Trying to fit everything in... and getting nothing done.
I'm beginning to pack my things into boxes. However, many things are already in storage, awaiting their move, and have been accumulating dust for over two years. My curiosity and need for downsizing gets the best of me. What's in that box again? I open it. More towels. More clothes. I need to wash them before I leave and have to pay a buck fifty for every wash and dry. I have two loads still waiting to be completed. I've done four. And I keep finding more clothes.
Then there's the job. I've got to get online and start applying more. I have one interview in the works. That's it. And it's not even something that can keep me financially afloat in D.C. It would be a mere foot in the door. A government promise. A paycheck.
The moving truck. What the heck? When am I moving???! Saturday in the rain? Sunday morning after the sun's rise? I'm exhasted thinking about the mental anxiety of fighting D.C.'s horrendous 95 construction traffic shifts as I sit behind the U Haul's wheel.
Then there are other details and deadlines. My haircut. I have no idea where to go in D.C. I have to get it chopped before I leave. Otherwise, it will continue to grow like a madwoman's and then I'll just be that "chick who needed a major split-end-wacking" to any potential employers. ok, maybe they won't analyze that much, but I'll know.
I've got to get my license renewed. By Monday. No... Friday. Of all the years to do it. I think I'll call my boss and go in late in the morning. What could they honestly do to me at this point?
Insurance changes. Added expenses. Car insurance, renter's, and whatever other random insurance I learn about by the weekend.
I've got to go to the post office and change my address. Got to call all the companies to whom I owe money. College Foundation will haunt me for another eight years. Can't leave them hanging with just an NC address.
Can't wait for the stresses of this week to pass. I'm sick of multitasking. I'm sick of training my replacement and it's only been two days. I'm mentally challenged in every aspect of my daily life right now. No escape at work, no slacking after, and very little sleep between it all.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Saturday, April 22, 2006
How "Fortune"ate
My Grandma found this horoscope and sent it to me. I'm not a big believer in horoscopes, but this one was fun to read and dead on.
Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20)
Today you may be unsure of what you should do next. Normally, you live your life in a relatively straightforward manner. You know where you are going and that is all you need to know. However, now your long-term direction isn't so clear. Don't get overly concerned; you might just have to fake it for a few days while you grapple with uncertainty.
Y'all be sure and test out the comment area. It's pretty self explanatory. Just click and follow the directions. If you need help, email me and I'll respond to you.
What do you think about my new blog format?
Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20)
Today you may be unsure of what you should do next. Normally, you live your life in a relatively straightforward manner. You know where you are going and that is all you need to know. However, now your long-term direction isn't so clear. Don't get overly concerned; you might just have to fake it for a few days while you grapple with uncertainty.
Y'all be sure and test out the comment area. It's pretty self explanatory. Just click and follow the directions. If you need help, email me and I'll respond to you.
What do you think about my new blog format?
New Blog Format
Well, I thought I'd try a new approach to my blogging. I hate how MySpace only keeps my entries for so long (or perhaps it's based on the number). After doing a smidge of journal research, I've discovered blogger.com which will let me save my entries for a much longer time.
With this new blog format, it should allow anyone to comment. I know some of you guys aren't MySpace members, so you couldn't include your two cents too. Well... now you can. The freedom of expression has just become available to all you silent witnesses.
Bear with me as I explore this new style and host. As it is approching three AM I have nothing to write that would make a bit of sense. I'll feed y'all more later...
With this new blog format, it should allow anyone to comment. I know some of you guys aren't MySpace members, so you couldn't include your two cents too. Well... now you can. The freedom of expression has just become available to all you silent witnesses.
Bear with me as I explore this new style and host. As it is approching three AM I have nothing to write that would make a bit of sense. I'll feed y'all more later...
Setbacks
There certainly have been many events since my last post. Lately, I've been torn between excitement over what's ahead and sadness over what/ who I am leaving. I feel kind of blessed that things have happened so quickly, but also a bit robbed of proper goodbye times and farewells. Because of the events between Sunday's post and today, I've provided a list to catch you up:
1. (Mon. AM) Go into work, proceed through early morning as normal (both bosses were in meetings) and tell my bosses at around 10:00 that I will be leaving in two weeks. I'm told to keep my departure on the downlow and not mention it to anyone else in the office. I don't ask questions- I just follow directions for the rest of the day.
2. (Mon. AM) Mal calls after I've given my notice; we can't move this weekend. The apartment needs to be painted and won't be ready. I'm pretty upset and call the landlord on my lunchbreak. We talk money, she tells me it won't be a problem to still move in, and that she'll get figures to me by day's end. An hour later, she emails and tells me it's not possible. Move in date is set for April 28th. I'm unhappy with our communication breakdown and let her know via email.
3. (Mon. PM) I go to Southside completely stressed out and am getting a headache. The kids are angels and by night's end they know that next Monday will be my last night as their teacher. Sad moments, lots of hugs, and questions as to whether I'm going to bring them cupcakes. Huh?? It just makes me smile.
4. (Tues. AM) I'm called into my boss' office. She asks me not to say anything about my notice until Monday. Why? Because of my fabulous timing. I turned my notice in (obviously coincidentally) one week after someone else in our office. She doesn't want to rock the boat too much and asks that we hold off on the fireworks for a bit. I'm fine with it. I can keep a secret.
5. (Tues PM) My lease is faxed to me. Some very vague sections are in it which I immediately email the landlord about and get straight answers. I write what she replies on my lease and print out the email she sent. I call my sister. While I'm handling the hard balls (deposit amounts, pet policy questions, etc), she's worried about flower boxes. I remember my first apartment leasing experience and can relate to Mallory, but also my past roommate. Clear as day, I remember tagging along with my old roommate as we apartment shopped. She had rented before and knew all the questions to ask. I think I was only concerned about washer/ drier connections and the number of baths. How the table turns and the reins are handed off...
6. (Tues PM after work) I meet one of my best friends for dinner and we hit a local Oyster Bar in Clemmons. I'll miss it incredibly. And her even more. Ironically, I saw three of my customers while we were there. I realized then what I've known all along- that I hate keeping secrets. "Can't rock the boat."
7. (Wed. AM) I have a personal list of things to do during the day. I knock my day's list out in 20 minutes. An Office Space day in my future? Hardly. I tag up with my boss shortly after and
somehow it's almost three o'clock.
8. (Wed. PM) My boss has been thinking. Maybe panicking. She has a list that I must teach my other boss how to do before I set sail in my U Haul. Our goal is to have them done by tomorrow at 4:30. It's 11 points long. Interesting.
9. (Wed. after work) Ladies Bible Study started back again tonight. I'm going to miss my girl friends so much. Tonight we just got together, talked about the book we'll be reading the next five weeks, and had dessert. Strawberry shortcake, mmm. I've joked about being on speakerphone. Sit the phone, on the coffee table (and in the middle) and I'm almost here. I'm still going to read the book (If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get out of the Boat- the story of Peter) although I won't be here to discuss it in the flesh. I'm sure it will apply very much to my life right now.
10. (an hour ago) After leaving there, I pit stopped to visit some of my family. I'll miss them. We talked about my plans, my sister, my roommate, and the empty room. My job (rather, lack of), my feelings, and my plans before I leave town.
I'm tired. I'm feeling stretched and a bit stressed. I'm excited and anxious. Nervous and giddy. I'm sad and reflective. I'm me, but am searching. The next week and a half will be a rollercoaster. I catch myself just stopping. Watching, listening, and dreaming.
Plucking myself out of the daily picture.
............... and suddenly, I'm done. Emotional and exhausted, I'm going to bed.
11:44 PM - 2 Comments - 0 Kudos -
kristina marino
you will be fine. repeat after me: i will be fine, i will be fine, i will be fine. i'm interested about the lease you have. what things did you clarify? i never really asked too many questions, but vin and i always lived in the big complexes run by big businesses... it's the small-time landlords that end up on court shows.
keep your head up!!!!!
