Just a quick hello to anyone who is still popping in here. I still don’t have a job, and I still haven’t had any calls from employers in spite of all the applications I’ve sent out. At the end of the month, I’ll toss my resume up on the job sites, since that will draw in recruiters. I’d rather talk directly to employers, but in another month will be willing to consider contract work as well to pad out my income a bit before severance runs out. Once I’m on unemployment, I’ll have to start dipping into savings since unemployment won’t quite cover my basic expenses.
On the upside, having more time and energy means I’m doing a lot more socializing and connecting with friends who I rarely see. I had four people over this afternoon for warm pumpkin bread and conversation and thoroughly enjoyed myself. Tomorrow, I’m going to another friend’s house, and I’m really looking forward to it. Then one of my layoff buddies is coming over on Tuesday. That’s more socializing than I generally do in six months!
The encouraging thing is that I know someone who just found a job. Of course, the same day that employer was in the paper because of their budget problems and pay freezes for the year. But still, it was good to see someone return to the land of the employed. The people who are tossing their resume up for recruiters are getting calls, so that’s the ace up my sleeve.
My main reason for waiting another month is because in addition to socializing, I’ve been getting in shape. I’m making great progress on that front, so it’s worth it to make more progress in another month rather than take any contracts. Since you can’t exactly ask an employer for a couple of months off to exercise, this is my big chance. 
Anyway, I hope everyone else is hanging in there too. At least the sun is returning, so that’s a lot to be thankful for right there!
I was glad to see a new post from you today. I still check in on you and was beginning to worry. I know I shouldn’t but I still do. Warm pumpkin bread sounds delish and I’m glad you’ve been able to get together with people even if it’s just for a chat. Sorry no luck in the job dept. Please keep us up to date and pop in now and then to let us know your okay.
Good luck.
Hi Joy! Thanks for checking in even though I’m not posting as much these days. I’ll definitely pop in both here and at your bog too to say hi now and then.
Had another good day for socializing. Went to visit long-time friends up at their hobby farm. We found a nice sheltered spot out of the wind and spent some time grooming the horses and chatting. The horses loved it, and I did too!
Sending good thoughts for you too!
Cruddy as it is to be out of a job, isn’t the total shift in your schedule wonderful? The change in routine can open up exciting possibilities. Good luck on the job search & here’s hoping the socializing continues!
Hey Mary! Thanks for stopping in.
Yeah, change is good. I was just telling a friend that this is a much-needed mental break from working. My old job was really starting to grind me down. Once I find the next job, I will have been refreshed and recharged a bit, I think.
Thanks for the good luck wishes…good vibes are much appreciated!
When I saw in my Reader that you had posted, I was hoping that it was only four words: I GOT A JOB! Even though that hasn’t happened yet, I’m so glad to hear you sounding so positive. I see the ‘fringe’ benefits of not working as very appealing right now: I could really use a long break. Guess I should start actually using my vacation days! Keep smiling!
Welcome, Amanda!
I’m looking forward to the day I post “I GOT A JOB!” too.
My day will come. As my mom told me, “Don’t worry. You *will* work again in your life.” Made me laugh.
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment!