, I will never see or know the end result.  As it should be, I will never see the punishments handed down.  I have to trust that they all use this as a learning experience and know that I am here to stay, I can't and won't be swept under the rug.  And while I expressed my feelings very well, Debbie asked if she could use my words in a quote.  She said that she won't use my name but she has conference calls with ALL her DC's and she said that this is something that she wants them all to hear.  I opened up a new way of thinking with the whole associates are the DC's first customers.  And they need to help us, make them look good.  Communication has got to be there.  It is the key to running a successful business.

Unlike Kathy, who was disappointed that I didn't go to her first (I did but that's another story), Debbie was thankful that I got her involved.  She told me that if I ever had an issue or concern with the DC, I am welcomed to get into contact with her at anytime.  :-)  She valued my opinion as a long time associate and thanked me for my dedication to our company.  She also said that it was refreashing to hear honest complaints with resonable ideas to fix them.  I wasn't just a hostile employee just complaining to complain.  I was positive and obviously respected among my peers.  I am a gem to the company and she doesn't want to see me go anywhere but up.  :-)  However, I did let her know that at this time in my life, my first priority is to be a mother.  I would love to become management some day but only after my kids are grown.  But what kind of wife would I be if I hadn't mentioned Jerry's desire to go up in the company.  She asked about him and his goals and I told her that he is wonderful father and husband and I know that one day he will be a huge asset to the management team at the DC - thus the biggest reason I didn't want to rock the boat with my contacting her.  Then of course, we shared mommy stories.
 
After our conversation, I am not 100% sure that Debbie was the one that contacted Kathy and gave me my job back already.  However, Kathy knew something so if it was the Ethics Department that contacted Kathy, she might be surprised when she gets a call from Debbie.  Or vise versa.  Ooops.  ;-) In my defense, I was trying anything to get my job back!  lol

Answered Prayers

It's only been a day since my last blog posting and already SO many things have changed. 

I'm not sure if I mentioned it or not, but in case I didn't I'll say it again.  Last Monday, August 27th, I contacted Walmart's Global Ethics Office with basically the same statement I posted yesterday.  They responded with this statement: "The follow-up date generated for this report is 2012-09-03.  If your reported issue has not been resolved, please refer back to the website on or after the scheduled date.  If you have additional information, you may provide that at any time."  I didn't think too much more about it because it was the day before my pending termination - a little too late it my eyes.

On Wednesday, August 29th, I also sent an email to Debbie Hodges, the District Manager over the Distribution Center.  I got a communication started with her and she seemed generally interested in helping me out and wanted to talk to me over the phone on Tuesday.  After our initial communication, I also mentioned to her that I had been in to fill out a transfer request to a store and the DC promised to contact these stores and get back with me within a day or two with my options because I was literally running out of time.  Now against the DC's knowledge, I had been in  contact with these stores and kind of know what my options are going to be.  And as of yesterday, I have failed to hear back from the DC about anything.  I wrote in my email, "The communication is simple not there.  No one has followed through with anything they have said. . . if I want answers I have to go in and see them face-to-face.  Only then am I a priority."

I followed up the the stores that I had applied for - like my last blog states.  And yesterday morning, I got a message from the Independence Walmart offering me a Support Manager position.  Working four 10 hour days, then off three days.  It seemed that my choices were coming in by the hour!  To heck with the DC.

Debbie followed up with an email asking me to name names.  I eventually did name names, but I made it quite clear that my husband also works within the DC and he is looking for a promotion.  I wanted nothing that I did or said to affect him in any way.  I'm the one they are all going to be mad at and I did not want it being taken out on him.

At 12:30 this afternoon, I got a call from Kathy Dailey, the General Manager over the Distribution Center.  She is the highest level of management within our building.  She started off apologizing about the lack of communication and wanted to know why I couldn't of had this conversation with her.  I kindly reminded her that I did reach out to her about 3 weeks back and she didn't have any answers for me and told me to be in contact with Travis, our HR Manager.  So when I wasn't getting anywhere with personnel, I went above all of them.

Our conversation was a nice one, she stroked my ego telling me that I was an asset to the company and she wanted to know what I wanted.  What do I want?  I want a position within the DC - anything besides order filling - that worked an opposite of Jerry.  That's when she asked me if I would take my old position back.  HECK YEAH!! 

So here's what I know - she read part or all of my communication and someone contacted her, either the Global Ethics Office or the District Manager.  Heads are going to roll in the HR Office, she asked questions, took names, and at one point said, "I'm going to make this more than just a conversation."

So the DC finally came to there senses and I start back at work on Saturday @ 4am.  I really would like to think that they wanted me in their facility. . . but I'm sure the answer to my employment lies within the letter to the ethics office, communication with the district manager, or the fact that 3 different stores were offering me a type of management positions.  No matter what it was - I'm SO glad all it's all over with and I'm back at my high paying job!  Not to mention - I should return to a 50 cent raise for being with the DC a year.  And September 12th will mark 6 years at Walmart. . . this time around!  :-)

Heidi. Job. Stress.

Wow.  Where do I start? 

One of the main things keeping me from this blog for the last month has been my stress level with my pending employment.

Here's the story:
On May 1, 2012 because of a weight restriction I was forced to start maternity leave. At that time I was told by the HR Manager at DC 6065 that I would have a job when I returned to work, just not MY current position. I delivered my son on June 13, 2012, shortly after I received notification that my job was no longer job protected and on July 24, 2012 my position would be up for grabs.

On August 1, 2012, after getting a release to return to work on August 4, 2012, I went in and talked to the HR Manager who told me that I would have to apply on line to job positions in the DC and I could not return to work until I had a position. However, my old position had not been posted or filled yet. He said it could take up to a couple pay days to start working again. I received notice that I had until September 4, 2012 to find a position or else?!?! I have since applied for 9 different positions and have currently been turned down for all of them. I am at the end of my rope, I never thought it was going to take this long to find a position. I have been employed with Walmart for over 9 years.

I love working for Walmart and haven't had a single problem until now. I feel as though I am being punished for taking maternity leave. Had I known that nothing was guaranteed, I would have rethought or fought the early maternity leave. But I was told point blank that I would have a position when I came back. I never knew that I was going to have to reapply for jobs without a guarantee of position which could ultimately result in my termination from the company.

What is the next step? I have never had anything less than a meets or exceeds expectations on an evaluation. Do I just sit back and get fired for nothing? How can I get a position back within the DC? Surely I am qualified for any position Walmart has to offer - In the store level, I have worked as a sales floor associate, jewelry sales coordinator, layaway/service desk, money center/site2store, cashier, CSM, and Department Manager, and on the Distribution Center level I am a fork lift driver.

I love this company. With all the negative press and associates that just want to bad mouth our company, I stood behind it, welcomed change and embraced it. I am dedicated, strong, and positive associate. I'm not saying that I have bad days, but it never shows at work. I am a hard, independent worker. I take pride in this company, it's my company. Nothing has ever been handed to me and I worked hard to get where I've been and where I am currently within the company. I feel as though I am an asset to ANY facility and getting told that I could get terminated without any reason - is difficult to swallow.

