Zumba!

Sunday, November 08, 2009

Tried it..
LOVED it...
can't wait to go back for more!
I've always loved dance fitness classes, anyway,
(did them for over 10 years)
and I've always loved Latin music.
Put it all together and that is Zumba!
I had so much fun and had a great workout today at my new gym,
shaking my big old booty for one glorious sweaty hour.
I did have to watch out for my knee as there's quite a bit of twisting involved.
I highly recommend Zumba if you're looking for a new way to work up a sweat.
Have a great week, Sparkies!

(added: if you want to see Zumba- there's some on youtube)

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

BVICTORIOUS 11/12/2009 1:56AM

I am going to look for a zumba class, it sounds like so much fun. Report Inappropriate Comment

TRENTDREAMER 11/9/2009 7:42PM

I Love Zumba. I took it for about a year. I am so glad that you tried it and even more glad that you enjoyed it. iArriba! Report Inappropriate Comment

JENNNVA 11/9/2009 12:33PM

I was going to take the class this past Sat and got tied up with others unplanned things. I want to try it this Sat. I heard it's alot of fun! Glad you enjoyed it! Report Inappropriate Comment

MARTY19 11/9/2009 6:50AM

I tried it about 6 months ago and my hip didn't like it at all. Maybe I should give it another try. Marty Report Inappropriate Comment

SCHATZI4MO 11/9/2009 1:18AM

i've seen zumba on tv and it looks like so much fun, in addition to being a great workout... the guy that was leading the class was fabulous "EYE CANDY" ... all toned and sweaty!! if your instructor looks anything like the guy on tv ... oh my!! ........ yes, yes i know we're both married to wonderful DHs, but we can still see clearly. Report Inappropriate Comment

HEATHERLAMB 11/8/2009 9:11PM

I JUST tried my first Zumba class last week, and it was INCREDIBLE! I was completely drenched in sweat, and LOVED it! I immediately signed up for the entire session! Definitely a great way to change up your workout routine! :) Report Inappropriate Comment

SKREBEL 11/8/2009 8:15PM

I am DYING to try this class-did you find one locally??? I am pretty darn sure I would love it and this booty needs some shaking and hopefully in the process is significantly reduced~~ Report Inappropriate Comment

DEBBIEANNE1124 11/8/2009 7:27PM

OOooOOO I want to see pictures of that. Glad you love it. It's not for me. My knees for one thing and I ahve poor balance but I'm thrilled that you do enjoy it! Report Inappropriate Comment

Thank you, Walmart manager!!!

Saturday, November 07, 2009

YAHOOOOOOO!!!
The manager just called us here at home from his home.
He did not work today and just realized he forgot to call Mimi.
He did speak to the asst mgr who fired her and feels like the whole thing was blown out of proportion and it was a big misunderstanding (making an excuse for the asst mgr?).
He actually apologized to DH first and then to Mimi for 'the misunderstanding' and is moving Mimi inside the store to a position in apparel (an inside job- what she's always wanted!). She is to call him on Monday to get her new schedule.
I thought I would write a note of appreciation to the manager and I will address the almost two weeks pay she lost through this 'misunderstanding'.
She might have a few vacation days she could use for part of it.
Anyway, we are THRILLED the little darling will be back to work soon.
Thanks again for all your love and support, my dear friends.
We are one happy little family tonight!
(Here's a picture from last June ('08- look how fat I was!) in Anguilla)

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

LATVIAN_SANDY 11/9/2009 12:52PM

That is just fantastic, Elizabeth! Great for your whole family!!! I hope things work out even better for Mimi now. Report Inappropriate Comment

JENNNVA 11/9/2009 12:23PM

Woo Hoo! Awesome news! Glad it worked out! Report Inappropriate Comment

MIMICOTO 11/8/2009 8:30PM

This is such good news - and even better that he didn't leave Mimi and the rest of you guys to sweat it out over the weekend. Great Great Great!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

BETSYBEACH 11/8/2009 5:36PM

YEAH!!! And a better job for the winter to boot! Way to go Elizabeth and family! Report Inappropriate Comment

MISSY_MAGOO 11/8/2009 4:47PM

Yay! What a relief. Your daughter is really lucky to have such a wonderful mom family to support her through this mess. Glad to hear all is worked out. Report Inappropriate Comment

