The Nature of Blank

Hello kiddos! Well, Aunt Mandy has been quite busy these past few weeks but, never fear! I shall always return!

Update:

Work is still going really, really well. The job just gets better and better everyday. I actually enjoy how busy it's been 'cause it keeps the days going by quickly. We are having quite the rampage of the stomach flu bug going on around here now though. Both my bosses caught it and so has 3 other people that work near me. I may be doomed. Boo...

My best friend Mandy and her boyfriend Michael were here last weekend and, despite some drama, had a good time, I believe. It's always so good to see her. And I'm so glad she is dating a guy that deserves her. Michael is really good to and for her and I'm so grateful. He just better stay that way. =)

So, for those of you paying attention, I had a ski trip planned for this next week but, unfortunately, had to change plans a bit. So...I'm planning on taking a vacation the week after next (my own little spring break) and it sounds like I'll be going to Branson. Yippee! More about that to come...

Last week I attended the Big Brothers Big Sisters event I mentioned in my last post. It was a blast! I signed up that night and started the interview process yesterday. As part of the process, they ask your boss to do a little survey of you. I was flattered by some of her responses so I thought I'd share:

1. How long has the applicant been employed by your company? In what capacity? Amanda has been working for me since December as my administrative assistant.

2. What would you consider to be the applicant's strengths? Eagerness. Not only is Amanda always willing to help, she accomplishes her tasks with great zeal.

3. How would you describe the applicant's personality? Outgoing and Joyous.

4. In your opinion, how well does the applicant finish projects or activities? All projects are done on time.

5. How would you describe this applicant's ability to relate to other people? Friendly. I don’t believe Amanda knows a stranger.

6. Do you anticipate any changes (promotions, transfer, layoff) in this employee's status during the next six months? No, although I anticipate she will have her semi annual review late spring, early summer.

7. Would you feel comfortable with this volunteer serving as a Big Brother or Big Sister to a child of yours, or a child close to you? Yes. Amanda appears to be very mature and responsible for her age.

8. What else would you like for us to know about this applicant? In addition to my comments above, I would add that what impresses me the most about Amanda is her desire to give back to her community. She has been involved with the youth group at her church and now that she’s “settled” in the Kansas City area, she feels more capable of making a longer-term commitment. She also shared with me that she would prefer an older child because at age 14, children who haven’t been able to find a match are moved off this program. To me, this shows a level of understanding and compassion well beyond someone her age.

She would be an asset to a program such as yours.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need additional information or clarification.

Nicole McIntosh
Director of Investor Relations

Pretty stinkin sweet stuff, eh? Anyway so there's that. I'm really looking forward to getting started with BBBS. Hurray!

And now for the really good news: I had a meeting with Smokey and Kristy McKinney this week and was made an official Co-Director/Lead Counselor of Tallgrass '08. Wahooooo!!! I can't tell you how excited I am about that!! I just can't wait for camp! Especially now that I know it will be more under control than last year.

Let's see...other than that, not a whole lot going on. Well, that's not true. Just not a lot I'm ready to post at this moment in time. But...if you must know, there may be some changes in Mandy's life coming really soon. *wink wink*

Some shout outs before I go to those I know read from time to time:

Cara - Hi Sis!! I sure miss you and the boys. I'm hoping to plan at least one rendevous this summer but I've got quite the busy schedule. Please give the boys my love and make them give some back to you! Love you!

Raul (said like on The Mexican "RA-UL!") - Yo, homie G funk. How you been rollin, R-shizzle?

Aaron - Hope you enjoy your gifts. Take a break. Miss you, love you.

KJ - Sup? Um...yeah that's all I got. Oh, and this:


Haha, I'm just sayin... =)

Twig - Hellooo! I'm glad you're coming to the retreat! It'll be fun to hang, yo. =)

Sara - You commented once so I assume you might stop by again. If so: Hi! I hope all is well with you and Ben. Tell him hi for me. I'm excited to see you next week! Yippee! =)

Does anybody else read this??

Lub lub lub,
Mandy ><>

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

-Romans 12:12