Long time no post! It has been a very long time since I have posted a blog, and to be honest I have no excuses to give; other than the fact that I'm working three jobs and busy as all get out!
Here's a scoop at what is happening in the Kesterson household-or for that matter one household, two different roofs. Justin is currently in Las Vegas hosting the annual MSU-B softball tourney until Tuesday, February 15th. I spoke with him last night on the adventure and everlasting nights without sleep, due to softball not drinks, and no complaints were given just frustration that there isn’t enough time in the day to get everything done. For this reason I remind myself of what a hard working person Justin always is-he never complains. His work ethic inspires me to be a better person and work for what I want and never give up.
Life with Maxx in Billings, is well, life with a dog. Justin is thankful for Maxx and all 13lbs of love Maxx gives, though sometimes Maxx has been leaving too much love for Justin lately.
“Naughty dog Maxx!”
I laugh when I think about the time when Justin and I were dating and Justin said, “I’ll never walk a dog that small in my life!” Little did he know, we would be married two years later and he would be looking after Maxx, and might I mention, looking forward to coming home to Maxx’s wagging tail and endless games of catch with Chuck (Maxx’s toy pheasant).
While Justin and Maxx continue to reside in Billings, I’m continuously on the go. I’m still coaching volleyball for an Elite volleyball team, teaching, and working at PotteryBarn. With all three I’m often driving quite a bit-and honestly getting tired of driving but not getting tired of being busy. At the end of March I’ll add another job to the regime, track coach (also in Shoreline School District). My day will consist of teaching, track practice 3-4:30pm and then volleyball from 6-9pm or PotteryBarn. Throw in a couple track meets here and there and then volleyball tournaments on the weekends and viola-my chaotic schedule!
With both of us with quite different schedules we look forward to the times we spend together.
I’ve been impressed; though have never doubted our abilities to keep our marriage strong throughout our time away from each other. We rely heavily and solely on communication in between our visits to see one another-about every month, sometimes longer. However, to us, four days can seem like an entire month depending on how our day is going. I’m sure everyone can relate to this!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Year 2011
Out with the old, in with the new. Year 2011!
My time to complain-
I may sound so excited but for some reason, it's just another year. Nothing has changed, and Justin and I are still in two separate states working and pushing through every day. It's getting tiring. After a day where I spent wasted energy to get absolutely nothing accomplished, or so it feels like, all I want to do is come home, curl up on the couch and just sit next to Jus or have Maxx around to play tug-o-war with. It's the simple things in life I miss-my husband around and having time to do things I need to focus on (e.g. studying for my test, and not working so much). As you can tell I'm a little overwhelmed at the given moment, and sick to add to my list.
Okay-Complain train is over!
With all this being said, I have decided to attempt going back to the gym. By going back to the gym I don't mean working out every day. That's not the goal. The goal is to work off frustrations and the anxiety of having so much to do. It's my time to unwind and I don't like to think of it as getting in shape. Even though I'm doing that too. I've set an important date for this spring. No, no babies yet or thinking of mini-me's and mini-Justin's running about. I'm going to run a half-marathon and I'm trying to convince Justin to train for the same one (but, to no prevail, no commitment has been made on his part, yet).
Last week, my run was simply running from frustration. But in the midst, as I was running away (on a treadmill) I gained a rhythm I've never understood or experienced before. What seemed like five minutes was 30 minutes and I ran 3.5 miles. Go me! And for those of you who run, yes I'm slow, so please pass me when running, I won't catch up to you. That is, unless you stop to go tinkle on the side of the road.
