Ramblings and, oh yah....Hello everyone!

Truth be told I truly haven't looked at a picture, picked up a pair of scissors, or given very much thought to my hobby in the last 3 months...I know, I know. I have officially lost my privilege as a self-proclaimed obsessive scrapbooker. Trust me, it's not out of want. I really just haven't had the time to focus on my hobby. So what have I been doing then you ask?

Well...first there's my family. As in, remember my last few posts? Well, it's been an ongoing "issue" for us..as in, my sisters and I. We've all been dealing with what can only be described as the wake of dysfunctional- family-hell. And challenging as it has been, there's definitely been some much needed purging as a result of recent months events. I'm relieved to be rid of the noxiousness - whether in the form of trials, issues, and people; including those who are critical, disparaging and just flat out unconstructive. There's absolutely no love loss when there was never any added value to my life.

I can count, however, the many blessings that are in the form of my husband and daughter - my sisters, brother, friends, great health (not only mine but that of my family & friends), and more recently - landing an AMAZING position with one of the most prestigious companies in Orange County. And yes, the latter is what's actually been monopolizing the majority of my time; leaving very little of it, if any at all, for my hobby. When I'm not busy working, I am making up for lost time with my daughter and husband.

I must admit, it was a bit of an adjustment for Ali when she realized that mommy wasn't going to be home all day with her anymore but she's adapted well to the new schedule. We're fortunate that daddy works from home and she still goes to pre-school on a part time basis so all in all, the transition in schedules has been *almost* seemless. It makes the time we do get to spend together that much sweeter :) She's becoming more and more independent and I don't have a lot of time to dwell (translation: sulk) over her not needing me as much anymore so the opportunity to go back to work on a full time basis came at just the right time.

Did I also mention that going back to work has given me the excuse to shop for new wardrobe pieces?! I love any excuse to go shopping :) Nordstrom really loves me right now....and besides scrapbooking, I'm also a self-proclaimed shoe addict. I absolutely adore shoes. If I could get away with it, I'd buy 5 pairs a week. But sensibility kicks in and I concede by limiting myself to 1 every week or two. Which completely allays my husband.... :) (see love? I can be reigned in!)

Well now. This isn't just a rambling...it's a rambling and a half! Oh well, let's just chalk it up to me making up for lost time ;-) Hopefully it won't be another 4 months before I post again. But in case it is, till next time my friends -- take care of yourselves!

Hugs,
Karen