Sunday, June 29, 2014

Kalahari...First Impression...

This place is massive. Nice Suite! We drove up just at 11pm and all I could see were signs for...Arcade, water slides, go carts and laser tag...Oh My!!! Giddy Giddy Giddy! I may have more fun than my nephew! I am going to make the most of these two days at Kalahari!!! =)

Vacation Surprise...

Vacation just got so much better. I was in the park reading when a message came up on my iPad to call my Sister ASAP. I looked at my phone and saw missed calls from my Sis and Mom. I started to panic because my Sis, BIL and Nephew drove up to Wisconsin Dells for a mini vacation. I called and was immediately like "What's wrong?!?!" She said nothing. The Kalahari Resort upgraded them to a Suite that accommodates six people and Dad and I should come up. She'd already called my parents. I was down to go immediately. I called my Dad and he said, "Let's Roll!" Love Him! An hour later, I was packed and at their house to hit the road. My Mom is keeping the doggie Max. So excited. I love water parks and I've never been to Wisconsin Dells. I'll be up here until Tuesday and then I leave for Punta Cana on Sunday. This is going to be the best two weeks off ever!!! Oh yeah!!! =)

Hope you guys had a good weekend!

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

New Job...

I GOT THE JOB!!! The HR Department called me this morning to extend me the offer! I am so thankful and excited! I am moving into a Credit Manager Position with approval authority and portfolio oversight in AZ, FL and the Central States. At least I believe that will be my regional assignment. That could be some fun work travel. I may make it to Miraval Spa sooner than I thought. =)

I keep all of my benefits and my base salary increases from $102k to $115k. Still a bit below market but moving up within a company is a challenge and I'm still young. I've been with the same organization since undergrad. 14 years full time. You really make your salary jumps when you switch companies but I like where I work. So happy! I'll be able to handle the increase in my student loans and still live. =)

The BIG draw is that I will get away from my current department. I worked until close to midnight last evening and I'm just getting on the 8:20pm train to get home by 9:30pm. My eyes are crossing. I have a target date to switch over by July 21st into the new role. I leave for Punta Cana on July 6th and I'm so much more excited for my trip. Rest & Relaxation with the extra bonus of knowing I get to come back to work knowing better is ahead. Yes!!!

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Punta Cana...

Chitown is going to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic! I booked my trip today. I'm being a BIG GIRL and taking my very first solo vacation out of the country. Oh yeah! I didn't feel any guilt whatsoever when I booked the trip. It felt right and it felt like the right thing to do. I haven't been on a relaxing vacation since 2008 when I went to Jamaica with my Mom. I am sooooo excited! ((Running Man)) 

I'm on the train right now heading home and there is a rainbow in the sky to the East that seems like it's springing right out of Lake Michigan. So Pretty! Hope you guys had a good day!


Monday, June 23, 2014

Interviews Over...

My last & final interview went well today. I should know within the next two weeks if I got the job. I think it would be a great opportunity, provide me with a little bit of a challenge but also allow me to work in a better environment. Not to mention, it will give me a salary boost and I could use a boost for sure.

Looking forward to time off work. For the first time in 14 years, I'm taking two weeks off in the Summer. I'm scrambling to pull everything together and clean my plate before I leave. I put in 10 hours today and I'm just ready to go home.

I'm still on target with my goals for the year with the exception of my health & fitness. I have to make it a priority along with everything else and get it done in the morning. Once I get home in the evening, especially after a long day like today, working out is not at the top of my list. So, it has to be mornings. I've gotten better at going to bed earlier so I can fit in morning workouts.

I realize I didn't post May's financial results but you can get the results by clicking on the Net Worth IQ link at the top right of my blog. Have a good evening.

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Good Weekend...

I'm having a good weekend. Slept well last night and got out for a little jog and stadium stairs at the local high school track before church. My nephew is about to jump in my parent's pool so I'll hang out with the family for a little while since it's a beautiful day and the sun is shining.

I need to do a little work tonight but I'm determined to enjoy this wonderful day. I have my last interview for this position tomorrow and then vacation starts Friday.  I can't wait to have two weeks away from the office. 


Saturday, June 21, 2014

Softball...

The Diamond Cutterz laced up the cleats this afternoon and took the Win. I still love the game of softball. I'm just glad that we got the games in before the storm. It's pouring rain right now but I've got a date with my Mom this evening to go see "Think Like a Man 2!" Should be fun and I could use some laughs. Hope you guys are having a good weekend!


Love...