So far this year, 2011, I have realized that I have had career goals for a long time, though I've never had goals for my own physical or emotional well being of keeping myself healthy and in shape past college. I've always been the athlete who had a gym membership and would go for a month at a time, work out hard, feel like I accomplished something (maybe losing 5 lbs), then retreat back to working, coaching and keeping myself busy. I have never really gained the importance of why I should continue to be healthy until now. Healthy in the way I see fit; working out with a goal in mind, accomplishing that goal and continuing to be aware of what I am eating. There are two types of diets; the no fun, hate this but I'm doing it because I'm simply want to lose some extra lbs. and be "skinny" or the conscious eater, who eats to fuel the body with nutritional value and not deprive the simple sweets in life. I choose diet #2, not to lose, but if I do great-but to be healthy inside and out.
As life continues I need to keep reminding myself about the simple things that continually make me happy. Number One, my husband and the goal of being together by the end of the year; Number 2, working in the schools everyday-not worrying about next year; Number 3, training for a half marathon for my own well-being; Number 4, enjoy time with family and finally Number 5, take time off and enjoy a vacation!
My time to complain-
I may sound so excited but for some reason, it's just another year. Nothing has changed, and Justin and I are still in two separate states working and pushing through every day. It's getting tiring. After a day where I spent wasted energy to get absolutely nothing accomplished, or so it feels like, all I want to do is come home, curl up on the couch and just sit next to Jus or have Maxx around to play tug-o-war with. It's the simple things in life I miss-my husband around and having time to do things I need to focus on (e.g. studying for my test, and not working so much). As you can tell I'm a little overwhelmed at the given moment, and sick to add to my list.
Okay-Complain train is over!
With all this being said, I have decided to attempt going back to the gym. By going back to the gym I don't mean working out every day. That's not the goal. The goal is to work off frustrations and the anxiety of having so much to do. It's my time to unwind and I don't like to think of it as getting in shape. Even though I'm doing that too. I've set an important date for this spring. No, no babies yet or thinking of mini-me's and mini-Justin's running about. I'm going to run a half-marathon and I'm trying to convince Justin to train for the same one (but, to no prevail, no commitment has been made on his part, yet).
Last week, my run was simply running from frustration. But in the midst, as I was running away (on a treadmill) I gained a rhythm I've never understood or experienced before. What seemed like five minutes was 30 minutes and I ran 3.5 miles. Go me! And for those of you who run, yes I'm slow, so please pass me when running, I won't catch up to you. That is, unless you stop to go tinkle on the side of the road.
So far this year, 2011, I have realized that I have had career goals for a long time, though I've never had goals for my own physical or emotional well being of keeping myself healthy and in shape past college. I've always been the athlete who had a gym membership and would go for a month at a time, work out hard, feel like I accomplished something (maybe losing 5 lbs), then retreat back to working, coaching and keeping myself busy. I have never really gained the importance of why I should continue to be healthy until now. Healthy in the way I see fit; working out with a goal in mind, accomplishing that goal and continuing to be aware of what I am eating. There are two types of diets; the no fun, hate this but I'm doing it because I'm simply want to lose some extra lbs. and be "skinny" or the conscious eater, who eats to fuel the body with nutritional value and not deprive the simple sweets in life. I choose diet #2, not to lose, but if I do great-but to be healthy inside and out.
As life continues I need to keep reminding myself about the simple things that continually make me happy. Number One, my husband and the goal of being together by the end of the year; Number 2, working in the schools everyday-not worrying about next year; Number 3, training for a half marathon for my own well-being; Number 4, enjoy time with family and finally Number 5, take time off and enjoy a vacation!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Life continues, despite the little bumps that only make you stronger!
This winter break can't come soon enough! A break from work as a whole would be a great blessing, as well to coming back to the work world (and all three jobs) rejuvenated and refreshed. I can’t count my blessings enough to have three jobs, though I often hope that one job will satisfy the bills, payments, and daily expenses soon enough.
