I realized the other day that I haven't updated since I started my stint in shoes. It's partially because I don't have time and partially because my computer charger decided to poop out on me and stop working. Irritated doesn't even begin to explain how that makes me feel. BUT, I am trying not to focus on how annoying it is and focus on the positive things in my life. I am lucky enough to have quite a few of those.
First, I am LOVING shoes. The team is awesome and I love going to work even more than I did before. There are some people that I don't particularly like working with, but for the most part, I love them all. There are 3 people that I really like working with. We are all just completely insane and off our rockers, so it makes it even more fun. Wednesday we had training all day at another store. They split the team into different days. Lucky for me, I got to go on the same day as my 3 favorite people. We had fun. It could have been a boring, long day, but it wasn't. I actually learned something and we all had a blast while we were there. The other store was HUGE and they had Izzy's Ice Cream. If you live in the cities and you have never had Izzy's, you need to change that. Now. I told my manager I was going to request a transfer. Not really though. That store is massive. I might lose my mind.
Secondly, I won an award at work. I was pretty surprised that I did, to be honest. Monday was the award ceremony (I use that word lightly). It was in our break lounge and they served us breakfast and all that jazz. It was pretty nice. There were 12 winners and all of them truly deserved it. It's a great group of people that won and I am honored to be in that group. I am super excited for Tuesday because we get to go to a luncheon at another store. There is a huge flower show that we get to see and I've heard from past winners that I will truly feel appreciated and it will be a great day. I am SO excited! I just need to decide what to wear. I think I may need a new pair of shoes ;)
3.23.2012
2.26.2012
OMG! SHOES!
Starting tomorrow, I will be in my 5th position in just under 2 years at work. Friday I was promoted to women's shoes. I am excited, nervous, and all that jazz. It happened way faster than I thought it would and I am just now starting to process what this means.
I'll tell you how it started first. I saw the posting last week in HR. I wanted to talk to the manager right away, but I didn't see her until later in the week. I talked to her about working in shoes, she seemed excited at the possibility of me joining her team, which made it even more exciting. The next day, our HR manager came up to ask if I had time to talk later. I went down after my break and talked to her. I wasn't sure what about. I didn't know if there was another opportunity or if it was the position in shoes. It was the position in shoes, obviously. When her and our store manager talked about the position, apparently I was one of the first people to pop up, which obviously makes me happy. When I had talked to the manager of the shoe department, she said I would have to interview and all that jazz; however, our HR manager said she was ready to offer me a job right now. Of course, I accepted. I was so excited. Then she said I start Monday. Holy shit. At that point, that was 3 days away. I was freaking out (in a good way). I sat down with one of our AST people and picked up shifts and dropped all my shifts in men's to open. I felt like a little bit of an ass because the manager of the men's department was going on vacation and now he had to fill all my hours. It wasn't my fault though. I didn't chose to start Monday. Ha! Sorry, dude. If I could have stayed through the week to make things easier for him, I would've. But, I didn't make that decision.
When I was talking to our HR manager. She said I could be in this position for 3-6 months before something else opens up. All of this is happening a lot faster than I thought it would. I was expecting to work my way up within the next 2 years or so. The way things are moving, it could vey well be less than a year before I am where I want to be.
I am so excited and so glad that I have such a strong support system where I work. I know I say that a lot, but I can't stress how much that helps. They really want to not only see me succeed, but they want to help me get there.
I'll tell you how it started first. I saw the posting last week in HR. I wanted to talk to the manager right away, but I didn't see her until later in the week. I talked to her about working in shoes, she seemed excited at the possibility of me joining her team, which made it even more exciting. The next day, our HR manager came up to ask if I had time to talk later. I went down after my break and talked to her. I wasn't sure what about. I didn't know if there was another opportunity or if it was the position in shoes. It was the position in shoes, obviously. When her and our store manager talked about the position, apparently I was one of the first people to pop up, which obviously makes me happy. When I had talked to the manager of the shoe department, she said I would have to interview and all that jazz; however, our HR manager said she was ready to offer me a job right now. Of course, I accepted. I was so excited. Then she said I start Monday. Holy shit. At that point, that was 3 days away. I was freaking out (in a good way). I sat down with one of our AST people and picked up shifts and dropped all my shifts in men's to open. I felt like a little bit of an ass because the manager of the men's department was going on vacation and now he had to fill all my hours. It wasn't my fault though. I didn't chose to start Monday. Ha! Sorry, dude. If I could have stayed through the week to make things easier for him, I would've. But, I didn't make that decision.
When I was talking to our HR manager. She said I could be in this position for 3-6 months before something else opens up. All of this is happening a lot faster than I thought it would. I was expecting to work my way up within the next 2 years or so. The way things are moving, it could vey well be less than a year before I am where I want to be.
I am so excited and so glad that I have such a strong support system where I work. I know I say that a lot, but I can't stress how much that helps. They really want to not only see me succeed, but they want to help me get there.
2.04.2012
I love my job. I love the people. I love the atmosphere (even though it gets crazy sometimes). I just love it.
Recently I applied for a merchandising lead at my store. Unfortunately, I didn't get it. It went to another internal employee who had "the dreaded 'e' word" as one of my friends put it. Once I heard that she had applied, it was a no brainer that they would pick her. I was pleased to find out that I was a close second though. For some people, it is hard to hear that they were that close to getting the job. I think because I have a job and I know that other things will come up, I am not worried. I would like something bigger to pop up sooner rather than later, but I am willing to wait it out. I know that they are on the lookout for different opportunities for me, so I just have to be patient.
Also at work, we have our annual awards nominations going on right now. I don't know when winners will be announced, but it's fun to nominate people. So far, I've written 3. It's a company wide thing and you can read other entries from stores all over the country. It's pretty awesome. I logged on this morning and found out that I have FIVE. I was completely blown away, but it made me happy. It's so good to know that all the work that I do is appreciated. I don't really care if I win or not, it would be awesome, don't get me wrong, but it's just good to know that work I do is being recognized.
Recently I applied for a merchandising lead at my store. Unfortunately, I didn't get it. It went to another internal employee who had "the dreaded 'e' word" as one of my friends put it. Once I heard that she had applied, it was a no brainer that they would pick her. I was pleased to find out that I was a close second though. For some people, it is hard to hear that they were that close to getting the job. I think because I have a job and I know that other things will come up, I am not worried. I would like something bigger to pop up sooner rather than later, but I am willing to wait it out. I know that they are on the lookout for different opportunities for me, so I just have to be patient.
Also at work, we have our annual awards nominations going on right now. I don't know when winners will be announced, but it's fun to nominate people. So far, I've written 3. It's a company wide thing and you can read other entries from stores all over the country. It's pretty awesome. I logged on this morning and found out that I have FIVE. I was completely blown away, but it made me happy. It's so good to know that all the work that I do is appreciated. I don't really care if I win or not, it would be awesome, don't get me wrong, but it's just good to know that work I do is being recognized.
1.15.2012
I really suck at this
So I was re-reading my past posts; my god, what a shitty blogger I am. Scratch that, what a shitty writer I am. Gah. Since I have been out of school, I just haven't had to write as much. I think I am losing my touch. I used to be pretty decent. Not fantastic, but I was good. I am going to start blogging more. It's going to be good stuff. Not just updates on life, but actual musings and thoughts on things that make life interesting. It just needs to happen.
Since I am exhausted from work, I will just do a quick update on that little part of my life. I started a few weeks ago as the Levi's specialist. So far, so good. I am still trying to find my voice in the department. I don't want to be known as the newbie bitch that tells everyone what to do. Luckily, given my job title, I can be that newbie bitch that tells people what to do. It's kind of a complicated thing though. I am technically the leader of the young men's team. However, associates from all areas of the men's department work in the same general area. So when it comes to cleaning out the fitting rooms and things like that, it's kind of difficult to assert myself with people from the other areas, if that makes any sense. I am talking to my manager about it tomorrow.
Speaking of managers. I saw a job opening for a management position at another store. As much as I love where I am, if another opportunity presented itself at a different store, I would take it. I went to talk to our HR manager, who also runs the other store to see what she had to say. I heard what I wanted to and what I did not want to hear. I didn't want to hear that the position is for the three largest volume parts of the store and that the most recent manager quit because she was too overwhelmed with the position. I did hear that they do keep their eyes and ears peeled for opportunities and if something arose that they thought would suit me, they would let me know and help me to take the appropriate steps. She also said that right now there is a freeze on executive positions, so nothing is being posted at this time. She was surprised that the one I had found was posted. She told me that more will become available closer to February. Words cannot express my excitement. I also talked to my former manager today. She had said that she was also keeping an eye open for things that I would be good at. I am super pumped for what is to come. In just a few short months, I could be a manager. Sounds pretty awesome to me. I am just so glad that I am in a place that is so supportive of people moving up and that they are so helpful with getting people to the level they know they can be at.
Since I am exhausted from work, I will just do a quick update on that little part of my life. I started a few weeks ago as the Levi's specialist. So far, so good. I am still trying to find my voice in the department. I don't want to be known as the newbie bitch that tells everyone what to do. Luckily, given my job title, I can be that newbie bitch that tells people what to do. It's kind of a complicated thing though. I am technically the leader of the young men's team. However, associates from all areas of the men's department work in the same general area. So when it comes to cleaning out the fitting rooms and things like that, it's kind of difficult to assert myself with people from the other areas, if that makes any sense. I am talking to my manager about it tomorrow.
Speaking of managers. I saw a job opening for a management position at another store. As much as I love where I am, if another opportunity presented itself at a different store, I would take it. I went to talk to our HR manager, who also runs the other store to see what she had to say. I heard what I wanted to and what I did not want to hear. I didn't want to hear that the position is for the three largest volume parts of the store and that the most recent manager quit because she was too overwhelmed with the position. I did hear that they do keep their eyes and ears peeled for opportunities and if something arose that they thought would suit me, they would let me know and help me to take the appropriate steps. She also said that right now there is a freeze on executive positions, so nothing is being posted at this time. She was surprised that the one I had found was posted. She told me that more will become available closer to February. Words cannot express my excitement. I also talked to my former manager today. She had said that she was also keeping an eye open for things that I would be good at. I am super pumped for what is to come. In just a few short months, I could be a manager. Sounds pretty awesome to me. I am just so glad that I am in a place that is so supportive of people moving up and that they are so helpful with getting people to the level they know they can be at.
12.29.2011
Oh what a year!
What kind of blogger would I be if I didn't reminisce about the last year and talk about how excited I am for the future?
This year brought about a lot of changes. The biggest was by far moving out. It's still strange not seeing my family every day, and I suppose I can admit that I miss them (sometimes). However, I LOVE my apartment and I love my roommate. We are having a lot of fun. We were just talking about how nice it is to have someone to come home to and talk about the day with. Sometimes it's bitching, sometimes it's funny stories, sometimes it's just shooting the breeze. I don't know how I would do living by myself, even though I always thought I would prefer it. But I like having a roommate. Seriously, the only thing that would make this place better is if we could have a cat. Oh, and we still need more furniture. haha!