They always talk about a ride or die chick. I want a ride or die man by my side. I want to marry my best friend. Someone who will love me unconditionally, stand by my side always and carry me when needed. Yes! I want the freedom to be silly, laugh my ass off, dance in the car and have a moody day. Yes! I also want classy and passionate. I have a wild side so I want a man that will take a trip to the wild side with me. I want a husband that's my partner who I can share everything with so there's no shade or secrets and he will share with me the same. No walls. No barriers. Sharing, loving, living and ALL IN now and forever. Yep. That's what I want. Truth, honesty, sharing, loving and open to experiences, different points of view and different ways of getting things done. The ability to say "I'm Sorry" with sincerity because nobody is perfect and when you realize you messed up, you take accountability, learn and move forward. 

I've been thinking a lot these last few weeks since Toronto. I really want true love with friendship. I know what it looks like because my parents have been married for over 40 years and they are best friends. They will piss each other off and still love each other and stick together no matter what and that helps them to also be the best parents. Knowing how strong their bond is makes me feel more secure is knowing my family  is always there and the unconditional love they have for each other spills over to me, my sister and my nephew. 

I want that for my children. A home where they can see unconditional love in play and in practice every single day of their lives. Consistency and stability. I want to have true unconditional love because I know it will help me to be the best wife and mother I can be to know and believe to my core that I have a partner for good in this life. That together and with God, we can tackle anything and come through any challenge. 

I want that ride or die Man! Knowing that if it's Us against the world, the world doesn't stand a chance. We got this! 

Now that's a beautiful love. When it not only fills you up but overflows to others and makes their lives better. =)

Friday, June 20, 2014

Thank You Stephanie Kwolek...

Here is someone to know. A woman chemist whose kevlar invention saved countless lives. 

Kevlar Inventor Stephanie Kwolek Dead at 90

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Oops...

Monday night, my security system's trouble light came on after a loud beep. When I came home Tues night, the entire system was off. I figured it needed a new battery but in 10+ years, it's never turned off completely. Fast forward to this evening when I walk into the laundry room and there is a stench. Silly ole me accidentally pulled the plug out of the wall when I went to unplug the washing machine. For some reason, the washer wouldn't stop signaling a complete cycle so I just unplugged it but I accidentally pulled the entire wall mount loose from the wall. I unplugged the alarm system causing it to use backup power and I also unplugged the deep freezer. So for two days, eveything was defrosting. Salmon, shrimp, Popsicles, etc. all defrosted and melted. That was a very fun cleanup project this evening but mission accomplished. It only took 30 minutes to throw everything out and clean it all up. Smelly laundry room gone! 

Silly silly me! That was a very unorthodox way of checking something off the 52-Week Organization Challenge. =)

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Busy Busy...

Today was a busy but pretty blah day. I don't know. Too much going through my mind. Happens and I'm sure the thunderstorms didn't help.

I am sitting here for a few more minutes watching Millionaire Matchmaker. Pretty cool show and Patti is hilarious. She's actually the one getting matched up this time and the master date or whatever they call it just happens to be at Miraval Spa in Arizona. I really want to go there someday. They just ziplined and I could just see myself climbing right up that ladder eager to take my turn. Fun!

Has anyone ever been to Miraval?

I've been taking care of business. Moving and shaking. I have one last interview on Monday for this position and I am finalizing my life insurance so I can be covered outside of work. I have coverage with my employer but if anything ever happens to my employment, I'm assed out. So, I'm getting a seperate policy so I'm covered and I don't want to wait too much longer because it's more expensive  as I get older. I felt pretty exposed during the application process. They ask some very personal questions which makes total sense but leaves you feeling like..."Damn! You need to know all of that?!?!" I'm getting less and less bashful about my pile of baggage if you will. It is what it is and I can't change any of it now. 

I put in a 10-hour workday today and I'm kind of pooped. I'm not sleepy though and I kind of wish I had some company. This is exactly why I know I need to go away for a few days while I'm off work for vacation. Sitting on the couch vs. Sitting
by the ocean. No brainer to me! I'm thinking the second week in July. Then I can enjoy a week at home, the 4th with my family and Chicago's House Music Picnic on July 5th. Being with my family on July 4th will help me get my mind off the fact that it's Harlem's 40th birthday. I often still wonder where he's at and how he's doing. 

I know...I know. Personal Finance Blog and it costs moola to go on vacation. Gotta find that money tree! 

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Day Two of Interviews...