As many of you know, I have been substituting for 3 years and continue to push through every day in hopes that I will land a job using my degree. Sooner than later would be amazing, though I know it will happen at the right time when God wants it to happen. And this brings me to my next topic…
Last week, I had an interview with Lake Washington School District for a 5th grade long term position starting in February. The interview went well and I felt more confident about the interview than previous interviews I've had in the past. Unfortunately, I didn't land the job and I have to rely on God that it just wasn’t the right fit for me. As I’m trying to keep my head above water in the job world, and yes I’m struggling to do so, I yet again am thankful for the principal who interviewed me to offer a follow up interview on where I can improve. I appreciate her more than anything right now, as often principals or employers don’t even consider wasting time to help others. So, yes, in conclusion this is a small blessing to help me on my way to landing the “perfect” job, even though anything permanent would be perfect in my eyes right now!
On focusing on life, other than work, the countdown to see Justin continues and is down to five days! Oh… and Maxx too (remember he’s our dog). I gave Justin the packing list for Maxx last week and the comment I got back was, “yeah I know what to pack for him-food, sweaters, kennel, leash and toys.” I’m laughing as I type this, Maxx literally sounds like a child. Let me just say this, Maxx is spoiled rotten and pretty much could be our child with the way Justin and I spoil him. Besides the fact, Justin and Maxx will have a nice bonding moment during the 9 hour car ride to my parent’s house in Chelan.
Upon arrival to Chelan, Maxx may be a little distraught as one of the family members is no longer with us. Nike, my family’s German Shorthair, was 15 when she suffered a severe stroke last week and my mom had to put her down. As my sister’s Boxer still resides with my parents I can only imagine how excited Whitten will be when Maxx arrives. Let’s just say, Whitten sees Maxx as a chew toy and last Christmas Justin and I caught Whitten with Maxx’s head in her mouth. Not just Maxx’s snout, Maxx’s whole head! Let’s just say this Christmas we will have an eye on the situation when they are wrestling.
As December continues to roll around, December 17th always remains a day of silence for my family and I, as well as a time to be thankful for God and miracles. December 17th marks the 13th anniversary to be thankful that God does have living angels among us, my dad. Thirteen years ago tomorrow, my dad suffered a serve brain injury on the job. He continues to amaze us through his dedication to our family and willingness to be stubborn on many levels, just like me! Sorry Justin, I take after my dad-I learn from the best! With this being said I cannot again thank those around me for their love and continued support.
Thank you and Merry Christmas!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Happy Holidays from the Kestersons
We are excited to announce, that yes, Justin and I in fact have a blog (maybe Justin won’t be so excited that I’ve started it, but we always are getting so many questions as what we are both up too). I figured a blog, would be a great way to keep everyone informed, especially since we are coming up on the holiday season.
As Justin and I continue to live apart (not by choice!), we see light hopefully nearing at the end of the tunnel. Our marriage apart has taught us patience in everyday life, especially when we can’t get a hold of each other, and also that communication is a huge aspect in any relationship, including our marriage. We both often mention, in between the many “I love you’s”, that we wouldn’t be able to be apart if we didn’t have communication and trust.
I am continuously busy, and substitute every day in the Shoreline School District. On a given night, I don't usually get to go home after school. I also coach volleyball for an 18’s elite club team here in Edmonds, WA (about 40 minutes from the Berta’s house) or work at PotteryBarn. Sometimes I do all three within a given weekend. With that schedule, I rarely find time for myself, but when I do have time I’m bored. Many of you who know me well, can definitely picture me never having a dull moment in life-and here I am making a blog therefore, I'm bored!
On Thursday of last week I received some very good news. I'm still flabbergasted! I was selected to interview with Lake Washington School District, in Kirkland, for a 5th grade long term position. This interview was a blessing, and I appreciated even being given the chance to interview after I have been a substitute for 3 years. I should find out early next week. If it doesn’t work out, yes, I will be slightly bummed, though I know in my heart that someday I will have a chance to shine and it just wasn’t meant to be. Also, on another positive note, I will still continue to work every day no matter what district I am in!