Work also brought about a lot of changes. I became more serious about actually investing a future with the company. I am on my way to my 4th position switch in the last year. I went from a permanent part time to the full time kid's specialist, to a holiday manager, and come Sunday, I will be the full time men's Levi's specialist. I am excited about where the future will take me. It will take a little bit, but I am willing to be patient. I have learned a lot about the company and thought a lot about where I want to go. I had a talk with my new manager about it the other day. I started the day out super crabby, but I could not do anything but smile after it. He talked about how much confidence the leadership team has in me and how they can see me going far with the company. It's exciting and rewarding. I know that I can help lead the young men's team to success. I am going to be more than just the Levi's specialist. I get to head the young men's team. It's a new initiative that my new manager began a few months ago. It didn't really pan out with the last team he had, so we are starting fresh. I get to act as basically an assistant manager. I know this will help take me places.
This year brought about a lot of changes. The biggest was by far moving out. It's still strange not seeing my family every day, and I suppose I can admit that I miss them (sometimes). However, I LOVE my apartment and I love my roommate. We are having a lot of fun. We were just talking about how nice it is to have someone to come home to and talk about the day with. Sometimes it's bitching, sometimes it's funny stories, sometimes it's just shooting the breeze. I don't know how I would do living by myself, even though I always thought I would prefer it. But I like having a roommate. Seriously, the only thing that would make this place better is if we could have a cat. Oh, and we still need more furniture. haha!
Work also brought about a lot of changes. I became more serious about actually investing a future with the company. I am on my way to my 4th position switch in the last year. I went from a permanent part time to the full time kid's specialist, to a holiday manager, and come Sunday, I will be the full time men's Levi's specialist. I am excited about where the future will take me. It will take a little bit, but I am willing to be patient. I have learned a lot about the company and thought a lot about where I want to go. I had a talk with my new manager about it the other day. I started the day out super crabby, but I could not do anything but smile after it. He talked about how much confidence the leadership team has in me and how they can see me going far with the company. It's exciting and rewarding. I know that I can help lead the young men's team to success. I am going to be more than just the Levi's specialist. I get to head the young men's team. It's a new initiative that my new manager began a few months ago. It didn't really pan out with the last team he had, so we are starting fresh. I get to act as basically an assistant manager. I know this will help take me places.
11.29.2011
Hi strangers!
So I don't think anyone reads this, so it eases my mind that no one is losing sleep over the severe lack of posts in this blog. Really, I haven't had time. When I haven't been working, I've been loving the down time. I've hung out with friends, relaxed in the apartment, cleaned the apartment, and all that fun stuff.
Since I've started my new position, I feel like I've been working more. I have been working pretty much the same amount of hours, but I am doing so many different things, that I just get exhausted at the end of the night. I love it though. I am having a blast going into work not knowing what the day is going to bring. I get to be a voice on the floor and when someone says they want to talk to a manager, I get to respond. It's awesome.
Last Friday was Black Friday, which I am sure you knew. It was insane and my first real taste of the craziness. Last year, I missed it all because I didn't start until later in the afternoon. This year, I started at 11:30. We opened at midnight. I was there to witness all the fun. It was a 10 hour work day and it went by pretty fast, aside from the last two hours or so. We did some shopping afterwards. It was fun. I crashed when I got home though.
So that's pretty much all that's been going on. I have no idea where this new gig will take me, but I am excited to find out.
Since I've started my new position, I feel like I've been working more. I have been working pretty much the same amount of hours, but I am doing so many different things, that I just get exhausted at the end of the night. I love it though. I am having a blast going into work not knowing what the day is going to bring. I get to be a voice on the floor and when someone says they want to talk to a manager, I get to respond. It's awesome.
Last Friday was Black Friday, which I am sure you knew. It was insane and my first real taste of the craziness. Last year, I missed it all because I didn't start until later in the afternoon. This year, I started at 11:30. We opened at midnight. I was there to witness all the fun. It was a 10 hour work day and it went by pretty fast, aside from the last two hours or so. We did some shopping afterwards. It was fun. I crashed when I got home though.
So that's pretty much all that's been going on. I have no idea where this new gig will take me, but I am excited to find out.
10.31.2011
Life moves pretty fast. You don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it
Holy crap, it's November (almost). I can't believe how FAST time has gone by. It seems like only yesterday, we were moving into our apartment.
The apartment has been awesome. We've gotten along just swell for anyone that's wondering. For some reason when people find out that I've moved in with a friend, they get concerned and think that we won't be friends after awhile. Psh, we're fine. We balance each other very nicely and we both have separate lives. We do our own thing, but we get along just fine when we're with each other.
My new position at work started earlier than expected. Not that I am complaining. That raise is much needed. I still haven't had training for it, so I am not 100% sure what I am doing, but I have a great support staff, so if I have any questions, I just ask them. The one day I was supposed to do training, the computer wasn't working. Figures. It isn't much different than how the last few days have gone.
Let's start with Saturday.
Saturday none of the registers in my area were working. Seriously? Three registers down. On a weekend. Was that really necessary? Of course it was. They didn't work Sunday either. On Sunday people just seemed extra crabby for whatever reason. Customers and associates. I was certainly cranky, but I did my best to keep a smile on my face. I also found out that right after close, the lights AND emergency lights went out. I swear there were evil spirits in the store or something.
Today was better. I did a LOT of recovery. We have a visit tomorrow and Thursday, so we have to make the story look amazing. They moved a lot of stuff around in kids'. It looks weird. I don't work there anymore, so I guess I shouldn't really care, but that department will always hold a special place in my heart. Ha.
The apartment has been awesome. We've gotten along just swell for anyone that's wondering. For some reason when people find out that I've moved in with a friend, they get concerned and think that we won't be friends after awhile. Psh, we're fine. We balance each other very nicely and we both have separate lives. We do our own thing, but we get along just fine when we're with each other.
My new position at work started earlier than expected. Not that I am complaining. That raise is much needed. I still haven't had training for it, so I am not 100% sure what I am doing, but I have a great support staff, so if I have any questions, I just ask them. The one day I was supposed to do training, the computer wasn't working. Figures. It isn't much different than how the last few days have gone.