My second day of interviews went well. I have just one final interview next Monday then I will be done. Work is super busy and I'm looking forward to vacation time starting June 28th. I will need to put in some longer hours in the next week and a half but then I'm free. Yes!!! ((Fist Pump))

I slept for 7 hours straight last night which is rare. Chitown was tired. If I have any plans of running this half marathon in Sept, then I better get running soon. I've been so tired but I know that's because I need to exercise and sleep more.

Brian Williams Raps 'Baby Got Back'


This is absolutely hilarious! 


Brian Williams raps 'Baby Got Back' thanks to 'Tonight Show' mashup magic

Monday, June 16, 2014

Good Interviews...

Interviews went really well this morning. The Head of the Group concluded with saying that she was happy to meet with me and that she thought I was very impressive. That's always good to hear. 

Fingers crossed and prayers up that I get the job! Still thankful for the job I have now. Time to go do some real work. =)

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Interviews This Week...

Father's Day was a success. I am back home and getting ready for my interviews. I have two interviews tomorrow, another interview Tuesday and a final interview next Monday. I have to wrap up fieldwork on my review that I am leading this week as well. It's going to be a busy but good week. 

Hope you guys had a great weekend. Pray for me with these upcoming interviews. Thanks! 

Father's Day

Wishing all the Dads out there a Happy Father's Day! 

In about an hour, I'll head over to my parents house to celebrete my Dad's special day. I'm so glad and thankful we had some Father Daughter time this weekend. It was fun to get out on the dance floor and dance with my a Dad at the wedding and decide to spontaneously detour on the trip to visit a cousin. If he were with anyone else but me, he'd have gone straight to Detroit but I'm always down for a fun adventure. Google Maps was our friend and we made it happen. Our Cousins were so happy we came for a visit. 

Have a wonderful Sunday! =)

Saturday, June 14, 2014

Beautiful Wedding...

My Cousin is an absolutely beautiful Bride. She and her Groom dated for 5 years before tying the knot today. About 3 of those years were long distance and they made it work. She eventually relocated from Boston to Dallas where they now reside. 

The ceremony was short and sweet and the reception is very nice. This venue was originally the Ritz Carlton but it is now called The Henry and owned by the Ford Family. Beautiful venue with pieces of artwork everywhere to both visually enjoy or purchase. Very nice!

It's a brunch reception which I think is an amazing idea and I am certain that it is cost saving as well. The ceremony was at 10:30 and the reception immediately followed without much delay. 

There is a buffet with traditional breakfast foods as well as lunch selections. Then you can get omelets and waffles made to order which are brought to your table once prepared. Everything is delicious and yum! The made to order option is great for those who are not big fans of buffets.  Something for everyone. The music is good too! Always a plus in my book! 

Well I have a few more minutes in these 2 hour heels. I am going to go cut a rug and boogie! 

I'm taking notes! I'm next! =)

Friday, June 13, 2014

Road Trip...

I might know 25% of the words to an Anitta Baker song but I will sing and make up my own words! Enjoying the car ride with my Dad. Detroit here we come! Pit stop in Lansing, MI to visit more cousins. Blessed! 

Happy Friday...

I am taking a half day at work today. My family and I are driving up to Michigan for my cousin's wedding. I am so excited and happy for her. She's originally from the Detroit area but spent a little time in Chicago a few years ago and we were able to bond. She lives in TX now so I am super happy to see her and I know she's going to be a beautiful bride.

Who watched that crazy Heat/Spurs game last night? Crazy Right?!?! We will see if Miami really brings the Heat in the next game. I kept thinking they were going to make a comeback but the Spurs were unstoppable.

It should be an easy breezy morning. Have a great weekend! Wishing an early Happy Father's Day to the Dads out there! =) 




Thursday, June 12, 2014

2014 Debt Repayment Progress...

I got promoted and started earning my first six-figure salary in April 2012. During 2012, a lot of the extra income went to repay medical loan debt from two surgeries as well as auto repairs. 2013 was the first year that I was able to make any meaningful progress towards debt reduction and I made some progress. I am aiming for 2014 to be my best year yet for debt repayment. Each year will get better until I am completely DEBT FREE!

In 2013, I managed to pay off $7,224 in principal. Through the first five months of 2014, I have been able to pay off $5,011 or 69% of what I was able to pay off last year and I haven't reached December when my annual bonus pays out. This year, it should be no less than $13,000 after taxes so you can see that with continued monthly payments and my bonus, I will be able to reach my goal of paying off $20,000 in debt this year.

