Tag: zen mama llama
Hurricane Idalia is heading our way
I’m a true-blue Floridian, born and raised in the land of sunshine and hurricanes. I mean, who needs boring weather, right? I’ve seen it all – from hurricanes parties to trees crashing down like they’ve had one too many margaritas. And let me tell you, watching tipsy folks stumbling into giant branches is pure comedy gold! Now, don’t judge me, but I was young and adventurous back then. We even turned these hurricane nights into a party game extravaganza, spinning tales and playing games as the wind howled outside. The next morning, we attempted a daring river escapade, only to be thwarted by the mother of all floods. Ah, good times, my friend. Good times indeed!
Having kids is like adding a spin cycle to the hurricane experience! Now I’m not just packing snacks and toys, but also a go bag for a quick escape. You can find me, all stressed out, stuffing it with clothes, meds, chargers, and every essential document. And guess what? The cars are always topped up with gas, the gas cans are brimming, and even the generator is ready for action! I’ve got more flashlights than a rock concert and enough oil lamps to start my own vintage store. The kids? Well, let’s just say they’ve mastered the emergency drills better than any superhero team. And don’t even get me started on tagging our horses’ tails! With a little more tidying up, we’re officially as prepared as the Avengers facing off against a Category 3 storm. But hey, who can forget the infamous Hurricane Michael? It went from a light drizzle to absolute chaos, leaving poor Mexico Beach in ruins. Oh, the joys of living on the hurricane coaster! 🌪️
In our humble abode, nestled comfortably in Zone B, we have decided to defy the evacuation orders. Why, you ask? Well, it’s all because of our beloved furry and feathered friends! You see, we simply cannot bear the thought of leaving them behind. Our pastures are wide open, offering them a buffet of grassy delights and endless fun. There are trees aplenty for their impromptu game of hide-and-seek, and a barn that has stood the test of time for a whopping century. Although we hope they won’t seek shelter there during the mighty Cat 3 hurricane, as it’s not exactly the hippest spot in town. But fear not, for our animal companions are smarter than your average human (no offense!). When the winds start howling, they’ll be the first to hit the ground and show off their impeccable survival skills. Our house, you see, is a solid fortress, built in an era when they had true craftsmanship. So, here we are, hopelessly addicted to the Weather Channel (I blame their dramatic theme music). The hurricane keeps creeping closer to us, but hey, at least we’re getting all the best memes and our locals are becoming famous on the Weather Channel. It’s all quite the spectacle, I must say!
I keep checking and yep, here comes the hurricane! Our kids’ school is evacuating faster than you can say “storm surge.” We’re talking about a whopping 7 ft of water coming their way. Don’t forget to pack your floaties! But fear not, my friend, we Floridians are prepared for the power outage extravaganza. Our generator is all set up, plugs galore, and we even have an AC wall unit to keep us cool as cucumbers. We’re like a survival squad ready to take on the storm! And let’s not forget about those poor non-Floridian transplants, running around in sheer panic. Bless their little hearts. Meanwhile, I’m just here, watching my child sprint through the house with a slice of homemade bread, screaming that it’s the world’s greatest bread ever. Can’t argue with that, right? To top it off, we’re whipping up some blueberry muffins for the inevitable power outage feast. So, for all you folks in Idalia’s path, stay safe and keep your sense of humor intact! She’s a real beast, after all. Survival mode: activated!
Would you dare dance with a mischievous Cat 3 hurricane making a beeline for your location?
Feeling grateful amidst job searching for the first time in 16 years…
I have not searched for job in a very long time. I have always known someone who has a position they think would work for me. My reputation has always been stellar in the work department. I would interview, almost always got that job. It is not that way anymore. The competition is younger, better educated, and willing to take any pay. I feel like I am dating without the dating apps. Maybe I should design a tinder for job searching?? Hmm!!
Back to my story. I know my worth. I know I come with a long list of skills with an amazing attitude. I have a degree, a lifetime of work skills. I have tons of recommendations on LinkedIn and Multiple people have reached out to volunteer to be a reference. I mean this girl feels good about herself. I laugh when I see things like “requirements: MBA, SalesForce Cert, Hubspot Cert, Excel expert, PowerBI Expert, Marketo Cert” for ” 15/hr” or “$55/yr”, Wait what? I applaud the companies paying people their worth, but some of you. Some of you should be ashamed!
I am thankful I am getting interviews. I am thankful that my first few were with people I knew or AI. We have AI interviews now which I kind of dig. I am also thankfully getting interviews with companies I really would like to work for. I have been targeting companies I want to work for then applying for anything that excites me. It should be a choice situation which always makes me happy!
I want to be excited for work again. I loved my old teams and never would have left them. Some of them were like family. The fact still remains, I was slowly losing my excitement for work. It is hard to be excited when you see such horrible practices happening around you to good people. When you see people who do not seem to know how to do their jobs, continually get promotions. While the good ones get glanced over for promotions or let go. It is disheartening. I am thankful I am finding places and jobs that excite me. I am really loving finding positions I know I would be amazing doing at companies who actually make a difference. Companies who are not all about shareholders. Companies that I truly want to be a part of. I know that strategy will pay off for me!
How do you look for a new job?
Gratitude around the farm
I am grateful for this time to get things done around the farm. It is cooling down. There is so much work to do. Sadly a lot need supplies. I am working on anything where I can repurpose items we already have. That has been fun. I also have started pruning and cleaning out some sections of the farm.
This morning, I got to go for a nice trail ride this morning with my old faithful Apache. It was nice to ride with him, get fresh air. He was my Attitude of Gratitude today. He is such a sweet boy. He saw me walking towards him, did not try to get away, put his head directly in the halter, walked alongside of me. He was just such a sweet little gelding gentleman today. Our ride was nice and slow. We did the barrels in the arena, rode around the property of my friend and home. It was a perfect first ride in quite some time. I am just so grateful for him. I am grateful we moved to a farm so that I can wake up every day to my sweet animals. My horses, chickens and goats are just the cutest!
What are you grateful for?
Hello world!
I am Zen Mama Llama. Who that is changes daily. What does not change is my thirst and passion for spreading positivity and kindness. I think life is all about perspective. I have a unique perspective on life from the paths I have taken. I will talk more about those or post links to my vlog!
I have created a store filled with sayings I love in designs I created. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. This journey has been a great learning experience. I have a new found appreciation for the developers in my life.
Please check back often and do not forget to share your smile with the world! Go win your day!