Back to Work

Well, it was a really quick morning. Since I'm only working 5 hours a day the time just flies. I have a very hands off boss. Good for me because I like to work independently. Still want to meet with the guy to set up regular meetings so we can review any issues that need to be addressed. Am being trained by the accounting manager, Loretta. She's a no-nonsense gal with lots of experience in Accounting and HR. She's a by-the-book person who has been trying to impart some structure to what apparently has been a somewhat lackadaisical culture. It could shape up to be a very interesting job that I could make my own. We'll see how it goes.

Happy Valentine's Day

I have the dubious distinction of having married a Valentine's baby. To his credit he ALWAYS remembers the date and has always given me something for Valentine's day...cards, flowers, candy. The guy could use it as an excuse NOT to do anything, but he's always come through. Gotta love it.

I just found out that my new niece-to-be is also a Valentine's baby. What are the odds of two people in one family marrying folks born on the same day? Who'd a thunk it?

New Job

The new job starts Monday. It's part time (25 hours/week), and the pay is o.k. At least it's something.

When I was first laid off I was ready for a break. The former employer was a place where I had liked what I did and the people I worked with, but didn't particularly like or respect the administration. The workplace was set up like a dysfunctional family with all the "kids" encouraged to tattle on one another. It was a very paranoid corporate culture where I found it difficult to be creative or as productive as I know I can be.

So, I was looking forward to purging the memories of that place. If I had found something early I certainly would have taken it, but I was glad for the break. My resume was garnering interest early on so that was encouraging. Then the economy went into the toilet. The local University went on a job freeze...only essential positions are being filled and no new jobs are being created. Since they're one of the largest local employers that was a big hit to the local job market. In other instances I would get a lead about a job opening up and would call only to find out that the company planned to absorb the job duties into another employee's duties and to eliminate the job. Bummer.

Anyhow I've had to downsize my job requirements, thus the willingness to take the part time position. I guess it could be worse. I could still be completely unemployed. I will also follow up with some local temp agencies to see if there are some part time positions I can use to fill out a 40 hour work week.

I signed up for a computer class at the local community college. It's about four hours one night a week. I like working on computers and am thinking if nothing else works out with the career path I've been on lately then maybe I'll go that route. We'll see if I have any talent for it.

So, good news all-in-all. Here's to Monday. Now, guess I'll go iron some official work clothes. I don't think they want me in my sweats.

The Weekend Cometh

Ah, Friday night...big date night number one as our guy pals in NC used to call it when we visited them in the summers. Fridays used to be SUCH A BIG DEAL when we were younger and it still holds a certain hint of excitement...of promises of rest and relaxation and possibly fun. Even when you're not working it's a bit of a relief to get to the end of the "looking for work week". You can relax for a day or two and then pick up the hunt again on Monday...or if you're feeling particularly energetic on Sunday night.

I FINALLY got an offer for the part time position in town here. It was o.k. and pretty much as expected, but I had a few questions which I emailed my potential manager. Now, ball is in their court again, so am waiting through the weekend. I'll call on Monday if nothing appears over the weekend.

Dolphin girl is taking advantage of being a working stiff and of having a free weekend. She headed out after work for Fredericksburg...home of her alma mater, old buddies and fellow alums. She needs a weekend away from the 'rents and it's nice that we're close enough that she can do just that.

The weather is supposed to be really warm this weekend. Can't wait to get out. It's been coooold lately. Woke up to the heater not being able to keep up with the chilly temps again. I really do need to call our heating guy. I think it's just a measure to keep the blower motor from burning out, but would like to know for sure.

One of our good friends got laid off from his telephone sales job this week. Business was down 40%, so they're reducing costs. Hate to see good people lose needed jobs. His wife is heading to Vegas for a conference tomorrow through Thursday. We'll have him out to dinner at least once...keep him from being too bored stuck way out in the country with just the two dogs for company.

Hope your weekends are good and your jobs are stable!

The Hunt Continues

Well, haven't heard anything about jobs in a couple of weeks. The last email I got from one potential employer read, "I am looking to forward to filling the benefits and payroll management position filled by a professional of your caliber." That was from the 14th of January. Did he mean he was going to fill the position with someone who had equivalent skills, but not ME? Sheesh. This has been a long search. Best of luck to those of you who are just beginning.

Dolphin Girl turns 23

This just in....on Super Bowl Sunday our darling daughter, Dolphin Girl turned 23. Wow...it seems like just yesterday that she was born. Believe me folks, it flies by in the blink of an eye. I gave her a big hug and thought, "Before I know it she's going to be 32, not 23." Yikes. Scary, but true. The really good thing is, she is living with us after having graduated college and having done a 4 month internship with dolphins (how fun is that). I'm sure she would like a little more freedom, but I'm enjoying these last bits of having my girl with us. She's a sweetie and we're lucky to have her. Happy Birthday Angel Face. hugs, mom.

Snow

After a 62 degree day on Sunday, we started today fairly warm, too, and then boom...mid-afternoon the clouds rolled in. The temperature dropped significantly and by mid-evening we had light, fluffy snow coming down. So far we have about an inch. I think it's supposed to keep going all night. As long as it doesn't turn to ice, I'm fine. So, how's the weather in your neck of the woods? According to Punxsatawney Phil we only have six more weeks of this. Phil, I'm counting on you.