Let's start with Saturday.
Saturday none of the registers in my area were working. Seriously? Three registers down. On a weekend. Was that really necessary? Of course it was. They didn't work Sunday either. On Sunday people just seemed extra crabby for whatever reason. Customers and associates. I was certainly cranky, but I did my best to keep a smile on my face. I also found out that right after close, the lights AND emergency lights went out. I swear there were evil spirits in the store or something.
Today was better. I did a LOT of recovery. We have a visit tomorrow and Thursday, so we have to make the story look amazing. They moved a lot of stuff around in kids'. It looks weird. I don't work there anymore, so I guess I shouldn't really care, but that department will always hold a special place in my heart. Ha.
10.19.2011
I am excited to see where this takes you!
I had a nice chat with my manager today about my new position as holiday manager. She started as a specialist, was holiday manager, became a sales supervisor and eventually moved to where she is today.
While we were talking, she mentioned that she as very excited to see where these opportunities take me. I am too. Though, I am scared. Who isn't scared of the unknown. There is a possibility that I may move stores. That makes me really sad. I love my store. I love the people there and I feel like I have a GREAT support system. I know I will have a support system no matter which store I end up in, but still. My store has a special place in my heart.
I never imagined a year and a half ago that I would be where I am today. Hell, I never thought I would still be with the company. I love it though and I don't know that I would be as happy anywhere else.
I am excited to see where this adventure takes me. It's going to be a fun one, I am sure.
While we were talking, she mentioned that she as very excited to see where these opportunities take me. I am too. Though, I am scared. Who isn't scared of the unknown. There is a possibility that I may move stores. That makes me really sad. I love my store. I love the people there and I feel like I have a GREAT support system. I know I will have a support system no matter which store I end up in, but still. My store has a special place in my heart.
I never imagined a year and a half ago that I would be where I am today. Hell, I never thought I would still be with the company. I love it though and I don't know that I would be as happy anywhere else.
I am excited to see where this adventure takes me. It's going to be a fun one, I am sure.
10.15.2011
Updates Galore!
There has been a lot happening lately, which explains the severe lack of updates.
First up, I got an apartment. Yep. An apartment. My own place. Well, I have a roommate (who says, "hi"), but I am not living with my parents. I am paying bills. I am an adult. Holy shit, it's awesome. I love our place. I am assuming that if you are reading this, you know me and your are probably friends with me on Facebook, so you can check out the pictures under "Hanz and Franz move in together".
In other news, I got holiday manager! It starts on the 13th of November and I am SUPER pumped. I can't wait. It's going to be awesome and stressful and busy, but I know I will love it. It will bring new challenges and new experiences.
I wanted to write a lot more about what's been going on, but I am exhausted. Good night!
First up, I got an apartment. Yep. An apartment. My own place. Well, I have a roommate (who says, "hi"), but I am not living with my parents. I am paying bills. I am an adult. Holy shit, it's awesome. I love our place. I am assuming that if you are reading this, you know me and your are probably friends with me on Facebook, so you can check out the pictures under "Hanz and Franz move in together".
In other news, I got holiday manager! It starts on the 13th of November and I am SUPER pumped. I can't wait. It's going to be awesome and stressful and busy, but I know I will love it. It will bring new challenges and new experiences.
I wanted to write a lot more about what's been going on, but I am exhausted. Good night!
10.03.2011
Isn't it strange, how we all feel a little bit weird sometimes
Holy long blog title, Batman! It has a purpose though, I promise.
Now, whoever reads this knows of my love for the band Hanson. I've been in love with them since 1997-14 years. I can't believe it's been that long and whenever I say it, I feel old.
Last night I saw them for the 4th time in 5 years. They are on their Musical Ride tour. Before the concert, fans can go online and vote for which album they want to hear at the concert. I was pleased to find out that last night it was going to be their first album, Middle of Nowhere. I love that album. Well, I love all their albums, but this is the one that made me fall in love with them. Last night, hearing all those old songs, I felt like I was 11 years old again. It was awesome. I also got to hear "Man From Milwaukee" live for the first time which is something that I've always wanted.
Now, when I was younger, I got a lot of flack for liking Hanson (even more than I get now). People couldn't understand why I liked 3 guys who looked like girls. I didn't care. I didn't think they looked or sounded like girls. I thought- and I still do think- that they are adorable. The three most adorable people that I've ever seen in my entire life.
As they were singing, I remembered why I fell in love with them in the first place. Sure, I loved MMMBop. The music was catchy and if you actually listen to the lyrics (instead of just moaning about how they suck), you would hear something that actually means something.
It was their song "Weird" that really got me to stick with them though. Right around the time that they came around was the beginning of a very rough patch in my life. My family started to break up and I was losing friends and I was different because I liked Hanson and every once else hated them. Listening to the song "Weird" made me feel not so weird; not so alone. When other bands were singing about love and stuff like that, Hanson was singing about something every single teenager feels. That's why I've stuck with them. Every time I mad, sad, or whatever, I listened to Hanson.
14 years later, I still do the same thing. They make me happy. Everything about them makes me smile.
And now, for your viewing pleasure, I give you "Weird".
Now, whoever reads this knows of my love for the band Hanson. I've been in love with them since 1997-14 years. I can't believe it's been that long and whenever I say it, I feel old.
Last night I saw them for the 4th time in 5 years. They are on their Musical Ride tour. Before the concert, fans can go online and vote for which album they want to hear at the concert. I was pleased to find out that last night it was going to be their first album, Middle of Nowhere. I love that album. Well, I love all their albums, but this is the one that made me fall in love with them. Last night, hearing all those old songs, I felt like I was 11 years old again. It was awesome. I also got to hear "Man From Milwaukee" live for the first time which is something that I've always wanted.
Now, when I was younger, I got a lot of flack for liking Hanson (even more than I get now). People couldn't understand why I liked 3 guys who looked like girls. I didn't care. I didn't think they looked or sounded like girls. I thought- and I still do think- that they are adorable. The three most adorable people that I've ever seen in my entire life.
As they were singing, I remembered why I fell in love with them in the first place. Sure, I loved MMMBop. The music was catchy and if you actually listen to the lyrics (instead of just moaning about how they suck), you would hear something that actually means something.
It was their song "Weird" that really got me to stick with them though. Right around the time that they came around was the beginning of a very rough patch in my life. My family started to break up and I was losing friends and I was different because I liked Hanson and every once else hated them. Listening to the song "Weird" made me feel not so weird; not so alone. When other bands were singing about love and stuff like that, Hanson was singing about something every single teenager feels. That's why I've stuck with them. Every time I mad, sad, or whatever, I listened to Hanson.
14 years later, I still do the same thing. They make me happy. Everything about them makes me smile.
And now, for your viewing pleasure, I give you "Weird".
9.30.2011
A sneak peek!
So my mom, step-dad, step-brother, and his friend, Eric moved some of my stuff into the apartment today. It was just easier since we had the moving van. My dad is helping me move stuff tomorrow, but he has a bad back, so I wanted to have him move as little heavy stuff as possible. So here is a little sneak peek at our apartment. I'll take more tomorrow and upload another blog when I am at my dad's.
On a hilarious note, I have to sleep on the floor tonight. I wanted to have a slumber party in my sister's room since she has her mattress in there, but she said no. Ha!
On a hilarious note, I have to sleep on the floor tonight. I wanted to have a slumber party in my sister's room since she has her mattress in there, but she said no. Ha!
Our moving van loaded up with some of my stuff
Our couch and book shelf. We'll have lamps and end tables too :)
9.27.2011
Grown up things!
As I sit here typing this, I should be packing/cleaning. I've been doing that for the last hour or so, so I think I deserve a break.
Why am I cleaning/packing? Well, my family is moving. I can't remember how much I have said in this blog, but that's really all you need to know. I won't go into details about why and such, but yeah. We're moving.
I'm moving on my own. Well, not really. A friend from high school and I are rooming together which I think we will be a helluva good time. I can't express how glad I am to move in. I need to get out of this house. The last month or so has been stressful. Moving sucks and it's making my step-dad crabbier than usual. I am actually not liking him all that much right now. Add to the fact that my mom treats me like a teenager and well, move out day cannot come soon enough.
That's all I got for now. I need to get back to packing/cleaning. It's not fun people.
Why am I cleaning/packing? Well, my family is moving. I can't remember how much I have said in this blog, but that's really all you need to know. I won't go into details about why and such, but yeah. We're moving.
I'm moving on my own. Well, not really. A friend from high school and I are rooming together which I think we will be a helluva good time. I can't express how glad I am to move in. I need to get out of this house. The last month or so has been stressful. Moving sucks and it's making my step-dad crabbier than usual. I am actually not liking him all that much right now. Add to the fact that my mom treats me like a teenager and well, move out day cannot come soon enough.
That's all I got for now. I need to get back to packing/cleaning. It's not fun people.
9.07.2011
The State of Hockey
Normally when I refer to the State of Hockey, I am talking about none other than the great state of Minnesota. Right now, it's not a literal state; it's a state of being. The last few months, the hockey world has been in a state of sadness and shock.
It started with the sudden death of Derek Boogaard in May. The eventual cause of death was accidental due to a combination of pills and alcohol. I was completely shaken up by this. I didn't know Boogey personally, but I was a fan of his. When he went to the NY Rangers, I was upset. He wasn't an impact player in terms of scoring, but he made a difference on the team. He stood up for his teammates and got the crowd excited when things weren't looking so hot. Even if you had NO idea what was going on in the game, you got excited when you saw #24 on the ice. To this day, it still makes me cry when I think about it.
Just a few weeks ago, Rick Rypein, another prominent NHL player was found dead in his home from an apparent suicide.
On the 31st, Nashville Predators team member, Wade Belak, died. He was also found dead in his home. No cause of death has been released that I know of.
And just today, another tragedy hit the hockey world. A plane crashed in Russia, killing the 40+ people aboard. Those on board were players for Yaroslavl Lokomotiv, a KHL team. They were traveling to their first game. There were several former NHL and AHL players aboard the plane, including former Wild player Pavol Demitra.
Hockey season needs to start now. The hockey world has been riddled with bad news this summer. It's time something good happened. There's nothing like that first hockey game of the season, for a player or a fan. For a player, it's stepping on the ice and hearing the roar of the crowd. For fans, it is seeing their favorite game and players back in action. It's the back and forth, fast paced action that has us all enthralled for 60+ minutes, breathing only for a short time in between periods (just enough time to refill the beer).
We shouldn't forget about the events from the last 4 months. I am sure there will be moments of silence at the first games of the year and memorials set up at various venues, as there should be. Hockey fans need a reason to be excited about their sport again. The start of the season is just the thing that will do that.
It started with the sudden death of Derek Boogaard in May. The eventual cause of death was accidental due to a combination of pills and alcohol. I was completely shaken up by this. I didn't know Boogey personally, but I was a fan of his. When he went to the NY Rangers, I was upset. He wasn't an impact player in terms of scoring, but he made a difference on the team. He stood up for his teammates and got the crowd excited when things weren't looking so hot. Even if you had NO idea what was going on in the game, you got excited when you saw #24 on the ice. To this day, it still makes me cry when I think about it.
Just a few weeks ago, Rick Rypein, another prominent NHL player was found dead in his home from an apparent suicide.
On the 31st, Nashville Predators team member, Wade Belak, died. He was also found dead in his home. No cause of death has been released that I know of.
And just today, another tragedy hit the hockey world. A plane crashed in Russia, killing the 40+ people aboard. Those on board were players for Yaroslavl Lokomotiv, a KHL team. They were traveling to their first game. There were several former NHL and AHL players aboard the plane, including former Wild player Pavol Demitra.
Hockey season needs to start now. The hockey world has been riddled with bad news this summer. It's time something good happened. There's nothing like that first hockey game of the season, for a player or a fan. For a player, it's stepping on the ice and hearing the roar of the crowd. For fans, it is seeing their favorite game and players back in action. It's the back and forth, fast paced action that has us all enthralled for 60+ minutes, breathing only for a short time in between periods (just enough time to refill the beer).
We shouldn't forget about the events from the last 4 months. I am sure there will be moments of silence at the first games of the year and memorials set up at various venues, as there should be. Hockey fans need a reason to be excited about their sport again. The start of the season is just the thing that will do that.
8.31.2011
Changes are brewing!
This morning at our morning rally, Elizabeth came up to me and said we should sit down and talk later. "Uh oh" was my first thought. Why "uh-oh"? My mind automatically goes to I did something wrong or I said something I wasn't supposed to. Turns out, it wasn't anything bad at all. Phew.
I found out that as a specialist, I am not eligible for taking an SSA position. Well, shit was my initial thought. Elizabeth coupled that with telling me that she had some opportunities in other areas. My choices are FT in intimate apparel, FT in juniors, and a possible FT in another area (I can't say what area that is because she isn't 100% sure that that spot is going to become available). She asked me if any of the areas interested me. Based solely on the team, I said intimate apparel. Sure it would take some time to get used to fitting women for bras and I will probably see more than I want to, but if they don't care, I don't care. I know most of the ladies up there and they are fantastic. I don't think I could handle juniors. The people up there are just, blah. Not my kind of people, I guess. I dunno if I could handle the other area that she mentioned either. Again, because of the people. Elizabeth talked to our store manager and they agreed that intimate apparel would be a good fit for me.
I would HATE to leave kids, but in all reality, it would be the best option for me if I want to do SSA. Being an SSA would open the doors to so many other opportunities, so career wise, it would make the most sense.
I have no idea what will happen, but I will probably know more in the next week or so.
8.27.2011
I love nights like these
Today I worked 5.5 hours. That's an incredibly short day for me. I welcomed it with open arms, especially since I have tomorrow off. I needed a break. It's so crazy at work right now that I barely have time to think. I barely moved from the wrap stand the entire shift. It's fantastic for business, not so great for other things that I have to get done.
I haven't had time to do a task sheet for the last week. Between being acting manager for Elizabeth while she was gone and still needing to be on the selling floor, life was pretty hectic. Not to mention it's one of the busiest times of year for us. I loved it though. It was so much fun, albeit, a little weird at times. My peers gave me crap for it, but it was all in good humor. I think. Elizabeth is back, so I will probably have more time. Maybe.
I talked to Elizabeth yesterday about how the week went. Overall, it went well. I needed to time manage better, but that was pretty much all we came up with. She also talked to be about holiday SSA. There is only one full time position and Elizabeth said she is fighting for me to get it. Whether or not I will, only time will tell, but I really hope I do. I don't know who else is in the running for full time, but it's good to know I have a good person fighting for me. I was SSA during our One Day Sale last weekend and apparently the other managers had nothing but good things to say. Phew. I was worried. I don't know why, but I was. Typical of me, I suppose.
I seriously love the team that we have at my store. There are some things that I don't agree with, but I think you'll get that with any job you have. I love that I have the support of the whole team in moving up in the company. It makes me feel good about the work I am doing.
My night is quiet. I am sitting here thinking of possibilities, while also looking at jobs in the company. In other states, even! WHAT?! It's fun to think of where I could end up. Recently I have been looking at the store in DC. Why? Because I love DC. Not now though. I have MSNBC on and Hurricane Irene does not look like fun. But, I love storms, so it could be fun.
I haven't had time to do a task sheet for the last week. Between being acting manager for Elizabeth while she was gone and still needing to be on the selling floor, life was pretty hectic. Not to mention it's one of the busiest times of year for us. I loved it though. It was so much fun, albeit, a little weird at times. My peers gave me crap for it, but it was all in good humor. I think. Elizabeth is back, so I will probably have more time. Maybe.
I talked to Elizabeth yesterday about how the week went. Overall, it went well. I needed to time manage better, but that was pretty much all we came up with. She also talked to be about holiday SSA. There is only one full time position and Elizabeth said she is fighting for me to get it. Whether or not I will, only time will tell, but I really hope I do. I don't know who else is in the running for full time, but it's good to know I have a good person fighting for me. I was SSA during our One Day Sale last weekend and apparently the other managers had nothing but good things to say. Phew. I was worried. I don't know why, but I was. Typical of me, I suppose.
I seriously love the team that we have at my store. There are some things that I don't agree with, but I think you'll get that with any job you have. I love that I have the support of the whole team in moving up in the company. It makes me feel good about the work I am doing.
My night is quiet. I am sitting here thinking of possibilities, while also looking at jobs in the company. In other states, even! WHAT?! It's fun to think of where I could end up. Recently I have been looking at the store in DC. Why? Because I love DC. Not now though. I have MSNBC on and Hurricane Irene does not look like fun. But, I love storms, so it could be fun.
8.22.2011
Oh Back to school! Back to school!
If you weren't sure if back to school time was here, all you would have to do is take a look at the kid's and junior's departments at my store. Holy cow, we got shopped hard. It's awesome for business, not so awesome for clean up.
On Saturday, I stayed late at work to help organize and clean up the 16 racks of clothes that the junior's department had to put away. I also came in early Sunday to help put some of it away. 22 total hours between the two days. Hello, paycheck. Between me and one other person working early Sunday, we got 4 racks put away before store open. Awesomesauce.