Posted by kristina marino on Thursday, April 20, 2006 at 5:02 PM[
Meredith
Thanks, Kristina, you've been so encouraging through this whole process. I've had a better day today... was getting sleepy at the end there and just felt emotionally and physically exhausted.
I'm fine, I'm fine, I'm fine....
As far as clarifying the lease- just minor things that I didn't want to go unanswered. Mainly for the reason you stated. This is the first time I'll be living in a small-time place and I don't want to take chances if I can avoid them. For example, the date of the rent was in the contract, but it didn't specify whether it had to be postmarked by that date or in her hand by then. Small things like that... I don't want to be taken for a ride or get burned. Also, being big sis, I feel a bit responsible for Mal too.
I don't want to meet Judge Judy. :)
Posted by Meredith on Thursday, April 20, 2006 at 6:53 PM[
1. (Mon. AM) Go into work, proceed through early morning as normal (both bosses were in meetings) and tell my bosses at around 10:00 that I will be leaving in two weeks. I'm told to keep my departure on the downlow and not mention it to anyone else in the office. I don't ask questions- I just follow directions for the rest of the day.
2. (Mon. AM) Mal calls after I've given my notice; we can't move this weekend. The apartment needs to be painted and won't be ready. I'm pretty upset and call the landlord on my lunchbreak. We talk money, she tells me it won't be a problem to still move in, and that she'll get figures to me by day's end. An hour later, she emails and tells me it's not possible. Move in date is set for April 28th. I'm unhappy with our communication breakdown and let her know via email.
3. (Mon. PM) I go to Southside completely stressed out and am getting a headache. The kids are angels and by night's end they know that next Monday will be my last night as their teacher. Sad moments, lots of hugs, and questions as to whether I'm going to bring them cupcakes. Huh?? It just makes me smile.
4. (Tues. AM) I'm called into my boss' office. She asks me not to say anything about my notice until Monday. Why? Because of my fabulous timing. I turned my notice in (obviously coincidentally) one week after someone else in our office. She doesn't want to rock the boat too much and asks that we hold off on the fireworks for a bit. I'm fine with it. I can keep a secret.
5. (Tues PM) My lease is faxed to me. Some very vague sections are in it which I immediately email the landlord about and get straight answers. I write what she replies on my lease and print out the email she sent. I call my sister. While I'm handling the hard balls (deposit amounts, pet policy questions, etc), she's worried about flower boxes. I remember my first apartment leasing experience and can relate to Mallory, but also my past roommate. Clear as day, I remember tagging along with my old roommate as we apartment shopped. She had rented before and knew all the questions to ask. I think I was only concerned about washer/ drier connections and the number of baths. How the table turns and the reins are handed off...
6. (Tues PM after work) I meet one of my best friends for dinner and we hit a local Oyster Bar in Clemmons. I'll miss it incredibly. And her even more. Ironically, I saw three of my customers while we were there. I realized then what I've known all along- that I hate keeping secrets. "Can't rock the boat."
7. (Wed. AM) I have a personal list of things to do during the day. I knock my day's list out in 20 minutes. An Office Space day in my future? Hardly. I tag up with my boss shortly after and
somehow it's almost three o'clock.
8. (Wed. PM) My boss has been thinking. Maybe panicking. She has a list that I must teach my other boss how to do before I set sail in my U Haul. Our goal is to have them done by tomorrow at 4:30. It's 11 points long. Interesting.
9. (Wed. after work) Ladies Bible Study started back again tonight. I'm going to miss my girl friends so much. Tonight we just got together, talked about the book we'll be reading the next five weeks, and had dessert. Strawberry shortcake, mmm. I've joked about being on speakerphone. Sit the phone, on the coffee table (and in the middle) and I'm almost here. I'm still going to read the book (If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get out of the Boat- the story of Peter) although I won't be here to discuss it in the flesh. I'm sure it will apply very much to my life right now.
10. (an hour ago) After leaving there, I pit stopped to visit some of my family. I'll miss them. We talked about my plans, my sister, my roommate, and the empty room. My job (rather, lack of), my feelings, and my plans before I leave town.
I'm tired. I'm feeling stretched and a bit stressed. I'm excited and anxious. Nervous and giddy. I'm sad and reflective. I'm me, but am searching. The next week and a half will be a rollercoaster. I catch myself just stopping. Watching, listening, and dreaming.
Plucking myself out of the daily picture.
............... and suddenly, I'm done. Emotional and exhausted, I'm going to bed.
11:44 PM - 2 Comments - 0 Kudos -
kristina marino
you will be fine. repeat after me: i will be fine, i will be fine, i will be fine. i'm interested about the lease you have. what things did you clarify? i never really asked too many questions, but vin and i always lived in the big complexes run by big businesses... it's the small-time landlords that end up on court shows.
keep your head up!!!!!
Posted by kristina marino on Thursday, April 20, 2006 at 5:02 PM[
Meredith
Thanks, Kristina, you've been so encouraging through this whole process. I've had a better day today... was getting sleepy at the end there and just felt emotionally and physically exhausted.
I'm fine, I'm fine, I'm fine....
As far as clarifying the lease- just minor things that I didn't want to go unanswered. Mainly for the reason you stated. This is the first time I'll be living in a small-time place and I don't want to take chances if I can avoid them. For example, the date of the rent was in the contract, but it didn't specify whether it had to be postmarked by that date or in her hand by then. Small things like that... I don't want to be taken for a ride or get burned. Also, being big sis, I feel a bit responsible for Mal too.
I don't want to meet Judge Judy. :)
Posted by Meredith on Thursday, April 20, 2006 at 6:53 PM[
Eyes Wide Open, Always Hoping...
It's been a wonderful end to a beautiful Easter weekend.
Today was a great day. I slept in this morning, which was quite unsual for an Easter Sunday. Last night we celebrated the weekend's meaning by going to the service that our church offers. It was a great service, although it was a bit odd to not wake up and attend this morning.
After sleeping in, I lounged and caught up on some meaningless television. Aren't some mornings just made for that though? I flipped on the tv, caught the end of the horribly acted movie, The Bachelor, and then watched a show on dwarves. It wasn't exactly what I was planning on doing with my afternoon, but I didn't feel guilty as I blankly stared at the tube in front of me.
Later in the afternoon, Mom, Dad and I went for a drive. With no specific place in mind, we hopped in the car and headed west towards the mountains. It was a beautiful drive. The trees were vibrant with their sping green and the flowers competed with one another to boast of their colors. There were huge oak trees, breath taking overlooks, and the most perfect Easter breeze. The whole day was a promise and we gladly received it.
I received a call from my sister while we were driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
"I've rented the U-Haul for next weekend," she abruptly stated.
Offguard and blinking due to slight disbelief, I finally found my reply. "This weekend?" Wow, this is fast.
"Yeah. It's a good price. I couldn't believe it." My sister has bargain shopping in her blood. Neither could I. I'm gonna do it. I'm really going to D.C. And it's going to be soon.
It's true. Everything is lined up. I can't believe that it's happening. My notice is typed and ready to hand in tomorrow morning. The truck is rented- we'll get the confirmation number tomorrow. The day is set. Saturday we pull out and my stuff will be in D.C. (in my new bedroom) by the evening. A quick return and a week later I'll be giving hugs, crying tears, and getting in my car. North bound.
And it won't be for a visit.
It's a new chapter and I'm so excited.
Of course I have concerns (mainly being unemployed upon my arrival), but I trust that my job will fall into place. I've been wanting a career change and this is the fire I need. What a chance to make that change!
I've never jumped so far out of my comfort zone. It's truly exhilarating. I'm ready to fly.
