& CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS
March 2017
BUILDINGTOGETHER
WILL THEY SURVIVE WITHOUT ME? There are times in our lives we can't seem to see that we need to take a formal break from our work lives. We think we are somehow indispensable and the show can't go on without us (or at least not nearly as smoothly)! We each bring something to the table that is unique and valuable, but let's not kid ourselves; most of us are surrounded by people who are highly talented and can quite easily cover for us. Their willingness to pick up the slack during our temporary absence allows us a valuable and necessary break for which to detach, relax, re-energize and focus on what's most important...our families and our own sanity! I am blessed to have the undying support of my coworkers when I take a break to spend time with family and friends. We support each other and look for ways to lend a hand so that when someone is away they don't ruminate on work. They can be present, focused and enjoying the moment. There have been many times throughout my career that upon returning from a vacation, I was pleasantly informed of the many great things that happened while I was away. Some of the team likes to joke with me that "we land more work when you're away than when you are here!" I assume it's my ego that makes me want to think I'm more important than I really am? It's both humbling and gratifying to know that I don't need to be at the office 24/7 and the company can thrive without me.
I write this having recently returned from a Spring Break trip with my 19 year old son, Noah. We had a remarkable time and shared experiences that will be cherished for a lifetime. Additionally, I had quiet time to read and relax, to connect spiritually and to contemplate the status of my marriage, my relationship with each of my four children, and of course lots of other things including much reflection on E&V (hey, no one's perfect at complete detachment right?!). As I headed back to the office on Monday morning, I was filled with gratitude. The time away helped me to cherish what's most important to me. I have been re-energized and am excited for the year ahead. I was happy to have had the opportunity to go away for a week and also realized that I love my normal, every day work life enough to be happy to be back as well! Thank you caring coworkers who towed the line for me. I'm ready to pull my weight again and a little bit of yours too, so you can take a much needed and well deserved vacation soon!
Mike Novakoski President/CEO
STAY-CATION 2017! Monday, April 3 How about making Spring Break educational? Join us at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum - 11 Sheldon Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Please arrive between 9:30 and 10:00 AM.
Tuesday, April 4 Jump into the fun at Rebounderz! - 7500 Cottonwood Dr., Jenison, MI 49428. Please plan to arrive at 10:00 for unlimited jumping.
Wednesday, April 5 It’s going to be a ball! Join us at John Ball Zoo - 1300 Fulton W, Grand Rapids 49504 between 1:00 and 1:30 PM for a day full of exploring animals!
Thursday, April 6 The butterflies are blooming at Frederick Meijer Gardens! Please arrive at 9:30 AM - 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525.
Friday, April 7 Start Spring Break with a splash! Join us at 1:00 PM at the Holland Aquatic Center - 550 Maple Avenue, Holland, MI 49423.
! P V S R Please RSVP for up to two events by Friday, March 31 to Morgan Weaver at: 616.395.1414 or morganw@elzinga-volkers.com Morgan will be present at each event so find her once you arrive and she will get you checked-in. Please include the names of each attendee and the ages of the children when RSVP’ing.