Dear God-
I pray that you will give me strength today. I pray that you will help me listen more than I speak. I pray that you will give me peace about the things I do not understand; the things I cannot explain.
My heart is heavy today. So much pain. So much anger. So much hurt. I heart because the man I love is broken. I hurt because I know that you are the only one who can help his pain go away.
I pray for Brian today. I do not understand why his life was short. and why mine continues.
I pray for those things that I do not understand. Why do good people die and bad people live? Why do children starve to death? Or grow up orphaned? Why is there evil and why do some despise good?
So many thoughts are swimming through my head. My stomach hurts. My heart aches. My eyes have run dry. I cannot cry anymore. I cannot scream. I struggle with wishing for the opposite of what is - knowing that your plan is perfect.
Today, I am broken.
Everything happens for a reason. I hope that someday that reason will be revealed.
I love you.
Caroline
11.01.2009
10.15.2009
Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for a wonderful day. Thank you for waking my body up at 4:45am this morning. Thank you for giving me the confidence to carry myself throughout the many meetings I was in (and facilitated) today. Thank you for a family and a boyfriend that lift me up, not just when I am down.
I want to pray for my brother. Oh how I love him. Although I don't get to talk to him everyday, I think about him a million times a day. Everything he is, I am not and vice versa. We are the perfect brother and sister duo.
I pray for the decisions that I will make in the future. Decisions big and small. Good and Bad. Tough and Easy. I pray that I will listen more than I speak and not be too prideful to ask for help when I need it.
I pray that everyday I will be reminded that I am blessed. That I will delight in the 'small things.' That I will not grow tired of giving hugs or kisses. Or telling people I love them.
I pray that I will make my family and friends proud to know me each and everyday.
In HIS name I pray,
Amen.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
As I get older, I have come to understand the importance of being aware of your surroundings- especially when it comes to people. When starting a new job, I was leery of who I should associate myself with. It didn't take long for me to realize the 'office stereotypes'. I hate to sound harsh, but there are some people that I would simply refuse to be seen with - simply because of their reputation or because of the way they carried their selves (and everything that implies).
Today, I am so grateful for having positive influences/people in my life. I don't know what I would do without people who love me and encourage me. My spirits are high this evening as I had a session with my life coach this afternoon and then dinner with my parents and boyfriend. I so cherish having wonderful people in my life.
Blessed.
9.09.2009
The Worst First Day EVER
Somtimes I feel that GOD likes to test me. I have no idea why. Sometimes I wonder if I passed or failed. Sometimes I wonder if the test was the situation or the outcome. I may never know....
My first day of work at my first BIG GIRL job was Tuesday, September 8th, 2009. A day that will live in infamy.
{In an effort to bring you up to speed, I'd like to start with a look at the days prior to my first day: The previous week, I worked a ton of hours at a 10-day catering event in Shelbyville. The hours were long. The work was hard. I was exhausted. SO, I came home and slept for 14 hours on Sunday when the event was over. Then, on Monday, I was outside all day (because it was the perfect day to be outside) and then had 2 margaritas at dinner. Now, I do not drink a lot but I do enjoy a drink on occasion. For instance, we had a drink most nights after catering all day last week. AND I failed to run for about a week because of our crazy schedule and my lack of sleep.}
Speeding up to my first day - I woke up at 5:30am. Drove to Granny White Park and proceeded to run 5 miles. I only made it 4 miles before I realized that I had to head home to get ready for work. I was super overheated as I drove home which never happens so I wrote it off. THEN, I get home, rush around like a chicken with my head cut off to get ready. Shower, Makeup, Hair, Ironing, Make lunch, Make breakfast, ahh! At 8:45 I was walking out the door for work and felt super queasy. I figured that my blood sugar was just low because I hadn't eaten anything yet that day. On my 4minute commute to work, I demolished a banana and an entire bottle of water. Blood sugar was good.
I get to work, meet up with the HR lady that will be showing me how to start my training modules. Thankfully, I had my own cubicle and was basically given the autonomy to start and break whenever I wanted to as long as I finished all of the online stuff by the end of the day. At about 9:30, my stomach was churning. Exorcist stuff. So, realizing what was about to happen, I sprinted to the OTHER SIDE of the floor I was on to the women's bathroom and proceeded to puke multiple times.
I felt better after a few minutes so I headed back to my desk. Then, like clockwork, at 10 it happened again. Ran to the bathroom, etc. etc. I spent about an hour total in the bathroom before 12noon on Tuesday. It was absolute insanity. I told myself that I wouldn't alert anyone unless I started puking blood (which i've never done) so basically I had decided that I wouldn't go home sick ON MY FIRST DAY. Go figure. After lunch, I felt much better. On the bright side: I set the bar really low on the first day. No matter how bad or stressful it gets, it'll probably never be that bad again.