It has been a super stressful time with all this uncertainty.  One thing was certain - I HAVE to have a job.  There is no way we could survive on one paycheck.  No way at all.  The fact is we are struggling now, things need payed, things need done.  Groceries or bills?  What do you pay first?  Arg!  It's been stressful.  We never thought I'd still be without a paycheck one month after I was able to return to work.  Even though the stress is there, Jerry and I have gotten everything taken care of.  When we think there is no way to get all the bills payed - we do.  When we think there is no way to stock up on groceries - we can.  When birthdays and school picture days come - everybody gets what they need.  I am so proud of Jerry and I - these days of struggling are hard and I can see how they pull marriages apart.  Jerry and I have taken life by the horns and pushed on.  Stress is there, all the time.  But the kids don't see it, it doesn't get in the way of life.  We went on living.  And I'm SO happy to say that it's paid off.  There isn't anyone else I'd like by my side though all of this.

 

After giving the DC a month to find me a position, Tuesday I put in a transfer request back to a store.  Basically, I'll take ANY position to keep me from termination.  After hearing nothing, I went to Raymore Walmart and found Shawn (co-mgr) and straight up asked if he had a position for me.  He laughed and playing said yes.  Then his jaw dropped and an evil grin crossed over his face when he realized I was serious.  He was like a kid Christmas morning.  After explaining to him that I had to have something by Tuesday or I'd be terminated for failure to return off LOA.  He said he'd put me in any position to keep that from happening.  But he had Department Manager positions opening up and he wanted to make sure that I'd still be able to qualify for them (normally there is a 6-month wait after accepting a position).

 

While I was there, the store manager returned from lunch and told me that the manager from Harrisonville Walmart called asking about me wanting to know if I'd be a good HBA Department Manager.  Of course, he said nothing but good things about me and then told him that he didn't want to share me and that Raymore wanted me back.  Now I haven't been officially offered the HBA Department Manager yet.  But Harrisonville is closer to home and a guaranteed Department Manager.  Both pros!!  However, Raymore pays more and can't offer me a department manager department manager yet.  There are some opening soon, just not opened yet.  Raymore did hint that it wouldn't be long before Departments came open and they are lacking in experience. 

 

So basically, I have a big decision to make.  I went from pending termination to more than one option!!  I think I'm leaning towards Raymore, even though they could only give me a cashier/sales floor position as of now, there are promises for department manager with more pay than Harrisonville.  And I KNOW, that if a kid has an appointment and needed to come in late/leave early they would let me.  I don't like shopping the Harrisonville store, the people are rude and the store is trash.  Even though it's closer and a Department Manager position, I'd be stuck for at least 6-months and I like Raymore so much better.  I have friends in Raymore, and Management is willing to take me back without a second thought.  And they'll reinstate me all my time in and pay if the DC does in fact terminate me.  Raymore is like home and I feel they have my back 100%.

 

Management was super excited and before it was all said and done I had 5 member's of management in there telling me not to worry.  No matter what the DC does come Tuesday, the store can reinstate me and give me a position.  So I am to enjoy my holiday weekend and we will figure it all out next week! 

 

Oh the stress - thanks for visiting but go away!  I am so thankful for everyone and their positive words to me.  I really have great friends and some wonderful angels looking over me.

MLK Day.

Monday's are normally horrible around here.  After all, who really likes Monday unless it's a holiday weekend?  However, working in retail, I do not get a holiday weekend.  And since Monday's are really my Friday at work. . . they seem to drag on even longer!!  Especially, when they stop everything at work to have a 40-minute meeting!  Which makes going home 40-minutes later because we still have to finish our jobs. 
So you can tell what my attitude was going into this meeting.  {Blah!}  And you can always tell when the meetings are going to be long because they put out the chairs! 

But yesterday's meeting was just what I needed after the crazy week I've had.  {Stress was just building - Jaxen to the ER a week ago, Still haven't found my energy to move our stuff in the house, Laundry is piling up because every time I do a load of Laundry the toilet downstairs backs up, Jaxen's got to be getting teeth because he's cranky and attached to me 24/7 helping me get nothing done, plus my first 3-day work week since before Christmas - I was hurting come Monday!}  My name was drawn in the safety pot - so I got to play Walmart "Plinko" and I won a free meal for my entire area!  {Now everyone love me!}  And they announced our cost of living raise. . . which you don't get in a store {and if you do, it's only a few pennies at most!} and the DC didn't get one last year.  So it's wonderful that across the board - no matter what your "pay scale" or if you are maxed out - everyone in the DC gets a $0.40 raise.  So that's a collective $0.80 more for Jerry and I.  Which is amazing!  I am also scheduled my 6-month $0.50 raise next month - so in just 6-months at the DC I have gotten a $1.40 in raises and started out making $6.00 more an hour at the DC than the store.  I can't believe the difference it's making.  If I ever doubted my transfer, I certainly don't now.  I definitely did what was right for my family!!

Well I think I finally lost the boys to their bedroom. . . I'm going to see if I can sneak downstairs and get some laundry sorted.  If anyone is still paying attention to this blog - I have updated the Picasa web album. . . I got the November/December 2011 & January 2012 albums uploaded.  I didn't realize I was so behind!

No-Tax Weekend

Wow!  We have spent a ton of money this weekend - thank goodness for the Savings Account!  This weekend was 'no-tax' weekend in Missouri.  Which means that school supplies, computers, clothes, and diapers are all tax free!  Since moving to Kansas City (Sedalia/Pettis County doesn't participate in it) we have always taken advantage of the No -Tax Holiday.  It saves us quite a bundle in back to school shopping - especially when added to the 10% Walmart Employee Discount.  And Jerry and I save for months to afford no-tax shopping, but with 3 kids we really can't afford not to participate in the tax free holiday.  The following is how we spent 5 hours and just over $2,000!

Chloe's school supplies & Jacob's school supplies

Jerry used some of his school money to get a new laptop, now he isn't tied around home - he can take it with him if we go somewhere or visit family.  Which makes it super nice and convenient.  Now to keep the kids and dogs away from it. . . that's the hard part!  I'm so glad his schooling paid for the laptop, no way I would have saved enough for a laptop and school supplies/clothes!  {SO yeah, didn't really spend 2,000 of our own money since about half of it was the computer but it sounds good!  :o)}  On the computer alone we got a $79.70 Discount and saved $67.55 in taxes for a total savings of $147.25!  I consider that a score!  So this year we replaced both the desktop and laptop - we should be good for a couple years, hopefully!!

Mom's stash!

And I know I said it before but we took full advantage of this weekend. . . Normally, it's all about the kids and their needs but this year Jerry and I saved enough money to splurge on us too!  Jerry and I got new clothes, lunch boxes and work boots to go along with our normal socks and underwear splurge.  Jerry got about 11 $3.00 shirts and I got 8 $2.00 t shirts and 2 pairs of Blue Jeans.

Of course it was the kids that hit the jackpot. Many of their clothes were on clearance. I don't get my employee discount on clearance merchandise but I still get them tax free, so it was nice to get shirts at $2 and $3! Especially since they grow out of them so fast and will need more next year!

Chloe's school clothes

Besides all her 1st grade school supplies, Chloe hauled in a whooping 8 t-shirts, 3 outfits, 2 purple dresses, 4 blue jeans, 1 pair of khakis, a pajama, a ladybug raincoat, 3 Hello Kitty socks, a pair of Hello Kitty tights, 14 pairs of underwear, Hello Kitty sneakers, and Hello Kitty dress shoes!!  The theme was Hello Kitty this year. . . Everything was Hello Kitty!!  I had to eventually say no, because she would have gone on forever!!

Jacob's School clothes

Jacob had fun shopping with Daddy for his school supplies!!  {Jerry took Jacob and I took Chloe - it's so much easier if we both a tackle a list.  Because with two kids going in different directions I get flustered and end up forgetting something!}  Jacob ended up going with a theme - Mario!!  Definitely his Daddy's son!  Jacob didn't need as many school supplies but he definitely kept up with Chloe in the clothes department.  Jacob hauled in 12 t-shirts, 4 pairs of pants, 3 Blue Jeans, a raincoat, and 20 pairs of socks!

Jaxen's diaper stash

And don't think that Jaxen was just around for the ride!!  Diapers are tax-free this weekend also, so like every year, we take the opportunity to stock up on a diapers!!  Jaxen is currently in a size 3 diaper, but since we don't know how much longer he will be in that size, we bought one package of size 3's and two packages of size 4's plus a huge box of baby wipes!!  This household has never been without baby wipes in the 6 years Chloe's been alive!!  Baby Wipes are every parents 'Must Have'!!  Besides the diapers, Jaxen also got a pair of tennis shoes {he refuses to wear socks and shoes, this is going to be a problem come winter if we don't get him used to them now!}, 3 long sleeve rompers and 2 long sleeve / long pants outfits.  Jax needs winter clothes and not much is out there for warmth right now.  So I'm afraid I will have to shop for him another time.  He is also going to need a winter coat - the other two got new winter coats at the end of last year so they should be good.

So with that huge back to school shopping spree, I saved $64.52 with my discount and $51.42 in taxes.  I know that's nothing compared to the amount we had to spend ($688.83) but it helped a lot because it's stuff they would have needed anyways!!  I think it's time to start saving for next year!!  I'll take donations!!  LOL

It's a good thing we save up for months for this weekend because then on top of all that, I still had to shop for groceries. . . Price Chopper ($34.00), Walmart ($209.36) AND Sam's Club ($287.47)!   Major ouch on the pocket book, but I think we are going to be eating and dressing like rock stars for a while!!  :-)  Thank goodness for the 'No-Tax' Weekend!  My little family had a total savings of $263.19 - just by shopping this weekend!

Now back to penny pinching and saving for next year!!  :-)

Blessing in disguise?!

Okay, so I'm really, really nervous about this new job move.  I totally have it made in the position that I am in.  I hate walking away from a job that I love!  But after days and days of mind boggling thoughts, I believe the pros out way the cons!
Pros.

• Only working 3 days a week - Saturday, Sunday, Monday
• Having 4 days off with Jerry - currently we have no days off together
• More time with my kids.
• Shorter commute to work - less gas
• Off by 330pm on the days that I do work
• Off for doctor's appointments
• Off for most Girl Scout events and meetings
• Available for Chloe's school parties and field trips
• Jacob can go to preschool - simply wasn't an option before.
• Available for Jacob's school parties and field trips
• WAY more money!  Over $800 a month more.
• No responsibility - do my job and go home

Cons.

• Giving up a job I love for one I'll probably hate
• Working in the freezer - negative 52 degrees!!
• Stuck in the same position for 6 months - at least!
• Giving up my weekends off - no trips to Iowa once the kids are in school
• Being at work at 4am - Ugh!
• Jerry and I overlap an hour and a half Sunday and Monday morning. . . have to pay a baby sitter
• Jerry and I work opposite shifts so the 3 days we do work are going to be VERY long days
• Still only have 1 working vehicle.

I could probably go on and on forever but I don't think I have to.  One of the things I am most proud of and one of things that just wasn't an option because of work schedules and money - sending Jacob to preschool!!  I am going in tomorrow and registering him for Thursday-Friday Preschool Classes.  It was a lot of money that I couldn't justify with three kids and the rising cost of gas, rent, and car payment.  But now that I will be bringing in quite a bit more, it's totally justified.  Plus, I will be off those days and able to take him to and from school!  I am so excited, it's something I started doing with Chloe three years ago but Jerry had to take over once I got the Department Manager position.  So starting in Mid-August on Thursdays and Fridays from 8am until noon, Jaxen will be the only kid at home!!

Also, today we went and registered Chloe in cheerleading. . . so I am officially a cheer-mom!  She is totally stoked, she got to try on a uniform {for sizes} and everything!  So my schedules getting full again!!  Starting tomorrow - Monday and Wednesdays until school starts - Chloe has Cheer practice on the school football field.  Once school starts practices move to Tuesday and Thursday - which are better for us anyways!  Only have to figure out how to get her to and from the games that fall on Saturdays. . . because Jerry and I will both be working.  Hopefully, another mom will help me out with that. . . if not oh well, it's just for fun anyways.  :-)

So begins my crazy, busy life as mommy!!  Wish me luck. . . I will have 2 kids in school!!  Splitting my time between work, preschool, first grade, mommy, cheerleading, girl scouts and wife!  Poor Jerry's gonna get left out I'm afraid!  Oh wait!!  We will have Thursday and Friday without 2 of the 3 kids!!  :o)

2 week Update. . .

It's been a LONG two weeks and I'm so sorry for the lack of updates.  I've had a lot of things going on!!  Like kid/scout stuff and inventory stress at work.  Plus Jerry and I have had a lot of major decisions to make.  I've been wanting to update for days now, but my minds just not been into it.  Hopefully, I can get you caught up a little bit tonight.

Monday, July 18th
My littlest niece turned 4!!  Happy Birthday Emily!

Tuesday, July 19th
???  I have no idea what we did this day.

Wednesday, July 20th
I got to work and Jerry started spasing out my cell phone.  So when I got a chance to call him back, he had great news.  The Walmart Distribution Center called and they had a job position open and they needed my transfer request before 3pm.  I went straight to it and had my personnel office fax a copy of my transfer request to the DC.  However, according to my personnel manager, the fax wasn't going through.  {I feel she was sending to the wrong number on purpose because they got the first transfer request just fine.  But since that one was expired, I had to send another copy.  And since they had a position for me, all of a sudden the fax wouldn't work.  Very suspicious!!}

So after fighting the personnel office, I gave up, had them give me a copy of it and I drove it down to Harrisonville on my lunch break.  The personnel manager was very nice and took the time to talk to me.  It was a very positive meeting and she promised to call me by Monday.