10:32 PM - 1 Comments - 2 Kudos -
kristina marino
i am so proud of you, and so excited for you! how did turning in the 2-week notice go?
Posted by kristina marino on Thursday, April 20, 2006 at 4:58 PM
Today was a great day. I slept in this morning, which was quite unsual for an Easter Sunday. Last night we celebrated the weekend's meaning by going to the service that our church offers. It was a great service, although it was a bit odd to not wake up and attend this morning.
After sleeping in, I lounged and caught up on some meaningless television. Aren't some mornings just made for that though? I flipped on the tv, caught the end of the horribly acted movie, The Bachelor, and then watched a show on dwarves. It wasn't exactly what I was planning on doing with my afternoon, but I didn't feel guilty as I blankly stared at the tube in front of me.
Later in the afternoon, Mom, Dad and I went for a drive. With no specific place in mind, we hopped in the car and headed west towards the mountains. It was a beautiful drive. The trees were vibrant with their sping green and the flowers competed with one another to boast of their colors. There were huge oak trees, breath taking overlooks, and the most perfect Easter breeze. The whole day was a promise and we gladly received it.
I received a call from my sister while we were driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
"I've rented the U-Haul for next weekend," she abruptly stated.
Offguard and blinking due to slight disbelief, I finally found my reply. "This weekend?" Wow, this is fast.
"Yeah. It's a good price. I couldn't believe it." My sister has bargain shopping in her blood. Neither could I. I'm gonna do it. I'm really going to D.C. And it's going to be soon.
It's true. Everything is lined up. I can't believe that it's happening. My notice is typed and ready to hand in tomorrow morning. The truck is rented- we'll get the confirmation number tomorrow. The day is set. Saturday we pull out and my stuff will be in D.C. (in my new bedroom) by the evening. A quick return and a week later I'll be giving hugs, crying tears, and getting in my car. North bound.
And it won't be for a visit.
It's a new chapter and I'm so excited.
Of course I have concerns (mainly being unemployed upon my arrival), but I trust that my job will fall into place. I've been wanting a career change and this is the fire I need. What a chance to make that change!
I've never jumped so far out of my comfort zone. It's truly exhilarating. I'm ready to fly.
10:32 PM - 1 Comments - 2 Kudos -
kristina marino
i am so proud of you, and so excited for you! how did turning in the 2-week notice go?
Posted by kristina marino on Thursday, April 20, 2006 at 4:58 PM
D.C. Wrap Up
Well, I'm home now. The rest of my week in D.C. flew.
On Wednesday and Thursday I continued to send out resumes and cover letters. Oh joy. By week's end I was applying for all kinds of jobs- government, admin., customer service, bank positions, etc. I told myself I wouldn't do that.
I love the city. There is so much to do there and the flurry of young professionals is constant. They don't call it a "Walking City" for nothing. There's energy abounding and it's quite common to see people walking (and running) all the time. I can attest to the walking, since Mon. and Tues. it was all I did.
Wednesday and Thursday I stayed inside and spent the days emailing my info. around. I'm a bit discouraged because every job I have previously obtained I had an "In" person. Someone was in the company and talks me up... one thing leads to another and I'm filling out an application after I said yes to the job. Why after? The application is a minor procedure requirement.
With that said, it's tough to do cold calls. Especially when there is so much competition. Most places, where I submited my application, request that no phone calls are placed regarding the job. How am I supposed to stand out from anyone else if I can't follow it with a confident call?
As you can guess, I've heard nothing back regarding applications that I placed. I'm a bit discouraged and slightly uncomfortable with the idea of moving without a job in place.
And that sentence leads to...
Mal and I got approved for the four bedroom apartment that we want. It's right on Capitol Hill. A 10-15 minute walk to the D.C. Metro and Mal's office. Not shabby. The rent cost isn't too bad either. The bedrooms are all upstairs (along with the two baths). Downstairs is a kitchen and living/ dining area. All wooden floors. No central A/C, but there are window units and ceiling fans. Pretty nice apartment if you ask me. :)
The idea is for us to move in and get two roommates (that's in the works too). More will follow on the roommate situation as word is received.
Thursday night we tried to leave the city. There was a super bad accident on I-95 that caused all lanes to be blocked. Mal and I waited in traffic for 3.5 hours and then I made the decision to not proceed further that night (it was approaching 11). We grabbed McD's and headed back to D.C. What took us 3.5 hours going down to NC, took us 17 minutes to return. Yeah. It was real bad.
We started again Friday morning and succeeded although traffic was still congested. At least we moved (be it super slowly at times). I spent Friday with my Grandparents and other close family as we celebrated Easter. Spent the night and drove back to Winston today.
The plan is to turn a notice in on Monday. Two weeks, baby.
I'm nervous about it and a bit unsettled. Am wondering if it's really what I should be doing. A part of me feels like there's something(s) still to do here before I venture out of state. Some I can put my finger on, however, I feel there are some waiting to be discovered. Do I risk not discovering them now? Does D.C. offer more to discover than is here? I just want to be in His will. With that comes peace, right? Where's my peace??
12:07 AM - 5 Comments - 2 Kudos -
kimmie
hi! i am in a very similar situation... turning in my two week notice april 26 and moving back to nc, and probably wont have a job until after i move, so it is scary. but that is what i did when i moved here... send your resume to recruiters! that is how i got my job here in miami... and that is what i am doing now for nc, sending emails with my resume attached to people recruiting for financial services/accounting/jobs like that. do a search for d.c. area recruiters and headhunters and employment agencies... when they receive your resume, they will call you and start looking to place you with their clients. if you search careerbuilder/monster.com, most of those jobs are posted by recruiters/headhunters, so visit the website of the company posting a lot of the jobs in the industry you are looking for. and search the d.c. area craigslist in the jobs section, a lot of really good jobs are posted there...this is how i keep my sanity knowing that i cant actually go to nc (until i move may 15) to look for jobs, while being very stressed about being unemployed... sending your info to recruiters is a way to keep proactive so you dont feel as stressed and discouraged while you cant actually be in the city you are moving to. http://www.demand-inc.com/jobseeker.htmlthat is the company that placed me with my job in miami, they are nationwide.also since you have experience working in banking tryhttp://www.demand-inc.com/jobseeker.htmlthey recruit for finance/accounting and also have offices all over the nation...and there are a lot more If they receive a copy of your resume and find that you are qualified for the type of job placements they are recruiting for (i learned this friday, as this is my situation), they have you come in for interview, fill out paperwork, maybe for some tests... obviously i cant just ditch the job i have here and drive the 900 miles to nc to do this, so i am going in to one of the miami offices. once i do that, they can give the go-ahead to the raleigh office to start trying to place me somewhere.ah okay well this is way longer than any blog comment should ever be. since this is the SECOND time in a year that i have been in a very similar situation, as you can see i had much to say on the subject good luck! i am excited for you
Posted by kimmie on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 9:20 AM
kimmie
p.s. that second link was redundant. what i meant to say was:www.roberthalf.comokay i promise i am done rambling on about your blog now. really i am
Posted by kimmie on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 9:22 AM
Meredith
Wow, thanks, Kimmie, for all the info. I will definitely check out the sites. I think a headhunter is a good idea. One that I had thought about, but hearing it again and getting a lead is very helpful! Thanks, and kep me posted on your move back to NC.
Posted by Meredith on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 9:44 PM
kristina marino
get out of clemmons!!! yay meredith!!! thanks kimmie for the websites.. i will show vinnie too. good luck to both of you!
Posted by kristina marino on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 7:08 PM
McKenzie
Do it! I moved from Rockingham to Raleigh only knowing 1 person much like you and I have never regreted it! I have wonderful friends found a wonderful job! Do it, you won't regret it! Life is too short to play "what if"..