Anyway, my official diagnosis is dehydration. I didn't drink nearly enough water and had been eating poorly for about a week. My body revolted. Shocker.
Needless to say, I learned my lesson.
Morale of the story: Junk food, alcohol and skipping breakfast are all TERRIBLE ideas when you're training for a half marathon.
Joyfully his.
My first day of work at my first BIG GIRL job was Tuesday, September 8th, 2009. A day that will live in infamy.
{In an effort to bring you up to speed, I'd like to start with a look at the days prior to my first day: The previous week, I worked a ton of hours at a 10-day catering event in Shelbyville. The hours were long. The work was hard. I was exhausted. SO, I came home and slept for 14 hours on Sunday when the event was over. Then, on Monday, I was outside all day (because it was the perfect day to be outside) and then had 2 margaritas at dinner. Now, I do not drink a lot but I do enjoy a drink on occasion. For instance, we had a drink most nights after catering all day last week. AND I failed to run for about a week because of our crazy schedule and my lack of sleep.}
Speeding up to my first day - I woke up at 5:30am. Drove to Granny White Park and proceeded to run 5 miles. I only made it 4 miles before I realized that I had to head home to get ready for work. I was super overheated as I drove home which never happens so I wrote it off. THEN, I get home, rush around like a chicken with my head cut off to get ready. Shower, Makeup, Hair, Ironing, Make lunch, Make breakfast, ahh! At 8:45 I was walking out the door for work and felt super queasy. I figured that my blood sugar was just low because I hadn't eaten anything yet that day. On my 4minute commute to work, I demolished a banana and an entire bottle of water. Blood sugar was good.
I get to work, meet up with the HR lady that will be showing me how to start my training modules. Thankfully, I had my own cubicle and was basically given the autonomy to start and break whenever I wanted to as long as I finished all of the online stuff by the end of the day. At about 9:30, my stomach was churning. Exorcist stuff. So, realizing what was about to happen, I sprinted to the OTHER SIDE of the floor I was on to the women's bathroom and proceeded to puke multiple times.
I felt better after a few minutes so I headed back to my desk. Then, like clockwork, at 10 it happened again. Ran to the bathroom, etc. etc. I spent about an hour total in the bathroom before 12noon on Tuesday. It was absolute insanity. I told myself that I wouldn't alert anyone unless I started puking blood (which i've never done) so basically I had decided that I wouldn't go home sick ON MY FIRST DAY. Go figure. After lunch, I felt much better. On the bright side: I set the bar really low on the first day. No matter how bad or stressful it gets, it'll probably never be that bad again.
Anyway, my official diagnosis is dehydration. I didn't drink nearly enough water and had been eating poorly for about a week. My body revolted. Shocker.
Needless to say, I learned my lesson.
Morale of the story: Junk food, alcohol and skipping breakfast are all TERRIBLE ideas when you're training for a half marathon.
Joyfully his.
Emotions Are Easy For Some
Emotions are easy. They are hard to harness - especially because most refuse to even try.
I genuinely struggle with those who think with their emotions. To me, work is work; business is business. Leave your crap at the door.
In an effort to not sound heartless, I understand that people have bad days. I get that. I understand that sometimes we feel so overwhelmed that we just explode. I get that, too. But I am also an advocate for staying in check with your emotions. If you are an emotion thinker, try to self-evaluate the next time you have a problem. Look at the facts before getting emotional. Pray. Meditate. Do whatever it takes to keep your mind clear.
You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
You know who you are.
Joyfully his.
I genuinely struggle with those who think with their emotions. To me, work is work; business is business. Leave your crap at the door.
In an effort to not sound heartless, I understand that people have bad days. I get that. I understand that sometimes we feel so overwhelmed that we just explode. I get that, too. But I am also an advocate for staying in check with your emotions. If you are an emotion thinker, try to self-evaluate the next time you have a problem. Look at the facts before getting emotional. Pray. Meditate. Do whatever it takes to keep your mind clear.
You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
You know who you are.
Joyfully his.
8.25.2009
I'm Clearly Not in Control
It has definitely been a power struggle. Me vs. GOD on who gets to 'run' my life. I obviously always lose that game, yet I still play.
Yesterday I was talking with my brother about jobs (as he is currently seeking a part-time job while in college). He made an interesting comment that he thought that he had wanted to work at Olive Garden. He had heard that the money was good, the people were cool, and that they had a steady crowd every night (which is key as a server). Then, when he went in to interview, the manager was quite rude to him. She basically told him that his availability didn't work with what they needed - which is fine- but she could have done it more tactfully. Then, he went to Logan's (which was originally his second choice) and had a great interviewing experience. My brother said that he was really surprised that his second choice quickly became his first choice.
In the same way, my job worked out like that. I was so stuck on "Vanderbilt" because of their name, I was failing to consider opportunities outside of Vanderbilt.