Not so awesome, how the kid's department is looking today. We closed Saturday with 3 racks, highly unusual for my department. It really did not help that one of the associates went home early because he got sick, so we were short staffed. Saturday was the official kick off for back to school and having only one person in what is easily one of the busiest areas of the store is not a good thing. There were constantly people in the store on Sunday. It wasn't overwhelmingly busy, but it is hard to get stuff put away when you are trying to help a customer and you can't leave the register for more than 3 minutes. When we did get stuff put away, we just filled it back up. Last night, we closed with 5 racks. I nearly died. I am thankful to have the next 2 days off, though I may go in Tuesday to help. I have to be there for a meeting anyway, so I may just stay if we have hours to give away.
This weekend, despite the mess, was fun. On Saturday I was SSA, so I got to help manage recovery and assign people tasks. I got a radio and everything. It was pretty kick ass, not gonna lie. It was only a glimpse of the craziness that ensues with being a manager and I loved it. I was talking to one of the HR people after I was done and I was telling her that I had fun and really liked it.
Who knows what is in store for me in the next couple weeks, months, years, but I am excited to see where it will all go.
On Saturday, I stayed late at work to help organize and clean up the 16 racks of clothes that the junior's department had to put away. I also came in early Sunday to help put some of it away. 22 total hours between the two days. Hello, paycheck. Between me and one other person working early Sunday, we got 4 racks put away before store open. Awesomesauce.
Not so awesome, how the kid's department is looking today. We closed Saturday with 3 racks, highly unusual for my department. It really did not help that one of the associates went home early because he got sick, so we were short staffed. Saturday was the official kick off for back to school and having only one person in what is easily one of the busiest areas of the store is not a good thing. There were constantly people in the store on Sunday. It wasn't overwhelmingly busy, but it is hard to get stuff put away when you are trying to help a customer and you can't leave the register for more than 3 minutes. When we did get stuff put away, we just filled it back up. Last night, we closed with 5 racks. I nearly died. I am thankful to have the next 2 days off, though I may go in Tuesday to help. I have to be there for a meeting anyway, so I may just stay if we have hours to give away.
This weekend, despite the mess, was fun. On Saturday I was SSA, so I got to help manage recovery and assign people tasks. I got a radio and everything. It was pretty kick ass, not gonna lie. It was only a glimpse of the craziness that ensues with being a manager and I loved it. I was talking to one of the HR people after I was done and I was telling her that I had fun and really liked it.
Who knows what is in store for me in the next couple weeks, months, years, but I am excited to see where it will all go.
8.17.2011
My life as a manager (sort of)
So Elizabeth has been on vacation this week and she will be until sometime next week. Her vacation will consist of finalizing wedding plans. I can't imagine trying to plan a wedding long distance (she isn't from here and they are getting married in her hometown. In Louisiana). Anyway, in her absence, I have been in charge of the kid's department and the dresses/petites department. It's been fun so far. I haven't had to do a ton. I'm not in charge of looking at numbers and sales and that sort of thing, but I have gotten to do some managerial things. Last week and this week, I got to go over the associates' scorecards with them. It was kind of awkward, especially in the dresses/petites area. They have given me crap, but I think it's all in good fun. I've been in a funky mood this week, so I'm probably just reading the situation wrong.
On Saturday, I get to be SSA. I am so pumped. I get to help with organizing recovery and making sure things run smoothly. I'm fairly certain I get a radio too, which I am most excited about. Is that weird? Haha! But seriously, it will be a good introduction into the holiday season and it says a lot that they want me to do it, so I am excited about things to come.
I've also applied to a couple different apartment complexes. I haven't heard anything yet, but I am trying to keep my head up.
On Saturday, I get to be SSA. I am so pumped. I get to help with organizing recovery and making sure things run smoothly. I'm fairly certain I get a radio too, which I am most excited about. Is that weird? Haha! But seriously, it will be a good introduction into the holiday season and it says a lot that they want me to do it, so I am excited about things to come.
I've also applied to a couple different apartment complexes. I haven't heard anything yet, but I am trying to keep my head up.
8.13.2011
My babies are back!
Felicia and Rich made the move back to MN and I am SO excited!
I was greeted by hugs and baby giggles when I got home from work today. It was followed quickly by Fancy leading me to the toys she was playing with. It was a lot of fun and I missed those kids. It's very likely that I will be babysitting in the very near future :)
I was greeted by hugs and baby giggles when I got home from work today. It was followed quickly by Fancy leading me to the toys she was playing with. It was a lot of fun and I missed those kids. It's very likely that I will be babysitting in the very near future :)
8.09.2011
Your name is being thrown in the mix...
Those were the words I heard today from our HR manager, Michelle.
I was invited by my manager to attend a career opportunities discussion at the downtown store. The discussion was earlier today and it was very informative. People from various aspects of the company came to talk about their career paths, how they ended up at Macy's, and what their jobs entail. Each person talked for about 15 minutes and then we had about a half hour to go to the people and ask specific questions an get more information. That part was hilarious because it was like speed dating.
Two people from my store were there presenting and there were 5 of us form my store that were invited. I knew 2 of them pretty well and it was so nice to see them there. Total there were probably about 15-20 people from a few different stores. We all introduced ourselves and it was fun to hear how we all go to where we are today and where we want to go. Macy's is such a great company for moving up and they work really well with the employees that want to move up; they work really hard to help get them to where they want to be.