Posted by McKenzie on Tuesday, April 18, 2006 at 10:40 AM
On Wednesday and Thursday I continued to send out resumes and cover letters. Oh joy. By week's end I was applying for all kinds of jobs- government, admin., customer service, bank positions, etc. I told myself I wouldn't do that.
I love the city. There is so much to do there and the flurry of young professionals is constant. They don't call it a "Walking City" for nothing. There's energy abounding and it's quite common to see people walking (and running) all the time. I can attest to the walking, since Mon. and Tues. it was all I did.
Wednesday and Thursday I stayed inside and spent the days emailing my info. around. I'm a bit discouraged because every job I have previously obtained I had an "In" person. Someone was in the company and talks me up... one thing leads to another and I'm filling out an application after I said yes to the job. Why after? The application is a minor procedure requirement.
With that said, it's tough to do cold calls. Especially when there is so much competition. Most places, where I submited my application, request that no phone calls are placed regarding the job. How am I supposed to stand out from anyone else if I can't follow it with a confident call?
As you can guess, I've heard nothing back regarding applications that I placed. I'm a bit discouraged and slightly uncomfortable with the idea of moving without a job in place.
And that sentence leads to...
Mal and I got approved for the four bedroom apartment that we want. It's right on Capitol Hill. A 10-15 minute walk to the D.C. Metro and Mal's office. Not shabby. The rent cost isn't too bad either. The bedrooms are all upstairs (along with the two baths). Downstairs is a kitchen and living/ dining area. All wooden floors. No central A/C, but there are window units and ceiling fans. Pretty nice apartment if you ask me. :)
The idea is for us to move in and get two roommates (that's in the works too). More will follow on the roommate situation as word is received.
Thursday night we tried to leave the city. There was a super bad accident on I-95 that caused all lanes to be blocked. Mal and I waited in traffic for 3.5 hours and then I made the decision to not proceed further that night (it was approaching 11). We grabbed McD's and headed back to D.C. What took us 3.5 hours going down to NC, took us 17 minutes to return. Yeah. It was real bad.
We started again Friday morning and succeeded although traffic was still congested. At least we moved (be it super slowly at times). I spent Friday with my Grandparents and other close family as we celebrated Easter. Spent the night and drove back to Winston today.
The plan is to turn a notice in on Monday. Two weeks, baby.
I'm nervous about it and a bit unsettled. Am wondering if it's really what I should be doing. A part of me feels like there's something(s) still to do here before I venture out of state. Some I can put my finger on, however, I feel there are some waiting to be discovered. Do I risk not discovering them now? Does D.C. offer more to discover than is here? I just want to be in His will. With that comes peace, right? Where's my peace??
12:07 AM - 5 Comments - 2 Kudos -
kimmie
hi! i am in a very similar situation... turning in my two week notice april 26 and moving back to nc, and probably wont have a job until after i move, so it is scary. but that is what i did when i moved here... send your resume to recruiters! that is how i got my job here in miami... and that is what i am doing now for nc, sending emails with my resume attached to people recruiting for financial services/accounting/jobs like that. do a search for d.c. area recruiters and headhunters and employment agencies... when they receive your resume, they will call you and start looking to place you with their clients. if you search careerbuilder/monster.com, most of those jobs are posted by recruiters/headhunters, so visit the website of the company posting a lot of the jobs in the industry you are looking for. and search the d.c. area craigslist in the jobs section, a lot of really good jobs are posted there...this is how i keep my sanity knowing that i cant actually go to nc (until i move may 15) to look for jobs, while being very stressed about being unemployed... sending your info to recruiters is a way to keep proactive so you dont feel as stressed and discouraged while you cant actually be in the city you are moving to. http://www.demand-inc.com/jobseeker.htmlthat is the company that placed me with my job in miami, they are nationwide.also since you have experience working in banking tryhttp://www.demand-inc.com/jobseeker.htmlthey recruit for finance/accounting and also have offices all over the nation...and there are a lot more If they receive a copy of your resume and find that you are qualified for the type of job placements they are recruiting for (i learned this friday, as this is my situation), they have you come in for interview, fill out paperwork, maybe for some tests... obviously i cant just ditch the job i have here and drive the 900 miles to nc to do this, so i am going in to one of the miami offices. once i do that, they can give the go-ahead to the raleigh office to start trying to place me somewhere.ah okay well this is way longer than any blog comment should ever be. since this is the SECOND time in a year that i have been in a very similar situation, as you can see i had much to say on the subject good luck! i am excited for you
Posted by kimmie on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 9:20 AM
kimmie
p.s. that second link was redundant. what i meant to say was:www.roberthalf.comokay i promise i am done rambling on about your blog now. really i am
Posted by kimmie on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 9:22 AM
Meredith
Wow, thanks, Kimmie, for all the info. I will definitely check out the sites. I think a headhunter is a good idea. One that I had thought about, but hearing it again and getting a lead is very helpful! Thanks, and kep me posted on your move back to NC.
Posted by Meredith on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 9:44 PM
kristina marino
get out of clemmons!!! yay meredith!!! thanks kimmie for the websites.. i will show vinnie too. good luck to both of you!
Posted by kristina marino on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 7:08 PM
McKenzie
Do it! I moved from Rockingham to Raleigh only knowing 1 person much like you and I have never regreted it! I have wonderful friends found a wonderful job! Do it, you won't regret it! Life is too short to play "what if"..
Posted by McKenzie on Tuesday, April 18, 2006 at 10:40 AM
D.C. Days One and Two
Well, I certainly have some things to report.
Yesterday and today I have walked my tail off. I've been to the Senate building and put in my application there. Was told that it's very competitive (I knew this) and that they would call me if something came available for which I am qualified. I applied for three areas: press, administrative, and legislative. The lady in the placement office seemed to think I was most qualified for admin. and added that an admin. position made more money. Okay.
I also stopped by the Post Office and inquired about positions. They gave me an address and number to call. I will... it's just not the most exciting job idea. Last, I grabbed an application to the Federal Senate Credit Union. They are hiring for some positions in Arlington, which is a hop from Capitol Hill.
No news yesterday regarding the two apartments we put in for.
Last night Mal worked late and I entertained myself by napping and watching tv until she arrived. Then, we joined three guys on her hall and we went to eat Mexican. Yummy. Had enough left over that it will make a good lunch or midnight snack one day before I leave.
Today I slept until 9:15 and then dressed to meet one of the guys on the hall at 10:30. He works in the House and took me around over there. I applied for a Scheduling job and then we went downstairs to their HR and I filled out an application for general positions. It works like the Senate side where I spoke to the lady yesterday. The House side gets paid less that the Senate. We'll see. Anything would be nice at this point.
I dropped off my completed application at the Credit Union and met Mal for lunch.
One of the landlords (at the two bedroom apartment we applied for) called and offered us the apartment. It's about ten minute drive to it from where Mal lives now. It's real nice inside and completely new. We are still waiting to hear from the other apartment's landlord. It would be more convenient since it's right on the Hill. We should hear from her today also.
We told the first lady that we'll have an answer for her tonight. It's in a good location and the rent includes utilities, which is a bonus. It's in an up and coming section of town. The landlords said that a new shopping area and restaurants are being built down the road (within walking distance).
I got a parking ticket today. Arrg. Managed to go last time without one, but got busted today. Thirty bucks.
I'm getting ready to head to the Chamber of Commerce. Another intern in this building gave me a lady's name. It involves a ride on the Metro, which will be nice. My feet are kind of sore from walking in these shoes for two days.
1:18 PM - 1 Comments - 0 Kudos -
kristina marino
i heard about those parking tickets... vin & i are going to annapolis mid-may and wanted to go to dc but decided against it (not enough time)
Posted by kristina marino on Thursday, April 13, 2006 at 4:40 PM
Yesterday and today I have walked my tail off. I've been to the Senate building and put in my application there. Was told that it's very competitive (I knew this) and that they would call me if something came available for which I am qualified. I applied for three areas: press, administrative, and legislative. The lady in the placement office seemed to think I was most qualified for admin. and added that an admin. position made more money. Okay.
