Wednesday, January 30, 2008

2008...Busy, Busy, Busy!!

So I'm sure you're thinking...what's the story woman? You were a blogging fool in December...what the hell happened to the New Year! I'll apologize right now for my lack of updates and photos (I promise to have some new pics very soon, Auntie K). I guess the excitement of my new year got the best of me!

What excitement, you ask? Well, we returned home from our lovely Irish holiday on January 4 and on January 6 (the day before I went back to work) I resigned from my job of 8.5 years.

While in Ireland I received a great offer. I'm still in higher ed but from the comfort of home! This has eliminated the crazy, long hours, weekends, and consistent 6 day weeks! Which is something that I've needed for a couple of years now (since August 25, 2005 to be exact).

As exciting as it is to have a new beginning, it was definitely sad to leave the friends and family I've come to love over the past 8.5 years. But as Alan and a few of my wisest friends reminded me...I'm only leaving the job behind...not the people I love.

So, I've been at the new job for the past week and a half...and I'm still excited! It's been crazy making the transition, but I've got lots of love and support from my family and friends. Thanks to all of you for looking out for me in so many different ways!

Hang in there, new pics and stories are on their way. I just need a couple more days to adjust!

Sunday, January 6, 2008

Thank You

As many of you know, we were fortunate enough to spend the holidays in Ireland with Nana B, the Aunties, family and friends. It was a wonderful holiday and the IrishKids had a great time, not to mention Alan and I! We arrived safely back home on Friday evening and have spent the weekend trying to get back to our normal chaos!

Since being home, I've been thinking alot about our trip. Obviously, Alan's family is crazy about the IrishKids and loves seeing them grow and change (even when they're testing multiple boundries). It's always a treat to see Alan back home in Ireland with his family and friends...oh, the stories I've heard. And what dawned on me while we were in Ireland is that I've only known these people a little over 4 years...but they are as much my family as the relatives I've known for my lifetime. I just want them to know that I am grateful for that...I know some people may not be as lucky!

Bernie, Kathleen, and Denise: Thank you for taking such good care of us during our visit! It was truly a memorable Christmas for the children and for us. We love you.

Mom and Dad: Thank you for picking us up from O'Hare, on a Friday night, during rush hour traffic, and coming in to meet us at the International gate! Sorry it took so long for us to get there.

Jack and Michelle: Thank you for being at our house with Lily and Jack and with Chicken & Dumplings on the stove! What a treat...a home cooked meal and a welcome home gathering!

Brenden: I'm sorry we didn't get to see you this trip! I heard you had a great time in Italy...we thought about you often (and raised a few pints in your honor...the uncles are looking forward to your next visit!)

To all our family and friends: Happy New Year... May 2008 be laughter, love, and joy!