My brother and I were talking about how we clearly don't know what is best for us, GOD does. It was funny how what we thought was our 'best' choice was not because we didn't see the whole picture.
As I write this, my brother has just called me to let me know that he did get the job at Logan's! GOD is so good! I am so happy for him :) He deserves it so much.
Joyfully his.
Yesterday I was talking with my brother about jobs (as he is currently seeking a part-time job while in college). He made an interesting comment that he thought that he had wanted to work at Olive Garden. He had heard that the money was good, the people were cool, and that they had a steady crowd every night (which is key as a server). Then, when he went in to interview, the manager was quite rude to him. She basically told him that his availability didn't work with what they needed - which is fine- but she could have done it more tactfully. Then, he went to Logan's (which was originally his second choice) and had a great interviewing experience. My brother said that he was really surprised that his second choice quickly became his first choice.
In the same way, my job worked out like that. I was so stuck on "Vanderbilt" because of their name, I was failing to consider opportunities outside of Vanderbilt.
My brother and I were talking about how we clearly don't know what is best for us, GOD does. It was funny how what we thought was our 'best' choice was not because we didn't see the whole picture.
As I write this, my brother has just called me to let me know that he did get the job at Logan's! GOD is so good! I am so happy for him :) He deserves it so much.
Joyfully his.
8.20.2009
My Rollercoaster: The ride doesn't end here.
Life is like a checklist to me. I think in lists. And I think with my eyes.
The minute I was offered a job yesterday (!) at my DREAM company, a new 'check' was placed on my list.
Get a job. Check.
But it doesn't end there. No. I am learning that life is a series of events, hurdles, conquests and the like. Searching for THE job (not A job) over the past 4 months has been about me getting to know myself better. When you have to answer questions in interviews like: "What is your greatest strength? What is your greatest weakness?" you begin to reflect on these things. I have been very deliberate about understanding who I am right now, so that I might improve that person for the future.
All of my goals (personal, financial, spiritual, etc.) can be reduced down to me making myself a better person. That's the ultimate goal, isn't it?
With that said, there will always be something on the list waiting to get 'checked off'. In a book I am currently reading - You, Inc. - the author used a fantastic metaphor. He said ' learn what it is that you are not good at. Then, like in weightlifting, work on that area to bring it up to par with the rest of you.' He said that we are always eager to use the 'muscles' that are the most toned, the most defined, and we fail to work on the ones that cause us the most initial pain. As a great advocate for personal fitness, that metaphor really hit home for me.
Work your 'muscles' today. ESPECIALLY the ones that hurt the most.
Humbly employed.
The minute I was offered a job yesterday (!) at my DREAM company, a new 'check' was placed on my list.
Get a job. Check.
But it doesn't end there. No. I am learning that life is a series of events, hurdles, conquests and the like. Searching for THE job (not A job) over the past 4 months has been about me getting to know myself better. When you have to answer questions in interviews like: "What is your greatest strength? What is your greatest weakness?" you begin to reflect on these things. I have been very deliberate about understanding who I am right now, so that I might improve that person for the future.
All of my goals (personal, financial, spiritual, etc.) can be reduced down to me making myself a better person. That's the ultimate goal, isn't it?
With that said, there will always be something on the list waiting to get 'checked off'. In a book I am currently reading - You, Inc. - the author used a fantastic metaphor. He said ' learn what it is that you are not good at. Then, like in weightlifting, work on that area to bring it up to par with the rest of you.' He said that we are always eager to use the 'muscles' that are the most toned, the most defined, and we fail to work on the ones that cause us the most initial pain. As a great advocate for personal fitness, that metaphor really hit home for me.
Work your 'muscles' today. ESPECIALLY the ones that hurt the most.
Humbly employed.
8.17.2009
I'm batting a thousand
Ok, so the subject of this post is facetious. I'm actually sucking at life right now - well, parts of it. But I am learning that GOD's timing is perfect and my timing is laughable. I am humbled on a daily basis as I am constantly reminded that I shouldn't try to be in control of my life.
Ever see a car wreck and realize that if you would've left the store 5 seconds earlier, you would've been involved in that wreck? Or met someone years ago that 'randomly' resurfaced in your life recently? I don't believe in coincidence. I can't.
I was touched today by the YouTube video of Pastor Steve Berger's address to his congregation this past Sunday regarding the recent death of his 19-year old son. Instead of focus on their pain, he told the church that with death comes new life...his son was an organ donor and was able to give 5 (!) people life on Sunday when he passed away. Gosh.
If only we could anticipate the lives we would have the opportunity to touch on a hourly/daily/weekly/monthly/yearly basis. I rarely understand GOD's plan. But when I get to see a glimpse of tragedy turned triumph I am so encouraged.
