Grand Rapids Nesties
Dear Community,
Our tech team has launched updates to The Nest today. As a result of these updates, members of the Nest Community will need to change their password in order to continue participating in the community. In addition, The Nest community member's avatars will be replaced with generic default avatars. If you wish to revert to your original avatar, you will need to re-upload it via The Nest.
If you have questions about this, please email help@theknot.com.
Thank you.
Note: This only affects The Nest's community members and will not affect members on The Bump or The Knot.
Our tech team has launched updates to The Nest today. As a result of these updates, members of the Nest Community will need to change their password in order to continue participating in the community. In addition, The Nest community member's avatars will be replaced with generic default avatars. If you wish to revert to your original avatar, you will need to re-upload it via The Nest.
If you have questions about this, please email help@theknot.com.
Thank you.
Note: This only affects The Nest's community members and will not affect members on The Bump or The Knot.
Nestie Check In - (answer at any time - even night)
It has been a while since we have done this. Feel free to check in at anytime.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life?
How is work?
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry)
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months?
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal)
Anything else you want to share.
Re: Nestie Check In - (answer at any time - even night)
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life? - Nothing much. I had over a week off of work near the holidays which was nice. We booked our summer vacation for the same spot we went to last summer.
How is work? - I think I need to make it my goal to do one professional devlopment thing a week to start to get ready to start a new search. Goal one - polish the resume.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry) - DH is fine. Some days we get along great, other days we get snippy. I actually think we spent too much time together at the holidays. hee he. The kids are doing great. I think I'm ready for another dog, however in reality what I really want is another Ozzie - if I could get a dog just like him and he/she was already 2-3 years old, that would be great.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months? - I'm seeing Mira on Saturday and going to do my semi-annual clearance shopping. I usually get some awesome deals this time of year for kids clothes for next year - usually $3-$4 per shirt.
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal) - Brian has to regrout the tiles in the shower so I'm taking the kids to my parents the next two weekends so he can do that. Our shower is so gross looking right now. And we also have to put in new flooring and paint the walls in the small bathroom on the main floor.
Anything else you want to share. - I wish we were rich, so I could just work a fun partt-time job so my kids still could go to daycare a few weeks for the benefits of it and I could get out of the house.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life?
Um... there is no excitement. We're kind of in a stable (and happy) holding pattern.
How is work?
My little job is gaining a little momentum. I'm frustrated with the girls because for their fundraiser they want to do a dance. Other chapters have selected more socially-minded or empowering fundraisers. They want to do a dance party. But, things are actually happening now, so I shouldn't complain.
School (which I consider my other work) is going well. I'm 30% done with my career counseling class. When this one is done, I have 4 classes left, and then practicum and internship. Woah! I may have a good lead for internship, too.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry)
Things are good. Jim was worried about his boss not returning calls, and being distracted. It turns out the boss wasn't avoiding him, but he was having major health problems. Too bad for the boss, but phew for Jim. He also started teaching last night. When he's feeling challenged and appreciated in work, he is much happier on off hours. We spent A LOT of time together over the holidays, which was nice - we even got a few dates in during that time - but being apart allows us to have more to talk about when we're together.
The kids are good. The dogs are good. Not much to report in those areas.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months?
that first bit of Spring! I know, I know... we haven't had a very bad winter, but the sound of the snow and ice melting and going down the drain, the smell of the earth thawing, and seeing the first bulbs coming up is the best!
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal)
We'll be putting the house back on the market next month (which means more work on the house: painting the bathroom, new carpet in H's room, etc). I continue to put out more (and more and more) resumes. I'm making Henry a robot quilt.
Anything else you want to share.
Jim and I are getting worn out from life in limbo in the (my) job and house department. But we are doing a good job in taking it in stride as partners. Limbo is not ideal, but we're really making the most out of what we have.
I had a great dog growing up. Heidi was awesome. When I got a dog as an adult I was looking for Heidi. Instead, I got Arlo, who is a neurotic weirdo but also awesome. When I found Greta, she was evil, and certainly not Heidi or Arlo. But now she might be (shhhh, don't tell Arlo or the ghost of Heidi) the best dog I've ever known. I'm very excited to read that you might be ready for a new dog. You won't find Ozzie, but you'll find a different and equally fantastic dog.
How is work? This semester is definitely starting out easier than last. Just knowing what to expect all around relieves so much tension. There is going to be a lot over the next several weeks that probably ends up making this semester actually busier, but I think the stress level will be lower. Then there is the added benefit of knowing this is my last semester as a 1L and that is very exciting.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry) Things with L are wonderful. It was so nice to spend a lot of time with him over break. I'm hopeful that we learned a lot about coping with my school and the distance during last semester and that it will be even easier this time around. The furkid is great, too. I loved getting to spend lots of time with her on break. I definitely miss her during the week, but at least now I know L can take care of her.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months? Getting my first semester grades! The suspense is killing me. I'm also looking forward to hopefully securing a job for the summer, spring break and being almost done with my first year.