Thursday, July 21st
After work, Jerry and I looked at a house that we wanted with a realtor.  We both really liked it and set things up for a meeting to make an offer.

Friday, July 22nd
It was a long day of shopping and packing for me!!  Chloe and I had Girl Scout Camp!!  I'm planning on sharing a bigger seperate post to this event so watch for it on another day!

Saturday, July 23rd
Girl Scout Camp ended at noon and when the parents arrived we had a short flag, awards, bridging ceremony!  The girls and I had a lot of fun; hopefully, next year will bring even better camping adventures!

After camp, we went to David's Bridal to pick up Joanna's wedding saches.  It was a long couple of days and I was happy to be home with my boys!!

Sunday, July 24th
Had a meeting with the Realtor to do house paperwork and make an offer.  We got a lot of good information from this meeting but also got a feeling that this house wasn't going to work out.

Jaxen learned to stand up in his crib!  And he decided to play instead of going to bed!!

Monday, July 25th
??? Besides going to work, I have no idea what we did this day.

Tuesday, July 26th
Jerry's 30th Birthday!!  It was a good day, we celebrated Daddy!!  He got spoiled with presents from the kids and ice cream cake.
 

But on his birthday, we got bad news from Realtor. . . the house that we made an offer to wasn't going to work. The seller actually decided not to sell at all. So back to square one on the house hunting. . . :-(

Wednesday, July 27th
Day before Inventory. . . worked 7am until 10pm {14 hours}.

I hadn't heard from the Walmart DC yet so I called them on the way to work.  The lady I needed to talk to wasn't in the office and they took a message for her to call me back.  14 minutes later, she called me back.  And the news was great. . . she was faxing me a job offer.  And let me tell you, it was a total shock because once my transfer request is sent and I job comes open, I am to be interviewed for the position and then offered a position.  I never got an interviewed, I skipped right to the job offer!  :-)

And truth be told, I was nevous about the job offer, ideally it is NOT what I want to be doing but it is a good raise and better hours/days off!  And the new position requires us to have a babysitter. . . because Jerry and I overlap by an hour and a half.  They offered me Frozen, Dairy, Deli Replisment Lift Driver working Saturday, Sunday, Monday from 4am until 3:30pm making $17.00 an hour (I only make $11.15 an hour now, working 7am - 4pm five days a week).  So roughly it's $340 more a paycheck working less days and hours!!

Jaxen's first taste of Chicken, too bad it was from a dog bone.  :-(

Jerry and I spent tons of time weighing the pros and cons of my job offer.  I hardly slept a wink. . . the stress of making the wrong choice was killing me.  I'm really good at supporting other when their plans don't go as planned but I'm not good at being the one to make those decisions!!

Thursday, July 28th
Walmart Inventory. . . worked 6:45am until 6:10pm {10.5 hours}.  And for my Walmart friends, our Inventory was .72 which was up from last years .57.  However, this year we were only a 9 month Inventory so it was going to happen.  The Toy department and Furniture department did better than years past, so that's all I'm worried about!!  In fact, it's the only numbers I can control!  So, Go me!

My sister-in-law called around 9pm and said she would help us out and watch the kids for us, so that I could accept  the job offer at the Distribution Center.  I didn't sleep at all!!  Still tossed and turned about my pending decision. . . didn't even eat dinner because I was stressing!

Friday, July 29th
Day after Inventory. . . worked 7am until 5:30pm {9.5 hours}.

After a lot of thinking and talking to friends and family, I accepted the job offer at DC.  I felt a thousand times better once the fax was sent. . . I am going to miss my friends and job now but I think in the long term I will be successful and happier at the Distribution Center. . . sure my weekends are gone, but I get to spend 4 whole days off with my husband and kids!!  Jerry and I get NO days off together unless I take a day off during the week.

Saturday, July 30th
Today, I've relaxed and watched "Bring It On" movies with Chloe.  She's really into cheerleading, tomorrow's the day we go register her for cheerleading.  I'm nervous as to what her schedule and my new working schedule will bring us, but like all things we will take it all one step at a time!

Relay for Life

It's been a crazy week around here.  From Tee Ball games every evening and working overnights (if it wasn't Jerry, it was me!) to thunderstorms and housework - we've done it all!  I was so happy that I was able to accomplish my tasks overnight an entire day and a half early.  And after talking to Management they were happy of the job I accomplished and let me have the last night off!  I was so excited.  I had already secured a babysitter for the night (Grandma and Grandpa) because Jerry had volunteered to participate in the Relay for Life with his work (Walmart Distribution #6065).  The kids and grandparents were excited about a "Non-Parent" sleepover, so we went ahead with the plans and I went with Jerry to the Relay for Life.  As my facebook status read: "What do Jerry & I do with an unexpected night off without kids? VOLUNTEER 7pm - 7am! If you need us we will be walking miles (and making balloon animals) tonight while your sleeping. Relay for Life - Helping find a cure for cancer. . . a disease that never sleeps!"



For those who have never participated before -like me!, I highly recommend you attend one.  ESPECIALLY if you have had a loved one taken from you too soon because of cancer.  I really had no idea what to expect and I am so glad I was apart of this great organization!!  The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives communities a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.  And that is truly what it feels like, a celebration!  At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school track and took turns walking or running around a track.  Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the 7pm to 7am event.  Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events.

It all starts with a "Survivors Lap" and last night it was lead by a 2-year-old girl whose family had been given the news that her brain cancer was back and there was nothing more they could do for her.  It was really sad and really touching.  No child should have to live with cancer and no mother should have to watch her child suffer from it!  Besides the opening ceremony where the Survivors are names and given a sash before walking a "Survivors Lap", my favorite part of the walk was the Luminaria Ceremony. 

Rockin' my t-shirt!  Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back.

Shortly after arriving to the Harrisonville track, Jerry had asked me to go home and get his balloons so that he could make balloon animals and help raise some more money for the American Cancer Society.  I was happy to go get them for him because I needed to change out of my blue jeans and into some walking clothes.  While I was gone, Jerry walked the track for his team.  When I got back he went straight to making balloons and money.  Besides walking, I helped package hamburgers and hot dogs that the Walmart team was selling.  Me and another wife totally assembled and wrapped all the hot dogs and hamburgers that people were buying. . . I now know what it feels like to work in a fast food joint!  Our team was pretty busy selling food until about 11:30pm when they started getting ready for the Luminaria Ceremony.

Jerry making balloon animals

Once the Luminaria Ceremony started Jerry was upset with himself because he was going to take me over and get a bag for Grandpa but he forgot once I returned from getting his balloons.  I loved the fact that he thought of that.  It really proves how much Grandpa is still a part of my life, when Jerry - who had never met him - thought of him and his struggles with cancer.  I was a little disappointment that I had not heard of the ceremony sooner.  But I LOVED the ceremony and I will be back next year!!

What is a Luminaria Ceremony you ask?  Well after dark, we honor people who have been touched by cancer and remember loved ones lost to the disease.  The track lights went out and candles glow sticks were lit inside bags filled with sand, each one bearing the name of a person touched by cancer, and participants walk a lap in silence while the names are read.

I cried happy, sad, touching tears.  And these were the only pictures I took last night.  It was an awesome remembrance of my own Grandpa.  I will be back next year and Grandpa will have his own Luminaria. . . I promise! 

I can't think of a better way to spend time together with my husband - forget a romantic night at home or dinner and a movie!  Together we volunteered and this will forever be apart of our family traditions!

 Celebrate.

Remember.

Fight Back.

Boo!

Great. . . something more to add to my over-flowing plate.

Say hello to the Dept Mgr of Department 7 (Toys) AND 71 (Large Furniture).

Wish me luck, it's going to be challenging, but the Store Mgr and Co-Mgr's have faith that I can do it.  In fact, they praised me for handleing Toys so well that they felt confident I could take on another department.  I'm thinking it's punishment for doing my job too well.

CMN Update

This is going to be a short post because dinner is cooking and I only have a minute! 

I just wanted to let you guys know the Grand Total of our CMN Kid Fest that we, as a family, volunteered for last weekend. . .

$856.06!!

Teaching my kids the power of volunteering. . .

It's 1230am.  I should be sleeping, but I'm not.  I'm sitting here enjoying my kid-free time.  I should be cleaning, but I'm not.  I'm sitting here proud.  I'm proud of what my family did this weekend.  So proud, I want to share it with you!

For most of you, it comes as no surprise that I've been raised to help others the best you can.  Many of you may notice nowadays when you are shopping at Walmart, you may be asked to donate to CMN.  The month of May brings a 6-week marathon of fundraising for Children's Miracle Network, each store is asked to try and raise $20,000 to help local hospitals help local kids.  In the beginning of May, I was in the right place at the right time and asked to be a part of my stores CMN team.  We had meetings of brain storming ideas on how to raise some money.  Hot dog cookouts in the front of the store, selling CMN t-shirts, all you can eat $5.00 breakfast for associates, $2.00 Blue Jean Fridays, Root Bear floats on the weekends, and a kid's carnival. 

The kid's carnival was totally my idea.  My mom's a Girl Scout and did the Starcraft Kid's Games for years!  Surely, we could come up with some games to play while we sold hot dogs, chips and a drink for $2.00!  Everyone loved the idea and wanted to do it Memorial Day Weekend out front of the store.  But as the days got closer, we weren't getting anyone to volunteer to help run the carnival.  Management and I put on a full-fledged campaign to get people to volunteer.  Almost every responded the same way, "Why give up my 3-day weekend when I'm not getting paid?", "I already have plans that weekend." and "Why should I help Management out when they don't help me out?".  It was all really frustrating, but with the small group of six people that we had - Asst. Mgr Biz, Asst. Mgr Joanna, ZMS Robert, Dept Mgr Heidi (that's me!), IMS Fannita, and Grocery Sales Associate Karen - we were determined to make it happen! 

So I enlisted the help of my family.  Jerry and the kids were happy to help. . . it was important to me and the kids were pretty cheap labor!  I am so proud of the work my family did.  Jerry ended up being the money maker with his balloon animals... totally bring in most of the $510 that we raised the first day!!  Everybody loved him and wanted a balloon animal.  Parents were giving $5 and $10 donations!!  Jerry had to work this weekend, so he was only able to volunteer one day of the kid carnival.  Everyone missed him the second day.  My management team had nothing but high praises for him!  I love you, Jerry!  Thank you so much in helping make my idea a reality.  And thank you so much for being a wonderful role model for our kids!!  I know we aren't perfect parents, but I think we are doing an awesome job trying!

Chloe and Jacob got plenty of compliments!!  The ran the kids games like pros!  I had two VERY BEHAVED, VERY POLITE children.  I couldn't be prouder of them.  Jacob loved being a helper and "in charge" of something!  He was such a big boy and I'm so proud of him!  Chloe understood why we were there and could charm any parent into donating to CMN.  In her own words, she can tell you why we worked so hard raising money this weekend.  "We give it to the hospitals, so when kids are hurt and they don't have any money, they can still go to the doctor to feel better and not have to pay because we helped them!"  It was enough to melt any ones heart and open their pocket books.  :o)  I'm pretty sure if  you'd of seen me this weekend I'd be grinning from ear to ear with pride while holding back tears and a lump in my throat from the compassion that she showed and her willingness to help others!  I am SO proud of the girl she's become. . . And it makes my heart so happy to know that I am the one who helped shape her into the woman she's going to be!  To Chloe and Jacob - I love you!!  I am so proud to be your Mom!  I couldn't ask for better kids...and I definitely couldn't have done it without you this weekend! 

Even my little Jaxen was there helping out!!  Okay, he wasn't running any games or making balloon animals BUT he was totally content sitting in his stroller watching everything that was going on in front of him.  He was the perfect baby... and besides all the compliments on his hair, he got compliments on how easy going he was!!  I love you Jax!!  Thank you for being YOU!! 

Besides helping me out tremendously, the kids got to enjoy the carnival too!  They had so much fun this weekend, Chloe wants to do it again next weekend!!  :o)

My family and I volunteered because we wanted too! We had a GREAT family weekend and I think volunteering together made it a thousand times better! Jerry and I want to raise our kids to give back to those who need our help! We didn't need nor expect to get anything out of it besides the joy and satisfaction of helping others. But in return, I see what this weekend did for my kids. I couldn't have asked for anything better!! My 3 and 6 year old did more for Children's Miracle Network than most of the adults I work with!  After the kids and I helped clean up the carnival, my managers thanked us whole heartily and handed me an envelope.  When we got home, I was shock to see what was inside:

$30 Applebee's Gift Cards and a $20 Pizza Hut Card!

So I ask everyone reading this, next time you are shopping in Walmart and you are asked to donate to CMN, please do so!!  Every little bit counts!!  Just ask Chloe!  She was just as happy to see .50 as she was $10!!  And believe me, she knows the difference!!!

(Totally going to bed now. . . it's 1:23am!!  I should be sleeping!)

Shopping for Christmas

So I totally took a 4 day weekend off from work.  I am so proud of myself.  Walmart tried very hard to talk me into giving them back at least one day of my weekend, and I stood my ground!  And let me tell you, it's been a very fun, very accomplished, very expensive, and very much NEEDED couple of days. . . and it's not even half over with!!

Thursday we woke up kinda late.  Late enough that Jerry and Chloe were running around here freaking out about missing the school bus.  I finally said enough running around, she needs to eat breakfast, get dressed warm and I wanted to actually do her hair - since I hardly ever get to.  So I suggested that we take her to school so that Jerry and I could talk to the office and teacher about what's going to happen if I have this baby while she is at school.  I just wanted the personal knowledge that they knew who could and would pick her up.  Heck, I've never done this before and I really want to make sure they know that this baby could come anytime now and I wanted to make sure all the right people were on her pick-up list on file with the office.  Chloe is ready and knows what to expect, and has a clue as to the people that would come and get her but I need to know that if she's already on the bus, the bus driver will let her off at the house if it's someone that they don't recognize.  (And of course, they assured me that as long as Chloe recognized who was waiting for her at the bus stop they would let her off.  And if we know ahead of school letting out, if we call the school office, they won't even put her on the bus. . . the person picking her up will have to go to the school and show ID to get her.  Which is a little over board, but totally okay with me.)  I should have no worries about Chloe if it all "happens" while she's at school.  I have a couple local friends and family listed on the pick up list, and they know I might be calling!  And if it doesn't happen before the 7th of January, I just have to send a note with Chloe to school letting them know that she won't be at school on that Friday and Monday or who will be looking after her and getting her on and off the bus on Monday.  So we (& the school) are prepared if that complication arises!

After we got done at the school - Jerry, Jacob, and I went Christmas shopping.  Another HUGE worry on my mind was what happens if this baby comes and I'm not done with Christmas.  You know, Santa comes whether or not the baby does!  So Jerry and I went to Target, Walmart, and a couple other stores and pretty much finished up our major shopping.  Spent a LOT of money, but got a lot of good deals and I am okay with Christmas coming now.  Lol, all that's left to do is wrap it all!

After we got home and unloaded (& hid) the Christmas presents, Chloe got home off the bus and we were out of here again!  This time to grocery shop.  Another one of my crazy pregnancy worries (I have a lot of them, I know!!) is that my cupboards were empty when this baby arrives and it would be hard to keep up with a new baby and groceries (money-wise) with only one of us working.  So (thank goodness for Jerry's bonus) we went to Sam's Club and stocked up, then we went to Walmart to finish up the little things we couldn't get at Sam's Club.  I won't even lie, we spent another crap load of money (over $400), but my house is stocked with groceries that will last us MONTHS and it was needed!!  My cupboards are full and my deep freezer is packed!  And I have extras on hand of laundry soap, toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, and sodas.

It was pretty late when we got home, just had time to feed the kids, put everything away, clean the kitchen and then start getting the kids ready for bed.  Since it was a school night, kids went to bed pretty good - I think they were exhausted from shopping!  Jerry and I were then able to wrap a lot of the Christmas presents that we bought.  (Yay!  One step closer.)  We still have some more to do, but my back started to hurt sitting on the floor and bending over a pile of wrapping paper, scissors, and tape!

So just Thursday alone, eased my mind of 2 major things I've been stewing over!  Christmas and groceries. . . I'm a happy camper!

Life With Baby

I have to say, as much as I can complain sometimes about Walmart, they really are a 'family oriented' company.  Yes, sometimes they loose focus on the things that matter most but over all, they care about the American family.  One of the benefits that is offered through our medical insurance is called, Life With Baby: Better Beginnings for You and your Baby.  And whether you’re starting a family, adding to one, or just thinking about it, Life with Baby is with you all the way.  It’s all about helping you have a safe, successful pregnancy to welcome home and start raising your healthy baby.  When you enroll in Life with Baby you get a lot of cool things! 

For example:

• Free gifts for Mom and baby -- So far, I've received two packages in the mail.  And I've received "What to Expect When You're Expecting" and "What to Expect the First Years" books, a free 12-month subscription to BabyTalk magazine, a nice water bottle, two sippy cups, a lovely white embroidered baby blanket with the Life With Baby Logo and a Formula dispenser for the diaper bag.
• Free pocket-sized "Personal Pregnancy Guide" and "Bringing up Baby, Life 'til Two" guide.
• I have a personal registered nurse that I can talk with before, during and after my pregnancy.  She sends me emails checking up on my doctor's appointments and making sure I don't have any questions or concerns.  And if I do, she always has the answers and she sends out little pamphlets about things I am questioning.
• With the program I get expanded dental care - which is an extra cleaning during my pregnancy.
• Free access to the Ask Mayo Clinic nurse line.  And believe me, I almost had to call it twice!!  Once when Jacob swallowed a penny and when Jacob jumped off the couch and hit his head on the coffee table!  This number is programed in both my home phone and my cell phone.
• Then if I wanted to breastfeed.  The program offers postpartum services including three outpatient consultations with a certified lactation specialist for moms with breastfeeding questions or concerns.

I think it's a really nice program, and one that Walmart doesn't have to offer but they do!  And well, as you can probably guess. . . I got another package in the mail today!  I like surprises!!  :o)



Life With Baby package #2

Not a bad stash of stuff for a free program!  Plus I like adding the pile of baby stuff to the nursery.  :o)

Making time for me!!

Happy December Everyone!  Are we all ready for the Christmas Season?  Ready or Not here it comes, fast and furious.  I love Christmas time because of my children!  I hate the busyness and stressfulness that comes along with the holidays, but it's all worth it when you take a chance and look at what the season means.  Sometimes I loose sight of the real reason and fall into the retail side of it all.  But this year, as stressful as it has been, I'm taking the time to reflect on the season!  And it starts now.  I work for a huge retailer and for the most part, I am a warm body that takes orders to achieve whatever master plan the company has in sight. . . and truthfully, that's the bottom line.  Every one's out to make money.  And one way they make it is by paying less people to do more work.  And since I'm solely in charge of Toys, a lot falls on my shoulders - regardless of customer traffic, customer service, phone calls, meal breaks, etc. . . I (alone) am to get everything accomplished in 8 hours that management (normally in pairs) can't even accomplish in 10 hours - no excuses!  So after a crazy, busy, stressful week. . . next week I am only working 3 days.  I took vacation hours for Thursday and Friday (giving me a 4 day weekend!) - not because I need a vacation, but because I deserve to spend time with my family and get my Christmas shopping done before Christmas Eve this year!  I am so worn out by the end of the work day that I don't even have the energy to shop for Christmas.  So Jerry and I have BIG plans this weekend to finish up our shopping lists!  (And for all those wondering, my (brand-new, fresh-out-of-school assistant manager approved my vacation and didn't schedule me hours on those days; however, upper management is trying to take them back.  They say they need me there. . . I say, my family needs me here!!!  My foot is down, it is my long weekend.. . Management is just going to have to help out!)

Today, Jerry and I took the kids into Walmart (against my better judgement - I spent all week there and even worked overtime!!) to see Santa Claus.  Truthfully, I hadn't planned on taking them in to see Santa but a friend of mine, who was Santa last year and wrote a note to Chloe for me to leave under the tree Christmas Eve last year, was playing Santa again this year!  He was really looking forward to seeing her again this year so Chloe colored another picture for Santa and off to Walmart we went!  She was so excited, she hoped that Santa would remember her from last year!  And of course, he did!!  He knew her name and he even knew what she wanted for Christmas without her telling him!!  (Wow! What a Santa Claus!  It was magic in Chloe's eyes.)  With all the hours I work during the holidays, it helps when she is sad that Mommy isn't home a lot, to be able to say, "I've been helping Santa".  Then when Santa confirms what I've been telling her, it's special.  One of these day's I'm sure she's going to be mad at me for lying but for now it's all about believing, and when the picture she gave Santa today is waiting by an empty plate of Christmas cookies and milk with a special note from Santa Christmas morning - Chloe's a believer!!