Ending my relationship with my boyfriend this past week was the hardest thing i've done in a long time. I know it was the right decision. That doesn't make it any easier. I know that I need some time for myself right now. I know that GOD is going to do some incredible things through me this year. This is my tragedy - love lost. I will be excited to report on triumph in the future.
Stay tuned. GOD is good.
Jobless, but not hopeless.
Ever see a car wreck and realize that if you would've left the store 5 seconds earlier, you would've been involved in that wreck? Or met someone years ago that 'randomly' resurfaced in your life recently? I don't believe in coincidence. I can't.
I was touched today by the YouTube video of Pastor Steve Berger's address to his congregation this past Sunday regarding the recent death of his 19-year old son. Instead of focus on their pain, he told the church that with death comes new life...his son was an organ donor and was able to give 5 (!) people life on Sunday when he passed away. Gosh.
If only we could anticipate the lives we would have the opportunity to touch on a hourly/daily/weekly/monthly/yearly basis. I rarely understand GOD's plan. But when I get to see a glimpse of tragedy turned triumph I am so encouraged.
Ending my relationship with my boyfriend this past week was the hardest thing i've done in a long time. I know it was the right decision. That doesn't make it any easier. I know that I need some time for myself right now. I know that GOD is going to do some incredible things through me this year. This is my tragedy - love lost. I will be excited to report on triumph in the future.
Stay tuned. GOD is good.
Jobless, but not hopeless.
8.12.2009
Coupons...how I love thee.
I like to think that I have always (since I started college) been frugal. Of course, that isn't the case. However, since I have graduated from college and have started thinking more 'economically', I am finding ways to save.
For instance, this past weekend was the tax free weekend. Josh needed some new clothes and I took a peek at things for myself. Luckily, I was in the mood to 'dig' through the piles of clothes crammed on the racks in hopes of finding a bargain. What I did manage to find was a bargain. At one store, I put a bunch of stuff on hold and raced home because I knew I had a coupon. I saved $20 off my $40 purchase and only spent $20...cha ching!
Crosby makes fun of me for clipping coupons out of the Sunday paper. I love grocery shopping and even more, I love using my coupons at the grocery. Today, I saved $10 at Kroger from clipping coupons. I found tons of items that were on sale and then I could use my coupon on top of that!
THEN I went to Target (the promised land). I L-O-V-E Target. I could write an entire blog entry on how much I love Target. At Target, I discovered the clearance rack in the food section. I bought a ton of food for $13! Geez. I wasn't even at Target to buy food, but hey, for $13 i'll take it!
I've come to realize that most stores (probably due to the economy and the store's need to turnover merchandise) have a clearance area. I have found some of the coolest stuff on clearance racks, things I didn't even know existed!
I am very grateful that I had a mother who taught me how to save money. In my mind, life skills are more important than anything you learn in school. If you don't know how to function (ie. save money, write a check, budget, etc.) then you have much bigger problems than simply getting a job. What are you going to do when you've got a job? How will you know how to negotiate your salary if you aren't aware of the cost of living?
My post today is dedicated to my parents. I thank them for everything I know; everything that makes me more independent. I am proud of myself when I am a savvy shopper.
Find joy in the little things.
Jobless but not hopeless.
For instance, this past weekend was the tax free weekend. Josh needed some new clothes and I took a peek at things for myself. Luckily, I was in the mood to 'dig' through the piles of clothes crammed on the racks in hopes of finding a bargain. What I did manage to find was a bargain. At one store, I put a bunch of stuff on hold and raced home because I knew I had a coupon. I saved $20 off my $40 purchase and only spent $20...cha ching!
Crosby makes fun of me for clipping coupons out of the Sunday paper. I love grocery shopping and even more, I love using my coupons at the grocery. Today, I saved $10 at Kroger from clipping coupons. I found tons of items that were on sale and then I could use my coupon on top of that!
THEN I went to Target (the promised land). I L-O-V-E Target. I could write an entire blog entry on how much I love Target. At Target, I discovered the clearance rack in the food section. I bought a ton of food for $13! Geez. I wasn't even at Target to buy food, but hey, for $13 i'll take it!
I've come to realize that most stores (probably due to the economy and the store's need to turnover merchandise) have a clearance area. I have found some of the coolest stuff on clearance racks, things I didn't even know existed!
I am very grateful that I had a mother who taught me how to save money. In my mind, life skills are more important than anything you learn in school. If you don't know how to function (ie. save money, write a check, budget, etc.) then you have much bigger problems than simply getting a job. What are you going to do when you've got a job? How will you know how to negotiate your salary if you aren't aware of the cost of living?
My post today is dedicated to my parents. I thank them for everything I know; everything that makes me more independent. I am proud of myself when I am a savvy shopper.
Find joy in the little things.
Jobless but not hopeless.
Happy Wednesday!