During our little break out sessions, I went to get information about the sales manager and sales supervisor roles, as well as merchandising team manager. I was talking to Michelle and she brought up seasonal SSA. Michelle and our store manager have been talking about it and things are going to start to get rolling pretty quickly. She told me that my name is definitely being thrown around and basically there would be round robin interviews with the store manager and some of the "veteran" managers, as she put it. I was SO excited by that. I also talked to Melanie, our merchandising leader. I love being on the selling floor, but I love the merchandising part of it too. I love that when new product comes in or when we have markdowns or the floor needs to be rearranged for another reason that it's basically a giant puzzle. You have to be creative, but also make sure that the floor stills looks good. She said she loves when I work because I actually take the time to care about how the store looks. It drives me nuts when the floor looks like a tornado plowed through it.
I've said it a million times before, but I never ever thought I would love retail this much. Yes, it has taken over my life, but it's awesome. I love going into work, I love that I have a team that cares about me and is helping me further my career. My store and department managers both show interest in what is going on in my life. I've been stressed about finding a place to live and a lot of other stuff. The other day at work, I was just in the worst mood. I ended up breaking down in front of them. It was embarrassing, but they were completely okay with it. They took me into the stock room and let me cry and asked if there was anything they could do to help. I so appreciated it. I am getting them candy tomorrow as a thank you.
All in all, I love working for the company. I hated it at first, but it's grown on me and I love the opportunities that I have for the future. It's scary and awesome all at the same time. I also may or may not be looking at jobs within the company in other states. I probably won't move, at least not now, but you never know.
I was invited by my manager to attend a career opportunities discussion at the downtown store. The discussion was earlier today and it was very informative. People from various aspects of the company came to talk about their career paths, how they ended up at Macy's, and what their jobs entail. Each person talked for about 15 minutes and then we had about a half hour to go to the people and ask specific questions an get more information. That part was hilarious because it was like speed dating.
Two people from my store were there presenting and there were 5 of us form my store that were invited. I knew 2 of them pretty well and it was so nice to see them there. Total there were probably about 15-20 people from a few different stores. We all introduced ourselves and it was fun to hear how we all go to where we are today and where we want to go. Macy's is such a great company for moving up and they work really well with the employees that want to move up; they work really hard to help get them to where they want to be.
During our little break out sessions, I went to get information about the sales manager and sales supervisor roles, as well as merchandising team manager. I was talking to Michelle and she brought up seasonal SSA. Michelle and our store manager have been talking about it and things are going to start to get rolling pretty quickly. She told me that my name is definitely being thrown around and basically there would be round robin interviews with the store manager and some of the "veteran" managers, as she put it. I was SO excited by that. I also talked to Melanie, our merchandising leader. I love being on the selling floor, but I love the merchandising part of it too. I love that when new product comes in or when we have markdowns or the floor needs to be rearranged for another reason that it's basically a giant puzzle. You have to be creative, but also make sure that the floor stills looks good. She said she loves when I work because I actually take the time to care about how the store looks. It drives me nuts when the floor looks like a tornado plowed through it.
I've said it a million times before, but I never ever thought I would love retail this much. Yes, it has taken over my life, but it's awesome. I love going into work, I love that I have a team that cares about me and is helping me further my career. My store and department managers both show interest in what is going on in my life. I've been stressed about finding a place to live and a lot of other stuff. The other day at work, I was just in the worst mood. I ended up breaking down in front of them. It was embarrassing, but they were completely okay with it. They took me into the stock room and let me cry and asked if there was anything they could do to help. I so appreciated it. I am getting them candy tomorrow as a thank you.
All in all, I love working for the company. I hated it at first, but it's grown on me and I love the opportunities that I have for the future. It's scary and awesome all at the same time. I also may or may not be looking at jobs within the company in other states. I probably won't move, at least not now, but you never know.
8.07.2011
Work updates!
I actually have some updates! WOO HOO!
So the first update I can't say too much about. Mainly because the details need to be worked out. BUT, there is a position that they are creating that Elizabeth is strongly suggesting that I apply for, which makes me think I have a good shot at it. I've been going back and forth in my mind about it. I definitely will apply and, to be honest, I think I have a good shot at it, but I am not sure who else would apply and, I dunno, I guess it's me not wanting to get my hopes too high. It would be an awesome opportunity though!
The other thing Elizabeth and I talked about was her upcoming vacation time. Basically, I am in charge of the kid's department, and I get to check in on dresses and petites. I'm kind of excited. I get to go over the scorecard with the team while Elizabeth is gone, which is kind of fun (except when my numbers suck. ha!). I am so glad she is putting that confidence in me. It feels really great.
We also talked about the next 3 weekends. We are planning to have a fashion show on Saturday, which is a week away. Not a lot of time to get everything together. It would be along with the junior and young men's department. We are thinking we may be able to pull something out of our butts. It could be a lot of winging it. The biggest issue is going to be finding models. I am sure things will come together though.
There were a lot of other things we talked about, but I am way too tired to try to remember it all.
So the first update I can't say too much about. Mainly because the details need to be worked out. BUT, there is a position that they are creating that Elizabeth is strongly suggesting that I apply for, which makes me think I have a good shot at it. I've been going back and forth in my mind about it. I definitely will apply and, to be honest, I think I have a good shot at it, but I am not sure who else would apply and, I dunno, I guess it's me not wanting to get my hopes too high. It would be an awesome opportunity though!
The other thing Elizabeth and I talked about was her upcoming vacation time. Basically, I am in charge of the kid's department, and I get to check in on dresses and petites. I'm kind of excited. I get to go over the scorecard with the team while Elizabeth is gone, which is kind of fun (except when my numbers suck. ha!). I am so glad she is putting that confidence in me. It feels really great.
We also talked about the next 3 weekends. We are planning to have a fashion show on Saturday, which is a week away. Not a lot of time to get everything together. It would be along with the junior and young men's department. We are thinking we may be able to pull something out of our butts. It could be a lot of winging it. The biggest issue is going to be finding models. I am sure things will come together though.
There were a lot of other things we talked about, but I am way too tired to try to remember it all.
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