POOPSIEDOODLE 11/8/2009 9:00AM

I am very happy for you and your family Elizabeth Report Inappropriate Comment

RO2LOOSE 11/8/2009 7:49AM

What good news he was decent about listening to the facts and responded rationally. I guess this is the proverbial blessing in disguise as now she gets her inside job. Congrats to y'all! Report Inappropriate Comment

LULUBELLE1102 11/8/2009 4:01AM

what wonderful news. You are awesome family and Mimi is so lucky to have you both. Congrats on the weight loss but you are beautiful either way. Report Inappropriate Comment

SKREBEL 11/8/2009 12:15AM

This is WONDERFUL news-and the inside job is really terrific. I also have to give you a HUGE thumbs up on the weight loss-what a difference Elizabeth-you look GREAT!!!!! Give Mimi a hug from me please! Report Inappropriate Comment

HARRINGTON5 11/7/2009 11:17PM

I want you on my team! Awesome job, I am so glad things worked out. Love the pic and you all look beautiful! Report Inappropriate Comment

TRENTDREAMER 11/7/2009 10:08PM

Two words "awe" and "some". Glad to hear the situations is working out! Wish her luck in her new position for us!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

LIGHTHEART09 11/7/2009 10:02PM

Happy dance!!!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

LYN-EDWY 11/7/2009 9:24PM

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FITGRL124 11/7/2009 9:08PM

This is WONDERFUL news!! I was praying that everything would work out and it did!! And better than expected. I am so happy for Mimi!! Report Inappropriate Comment

RAYLINSTEPHENS 11/7/2009 8:14PM

That is fantastic news! So happy for Mimi!! Report Inappropriate Comment

MARTY19 11/7/2009 8:06PM

YIPEE!!!! I am so glad this worked out well for Mimi. I hope this new position works out well for her. Marty Report Inappropriate Comment

PERFECT01 11/7/2009 7:15PM

I am so happy for the "little darling" and her loving parents! And that picture doesn't even reflect who you are!!!! I am particularly glad that you don't plan on just sweeping the 2 weeks of no pay under the rug and forgetting it. It was an unfair firing, obviously, and she should receive her pay. It is really neat that he called from home, but that also tells me that he knows his assistant manager put them in a tenuous position. I have said a prayer of gratitude for your good fortune and for the fact that the manager's heart was open to correcting the injustice. Report Inappropriate Comment

JANEYINMADTOWN 11/7/2009 7:03PM

That is wonderful news...I am so glad it all worked out! Report Inappropriate Comment

STEPHANIE0904 11/7/2009 7:01PM

That is great news for Mimi. I'm glad he called today so she didn't have to wait until next week. I'm glad she'll be inside now as well. I'm betting she has a big smile on her face. Report Inappropriate Comment

AGENTMNA 11/7/2009 6:43PM

I'm sure Mimi is very pleased! I'm glad everything worked out well, even if it did take a little extra time... Report Inappropriate Comment

DEBBIEANNE1124 11/7/2009 6:43PM

I have a Biiiiig smile now over here after reading this. Bit misunderstandings can screw up lives for a long long ime. I hope mim is doing fantastic and her mood is up. I'm actually thrilled, too. Woo Hoo! Report Inappropriate Comment

DARA52 11/7/2009 6:39PM

Good for him to remember that. Sounds like good news all around. Yay! Report Inappropriate Comment

SCHATZI4MO 11/7/2009 6:29PM

this is such wonderful news. definitely write him ... "thank you" goes a long way and he handled the situation as promised and expeditiously ... all things considered. he may not have thought about her missed income, but she should be paid retroactively. she was gone, due to no fault of her own ... the asst manager made a mistake/misunderstood ... call it what you like. i guess it would be asking too much for the asst manager to apologize too. the best part is mimi gets the position she's been wanting. this truly is wonderful news! it's time to celebrate. hugs ~ april Report Inappropriate Comment

DOOBRIE 11/7/2009 6:21PM

That's great news Elizabeth - I'm so pleased for Mimi. Seems it has turned out better for her than she had hoped! I wish her all the best in her new job. Doobs Report Inappropriate Comment

DIVASPARKLADY 11/7/2009 6:20PM

So happy to see everything turned out so positive. Report Inappropriate Comment

aaaaauurg! He blew her off again!