I also stopped by the Post Office and inquired about positions. They gave me an address and number to call. I will... it's just not the most exciting job idea. Last, I grabbed an application to the Federal Senate Credit Union. They are hiring for some positions in Arlington, which is a hop from Capitol Hill.
No news yesterday regarding the two apartments we put in for.
Last night Mal worked late and I entertained myself by napping and watching tv until she arrived. Then, we joined three guys on her hall and we went to eat Mexican. Yummy. Had enough left over that it will make a good lunch or midnight snack one day before I leave.
Today I slept until 9:15 and then dressed to meet one of the guys on the hall at 10:30. He works in the House and took me around over there. I applied for a Scheduling job and then we went downstairs to their HR and I filled out an application for general positions. It works like the Senate side where I spoke to the lady yesterday. The House side gets paid less that the Senate. We'll see. Anything would be nice at this point.
I dropped off my completed application at the Credit Union and met Mal for lunch.
One of the landlords (at the two bedroom apartment we applied for) called and offered us the apartment. It's about ten minute drive to it from where Mal lives now. It's real nice inside and completely new. We are still waiting to hear from the other apartment's landlord. It would be more convenient since it's right on the Hill. We should hear from her today also.
We told the first lady that we'll have an answer for her tonight. It's in a good location and the rent includes utilities, which is a bonus. It's in an up and coming section of town. The landlords said that a new shopping area and restaurants are being built down the road (within walking distance).
I got a parking ticket today. Arrg. Managed to go last time without one, but got busted today. Thirty bucks.
I'm getting ready to head to the Chamber of Commerce. Another intern in this building gave me a lady's name. It involves a ride on the Metro, which will be nice. My feet are kind of sore from walking in these shoes for two days.
1:18 PM - 1 Comments - 0 Kudos -
kristina marino
i heard about those parking tickets... vin & i are going to annapolis mid-may and wanted to go to dc but decided against it (not enough time)
Posted by kristina marino on Thursday, April 13, 2006 at 4:40 PM
D.C. Times
My weekend has been awesome. Can't believe it's over.
I arrived late on Friday night. Bags were lugged from the car to the room and then we hit the D.C. streets. Mal, a friend in her program, and I walked to a local Irish pub near Union Station. We arrived a little after 11 (just in time for local smokers to be allowed to light up). There's a new law in D.C. that prohibits smokers (in establishments that aren't just bars) from lighting up until after 11. And while there's no real point in that tangent, just an observation, I was a bit disappointed that it was allowed at all.
Being from NC, home of tobacco, I've adapted. In the pub, there was a trio playing that apparently is really from Ireland. They play there every night, after dining at a "usual" table in the restaurant.
Good music and company. We left a little after 1.
Saturday arrived early enough. My sister and I had scheduled appointments with two landlords to look at apartments. Long story short, due to the cherry blossom festival's required street blocking and overall lack of the city's geography, we were late for both. So late, in fact, that neither happened. Discouraged and soaking wet (it rained relentlessly), we decided to quit our adventure.
Mallory bought a paper. My goal was to find a job (or at least have a plan for Monday) from the ads. Instead, I spotted a couple of apartments and we called. Bam. Two more appointments later, we were on our way.
And both places are great. Applications and prayers for an answer have both been submitted. We should hear something soon. More will be written later as we hear something.
Overall, Saturday ended well. Much better than the morning began. It even began to clear up as the evening progressed.
Today was awesome. Started the day off by grabbing breakfast at a local cafe and then heading to my sister's church here. Great church. Young congregation and one full of hope and energy. The pastor is younger and his zeal for the church is evident. The worship music was amazing. There was a live band and some of the songs were familiar favorites.
After church, we grabbed lunch at Mal's and then headed to Ikea. It's an enormous home decorating store south of D.C. Best described as a warehouse, maybe? Hard to explain.... it's just a monster. Fun though and a bit overwhelming. We got many ideas and were inspired by the decorating possibilities.
The night wrapped up nicely. Getting ready to go to bed. I am hopeful about tomorrow. Keep praying. The apartment seems promising... tomorrow comes the job front.
12:08 AM - 1 Comments - 1 Kudos
kimmie
good luck!! im in the middle of that same search... the search for a job in raleigh so that we dont have to live in crappy miami anymore! my grandparents and my brother all live in the d.c. area and it is just a fun place to be.
Posted by kimmie on Monday, April 10, 2006 at 6:41 AM
I arrived late on Friday night. Bags were lugged from the car to the room and then we hit the D.C. streets. Mal, a friend in her program, and I walked to a local Irish pub near Union Station. We arrived a little after 11 (just in time for local smokers to be allowed to light up). There's a new law in D.C. that prohibits smokers (in establishments that aren't just bars) from lighting up until after 11. And while there's no real point in that tangent, just an observation, I was a bit disappointed that it was allowed at all.
Being from NC, home of tobacco, I've adapted. In the pub, there was a trio playing that apparently is really from Ireland. They play there every night, after dining at a "usual" table in the restaurant.
Good music and company. We left a little after 1.
Saturday arrived early enough. My sister and I had scheduled appointments with two landlords to look at apartments. Long story short, due to the cherry blossom festival's required street blocking and overall lack of the city's geography, we were late for both. So late, in fact, that neither happened. Discouraged and soaking wet (it rained relentlessly), we decided to quit our adventure.
Mallory bought a paper. My goal was to find a job (or at least have a plan for Monday) from the ads. Instead, I spotted a couple of apartments and we called. Bam. Two more appointments later, we were on our way.
And both places are great. Applications and prayers for an answer have both been submitted. We should hear something soon. More will be written later as we hear something.
Overall, Saturday ended well. Much better than the morning began. It even began to clear up as the evening progressed.
Today was awesome. Started the day off by grabbing breakfast at a local cafe and then heading to my sister's church here. Great church. Young congregation and one full of hope and energy. The pastor is younger and his zeal for the church is evident. The worship music was amazing. There was a live band and some of the songs were familiar favorites.
After church, we grabbed lunch at Mal's and then headed to Ikea. It's an enormous home decorating store south of D.C. Best described as a warehouse, maybe? Hard to explain.... it's just a monster. Fun though and a bit overwhelming. We got many ideas and were inspired by the decorating possibilities.
The night wrapped up nicely. Getting ready to go to bed. I am hopeful about tomorrow. Keep praying. The apartment seems promising... tomorrow comes the job front.
12:08 AM - 1 Comments - 1 Kudos
kimmie
good luck!! im in the middle of that same search... the search for a job in raleigh so that we dont have to live in crappy miami anymore! my grandparents and my brother all live in the d.c. area and it is just a fun place to be.
Posted by kimmie on Monday, April 10, 2006 at 6:41 AM
Random Subjects Shared
I stayed up way too late watching North Country, which stars Charlize Theron, Sissy Spacek, and other famously familiar actors (as mentioned before I am not a professional critic, therefore I do not have to know everyone's name). Great movie about sexual harrassment in the workplace before laws were enforced to protect women (and/or men). The movie is based on a true story about a mining town and how they are disrupted when one woman stands up for herself after she and her female coworkers are being brutally harrassed at work. Not exactly a real perk-you-up kinda movie, but definitely one to catch. Made me appreciate my job more and my freedom as a woman in a corporate world. I think Charlize Theron was nominated for an Oscar for her performance?
Regardless of my lack of sleep (due to my late night viewing), I had a great day. Work went by pretty quickly. I spent about an hour talking to a WW II veteran. He approached me with questions about his account. After 15 minutes of going over it, we started talking about him. It was very interesting. I learned quite a bit about WW II. His memory was so vivid- giving me details of dates and moments during the war.