While we were at Walmart today, they were having a toy demo in the Christmas shop, where the toys were out of the packages, fully operational and the kids (& parents) were able to play with them.  Chloe absolutely fell in love with Go-Go the Walkin' Pup and Jacob liked the Nerf Stampede gun so much he asked Santa for it right then and there!  (I came home to search online to see if I can find those toys cheaper than Walmart, because they are both $40+.  I found out no one sells them cheaper AND I found a $5.00 off coupon for each of them on Hasbro's website!!  Score!  Adding them to the list of gifts we are shopping for on Thursday!!)  After playing around with the toys and seeing Santa, we picked up a few groceries and came back home to watch a movie together as a family while we ate lunch.  Daddy will be working and sleeping all weekend so it's nice to be able to spend time together as a family!

I've been spending the rest of the day on the computer, doing laundry, or resting on the couch.  I know, it sounds SO lazy and I get so upset at myself come dinner time when I feed the kids sandwiches, cereal, corn dogs, or anything else super simple for being so lazy.  But honestly, I know my body NEEDS the rest.  I literally hurt so bad sometimes, I just lay there and cry because I want something stronger than a Tylenol to take away my pains.  But I'm sure that's another blog!  I'm taking care of me first, because the better I feel the better I am able to take care of and spend time with my family!  The kids will not remember that I was a lazy bum for a few months, they will remember that I was taking care of me so that my body can grow a baby brother for them to love on!  And thankfully, that day is coming so fast!!  4 weeks and 6 days left. . . I can do this!!!

Horrible Week

Well "Hello, November!"  This year is going fast!  Only 48 days until Christmas and 61 days left in this pregnancy!

This past week has been absolute hell at work.  It's the Christmas season and everything is due all at once. . . so all at once, that you can't get it all done because there isn't enough time or man power in the day.  And of course, they want it all done now - with no help, no excuse and no overtime.  Well guess what?, it doesn't happen.  I was so aggravated when I left work on Friday, it literally took crying and hours of fuming before I was able to forget about work.  I know my emotions are higher because of this pregnancy but I hate not feeling a sense of accomplishment after working so hard.  In fact, I worked so hard that I made myself sick and worked through pains that would have put any "manager" in the doctor's office.  And I promise you, and myself - that it will not happen again.  Because at the end of the day, none of my accomplishments were acknowledged, only my failures.  So to them I say, Kiss it!  I am going think of only myself and my unborn son from now on. . . management can get there happy butts out of their office chair and come help if it's so important!  (Okay, I'm off my soap box now. . . )

Now, I can go on and on and on about work this past week but I'll spare you all the details!  What I will tell you is that I have never had a pregnancy feel this way. . . now-a-days it seems like I am in constant pain.  I have no idea why this time it's so different from Chloe and Jacob BUT they do say every pregnancy is different.  And sadly, I'll admit that I even try to keep some of the pain from Jerry.  I know I shouldn't but I hate getting him all worried and concerned; however, I will tell you that he is very smart and can normally tell if I'm hurting or in pain.  (TMI Warning. . . I'll keep it as nice as I can but it might get personal!  LOL)  During the last couple weeks, baby has moved into the head down position - of course, I can't see him but I know this only because I know exactly were his feet are most of the time!  He's a kicker. . . and a powerful kicker at that!  He makes so much movement, the kittens attack my belly when it moves!  Plus the vaginal downward pressure is horrible.  It's not a constant pressure that I feel all the time, but I feel the pressure more often than not.  I personally don't think I "waddle" all the time (maybe others would say differently), but I do walk a little slower, move a little gentler, and breathe a little deeper when he starts pressing downwards.  It feels like he can reach out and wave if he wanted to.  I am anxious to see if they check me for effacement/dilation on Wednesday.  In fact, my biggest fear is going to the doctor on Wednesday and the doctor tells me that I have to cut back my hours at work and/or bed rest.  Since she's already told me once to slow down and I haven't - I've actually sped up - if that's at all possible!  In the back of my mind I feel that this isn't a normal feeling that I should be feeling right now. . . I can see feeling this way at the very end but not right now.  We will see, what the doctor says on Wednesday. . . Jerry's going with me so he will rat me out if I "forget" to mention anything important! 

Another important "To Do" I'm going to get done on Wednesday is mine and Jerry's leave of absence paperwork.  That way if we needed the time off unexpectedly early we are covered by FMLA.  Just because you never know. . . plus it will give me the opportunity to call-in whenever I don't feel quite right or I'm in pain - without it counting against me.  So I won't make myself go to work after puking all night and not keeping anything down like I did on Thursday.  Again, just another promise I made myself after finding out I could actually work myself to the ground and no one would care. 

Other than being pregnant and miserable, I've been doing a lot of Girl Scout stuff lately.  I've had to attend my Leadership Training and Level Training - which was ALL DAY -9am to 4pm!!  I've been recruiting new girls and of course, selling those Girl Scout Cookies with Chloe!!!  This coming week is no different, I have a Service Unit Meeting and a Daisy Bowling Activity. (Along with working/doctor's appointment - so much for slowing down this week!)  So hopefully, I can get all my laundry and mommy chores done tomorrow, and fingers crossed I can start getting the nursery cleaned out and set up!  I think our little guy is going to be here before I get anything ready for him!  But no promises, it totally depends on how I feel. . . hopefully, that extra hour of sleep with help me tonight!!  LOL

**I will update again tomorrow with belly pics and other whatnots.**

24w2d - Long Update

Wow, where has the past week gone?  I have been working major hours at work getting ready for Inventory, on top of my already growing Christmas countdown.  So as I sit here and type you out an update I will try to remember what I did the past week!!

Saturday, September 18th - I had Girl Scout Cookie Training in Belton from 9am-noon.  Afterward, Susan (my sister-in-law) and I went on a mini shopping trip.  I personally didn't get anything but I had a blast hanging out with just her since the kids were all with their Dad's.  Saturday was also Freeman's Homecoming Festival.  Jerry took the kids across the street to see the parade and to play a few games.  They each came home with their faces painted and lots of fun stories to tell.

Sunday, September 19th - I worked am extra 7a to 4p shift at work getting ready for Inventory.  Only reason I got to leave at 4 was because Jerry had to be at work at 5p and my kids can't watch themselves!!

Monday, September 20th - I worked 7a to 4pm getting ready for Inventory.  Again, the only reason I got to leave at 4 was because Jerry had to be at work at 5p and my kids can't watch themselves!!

