Tidbits and Tailspins

As you may already know, I've been dealing with some housing issues lately. Well, I guess there hasn't really been a time since arriving in L.A. that I haven't had housing issues! My current roommate moved out, initially planning to pay rent on two places. Now that has become a burden and she would like to sublet her room in our apartment. Seems like a breeze, but it so difficult to find quality people. Our lease goes through November, so I'm worried about whether she'll be able to pay each month if we can't find someone. After this lease, I am going to do everything in my power to find a place on my own. It seems I am the only one I can depend on for things like these. The main struggle that I'll have with this is of course, money. Money is the ever present stress in our lives, isn't it?! Living solo out here is not cheap, especially where I'm looking on the Westside. I want to be closer to Brian. This 20 mile distance in L.A. is exhausting.

In happier news, one of my closest girl friends, Vilay, has been in L.A. since June. She is leaving this Saturday, but we were able to have dinner last night so I could give her a proper send off. Even though we only saw one another a few times, it was wonderful having her here. Anyone else want to spend a few months in Los Angeles? I have a room available! Heehee!

Brian has been traveling frequently in recent weeks. Currently, he is in Chicago for a work conference. It sounds as though the paper he presented at the conference went very well and he's making important connections in his field. Very exciting times for him and his career!

A few weeks ago, Brian took me to Clairmont, CA to meet his grandmother. She is absolutely lovely! His aunt and uncle also came to visit with us. I really enjoy the fact that he has family out here. It is starting to feel like a little extended family of my own, which is so important and necessary for me at this time in my life. It helps to fill the void I have from not having my family nearby.

Work is going pretty well. My new position has made things more bearable and the money is good. Lately I have been receiving recognition from my managers for bringing our plant up to level that we have never been, since our inception. We had a work bbq last week. The 1st Annual Lamar-BQ to be exact! This was a celebration for catching up after a rough busy season. During the bbq, I was specifically praised for a job well done and it was said that "we wouldn't be here without Shelly." Even though this isn't my dream job, it felt really amazing to be acknowledged. I even teared up a bit...big surprise!

I still very much miss everyone back in Minnesota and think of you all often!!

Until next time...