YTD 2014

2013

This! Thank You!

"It's less about how you get what you desire and more about how you treat what you value..." - Rob Hill Sr.


Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Dementia...

My grandmother developed a severe case of Alzheimer's once she hit her mid 80's. There was an immediate loss of short term memory. So bad in fact that I believed she had a stroke of some kind because it appeared so immediate. Of course it was a gradual loss but then it just dropped off a cliff. Short term memory gone!

One of my Mom's best friends is suffering from a form of dementia. She is 70. I've know her my entire life and she's been friends with my Mom for 40+ years. I am also good friends with her nephew who is my age. He lost his Mom (her sister) last year and she also suffered from early onset of dementia. It's apparently hereditary.

They moved to FL in 2001 and are in town for the week. My Mom cooked a big dinner tonight realizing that this may be one of the last times she sees her friend while she has some of her mental faculties. She asked me about
5 times where I went to school and 3 times if I had my outfit ready for my interview on Monday. No short term memory but she was so excited to see me and give me a hug.

I could tell her son was getting tired, frustrated and impatient but dementia and Alzheimer's are not logical conditions. If you try to apply logic, you will only get more frustrated. It takes strong patience to care for a loved one affected by dementia and Alzheimer's.

I remember that I used to laugh to keep from crying when my grandmother would have episodes. What she would say and what she would do made no sense what so ever. You just had to go along and make sure she didn't hurt herself. I developed a lot of patience.

I kept thinking this evening just how thankful I am that my parents are in better health, thankful that they can actually fully participate in life and that we can still share in quality time.

In 2009, my nephew was born and my sister had a post delivery complication that could have taken her life. A month later, I developed health issues. A couple months after that, my Dad had a massive heart attack and nearly died. And a few months later, my grandmother slipped into Alzheimer's. I will always remember that year. Not because of all the tragedy but because of how all of it brought my family closer together and because I am a more humble, less judgmental, relatable and better person because of what happened to me and to my family.

I don't take a single moment with them for granted or a single moment with the people I love for granted. Even when people upset me, I still tell them I love them and wish them well. I can't hold on to anger for long. I am not that person. I am just so thankful for the gifts of love, care and quality time. It means something to me when someone gives me their time because it's their most precious possession. The fact that they are willing to share it with me is such a blessing. That's me. That's who I am. I am so sorry my Mom's friend is inflicted with dementia. But I do know by the show of people that were around her today that she is loved.

2014 Goal Check...

It's time for a Goal Check. Below are the Goals I set for 2014.

Financial:
  • Pay off a Minimum of $20,000 in Debt
  • Maintain $10,000 in Savings 
Progress:
  • $6,000 in current savings - savings have depleted the last couple of months.
  • Still planning to end the year with over $5,000 in savings if not closer to $8,000.
  • Still on target to pay off $20k in debt this year.  
  • Interview for a new job next week that would increase my base salary to approx. $112,000 annually plus provide an annual bonus and still allow me to qualify for stock options. Pray for me!
Health & Fitness:
  • 8 Hours of Sleep
  • Minimum of 1 Gallon of Water Daily
  • Run 3 Times a Week
  • Jump Rope 15 Minutes Daily
  • Run Races and at Least 1 Half Marathon 
Progress:
  • Plenty of sleep. Interrupted but ample.
  • Got off the water kick but back on it heavy.
  • Registering for the Chicago Half Marathon - Training started this month.
Travel
  • I love love love to travel.
  • Take at least one big trip - Destination TBD
  • Visit my friends in NJ
  • Visit my friend in DC
  • Visit Niagara Falls
  • Visit CA with a drive up the coast 
Progress:
  • I made it to Niagara Falls in June 2014!!! Beautiful! 
  • Going to Toronto for Carabana in August with my friend from NJ for her 35th birthday. 
  • My other NJ friend is coming to Chicago for the Annual House Music Picnic. 
  • My last NJ friend is moving to DC so I am going to try to get to both my DC friends this year.
  • No plans for LA yet....I would love to also get out there to get my hair cut/trimmed.
  • Looking at last minute deals for 3 nights for my 2-week vacation in July...Anybody want to come with me?!?! lol
Other Comments

I decided that I am going to try my best to strike a balance between my Debt Reduction Plans and Living. I want to live versus just exist to pay bills. Perhaps my original goal to repay all my debt in 5 years was too aggressive but I know I can do it in 8-10 years. With that, I could have $200k+ in retirement savings and close to $50k in other savings/investment assets. The important thing is to pay off my Private Loans that have a variable rate ASAP.

