Since I lost my job back in May, it’s been really hard to write. I’ve spent my days looking for work, trying to start a business, and worrying about money. This week, though, some prayers were answered, and I can breath just the tiniest bit easier. I was approved for unemployment, so the small amount of money that will bring in will allow me to find the job I really want, work on my business with more confidence, and most importantly, spend some time with my kids.
So, this week, I did all of those things. I refocused my job search, and started applying only to those jobs that I really think I would enjoy. And, in doing this, I realized something about myself that I guess I always sort of knew, but it really showed itself yesterday. I applied to a job that made me really excited….and it’s an excitement I didn’t see coming. The fundamental point of this job is to read reports, write reports, and ensure that programs are running as they should. It’s a lot of computer work, and a lot of detail. And that made me…dare I say? Giddy. I got giddy over reports. This is news to me. But, I was so excited about the job that I completely rewrote my cover letter to basically say, “Hey, this incredibly boring job makes me really excited!” It was a little wierd, but now I know what to look for.
Second, I worked a little bit harder on my business. I went to the Small Business Development Center, and did financials. I realized that I really can make this my full-time job if I really put my mind to it…and I really want to. (Side note: If you need a resume, please visit me at www.myremarkableresumes.com)
Third, I spent a lot of time with the kids. This is something that I’ve never really been able to do with any joy…not because I don’t love being with my kids, but because there has always been an underlying worry about money. While that worry is still there, it’s a little less than it ever has been in the past, and I was able to take a break from all of the stuff I “should” be doing, and just enjoy them. So, I took The Girl shopping to spend some birthday money. The Boy had some money saved up too, so he was able to shop too. We went to the mall, got Brian a Father’s Day gift, and spent the rest of the time in “kid stores”. We spent a few days at the pool. They went to the fitness center with me and played in the raquetball court while I exercised. The Girl and I did Pilates together. The Boy and I cuddled in bed in the mornings before The Girl woke up. We built a birdhouse out of popsicle sticks. We watched our tomatoes and cucumbers grow.
So, while I’m still worried about money, I am so glad to have a little breathing room. I’m so happy to be refocused on what is important. And what is important is my family and my own happiness. And that it what I am going to pursue.
Two Working Parents 
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