Saturday, November 07, 2009

The walmart manager,
who said he would speak to the asst mgr who fired my daughter and call us today (DH confirmed this at the end of our Thurs mtg with him), did not call.
I made Mimi wait until noon to call him and he has left for the day and will be back on Monday.
She is just devastated!
This is her life they are so carelessly disregarding.
She feels like she is being jerked around, and rightfully so.
It is hard to watch her suffer.
There is nothing we can do.
This poor kid has had a tough life.
Nothing is easy for her.
She just went to go walk the beach- what a healthy impulse/coping strategy, isn't it?
She really is such a good kid.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

SCHATZI4MO 11/7/2009 5:41PM

OK ... that's strike two. if he is non-responsive on monday, mimi needs to request a meeting with HIS boss. probably best to do in writing ... just in case, documentation is always a good thing. this is so unacceptable and unprofessional ... i'm assuming a level of professionalism is required at the management level of walmart. good, no fabulous hugs of kudos go out to mimi for how she's coping with this situation. by now i would have eaten everything in the house that wasn't tied down! and pat yourselves on the back too ... everyone knows that children model their parents. yet again, you guys have done things right. Report Inappropriate Comment

MARTY19 11/7/2009 5:37PM

That is such a sleezy thing for him to do. No excuses. But she is so lucky to have you watching her back. I hope he calls you so before you call a lawyer. Hugs, Marty Report Inappropriate Comment

STEPHANIE0904 11/7/2009 4:12PM

I was out working in the yard today and thinking about this whole situation actually - really no clue why - just was - This wasn't what I was expecting to see when I signed on. Quite pathetic. they think that other people have no life and can be left hanging??? That stinks. Let Mimi know that we're thinking of her. Report Inappropriate Comment

LULUBELLE1102 11/7/2009 3:44PM

I say it's time to boycott. What about the Office of Rehabilitative Services? You mentioned them in your last post. Can they be of any help? Report Inappropriate Comment

OURELEE1 11/7/2009 3:05PM

I'm sorry all of you have to go through something like that. Some people just don't have any feeling. The old saying sometime it works out for the best. Your daughter is very lucky to have you and Dh. If someone hurts your child it hurts the parents 10 time more. Report Inappropriate Comment

KALATHIA 11/7/2009 3:00PM

I missed what happened with Mimi, Elizabeth, but it just based on this blog, it sounds like she's having a bit of a rough time. So sorry. She deserves better. Wish there was something I could do. Keep your chin up. Report Inappropriate Comment

DOOBRIE 11/7/2009 1:53PM

So sorry Mimi is having these problems, Elizabeth. It must be so frustrating for her. And us Mum's hurt too when our kids are upset. I hope things will be better on Monday. Doobs Report Inappropriate Comment

DARA52 11/7/2009 1:29PM

I am so sorry. She is lucky to have you both. And to have the insight to walk on the beach. Life isn't easy but that mgr is definitely avoiding the tough stuff. If they haven't given her verbal warnings and then written warnings, they may have to take her back. Both my company and my DH's would lose in a wrongful termination suit if they didn't do that. Hope that's the case for her. Good luck. Will be thinking of her and you. Report Inappropriate Comment

so far so good (to be cont'd)

Thursday, November 05, 2009

We showed up for the mtg (rehearsing in the car during the half hour drive) and the manager was totally unprepared.
He had heard of Mimi's termination but had no details and hadn't spoken to anyone about it. Losing one little cart pusher last week was so far down on his radar and list of things to do, it wasn't even funny.
Isn't that amazing - a major life event and source of stress and anxiety in our entire family and he was (understandably) clueless.
So he asked us to wait while he spoke to the asst mgr who fired her last week (who was not at work). He was not able to reach her so had to go by hearsay of other people who seemed to have knowledge of what happened.
We went in there with open minds, in the spirit of cooperation, and I think he responded well to that.
Mimi did such a wonderful job advocating for herself and talking about the situation.
He disagreed with us that her behavior was related to her disability, but he seemed to be pretty unaware of her employment history in general and was protective of walmart's a$$, of course.
He also seemed to be pretty open to finding other solutions to Mimi's problems and admitted to us that he had the power to rescind the termination and possibly allow her to come back or move to another store (I think this would be ideal because it would save face for the asst mgr and give Mimi a fresh start).
Anyway, he is going to meet w/ the asst mgr who fired her on Saturday morning and will call us or have us come back in.
We all felt it went well.
We did not actually use the word 'legal' at all but we did remind him that she was hired under the auspices of a state agency (Office of Rehabilitative Services) with a job coach as a disabled person with behavioral challenges, and also that she seemed to have some sort of personality conflict with someone at that store as she had had more issues in 5 months there than she had had in over 2 years at the other store, and may need more retraining than non-disabled employees.
Mimi's BF met us next door at McD's to take her home for a little TLC.
Thanks again, my wonderful sparkfriends.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