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal) School is definitely the biggest personal project I'm working on, but beyond that we have some financial goals that we are plugging away at.
I know SE Michigan has one of the best Golden Retriever rescues in the country. If you are interested, I can get more information from my housemate who volunteers for the humane society.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life? Not a whole lot, unfortunately.
How is work? VERY slow. I worked a total of 6 hours last week, and none so far this week. This on call gig is not going to cut it if this keeps up
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry) Things are ok, DH and I are kind of in a lull right now. I'm working on finding things to improve our marriage but working opposite shifts and having a 2 year old is not helping things. And ben is SO wild right now, he started in home "preschool" this week and after the first day (3 hours long) the provider said he was hitting, trying to bite, and being so wild she doesn't know if he's a good fit. I was embarrassed and angry. Ben is rambunctious but has never been violent. If tomorrow doesn't go a LOT better he can't go back anymore. I was SO looking forward to 6 hours a week of "me" time
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months? We are going to the Great Wolf Lodge next weekend
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal) Overhauling the semi finished room in the basement for my little brother - he moved in with us a few weeks ago and needs his own space. The plan is for him to go to EMT school and find a job. Before this he was living on friend's couches and being a 19 year old bum basically. I'm hoping this helps kick him into gear and do something with his life.
Anything else you want to share. I'm ready for a positive change in my life, I've been a negative nelly for too long. Being positive is hard sometimes.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life? Hmmm. None? A lot? I started school this week. 1 week down, so far so good. I put an offer on a house yesterday. I've got a busy weekend coming up.
How is work? Some days it's good, some days it's not so good.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry) Things have been really good. T's birthday is on Saturday - we are having a small party. Turning 2! H's birthday is on Sunday - I think to celebrate this we'll go out with a few friends on Saturday night. He's turning 35. So we have a super busy weekend of celebrating coming up.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months? Seeing how all of my "projects" work out.
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal) Just trying to expand the "business" and expand my knowledge base (and get a degree.)
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life? I am putting in my 2.5 week notice at my old folks' job tomorrow.
How is work? See above, ha! My temporary position at the writing festival at my alma mater has turned into a permanent position. They are even re-writing the job description and pay scale to fit my strengths and what I bring to the table. (Wow.) And while it is still not full-time (*sigh*), it is a much better fit with my career strengths and goals. Plus, there is also a possibility for freelance work or even some regular office time in a different department at the institution. I'll find out more about those possibilities by next week. If they come to fruition, it's going to be a really busy spring, but I'm excited about all the new opportunities. At the same time, it will be sad to leave most of (not all) my senior residents. But I know they'll understand.
How are things going with the DH? He is my rock, supportive as always. I am so thankful for him.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months? Establishing a more stable work schedule. Things have been all over the place these past few months!
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal)? Not really.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life?
We've been trying to be more social and do things outside of home and work. I felt like we were in such a rut of go to work/class and come home. So, I've decided that we will do at least one fun thing a month. For January we are going to go to Craigs Cruisers and play the arcade games.
How is work?
Work is good, almost too good actually. We are insanely busy which is great, but we are still short staffed due to the economy. Hopefully we will be hiring soon because I'm not sure how much longer I can do three people's work.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry)
DH is good, busy with work and MBA classes. He's ready to be done with school, but now that he's doing a double masters he will be in school for another year. The fur-baby is doing better, not using the laundry basket or our bed anymore for her bathroom. I think we finally got the correct combo of food and meds for her needs.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months?
I'm surprising DH with a trip for his birthday, he has no clue and I'm dying to tell him!
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal)
I have a huge list of house updates that I'd like to do, but I have to keep reminding myself not to over do it and price ourselves out of our neighborhood.
Anything else you want to share.
I miss everyone, I wish I could nest at work!
GreenGlam, it's nice to see you. Yay for having fun! I hope work calms down soon for you.
Chymes, Yay!
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life?
Not too much exciting here. I heard the baby's heartbeat. It was a sweet, sweet 170 bpm.
How is work?
I'll take this as housework
I have a new schedule for myself to make sure I stay organized and on top of everything. Three days in and it is running smoothly! Haha.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry)
Things are good with Mike. Work is going well and he is getting back to the gym. He has been so helpful and compassionate while I have been struggling through the first trimester.
Henry seems to have delayed speech development so we are in the process of getting set up with someone to assess him. Hoping this moves as quickly as possible. Other than that he is doing well. He even clears his dish from his highchair! Haha. He only brings it to me after breakfast so far, but that is still so sweet to me.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months?
This is outside the time frame, but I am really looking forward to the return of Mad Men.
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal)
Our big house project is completing the attic. We need different flooring, a closet and window treatments.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life?
Exciting? That would not adequately describe my life! HAHA I have been excited that the last two days I have actually kept the house clean. Yup...you all envy my exciting life.
How is work?
My SAHM "work" is great. Noah is the best boss ever. I do work one night a week at a Paint Your Own Pottery Place/Kids Consignment Boutique. It is so fun! I am really glad that I have the job. I love the people who come in, everyone is sooo nice! We are getting really slow now that the holidays are over. I work tomorrow night and I hope that there are customers!