Talking to people is one thing I love about my job. I love hearing stories and I really enjoyed listening to him. He told me about the war, his farm, his grandkids, his wife, etc. He even cried a couple of times as he reminisced about the war and men he fought with.
After I talked with him I went to lunch. After I returned from lunch, it seemed that the afternoon flew and it was time to go home. Yay.
Tonight was our last night of Bible study and talking about Captivating (John & Stasi Eldridge). Really is a great book. Plans are to break for a week and start a new one. I will update as we dive into it.
I began painting a mailbox for one of my coworkers. I haven't painted one in a while. It's custom, as she wants me to paint one with a goat and the name of her husband's farm on it. I've done one side, although it does need some touch ups and details added. The other side will be my task for tomorrow evening. Then I'll complete it with small details. I enjoy painting. It's been too long since I made anything- since April of last year when I took an oil class for kicks. I'm using acrylics on the box and will spray it with a clear coating to prevent weathering. Upon its completion, maybe I'll get around to snapping a shot of it and posting it on here. We'll see.
No promises or guarantees.
Two more days until Friday. Hallelujah. The plan is to head to D.C. after work. I'm debating, however, on leaving on Saturday morning instead. Time will tell. Spontaneity is my forte.
Regardless of my lack of sleep (due to my late night viewing), I had a great day. Work went by pretty quickly. I spent about an hour talking to a WW II veteran. He approached me with questions about his account. After 15 minutes of going over it, we started talking about him. It was very interesting. I learned quite a bit about WW II. His memory was so vivid- giving me details of dates and moments during the war.
Talking to people is one thing I love about my job. I love hearing stories and I really enjoyed listening to him. He told me about the war, his farm, his grandkids, his wife, etc. He even cried a couple of times as he reminisced about the war and men he fought with.
After I talked with him I went to lunch. After I returned from lunch, it seemed that the afternoon flew and it was time to go home. Yay.
Tonight was our last night of Bible study and talking about Captivating (John & Stasi Eldridge). Really is a great book. Plans are to break for a week and start a new one. I will update as we dive into it.
I began painting a mailbox for one of my coworkers. I haven't painted one in a while. It's custom, as she wants me to paint one with a goat and the name of her husband's farm on it. I've done one side, although it does need some touch ups and details added. The other side will be my task for tomorrow evening. Then I'll complete it with small details. I enjoy painting. It's been too long since I made anything- since April of last year when I took an oil class for kicks. I'm using acrylics on the box and will spray it with a clear coating to prevent weathering. Upon its completion, maybe I'll get around to snapping a shot of it and posting it on here. We'll see.
No promises or guarantees.
Two more days until Friday. Hallelujah. The plan is to head to D.C. after work. I'm debating, however, on leaving on Saturday morning instead. Time will tell. Spontaneity is my forte.
Slacker
Wow, I've been really slack this past week on posting my thoughts. I think, this is in part due to the fork. I've been writing about it. You all are well aware of my attraction to D.C. It's coming to a head... the decision is looming.
I feel this pull to go. It offers promises. Of what, I'm not sure. Are they promises of what I want? Do I really KNOW what I want?
I have this constant debate in my head.
I went to lunch with my best girl friends on Sunday afternoon. The three closest ones that I have here. I shared my thoughts, thoughts that at this point are focused on a move. There's a part of me that's done- a closed chapter. And I feel this part screaming when I visit. Do it. What do you have to lose? It'd be an adventure. Isn't that what you want? A taste of adventure- change. What could happen? Lots... and it's exciting.
But then, there's Sunday. Questions are presented. I don't have answers to them. There is a feeling of uncertainty. I hear encouragement mixed with cautionary undertones. Am I paranoid about the undertones? Should I be?
I just keep praying about it.
I'm leaving Friday after work for D.C. I will have a weekend and four days. Plans are to check out apartments with my sis on the weekend and then hit the pavement Monday and apply. All over. I've never embarked on something like this. There is such an X factor. I think, in fact, that it's more than one X... perhaps even some Y's and other random numbers thrown in for the heck of it.
I've told my sister and family that I'm moving. I've told my friends I'm moving. There's even a tentative bash to be held. I haven't told work. I'm not there yet. Maybe there will be after this coming week. Maybe not. Much prayer is needed. I'd appreciate it if it crosses your mind.
My mind is full and my heart is burdened. Sorry for my slack blogging. Part of it is an avoidance. I know that the penned questions are only the tip of the iceburg. Writing them only makes me feel less certain of anything.
11:21 PM - 2 Comments - 4 Kudos -
kristina marino
I think you are only anxious because it's out of your comfort zone. What kind of life would you lead if you stayed inside your comfort zone?? Not a very fulfilling one!! Am I right?? You do have to approach it logically as well (money, jobs, apartment, a safe place to live, etc) - but don't feel like you need to back out if just one thing is out of place. Make sure you are safe, make sure you can support yourself, and that is all you need. It's okay if you're uncomfortable - that's a temporary feeling. You will be fine! You will make your way in this world Ms. Duncan!! You rock my world!!
Posted by kristina marino on Tuesday, April 04, 2006 at 3:59 PM
Priya
hi!
i want you to know that i am so proud of you for having the courage and conviction to "hit the pavement," as you say. i agree with Kristina, sometimes you have to step outside of your comfort zone to test yourself, to grow. i learned more about myself in 2 years away from all those that i loved than i could have imagined and also realized that i didn't want to be so far away from you all. it's dorky, but it's like that old expression- it's not the destination but the journey. i don't know anyone who is absolutely sure of their decisions... but that's the beauty part! we are free to MAKE decisions, and get ourselves out of unresolvable situations if necessary. you are so lucky because there's always an exit strategy... you have an amazingly strong foundation in your family and friends, who will be there to support you, whether you are next door or 3,000 miles from home. bottom line, regardless of success or having to change your situation, you can do it- you can take the plunge! ok i'm rambling. i'll leave you be now :-)
p
Posted by Priya on Sunday, April 09, 2006 at 8:25 PM
I feel this pull to go. It offers promises. Of what, I'm not sure. Are they promises of what I want? Do I really KNOW what I want?
I have this constant debate in my head.
I went to lunch with my best girl friends on Sunday afternoon. The three closest ones that I have here. I shared my thoughts, thoughts that at this point are focused on a move. There's a part of me that's done- a closed chapter. And I feel this part screaming when I visit. Do it. What do you have to lose? It'd be an adventure. Isn't that what you want? A taste of adventure- change. What could happen? Lots... and it's exciting.
But then, there's Sunday. Questions are presented. I don't have answers to them. There is a feeling of uncertainty. I hear encouragement mixed with cautionary undertones. Am I paranoid about the undertones? Should I be?
I just keep praying about it.
I'm leaving Friday after work for D.C. I will have a weekend and four days. Plans are to check out apartments with my sis on the weekend and then hit the pavement Monday and apply. All over. I've never embarked on something like this. There is such an X factor. I think, in fact, that it's more than one X... perhaps even some Y's and other random numbers thrown in for the heck of it.
I've told my sister and family that I'm moving. I've told my friends I'm moving. There's even a tentative bash to be held. I haven't told work. I'm not there yet. Maybe there will be after this coming week. Maybe not. Much prayer is needed. I'd appreciate it if it crosses your mind.
My mind is full and my heart is burdened. Sorry for my slack blogging. Part of it is an avoidance. I know that the penned questions are only the tip of the iceburg. Writing them only makes me feel less certain of anything.
11:21 PM - 2 Comments - 4 Kudos -
kristina marino
I think you are only anxious because it's out of your comfort zone. What kind of life would you lead if you stayed inside your comfort zone?? Not a very fulfilling one!! Am I right?? You do have to approach it logically as well (money, jobs, apartment, a safe place to live, etc) - but don't feel like you need to back out if just one thing is out of place. Make sure you are safe, make sure you can support yourself, and that is all you need. It's okay if you're uncomfortable - that's a temporary feeling. You will be fine! You will make your way in this world Ms. Duncan!! You rock my world!!