KAYAKID 11/6/2009 11:42AM

I just got caught up on the your daughter's situation - First I have to say - isn't great that you have so many Spark Friends! They come through for us when we need the most. It looks to me like this will get resolved through the manager - good luck and my thoughts and prayers are with you. Mike Report Inappropriate Comment

SCHATZI4MO 11/6/2009 1:44AM

this is wonderful news ... the manager appears to be open to a "win-win" situation. i will continue to pray for a positive outcome. hugs ~ april Report Inappropriate Comment

MISSY_MAGOO 11/5/2009 10:51PM

I agree- having her at another store sounds like the best idea- I'll keep my fingers crossed. Keep us updated :) Report Inappropriate Comment

DHARMAPOLICE 11/5/2009 10:50PM

What a relief. It's frustrating that the manager didn't understand that Mimi's behavior and disability are linked, but maybe this will serve as an educational experience for him. Way to go! Report Inappropriate Comment

AWOLF24 11/5/2009 9:02PM

I'm really glad to hear that for you and of course for Mimi. Report Inappropriate Comment

SKREBEL 11/5/2009 7:43PM

Elizabeth I just finished getting updated on the situation with Mimi-I am hopeful that the situation will be resolved by the gentleman you spoke to today, however if it does not PLEASE let me know if I could help by coming in and speaking on her behalf as a special educator. I also will check around and see if I can get any information on folks who could be helpful in this type of situation. I am thinking that RIPIN might be an agency that could offer some assistance Hugs to you and your family-Mimi is indeed blessed to be part of such a wonderful caring group who actively advocate for her!!!! Comment edited on: 11/5/2009 7:43:55 PM Report Inappropriate Comment

STEPHANIE0904 11/5/2009 7:28PM

It sounds like you planned everything so well (I would expect nothing less from you). I'm anxious to hear how everything turns out. You will all be in my thoughts Elizabeth. Report Inappropriate Comment

DARA52 11/5/2009 6:45PM

Good job! Probably good you caught him off guard. That doesn't reflect well on mgmt. Will keep fingers crossed. Report Inappropriate Comment

MARTY19 11/5/2009 5:40PM

I find it amazing that something so stressful to you is something his assistant didn't even tell him about. Kinda of sounds like an abuse of power. I hope that he helps her out. Hugs, Marty Report Inappropriate Comment

BETSYBEACH 11/5/2009 4:08PM

I hope the Walmart Manager comes through for Mimi. Well done! Report Inappropriate Comment

DOOBRIE 11/5/2009 3:37PM

Sounds like the manager was quite nice and took on board what you were saying. I hope you have a good outcome. Hugs to you all. Doobs Report Inappropriate Comment

MIMICOTO 11/5/2009 3:03PM

I am so proud of Mimi, you and your family for the way you have approached this. Thank you for sharing this with us and giving us an opportunity to learn how to approach problems and issues openly, positively and proactively. Hoping for a positive outcome for everyone. Report Inappropriate Comment

DIANESWMBO 11/5/2009 2:24PM

so glad it went well and thanks for keeping us posted. It would be nice if your daughter could go to work at another Walmart store, that way she would get a fresh start. Report Inappropriate Comment

MAINEACK 11/5/2009 12:59PM

So glad it went well! I pray it works out so that Mimi can go back to a different story. Report Inappropriate Comment

KARENCHAPTER2 11/5/2009 12:52PM

I am glad things went well and I hope it all works out for Mimi. Report Inappropriate Comment

MAUITN 11/5/2009 12:49PM

Great job and I hoe for the best outcome for all. Report Inappropriate Comment

KO1215 11/5/2009 12:48PM

Sounds like you handled it great!!! That always works better than being mad! Good job! Keri Report Inappropriate Comment