I'm working on a marketing plan today. I took a few marketing classes in college, but have never been given the opportunity to apply them to something that truly might make or break a business. Pressure? Maybe. Am I up to the challenge? Of course!
My initial instinct was to google. I googled "life coach marketing" and found an incredible article that was just what I needed to job my brain (www.acoach4u.com)
SO, my current plan is this:
1. Define our vision. What is our ideal client? Who will benefit the most from our practice? What is our target market? What are their characteristics?
2. Create our elevator speech.
3. Strategy. What events will we participate in to help us get our name out there?
4. Implementation and Organization.
Any suggestions? Additions? I am all ears!
Jobless but not hopeless
My initial instinct was to google. I googled "life coach marketing" and found an incredible article that was just what I needed to job my brain (www.acoach4u.com)
SO, my current plan is this:
1. Define our vision. What is our ideal client? Who will benefit the most from our practice? What is our target market? What are their characteristics?
2. Create our elevator speech.
3. Strategy. What events will we participate in to help us get our name out there?
4. Implementation and Organization.
Any suggestions? Additions? I am all ears!
Jobless but not hopeless
8.08.2009
And the weekend isn't over...
I have experienced more in the past 48 hours than perhaps the entire week. At 4:30 am on Friday morning, my alarm went off and my feet haven't stopped until now (Saturday night at midnight).
I went to the CEO fellowship breakfast on Friday morning. I was so nervous/excited to be doing the announcements. I totally forgot to introduce myself! BUT I suppose on the bright side, the whole reason I signed up to do the announcements is to continue to practice my public speaking. I told dad this was the best place to practice because I am in front of a live, professional audience, but they are also my fellow believers. I know that I'm not being judged by them and I find peace in that.
Friday night we had a cookout and bonfire at 'his' parents house. Family and friends were in from out of town. In the process of lighting the bonfire, he managed to catch himself on fire. 2nd degree burns. 4 hours in the ER. Party = over. I was up all night because he was in pain and couldn't sleep. That is the true test of love.
Saturday morning, received a call from a prominent woman at a hospital in Nashville. Due to the blessing of having a contact that is high on the food chain at that hospital, I was blessed to receive a call from one of the administrators. During the conversation, I felt at ease. I was very honest in my answering of her questions, specifically when she asked me "when you lay down at night, what do you dream of doing?" I told her that I understand my gift to be people and compassion. I have the desire to help people...specifically families and children. I believe that I would be an incredible children's or non-profit hospital administrator (ultimately).
I was instructed, during my phone call, to contact a certain woman in HR on Monday morning to begin the application and interview process. Things are looking up. I feel very encouraged.
I haven't been diligent in my walk with GOD lately. It's really wearing on me. If nothing else, I NEED to attend church. I NEED to worship and spend time with GOD through music (I love worship music). I think that 'he' accepts this need I have, but doesn't understand it. This makes our relationship difficult. I'm praying for guidance and direction, but am unsure of what GOD wants me to do in this situation.
The LORD promises that he will never give us more than we can handle. I believe that. But I also believe that he might push us just shy of that breaking point. I believe that is where I am at right now. With so much going on, I just want to scream/cry/laugh.
I need him. I need to be closer to him. I need to worship him. I need to be better about showing my love for him. At the end of the day, he is all I have for sure.
Jobless but not Hopeless
I went to the CEO fellowship breakfast on Friday morning. I was so nervous/excited to be doing the announcements. I totally forgot to introduce myself! BUT I suppose on the bright side, the whole reason I signed up to do the announcements is to continue to practice my public speaking. I told dad this was the best place to practice because I am in front of a live, professional audience, but they are also my fellow believers. I know that I'm not being judged by them and I find peace in that.
Friday night we had a cookout and bonfire at 'his' parents house. Family and friends were in from out of town. In the process of lighting the bonfire, he managed to catch himself on fire. 2nd degree burns. 4 hours in the ER. Party = over. I was up all night because he was in pain and couldn't sleep. That is the true test of love.
Saturday morning, received a call from a prominent woman at a hospital in Nashville. Due to the blessing of having a contact that is high on the food chain at that hospital, I was blessed to receive a call from one of the administrators. During the conversation, I felt at ease. I was very honest in my answering of her questions, specifically when she asked me "when you lay down at night, what do you dream of doing?" I told her that I understand my gift to be people and compassion. I have the desire to help people...specifically families and children. I believe that I would be an incredible children's or non-profit hospital administrator (ultimately).
I was instructed, during my phone call, to contact a certain woman in HR on Monday morning to begin the application and interview process. Things are looking up. I feel very encouraged.
I haven't been diligent in my walk with GOD lately. It's really wearing on me. If nothing else, I NEED to attend church. I NEED to worship and spend time with GOD through music (I love worship music). I think that 'he' accepts this need I have, but doesn't understand it. This makes our relationship difficult. I'm praying for guidance and direction, but am unsure of what GOD wants me to do in this situation.