Posted by kristina marino on Tuesday, April 04, 2006 at 3:59 PM
Priya
hi!
i want you to know that i am so proud of you for having the courage and conviction to "hit the pavement," as you say. i agree with Kristina, sometimes you have to step outside of your comfort zone to test yourself, to grow. i learned more about myself in 2 years away from all those that i loved than i could have imagined and also realized that i didn't want to be so far away from you all. it's dorky, but it's like that old expression- it's not the destination but the journey. i don't know anyone who is absolutely sure of their decisions... but that's the beauty part! we are free to MAKE decisions, and get ourselves out of unresolvable situations if necessary. you are so lucky because there's always an exit strategy... you have an amazingly strong foundation in your family and friends, who will be there to support you, whether you are next door or 3,000 miles from home. bottom line, regardless of success or having to change your situation, you can do it- you can take the plunge! ok i'm rambling. i'll leave you be now :-)
p
Posted by Priya on Sunday, April 09, 2006 at 8:25 PM
A blast from my past
My weekend was wonderful and today was a pretty fair extension of it. The weekend was spent with friends and family, although I must admit that percentage of time spent with friends was the highest.
Friday night was spent with a longtime friend. We planned to see Failure to Launch, starring Matthew McConaughey and Sarah Jessica Parker, but were surprised when the early show (sevenish) was sold out. So, we did what any women our age, who are determined to see Mr. McConaughey, would do. We bought tickets for the late show and grabbed dinner while we waited.
Dinner was delicious. We hadn't caught up in about two weeks, so it was nice filling in the details. We are both in this stage where change is around the corner. She's applying to grad school and I am ever hopeful that a D.C. opportunity will unveil itself at any moment.
After dinner, we caught the flick. It's a good one. Filled with a lot of humor, little cussing, and great eye candy. ;) It'd be a great date movie.
Saturday was just as much fun. Brooke hosted a dinner party and almost twenty of us arrived. Some of whom I barely knew; others I'd known for years. I went over early to help her prepare- from assisting with the cooking to critiquing her attire for the evening.
We ate dinner (Mexican potatoes), then dessert (I don't think anyone ever found the piece of egg shell I accidentally dropped in the brownies!), and finally watched Just Friends, starring Amy Smart and Ryan Reynolds. Another cute movie. Not nearly as good as Failure to Launch, but still humorous.
.... Skip to today. My day was a typical Monday. Things were going pretty fast. Work was piling up as quickly as I was completing it. One of those steady days where the carrot is just out of reach as it dangles on its string.
Then, he came in.
I was waiting on a customer, one who frequents my customer service chair quite often due to some mundane charge or balance outage. The door opened and he caught my attention. Just like he used to- eight to ten years ago. I first heard his voice. It was instantly familiar, though its placement was foggy. I looked past her, Cranky Pants, and saw him. Is that?? Oh my gosh. No. I looked harder, trying to see through the glare on the glass that separated us.
He was gone. Disappearing behind my cubicle's partition and into my boss's office. I strained to hear bits of their conversation through her open door. Shh, Cranky, I'm trying to determine if it's him. Was I maintaining my "I care" face? I was. I'm good.
It hadn't been long. A minute? Less than that? Of all times for her to be in here...
He was leaving. He said good-bye to the tellers and walked out the door. I missed him!!!! Was it him... my biggest crush in high school? The guy with the biggest baby blues and quick humor. The good ole boy that was a volunteer fire fighter and hard worker. He wasn't gorgeous, but he certainly was to me. He was average, but through the eyes of a fifteen year old girl, he was amazing. With him being slightly older, in high school times it made it that much more of a difference. His thoughts were on driving when my main concern was getting my braces off. He was writing graduation announcements when I was learning how to drive a stick shift.
Cranky Pants left just twenty seconds after he departed. Slightly miffed at my being preoccupied during his whole time there, I gathered my composure and I walked quickly to my boss's office. It was hard not to run, believe me.
"Who was that guy who just left your office?" I asked.
"Oh. He was the nicest young man." She was killing me. The anticipation was mounting. I saw it roll off her tongue in slow motion. My inner voice echoed it as his name rang in the air. I knew it.
And I missed him.
I told her who he was. He may come back. She assured me of this after seeing my disappointment at not getting a chance to talk to him. Perhaps it's best I didn't. He was my older crush. Would he even remember me? Memories came rushing back and kept frequenting as my day continued. Wow. I still can't believe I saw him after all these years. It made my day in some weird way.
11:19 PM - 1 Comments - 0 Kudos
kristina marino
hm, i am curious... don't you hate how you can be transported right back to west forsyth in a matter of seconds? it happens to me once in a blue moon too.
Posted by kristina marino on Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 6:52 AM
Friday night was spent with a longtime friend. We planned to see Failure to Launch, starring Matthew McConaughey and Sarah Jessica Parker, but were surprised when the early show (sevenish) was sold out. So, we did what any women our age, who are determined to see Mr. McConaughey, would do. We bought tickets for the late show and grabbed dinner while we waited.
Dinner was delicious. We hadn't caught up in about two weeks, so it was nice filling in the details. We are both in this stage where change is around the corner. She's applying to grad school and I am ever hopeful that a D.C. opportunity will unveil itself at any moment.
After dinner, we caught the flick. It's a good one. Filled with a lot of humor, little cussing, and great eye candy. ;) It'd be a great date movie.
Saturday was just as much fun. Brooke hosted a dinner party and almost twenty of us arrived. Some of whom I barely knew; others I'd known for years. I went over early to help her prepare- from assisting with the cooking to critiquing her attire for the evening.
We ate dinner (Mexican potatoes), then dessert (I don't think anyone ever found the piece of egg shell I accidentally dropped in the brownies!), and finally watched Just Friends, starring Amy Smart and Ryan Reynolds. Another cute movie. Not nearly as good as Failure to Launch, but still humorous.
.... Skip to today. My day was a typical Monday. Things were going pretty fast. Work was piling up as quickly as I was completing it. One of those steady days where the carrot is just out of reach as it dangles on its string.
Then, he came in.
I was waiting on a customer, one who frequents my customer service chair quite often due to some mundane charge or balance outage. The door opened and he caught my attention. Just like he used to- eight to ten years ago. I first heard his voice. It was instantly familiar, though its placement was foggy. I looked past her, Cranky Pants, and saw him. Is that?? Oh my gosh. No. I looked harder, trying to see through the glare on the glass that separated us.
He was gone. Disappearing behind my cubicle's partition and into my boss's office. I strained to hear bits of their conversation through her open door. Shh, Cranky, I'm trying to determine if it's him. Was I maintaining my "I care" face? I was. I'm good.
It hadn't been long. A minute? Less than that? Of all times for her to be in here...
He was leaving. He said good-bye to the tellers and walked out the door. I missed him!!!! Was it him... my biggest crush in high school? The guy with the biggest baby blues and quick humor. The good ole boy that was a volunteer fire fighter and hard worker. He wasn't gorgeous, but he certainly was to me. He was average, but through the eyes of a fifteen year old girl, he was amazing. With him being slightly older, in high school times it made it that much more of a difference. His thoughts were on driving when my main concern was getting my braces off. He was writing graduation announcements when I was learning how to drive a stick shift.
Cranky Pants left just twenty seconds after he departed. Slightly miffed at my being preoccupied during his whole time there, I gathered my composure and I walked quickly to my boss's office. It was hard not to run, believe me.
"Who was that guy who just left your office?" I asked.
"Oh. He was the nicest young man." She was killing me. The anticipation was mounting. I saw it roll off her tongue in slow motion. My inner voice echoed it as his name rang in the air. I knew it.