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry)
Things with DH are good! He is feeling all better from being sick last week. He is a wonderful husband and daddy, I am blessed! He is so sweet because when he comes home from work he will say to Noah "I missed you so much today! I love you so much!" I love seeing that love. Then he kisses me and says "Oh, I missed you too!";)
Noah is great. He seriously makes me laugh about 1,000 times a day. He is so sweet and is a total lover lately. He loves to hug EVERYTHING. Tonight he was hugging his bath toys.
Stewie the cat is good. He loves Noah and always is around him when he is playing on the floor. I just wish he did not shed SO.MUCH.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months?
I am looking forward to C & I's wedding anniversary at the end of the month. We have not gone on a date in FOREVER, so it will be nice to have an excuse to do so. We will only be celebrating 2 years. I forget sometimes that we have only been married for such a short time. Getting pregnant on your honeymoon and having a baby so soon makes being married seem a lot longer.
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal)
No really...
Anything else you want to share.
I hope that at some point I can meet you guys IRL.
That is SUPER exciting!!!
I went to my "yearly" appointment and I overheard a heartbeat from the room next door. I LOVE that sound.
Do you work the same night every week, Amachuta? It's time for a GNO, and you need to come. Would you be able to come to GR for it?
IOne of the best sounds ever.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life? Not really. I have two cousins that are engaged, and have asked me for wedding advice. Thats kind of cool.
How is work? Busy. Boss is on vacation this week and next, then we have a 3 day meeting, then we start gearing up for Valentine's day. It's only going to get busier after that. Easter, Mother's day. I'm exhausted just thinking about it.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry) Things are good. We're both really tired a lot lately. We try to spend a few nights a week sitting at the dining room just talking over a beer or glass of wine. Helps keep us connected and on the same page with life :-) Renee might be starting to teeth because she's been getting up and whining in the middle of the night, something she's only started doing the past few nights. Other than that Renee is great. Growing like a weed!
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months? Oh gosh....um, overtime for extra money, we could really use it. However overtime= less time with R.
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal) Nothing huge. I really, really want to paint our entryway/hallway a different color. Right now it's an eggplant purple. I like the color ok, but the finish of the paint shows every single imperfection in the wall. And because it's so dark, it shows a lot of dust and dog hair. Annoying. Nick also mentioned doing the kitchen backsplah and countertop for Mother's day, but if we do anything to the kitchen, I'd rather do a overhaul of the whole thing. Appliances, counters, backsplash, and paint. We don't have that kind of money right now. I do also want curtains for the living room, a new rug, new bed, new nightstands, and I want to paint our dresser.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life? - Exciting? Um... I can't really think of anything.
How is work? - BUSY! I'm swamped this week. It will be better starting tomorrow.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry) - Good and good.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months? - Being less busy.
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal) - Yeah, I have a list of projects. The most interesting is starting research for a trip to Europe later this year.
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life? My sister's wedding is in June and I'm the matron of honor. So I've been helping her with plans and I can't wait to go dress shopping. My first time as a bridesmaid!!
How is work? Still SAHM with K. A goal for this year is to job search and find a part-time pharmacy tech position.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry) Things are going well for H at the hospital. He just got a market adjustment raise, so that will be nice. He also should be getting a set schedule here soon.
K is doing well. Just had his 18 month check-up, and he's gotten a little taller but hasn't gained weight. So he should be able to stay rear-facing until he's 2. He only has a few words that he says, but it is amazing at how many words he understands that we say. He's so smart and loves to play. Plus he's really into giving kisses now. So sweet!
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months? Doing our taxes and knowing how much we'll get returned so we can pay off our last 2 remaining credit cards.
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal) We're working on some goals for 2012, and long term goals. I've started planning a 5 year anniversary trip for the 2 of us next year.
Anything else you want to share.
My Profile
What is one exciting thing that has been going on in your life?
Just got back from our big trip to New Zealand. That was exciting. :-)
How is work?
Good - fairly busy. Same ol', same ol' really. I waiver between wanting more out of a job, and then being content with this one. It cycles every few months, currently I'm in a content phase.
How are things going with the DH? The kids (real or furry)
Things are wonderful - I feel lucky every day to have my man. Andy is having ACL surgery tomorrow, so I'll be his caretaker this weekend. I'm looking forward to the weekend at home after all the travel, even if we won't be able to do much besides lay around and watch movies.
What is one thing you are looking forward to in the next two months?
Starting training w/Toby
Any big projects you are working on (household, work, personal)
We decided we are going to put some money/time into completing our office. Andy is doing starting Master's classes and would like an official work room, and it would be nice to have a better designated space for when I work from home.
Anything else you want to share.
I watched 6 movies on the plane rides - more movies than I probably watched all of last year. I would highly recommend Crazy, Stupid Love - cute, funny and Ryan Gosling takes his shirt off.