The LORD promises that he will never give us more than we can handle. I believe that. But I also believe that he might push us just shy of that breaking point. I believe that is where I am at right now. With so much going on, I just want to scream/cry/laugh.
I need him. I need to be closer to him. I need to worship him. I need to be better about showing my love for him. At the end of the day, he is all I have for sure.
Jobless but not Hopeless
8.06.2009
Another Let Down
I got an email today. From the recruiter of the company I interviewed with on Tuesday. She was very complimentary of me, but said that they had hired someone else instead. Evidently, there were some who had more knowledge of the position than I had. Fair enough. I think that this was my first real 'let down'. I really wanted to work for this company. I felt like I wasn't 'settling' on something if I was offered and took this job. I would be lying if I said I wasn't bummed. I know that GOD has something planned for me. That promise makes it easier, but doesn't erase the disappointment completely.
Today I have been working on my elevator speech. I realized yesterday, while working at the Book'Em community service fair at DELL, that I am really good at selling the things I believe in. I had my elevator speech down about 30 minutes into the fair. The only catch is that it is much harder to sell yourself than it is to sell an organization or a product (assuming you really believe in them). Today I am working on selling myself. I started reading "You, Inc." and it has really sparked my interest in preparing my elevator speech.
Tomorrow is another day.
Chin up.
Jobless but not Hopeless.
Today I have been working on my elevator speech. I realized yesterday, while working at the Book'Em community service fair at DELL, that I am really good at selling the things I believe in. I had my elevator speech down about 30 minutes into the fair. The only catch is that it is much harder to sell yourself than it is to sell an organization or a product (assuming you really believe in them). Today I am working on selling myself. I started reading "You, Inc." and it has really sparked my interest in preparing my elevator speech.
Tomorrow is another day.
Chin up.
Jobless but not Hopeless.
8.05.2009
Wednesday
The interview was yesterday. It went really well. It broke my record for the longest interview I have ever been on...it was 2 hours long and I interviewed with 3 different people. Wow! My brain was fried afterwards, but I felt very informed and had a good grasp on the type of company it was. We'll see how it goes.
I feel like I have accomplished a lot this week. I am diligently working down my list of goals. On Monday night, I took a class at the Red Cross and received my CPR certification. That makes me eligible to take my Group Fitness Instructor certification. Also, I spoke with a representative regarding getting my HR certification. I will be taking that test in December. I also need to work on studying to take the GRE.
I know that my blog is supposed to be based on my job search. At some point, life happens and you stop (only for a moment) and think about something other than your next strategic career move, or what types of questions I might be asked at my next interview, or how I'm going to make rent next month. I'm not thinking about those things at all right now. All I can think about is a past friendship. I was contacted by Rachel today. It has been about 6 years since I last saw her face to face. She was my best friend for 5 years...the most important 5 years of school. The first day we met, she was wearing the COOLEST green and blue tennis shoes. That was what broke the ice - I knew that we could be friends because she didn't conform to everyone else...she was comfortable with herself.
Oh how I wish things could go back to the way they were. Or do I? I wish we could be friends, yes, but I know that if our friendship had continued throughout high school, I would have made a lot of different choices. In retrospect, it is evident that GOD knows what he's doing. I hope now that we can be friends again. The past is behind us. We have done a lot of growing up since our days in high school.
I never thought i'd say this, but i'm grateful for the way things have turned out. I'm glad that I am not in control of my own life. He is in control. And I want to keep it that way.
Jobless but Not Hopeless
I feel like I have accomplished a lot this week. I am diligently working down my list of goals. On Monday night, I took a class at the Red Cross and received my CPR certification. That makes me eligible to take my Group Fitness Instructor certification. Also, I spoke with a representative regarding getting my HR certification. I will be taking that test in December. I also need to work on studying to take the GRE.
I know that my blog is supposed to be based on my job search. At some point, life happens and you stop (only for a moment) and think about something other than your next strategic career move, or what types of questions I might be asked at my next interview, or how I'm going to make rent next month. I'm not thinking about those things at all right now. All I can think about is a past friendship. I was contacted by Rachel today. It has been about 6 years since I last saw her face to face. She was my best friend for 5 years...the most important 5 years of school. The first day we met, she was wearing the COOLEST green and blue tennis shoes. That was what broke the ice - I knew that we could be friends because she didn't conform to everyone else...she was comfortable with herself.
Oh how I wish things could go back to the way they were. Or do I? I wish we could be friends, yes, but I know that if our friendship had continued throughout high school, I would have made a lot of different choices. In retrospect, it is evident that GOD knows what he's doing. I hope now that we can be friends again. The past is behind us. We have done a lot of growing up since our days in high school.
I never thought i'd say this, but i'm grateful for the way things have turned out. I'm glad that I am not in control of my own life. He is in control. And I want to keep it that way.
Jobless but Not Hopeless
8.04.2009
Tuesday
So...my job interview starts in an hour. I felt like writing right now, but there wasn't anything particular that I wanted to say. My mind is always running. My thoughts at this very moment: Colorado for Christmas with my friends? Should I go back to school for my masters in teaching? What is Crosby doing right now? Where will I be a year from now? What am I going to do with my first paycheck?....and the madness never stops.
I'll be excited to no longer be poor. I'm not indigent or anything. I just miss being able to eat out whenever I want or shop at JCrew when they're having a big sale. I think this 'drought' has been good for me. I keep telling everyone, I have never had a 'NEED', but as a human my 'WANTS' are endless. I have definitely prioritized my spending over the summer. I became aware of the fact that the majority of my money is spent on gas and food (after rent and utilities). Craziness! This is a great opportunity for me to start cooking more and being more diligent about cutting coupons and looking at the sale ads. I love me a good bargain!
Off to the interview. ::Fingers crossed::
Jobless, but not hopeless.
I'll be excited to no longer be poor. I'm not indigent or anything. I just miss being able to eat out whenever I want or shop at JCrew when they're having a big sale. I think this 'drought' has been good for me. I keep telling everyone, I have never had a 'NEED', but as a human my 'WANTS' are endless. I have definitely prioritized my spending over the summer. I became aware of the fact that the majority of my money is spent on gas and food (after rent and utilities). Craziness! This is a great opportunity for me to start cooking more and being more diligent about cutting coupons and looking at the sale ads. I love me a good bargain!
Off to the interview. ::Fingers crossed::
Jobless, but not hopeless.
8.03.2009
Pitfalls before Perils
Wow! Do I have a story for you!
This all begins last friday...
Based on the book I have been reading and the advice from my father and acquaintances from networking, I gathered the courage to start making 'house calls' (going to visit companies that I wanted to work for). After being shut down at Vanderbilt first thing on Friday morning - which I wasn't really surprised because they are so large and don't have time to talk to everyone - I was a little bummed, but nothing that could squelch the fire under me. After leaving Vanderbilt, I went to Belmont and spoke with one of the Associate Dean of the School of Education. I have really thought a lot about wanting to teach for a few years and wanted to get more information about getting my Master's Degree in Teaching. After that I talked money with Belmont's Financial Aid :( Tragically, there aren't any substantial scholarships for graduate students, but the state will give 'future educators' a grant if you agree to teach in a HIGH NEED area for 4 years. Perfect! I only want to teach in a HIGH NEED/HIGH RISK area (metro). After that, I had lunch with my father at Taste of Russia in Cool Springs (fabulous!) and told him my decision to do both teaching and hospital administration. I was afraid that he might wring my neck, but he seemed rather calm. It was probably smart that I told him the news BEFORE the food came and he couldn't think completely straight. After lunch, I was all fired up again about my future and my job possibilities and making my mark on the world....I decided to go to another company (who shall remain nameless) to drop off a resume. When I arrived, I asked for the woman who was in charge of Recruitment. To my surprise, she agreed to see me. She met me in the main lobby (where there were a lot of people around). She seemed aggravated, so I wanted to give her my best elevator speech before I handed her my resume. I kept my chin high and a smile plastered on my face during my 2 minute speech. When I finished, she said "I am surprised to see you here" (in a negative tone) ::Pit in the stomach:::smile::::feeling flushed::: I said, "Yes ma'am, I have contacted you numerous times this week through various forms of media. I am glad that you remember my name." She said, "Yes, well, I just wanted you to know how rude I find it that you would contact me at my home." ::::flushed::puzzled::: I said, "Yes ma'am, well, that was the phone number on the posting. I was surprised myself to realize that I was reaching a home phone line." She rebuttled "I would NEVER give out my home phone number. You are out of line." :::should I run?stand my ground?ahh!::: "Well, I apologize for the inconvenience ma'am. I only called the number listed on the website. I promise that I didn't mean to upset you.".........and then she said a few other things about me being mistaken (and insinuating that I was a liar). I left with my tail between my legs, entered the car and burst into tears. I decided to go ahead home instead of going to any other companies because I felt so DEFEATED and TERRIBLE. It was her word against mine. On my way home (I had been gone from the company about 15 minutes), the lady that had made me so upset CALLED ME! AHH! I answered the phone and she said, " thank you so much for bringing this to my attention. you were absolutely right about my home phone number being on the posting. this was clearly a glitch with the company that posted this ad. you couldn't have known that this was a mistake." PHEW! and then she said, " I am going to review your resume and will call you if we feel that you are a good candidate to interview." I said "ok, thank you very much. I hope to speak with you soon."
FAST FORWARD TO TODAY...
She called me this morning to set up an interview. HA! God has a sense of humor.
Jobless, but not hopeless.
This all begins last friday...
Based on the book I have been reading and the advice from my father and acquaintances from networking, I gathered the courage to start making 'house calls' (going to visit companies that I wanted to work for). After being shut down at Vanderbilt first thing on Friday morning - which I wasn't really surprised because they are so large and don't have time to talk to everyone - I was a little bummed, but nothing that could squelch the fire under me. After leaving Vanderbilt, I went to Belmont and spoke with one of the Associate Dean of the School of Education. I have really thought a lot about wanting to teach for a few years and wanted to get more information about getting my Master's Degree in Teaching. After that I talked money with Belmont's Financial Aid :( Tragically, there aren't any substantial scholarships for graduate students, but the state will give 'future educators' a grant if you agree to teach in a HIGH NEED area for 4 years. Perfect! I only want to teach in a HIGH NEED/HIGH RISK area (metro). After that, I had lunch with my father at Taste of Russia in Cool Springs (fabulous!) and told him my decision to do both teaching and hospital administration. I was afraid that he might wring my neck, but he seemed rather calm. It was probably smart that I told him the news BEFORE the food came and he couldn't think completely straight. After lunch, I was all fired up again about my future and my job possibilities and making my mark on the world....I decided to go to another company (who shall remain nameless) to drop off a resume. When I arrived, I asked for the woman who was in charge of Recruitment. To my surprise, she agreed to see me. She met me in the main lobby (where there were a lot of people around). She seemed aggravated, so I wanted to give her my best elevator speech before I handed her my resume. I kept my chin high and a smile plastered on my face during my 2 minute speech. When I finished, she said "I am surprised to see you here" (in a negative tone) ::Pit in the stomach:::smile::::feeling flushed::: I said, "Yes ma'am, I have contacted you numerous times this week through various forms of media. I am glad that you remember my name." She said, "Yes, well, I just wanted you to know how rude I find it that you would contact me at my home." ::::flushed::puzzled::: I said, "Yes ma'am, well, that was the phone number on the posting. I was surprised myself to realize that I was reaching a home phone line." She rebuttled "I would NEVER give out my home phone number. You are out of line." :::should I run?stand my ground?ahh!::: "Well, I apologize for the inconvenience ma'am. I only called the number listed on the website. I promise that I didn't mean to upset you.".........and then she said a few other things about me being mistaken (and insinuating that I was a liar). I left with my tail between my legs, entered the car and burst into tears. I decided to go ahead home instead of going to any other companies because I felt so DEFEATED and TERRIBLE. It was her word against mine. On my way home (I had been gone from the company about 15 minutes), the lady that had made me so upset CALLED ME! AHH! I answered the phone and she said, " thank you so much for bringing this to my attention. you were absolutely right about my home phone number being on the posting. this was clearly a glitch with the company that posted this ad. you couldn't have known that this was a mistake." PHEW! and then she said, " I am going to review your resume and will call you if we feel that you are a good candidate to interview." I said "ok, thank you very much. I hope to speak with you soon."
FAST FORWARD TO TODAY...
She called me this morning to set up an interview. HA! God has a sense of humor.
Jobless, but not hopeless.
7.30.2009
As my maiden voyage post, I feel the pressure to make this of exceptional quality. I cannot guarantee that. I can, however, guarantee that my posts will progressively improve over time. It is comical that I would get a sort of 'stage fright' from writing a blog...its not like anyone can see me!
Anyways, over the next....well, however long....my blog will be based on my triumphs and tribulations as I swim my way through my 'career transition'. As a recent college graduate, I am struggling to make myself appear a big fish in a vast pond. I would've never dreamed that after all of my years of working part time jobs, committing countless hours to sorority and community service and endless assignments and tests that I would be at the mercy of the U.S. economy and fall victim to unemployment. I am realistic about the economy, but I also have faith that we will bounce back. I am grateful that I am having this experience at this point in my life before I actually have something to LOSE (ie. a house). I can't imagine working for 10 or 30 years and be in the same position as a recent college grad! How humbling!
Today was a great day and I expect nothing less for tomorrow.
I am jobless, but not hopeless.
Anyways, over the next....well, however long....my blog will be based on my triumphs and tribulations as I swim my way through my 'career transition'. As a recent college graduate, I am struggling to make myself appear a big fish in a vast pond. I would've never dreamed that after all of my years of working part time jobs, committing countless hours to sorority and community service and endless assignments and tests that I would be at the mercy of the U.S. economy and fall victim to unemployment. I am realistic about the economy, but I also have faith that we will bounce back. I am grateful that I am having this experience at this point in my life before I actually have something to LOSE (ie. a house). I can't imagine working for 10 or 30 years and be in the same position as a recent college grad! How humbling!
Today was a great day and I expect nothing less for tomorrow.
I am jobless, but not hopeless.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