And I missed him.
I told her who he was. He may come back. She assured me of this after seeing my disappointment at not getting a chance to talk to him. Perhaps it's best I didn't. He was my older crush. Would he even remember me? Memories came rushing back and kept frequenting as my day continued. Wow. I still can't believe I saw him after all these years. It made my day in some weird way.
11:19 PM - 1 Comments - 0 Kudos
kristina marino
hm, i am curious... don't you hate how you can be transported right back to west forsyth in a matter of seconds? it happens to me once in a blue moon too.
Posted by kristina marino on Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 6:52 AM
Friday Morning, yay!
I had a pretty good day today. Although my subject line is all about Friday, I will be writing from Thursday's perspective because I haven't had my sleep zone to separate the two yet.
Work today was just madness. We were short a teller because she was sick. If you have never worked in a bank, you might be slighting this statement, so I will break for a (brief) tangent and explain what this implies.
When a teller calls in sick, all her money HAS to be counted. This is to ensure that she has not taken her cash from the day before, slipped out of the bank with it in her coat, and skipped off to Mexico (or Washington, heh). However, because this teller is also our ATM teller, it also meant we had to hand count the ATM. Everything must be done under dual control since we technically are counting the teller's cash. So, anytime someone is absent, it always involves tying up at least two people for an extended amount of time.
Phew. So, my boss and I counted her cash, counted the ATM and counted more money to add to the ATM because it was low. All in all, the process took a good hour away from my own work. Then, there were customers coming in and asking all kinds of random questions about their accounts and needing stuff done that takes longer than the usual five minutes. Finally, my boss gave me a "honey-do list" (as she called it) right before I went to lunch and she left for the day. I only completed one by day's end. That will be an interesting conversation Friday morning.
I hate days like that... I just spun my wheels all day. In other people's mud, no doubt. I didn't even get to touch my own. It's still piled on my desk for tomorrow.
After work, I had an interesting exchange while I was in the grocery store. I was picking up a dessert to take to someone's house tonight and struck up a conversation with the cashier. Actually, she struck it up. She was young, a teenager, and very bubbly.
She asked (think Valley girl, young teen voice), "So, do you, like, have a daughter or younger sister?"
I paused and analyzed the tone and wording. Is she thinking real young or just younger, like Mal is? Hmm, it's got to be the first. "I have a younger sister. She's not real young though." No response yet. She's just staring, waiting for more. She's blonde and doe-eyed. I can't help but notice this too. "She's 23. Is that what you mean?"
"Oh. No. You just look like you'd be related to this girl I know."
"Is she a kid?" I mean, she did ask if I had a daughter.
"No, she goes to school with me."
"Where do you go to school?" She answered with the name of the school I graduated high school from. Hmm.
I didn't know quite how to respond to that. There were some "have a nice evenings" exchanged shortly after that and I walked out. Didn't she ask if I had a daughter? She did. Do I look like I could have daughter in high school? I did the math. Gross. I reached my car and sat in it staring at my steering wheel and recalculating. Honestly. That's just... a stretch, right?
It made me wonder. If I had bought a bottle of wine or something, would she have carded me? Would someone have the audacity to ask for I.D. after she'd just asked if I'd mothered a high schooler? I was half tempted to go in and see.
It's nothing I took personally or was offended by. It just threw me off and made me think. How many times have I asked a dumb question like that with little regard to mathematical judgements or guesses? Is this something that more people under a certain age make errors about? Is it safe to say that people under that age view anyone over 30 or even 25 as "old" people? The closer I creep to thirty I can't help but admit that the further away my "old" label gets pushed. What was my "old" label at 15? I can't remember. Don't even know that I thought about it too much. What will it be at 40? 65? 80?
Ah well. It's approaching 1:15. If I keep this up much longer I will feel old in the morning. Happy Friday!!!!
12:31 AM - 2 Comments - 0 Kudos -
kristina marino
LOLshe does not sound like the brightest bulb. she is probably young with stars in her eyes and anyone that is slightly older than her is like.... ANCIENT. like, yeah.geez meredith. are you forgetting to cover up your grays?
Posted by kristina marino on Friday, March 24, 2006 at 7:09 AM
J to tha essica
My mom told me that once when I was little, like maybe 7 or so, I said "When I turn 40, just pull the plug." What was I thinking? From the mouths of babes...
Work today was just madness. We were short a teller because she was sick. If you have never worked in a bank, you might be slighting this statement, so I will break for a (brief) tangent and explain what this implies.
When a teller calls in sick, all her money HAS to be counted. This is to ensure that she has not taken her cash from the day before, slipped out of the bank with it in her coat, and skipped off to Mexico (or Washington, heh). However, because this teller is also our ATM teller, it also meant we had to hand count the ATM. Everything must be done under dual control since we technically are counting the teller's cash. So, anytime someone is absent, it always involves tying up at least two people for an extended amount of time.
Phew. So, my boss and I counted her cash, counted the ATM and counted more money to add to the ATM because it was low. All in all, the process took a good hour away from my own work. Then, there were customers coming in and asking all kinds of random questions about their accounts and needing stuff done that takes longer than the usual five minutes. Finally, my boss gave me a "honey-do list" (as she called it) right before I went to lunch and she left for the day. I only completed one by day's end. That will be an interesting conversation Friday morning.
I hate days like that... I just spun my wheels all day. In other people's mud, no doubt. I didn't even get to touch my own. It's still piled on my desk for tomorrow.
After work, I had an interesting exchange while I was in the grocery store. I was picking up a dessert to take to someone's house tonight and struck up a conversation with the cashier. Actually, she struck it up. She was young, a teenager, and very bubbly.
She asked (think Valley girl, young teen voice), "So, do you, like, have a daughter or younger sister?"
I paused and analyzed the tone and wording. Is she thinking real young or just younger, like Mal is? Hmm, it's got to be the first. "I have a younger sister. She's not real young though." No response yet. She's just staring, waiting for more. She's blonde and doe-eyed. I can't help but notice this too. "She's 23. Is that what you mean?"
"Oh. No. You just look like you'd be related to this girl I know."
"Is she a kid?" I mean, she did ask if I had a daughter.
"No, she goes to school with me."
"Where do you go to school?" She answered with the name of the school I graduated high school from. Hmm.
I didn't know quite how to respond to that. There were some "have a nice evenings" exchanged shortly after that and I walked out. Didn't she ask if I had a daughter? She did. Do I look like I could have daughter in high school? I did the math. Gross. I reached my car and sat in it staring at my steering wheel and recalculating. Honestly. That's just... a stretch, right?
It made me wonder. If I had bought a bottle of wine or something, would she have carded me? Would someone have the audacity to ask for I.D. after she'd just asked if I'd mothered a high schooler? I was half tempted to go in and see.
It's nothing I took personally or was offended by. It just threw me off and made me think. How many times have I asked a dumb question like that with little regard to mathematical judgements or guesses? Is this something that more people under a certain age make errors about? Is it safe to say that people under that age view anyone over 30 or even 25 as "old" people? The closer I creep to thirty I can't help but admit that the further away my "old" label gets pushed. What was my "old" label at 15? I can't remember. Don't even know that I thought about it too much. What will it be at 40? 65? 80?
Ah well. It's approaching 1:15. If I keep this up much longer I will feel old in the morning. Happy Friday!!!!
12:31 AM - 2 Comments - 0 Kudos -
kristina marino
LOLshe does not sound like the brightest bulb. she is probably young with stars in her eyes and anyone that is slightly older than her is like.... ANCIENT. like, yeah.geez meredith. are you forgetting to cover up your grays?
Posted by kristina marino on Friday, March 24, 2006 at 7:09 AM
J to tha essica
My mom told me that once when I was little, like maybe 7 or so, I said "When I turn 40, just pull the plug." What was I thinking? From the mouths of babes...
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