As I continue to miss Justin and Maxx (our dog), I don’t miss the cold weather in Billings, Montana. Justin is working hard at his job as an Assistant Sports Information Director, at Montana State University, Billings. He is in the midst of Men’s basketball season, and his nights consist of staying late for games, typing stories, and posting photos. He has spent many evenings shoveling snow, especially when I was there for the Thanksgiving holiday. I know he works hard keeping the driveway clear as I watched him from the living room window Thanksgiving day! He wants a snow blower, though I keep reminding him that muscles don't form themselves, and we won't need a snow blower in a couple of years-or next year depending where we are.
Justin spends the evenings off with friends around the Billings area, and hanging out with Maxx. Maxx and Justin often bond when Maxx finds a way out of the yard. It’s a game Maxx loves, but Justin and I both despise it! We have come to the realization, it’s cold enough for him to freeze, therefore, "he’ll come back" (and yet I still look for him when I’m in Billings and I believe Justin does too!). I often chuckle when I remember Justin saying, “I will never walk a dog as small as Maxx!” Little did he know we would be married a year later and he includes Maxx on almost all adventures and speaks about “our little family”-Justin, Maxx and I.
As we gear up for the holiday season, we want to thank our family and friends for all the love and support they have given us. We are blessed each and every day and will be happy to spend the holiday together in Chelan, Washington, with my parents, sister and brother.
As Justin and I continue to live apart (not by choice!), we see light hopefully nearing at the end of the tunnel. Our marriage apart has taught us patience in everyday life, especially when we can’t get a hold of each other, and also that communication is a huge aspect in any relationship, including our marriage. We both often mention, in between the many “I love you’s”, that we wouldn’t be able to be apart if we didn’t have communication and trust.
I am continuously busy, and substitute every day in the Shoreline School District. On a given night, I don't usually get to go home after school. I also coach volleyball for an 18’s elite club team here in Edmonds, WA (about 40 minutes from the Berta’s house) or work at PotteryBarn. Sometimes I do all three within a given weekend. With that schedule, I rarely find time for myself, but when I do have time I’m bored. Many of you who know me well, can definitely picture me never having a dull moment in life-and here I am making a blog therefore, I'm bored!
On Thursday of last week I received some very good news. I'm still flabbergasted! I was selected to interview with Lake Washington School District, in Kirkland, for a 5th grade long term position. This interview was a blessing, and I appreciated even being given the chance to interview after I have been a substitute for 3 years. I should find out early next week. If it doesn’t work out, yes, I will be slightly bummed, though I know in my heart that someday I will have a chance to shine and it just wasn’t meant to be. Also, on another positive note, I will still continue to work every day no matter what district I am in!
As I continue to miss Justin and Maxx (our dog), I don’t miss the cold weather in Billings, Montana. Justin is working hard at his job as an Assistant Sports Information Director, at Montana State University, Billings. He is in the midst of Men’s basketball season, and his nights consist of staying late for games, typing stories, and posting photos. He has spent many evenings shoveling snow, especially when I was there for the Thanksgiving holiday. I know he works hard keeping the driveway clear as I watched him from the living room window Thanksgiving day! He wants a snow blower, though I keep reminding him that muscles don't form themselves, and we won't need a snow blower in a couple of years-or next year depending where we are.
Justin spends the evenings off with friends around the Billings area, and hanging out with Maxx. Maxx and Justin often bond when Maxx finds a way out of the yard. It’s a game Maxx loves, but Justin and I both despise it! We have come to the realization, it’s cold enough for him to freeze, therefore, "he’ll come back" (and yet I still look for him when I’m in Billings and I believe Justin does too!). I often chuckle when I remember Justin saying, “I will never walk a dog as small as Maxx!” Little did he know we would be married a year later and he includes Maxx on almost all adventures and speaks about “our little family”-Justin, Maxx and I.
As we gear up for the holiday season, we want to thank our family and friends for all the love and support they have given us. We are blessed each and every day and will be happy to spend the holiday together in Chelan, Washington, with my parents, sister and brother.
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