HARRINGTON5 11/5/2009 12:42PM

Elizabeth, Being prepared really made the difference. You did a great job and I am keeping my fingers crossed, but feel very strongly that this is going to turn out well for everyone. Going to another store is probably the very best solution. How kind of you to be concerned about the asst. mgr saving face. But, much better for Mimi too, not to have face those same people when she comes back. Good job! Keep those positive thoughts! Cynthia Report Inappropriate Comment

DEBBIEANNE1124 11/5/2009 12:34PM

I am pleased it went as well as could be expected. But it's not over till the fat lady sings. LOL Wish you could give mimi a hug for me. she deserves the best. Debbie Report Inappropriate Comment

thanks for advice and support

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

Mimi, her dad and I have spent a lot of time mentally preparing and actually verbally rehearsing what she will say at tomorrow's mtg (see yesterday's blog).
I had her sit at my computer and read my blog and all of the comments (which took her a LONG time) and we talked about each one.
I think she was touched that so many strangers (to her) cared about her and her unfortunate situation.
We garnered many tips and ideas from this process, especially from my dear friend, PERFECT01, as many others noticed.
We really appreciate all of the ideas and support and will let you know how it goes tomorrow.
(On our way out for David's 60th b-day party this summer)
We are going in there with positive, problem solving, open minds and hearts and hope for and expect some sort of positive outcome.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

REZZER 11/5/2009 10:57AM

expect a miracle : ) Report Inappropriate Comment

BETSYBEACH 11/5/2009 4:46AM

Best wishes and hugs all around! Report Inappropriate Comment

SEPTEMBERSPIRIT 11/5/2009 4:38AM

Best of Luck and you can't lose with the POSITIVE attitude you all have! Whatever happens... it will be RIGHT... I know this in my heart - because everything happens for a reason. When one door closes another one opens so no matter what... keep on being positive as you always are! Report Inappropriate Comment

MISSY_MAGOO 11/4/2009 11:18PM

I didn't get a chance to read yesterday's blog until just now- but i agree with alot of the previous comments and can't think of any thing else to add. Good luck tomorrow, and if it doesn't work out with Walmart I agree with SCHATZI4MO, it's because there is something better in store for Mimi. Hoping all goes well- *hugs* Missy Report Inappropriate Comment

AWOLF24 11/4/2009 10:54PM

Good luck tomorrow! Report Inappropriate Comment

SCHATZI4MO 11/4/2009 10:44PM

mimi is one of God's children ... he has an unfailing plan for her. if employment at walmart doesn't work out, it's because he has something greater in store. you are wonderful, loving, and caring parents. i'm so happy mimi was able to see our support ... i hope she will be empowered by it all. i am praying that, especially tomorrow, God will shield her from any bad thoughts, negative words or actions ... and that she will be stronger, more confident and independent having dealt with this situation. like most people, she will probably always have to fight for her rights. america is not kind to anyone that doesn't "fit into a box" ... be it age, sex, race, religion or even political affiliation. Report Inappropriate Comment

MIMICOTO 11/4/2009 8:22PM

I will be praying for strength, clarity, wisdom and compassion for all of you tomorrow! Report Inappropriate Comment

STEPHANIE0904 11/4/2009 7:56PM

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DEBBIEANNE1124 11/4/2009 6:50PM

No matter how tough it is... Tell Mimi not to give up. We learn from our mistakes. There is always someone out there with much worst problems and issues than us. (even me) LOL Debbie Report Inappropriate Comment

KARENCHAPTER2 11/4/2009 6:25PM

I hope everything works out well! Good luck! Report Inappropriate Comment

JENNNVA 11/4/2009 6:16PM

I wish you guys the best! I really hope it all works out! Report Inappropriate Comment

DARA52 11/4/2009 6:10PM

Most big companies have rules they have to follow when firing someone. Verbal warnings and written warnings. If not, it makes them more eligible to have to pay unemployment benefits and opens the door to wrongful termination. Don't know what the laws are there. Good luck! Report Inappropriate Comment

MARTY19 11/4/2009 5:59PM

I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs, Marty Report Inappropriate Comment

DOOBRIE 11/4/2009 5:41PM

I shall be thinking of you all. Good luck! Doobs Report Inappropriate Comment