Changes

It's been so long since I blogged - last September - that I almost forgot my login information! I actually did write a blog in December but never published it. It was our Christmas letter, so I might have to go and finish that one of these days! By the way, I didn't send out a single Christmas card this year. We never did get a family picture taken either - so if you are wondering if I skipped you this year, it wasn't just you! It was everyone!

There have been a lot of changes 'round these parts, so I thought I would update you on the happenin's here at the Almosta Ranch. First of all, we are all well, there's been a lot of snow and frigid temperatures, but we are doing our best to stay warm and keep a path shovelled. The kids and I have been busy with lots of schoolwork. I started online LPN classes earlier this month and so far things are going great. I'm taking 11 credits through the college (Northland Tech out of East Grand Forks) and I'll also be "testing out" for 3 additional credits in order to get my CNA certification. One thing I noticed that has been a big plus, is the more that I study, the more diligent the kids are in their own studies. There's been lotsa book-crackin' these last few weeks!

One other big change is my job situation. I decided to jump in full-time with school, so I gave notice at my job and my last day was on Monday. Right around the time I gave my notice, I saw a job advertised through CCRI and the hours were much more school-and-family-friendly, so I decided to apply. After an interview (I hate interviews - wow those are stressful! I could write another whole post on THAT) I was offered a position working with two clients with special needs in the Hawley area. My hours will be from 6 to 8 am Monday through Friday, and a few hours each Tuesday and Thursday afternoon - a total of 15 to 20 hours a week. This should work well with my school schedule, and Kyle and the kid's schedules as well. The best part - no weekends!!

I also started one other little hobby/job (jobby?). I inquired recently at Tony's Super Valu (where Things 1&2 both work) if they needed a cake decorator. I've dabbled a bit in cake decorating and I've always wanted to learn more. Tony told me if I wanted the job, it was mine, and he'd get me a professional class through Super Valu. So, I jumped in and started decorating and I've made three cakes so far. I'm looking forward to the class and learning more techniques as I can only do the basics right now. I can't wait to learn how to work with fondant! It's fun and relaxing to me and I enjoy the creative outlet. If any of you need a cake, you know who to call!!

So, there's a run-down on what's been happening with us lately. I'll try to keep my blog updated a little better in 2010!