I would enjoy life a little more by stretching the plan but staying focused on the goals. I would be less tense and stressed. I am 36...$200k+ paid off and Debt Free by 44/45 isn't too bad. Of course that time frame could shorten if I have a partner to share expenses with where I can direct more money towards debt reduction. I am focused! I will get all of this debt paid off but I want to enjoy my life too.  

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Match.com....

A few months ago, I reactivated my Match.com profile but then I deactivated it for a while. It always gets me when I see a cute guy's profile and then I scroll down to religion and see Athiest. I get off his profile page quick, fast and in a hurry. Even when I was younger and questioned if God was real, I would claim Him just in case. I was scared and fearful enough not to totally denounce Him. I mean, it's possible right?!?! I wouldn't want to be the one at at pearly gates saying "My Bad!!!!"...Nah...not the kid! To each his own and I believe everyone has a right to choose their own beliefs....I am just going to roll with Jesus! The guy is still cute though...can't take that away from him. =)

Monday, June 09, 2014

Challenge Money...

So I was wondering what I would do with the money from the 52-Week Challenge at the end of the year. Then it dawned on me that it would have been cool to do something like this for my nephew from the time he was born. Just like every week, the amount increases, I should have increased the amount by $100 each year and he would have $17,100 by the time he turns 18. That's nice "pocket money" for a kid going off to college. What do you think? I could still do it. He's 5 right now so I should technically have $1,500 in an account but I will have close to $1,400 by the end of the year. I think it's a good idea and I would keep it to myself as a secret. Nobody has to know. Even 13 years from now when he's turning 18, the monthly savings amount would be just $150 per month. I'll be in a much better financial position by then...my mental wheels are spinning. I love my Nephew. Doing something like this for him would make me happy. I would love for him to have a better start in life. Perhaps he wouldn't get it all at once but it would be there for him when/if he needs it for school or after school. Hmmm.....

How to Squeeze Meditation into Your Busy Schedule...

Here is a pretty cool article on meditation. I am going to try to put some of this advice into practice immediately.

How to Squeeze Meditation into Your Busy Schedule

Sunday, June 08, 2014

52-Week Money Challenge...

I completed Week #23 of the 52-Week Money Challenge and I now have $276 put away. The goal is to hit $1,378 by the end of the year. Slow and steady! Slow and steady! =)

Sunday Relaxing...

Missing Harlem but trying to stay strong. It's been a month since our last communication and it still saddens me that we couldn't pull together to create something great. My Dad asked about him yesterday and I explained what happened and the temporary block. I've long since removed it but I told my Dad that if he really wanted to reach me then he would find a way. He agreed.

Still withdrawing from caffeine. Got up for a two mile run this morning and then made it to Church. My best friend and I took her daughter to see Maleficent after Church which was well done and an excellent movie. I got a little sick after the movie but I'm over at my parent's house now relaxing with some ginger ale. After a 5 hour nap yesterday, I still slept a good 7 hours last night. I think I just reached my exhaustion limit.

Saturday, June 07, 2014

I Am Enough...

Just started following @initforthelove on InstaGram. This picture was a great reminder that I am enough just the way that I am. I just need to have faith that a wonderful man will come into my life and appreciate who I am, what I have to offer and show me his love and appreciation with both his words AND actions.

Today, all could think about at my nephew's graduation is how much I love that little boy, how proud of him I am and how much I really want to be a Mom. I am so thankful for my parents, my sister, brother-in-law, nephew and my best friend and her daughter who comprise my core group who love, support and encourage me every day. Without them, my life would have very little joy, happiness or purpose. With them, my life is rich so I remain grateful, thankful and humble. It blows my mind that God thought enough of me to bless me with such amazing parents, family and a friend who is like a sister. I am a glass half full type of woman. Someone once said, I have blinding hope. I just quite simply believe in God. Even when I get frustrated with His timing, I believe in and put my faith in God.

In this life, I desire to be healthy, free from debt, to be happily married with a family of my own, to raise my kids to be good people and their best selves and to travel and see the world. I rest in the belief that it's possible and that it will happen.


Caffeine Withdrawal...

I know I am very sensitive to caffeine but I endulged in several lattes daily to stay awake when I was in Canada for training. This last week, I was going, going, going non-stop with very little sleep.