Tuesday, September 21st - I worked 7a to 7p getting ready for Inventory.  Jerry didn't feel very good so I brought home Chinese food for dinner, kids were up a little late but happy to see me!!

Wednesday, September 22nd - Day before Inventory, which meant I wasn't going home until everything was ready!!  So ultimately it was a long day. . . I worked 7a to 430p then they made us clock out for dinner and come back at 7p and work until 1030p.  For as long as that day was, I had a good time with friends. . . I was invited to go to a fellow department managers house, who lived close by and have sandwiches, chips, dip and desert with a lot of our fellow department managers.  I was a lot of laughs and a lot of fun!  I would definitely do that again!

Thursday,  September 23rd - Inventory Day. . . I had to be clocked in and ready to go at 645am.  And I stood around doing nothing while they Inventoried the store.  The store didn't get cleared until 5pm and I was able to go home around 530pm.

Friday, September 24th - The dreaded day after. . . we came out of Inventory with some awesome numbers - Total store got .59% (same as last year).  And my Toy Dept came out even better than last year, Shrinkage -.57% / Inventory Adjustment 11,973 / Inventory to Inventory Sales 2,118,424 :o) I know that means nothing to you non-walmart folks, but to me that means all my hardwork payed off!  I set a high goal for myself next year!  The reports took me a while to complete and we actually were short a few department managers so we had to help out in unfamiliar departments. . . lets just say I hate cosmetics!!  I work from 7a to 5p - after 5 it didn't matter because the system automatically finalizes and orders.

Saturday, September 25th - Finally a day off!  I got to sleep in and hang out with the children that I hadn't seen in days!!  We went grocery shopping and I cleaned the house and did a butt load of laundry!!  I would have loved to accomplish more around the house but I was in a lot of pain and my boy was moving a lot.  I spent some time relaxing on the couch and in the tub, basically begging the little booger to calm down.  I guess there is only so much he was going to take and after working 6 days, he just wanted me to relax.

Well look at that!  It finally brings us to today!  Sunday, September 26th - I had to work today because this week brings modulars for me.  So I have to work overnights three nights this week.  But that's okay, it's finally a break in the routine.  And the light at the end of this tunnel is I get a three day weekend followed by 4 day weekend, then followed by another 3 day weekend.  :o)  I am planing to go to my parents house one of those weekends, maybe to see Jerry's family another one of those weekends, and also hopefully squeezing in the pumpkin patch.  Those are my plans anyways. . . hopefully, they all come together and I'm able to enjoy some very much needed family time.  Actually, I really need some Heidi and Jerry time. . . it's been a while since we've been able to just hang out and enjoy each other's company without the children.  I desperately need that even if it's just an hour or two! 

The weather has cooled off a lot here in Kansas City and I am loving it.  Hopefully, on Tuesday Jerry and I can get the yard cut and attended to one last time. . . then maybe I'll just want to sleep the day away!  Me and baby have been a tired duo the last couple of weeks.  I know I have been working too long of hours and I am looking forward to the longer weekends ahead of me. . . but Christmas season is coming and that means more hours and more work for me.  I just have to watch it and not get working so much that I get stressed.  LOL, I find myself wishing for January, even with a new baby, things will slow down and get back to normal!!  I hope!

Re-Grand Opening

Yay!  I'm so happy it's over.  The last 14 weeks have been absolutely horrible at work - we've been in the middle of a remodel.  Sorry I've been MIA for the last week, But this morning we re-grand opened to the public and finally moving on with business and inventory.  Yuck!

Thankfully, I took my last two vacation days on Monday (30th) and Tuesday (31st) leaving me well rested and stressfree heading into the last days before Re-Grand Opening.  Wednesday was busy. . . my department was walked off by the store manager and my management team, giving me pages of notes that I had to complete to be walked off again before Re-Grand Opening.  My notes weren't too bad, and really I gave them some of the problems that needed to be fixed giving me more work to get done.  Sometimes, I really need to just keep my mouth shut. . . :o)  Darn Perfectionist!  We also got truck loads of MTR's from other stores that we had to check in and get stocked to the floor.  (For my non-Walmart family - MTR's are Merchandise Transfers from one store to another.  In a perfect world, we would get the merchandise that we need to stock the shelves, so that when we Re-Grand Open nothing would be out and our shelves would be full.  But since not all the merchandise arrived on time, other stores around us send us the frieght we need to fill our shelves.)  I worked from 7am until about 6pm on Wednesday - 10 HOURS WORKED.  Only reason that I got to leave early is because I had plans with Chloe that night - we were registering her for Girl Scouts.

On Thursday, I had to finish the notes that were left and get the Toy Department walked off by management.  It took me All Day to get my department perfect.  Everything had to be labeled, flagged, shelfcapped, zoned, and stocked.  Absolutely no holes on the shelves.  It took me and my help until about 8pm to get Toys looking perfect - the hard part was keeping up with it.  Everytime kids came we basically had to follow them and fix everything they touched.  It was like keeping it from raining on your newly washed car.  After Toys was walked off and passed final inspection, I moved to other departments to help my other department managers out.  I worked from 7am until 10:30pm when the store finally passed inspection. . . I thought we were going to have to sleep there!  We were there so long I had to take 2 lunches and didn't get to see my kids at all.  They were asleep when I left and asleep when I got home.  Chloe left me a note on my pillow. . . And I left her one to see in the morning during breakfast.  14 HOURS WORKED on Thursday.

Friday morning, I had to be at work by 6:30am.  So by the time I got off work, got home and ate food, and got to bed.  I had gotten about 4 hours of sleep before the alarm went off.  The nice thing about Friday was the fast that we could dress up - didn't have to wear blue and khaki.  But the bad thing is what in the world do I have that is nice, that will fit my expanding mid-section?  LOL.  So I finally chose my black maternity capris (that I wore to Megan's wedding 3 years ago) and a nice blue top with an empire waist.  I looked cute but the only down side to the outfit was that my pregnancy was very noticeable!!  There would be no mistaking my growing belly once I took my jacket off.  So officially, it only took the matter of seconds before the first person noticed and a matter of minutes before it had gotten around to the management team and once they heard the entire store knew.  So I officially made it to 21 weeks before anyone figured it out.  :o)  I love it. . . hopefully, with the 3 day weekend, everyone will forget by Tuesday. . . which is my 28th birthday!  LOL.  I never knew navy blue pollos were so slimming.  :o)

The Re-Grand Opening Ceremony lastest about 45 minutes and we were able to get back to normal business.  I took care of all my price changes, ordering and department manager work.  And then I was able to go home early.  So on Friday I worked from 6:30am until about 1:30pm - 6 HOURS WORKED.  Plus I got paid for 6 HOURS VACATION TIME because I miss calculated my time vacation time and I had more than I thought I did, so before I lost it I cashed it in.

So in 5 days I worked 30 hours and getting paid for 48.  Not bad if I say so myself. . . Only those were some long couple of days!!  I'm happy to be home and enjoying my 3 day weekend with my kids.