Man oh man! In just one week, I'm going through caffeine withdrawal. My head hurts, I'm nauseas and super tired. I went to my nephew's graduation this morning and then we went out for a celebration lunch. Soon as I got home, I couldn't lie down fast enough and slept for 4-5 hours. It was a beautiful day too. It just takes a few days to detox the caffeine out of my system. 

I'm trying to wrap my brain around my finances. I've been on a little spending kick lately. I broke down and finally bought some Cole Haan heels for work. Even on sale, the shoes were $200/pair but they have the Nike technology and come in wide. I've had two toe surgeries so wide shoes just feel better. 

I'll tally the damage up this week. I just have to say, Capital One is Awesome! I lost my credit card about a month ago and they express mailed me a new card. Well, I lost it again in Niagara Falls last week and when I called, they didn't give me any hassles. I called the restaurant the next day when I noticed it was missing but they could not locate the card. They finally found it and called me today but I'd already cancelled the card. I appreciate that Capital One didn't give me a hard time. Kudos! 

Hope you guys are having a good weekend!!! 

Friday, June 06, 2014

Getting Back in Work Mode...

My alarm went off this morning and I had no idea where I was or what day. Just exhausted and disoriented. I managed to get myself up and into work today.

I received an invitation to a second round of interviews for a position I posted for with the Bank. It should be scheduled to happen within the next 2 weeks. That's great news! More to come. This position is 100% different and would mean a higher salary. 

Looking forward to taking 2 weeks off for vacation at the beginning of July. I originally put the time off in the vacation calendar thinking I'd have 2 weeks to travel and celebrate Harlem's 40th Birthday but it still comes at a much needed time for a break and pause in the busy action. 

My nephew graduates from pre-school tomorrow so it will be a family filled weekend. Love!

Thursday, June 05, 2014

Heading Home....

After a week away in Canada, I'm finally heading home. I'll board my flight shortly. I had a great time, met some awesome people and I learned a lot. I was in Canada for Management Leadership Training and I learned a lot about myself and how best to communicate and work with others. Looking forward to putting what I learned into practice.

This afternoon, we had an awesome exercise/simulation. There were 25 of us and we were divided into groups of four, with a white envelopes on each table. We were told that we had a client that wanted to see 5 different models of airplanes for purchase. We needed 12 inch and 9 inch models that had to fly 16 feet in the air and given a finite set of resources to make the paper airplanes. As an entire group, we had to produce 5 planes for the client within 20 minutes.

Oh shit went through my head. We divided responsibilities and I opted to demonstrate the final product. One of my group members came up with the brilliant idea for all of us to collaborate together and instead of 4 different groups, we had one group and everyone played their roles. I kept time and when they couldn't get them to fly the 16 feet, I could see that they needed weight and suggested they use the Popsicle sticks and then they flew a longer distance. We had these colorful pipe cleaners and feathers so I suggested that we use those to extend the wings to 12 inches to meet the 12 inch parameters when we had 9 inch paper. That worked as well. I was just appreciative that they listened to my ideas to improve their designs to meet the goal. I admit that I had to stay in my non-paper plane making lane but I came up with some solutions that helped us reach the goal. Afterwards, we were told that we were the best and funnest class yet to work with for training and the only class in the history of the program to decide to work together and only have to produce 5 models with 2 backups as opposed to 5 models per group. In the real world, we saved the Bank a lot of money being efficient. Kudos to my teammate for that idea!!!!

I'm just ready to go home and be around my family and friends. Priceless!


Wednesday, June 04, 2014

Roll Call...

Can you guys do me a favor? Let's do a Roll Call!!! Tell me where you guys are checking in from! 

You can make it anonymous if you want. I'm curious we're the Readers of Windy City Blues are from. 

Help me out y'all...It would be fun! =)

Monday, June 02, 2014

Niagara Falls...

My Buddy MC was sneaky and took this picture of me while I was taking a picture of the Falls. It was a beautiful day but there was a little wind and we got semi-drenched from the mist. I was so happy that I didn't care. =)



Toronto Trip Check-In...

I had a really great couple of days hanging out with my friend MC. The trip was made complete with a fun overnight trip to Niagara Falls. I checked into the training facility last night and my first day of Leadership Training went very well today. I'm learning a lot about my strengths and weaknesses as well as learning to work effectively with people who have different learning/working styles while still maintaining authenticity. The BIG thing we learned about today is Emotional Intelligence and it's importance. Eye opening exercises. I am the only American but I love getting to know others and my Canadian colleagues are treating me very nicely. More to come.

Hope you guys are doing well! =)