Updates

It's been a long couple of weeks. I made a tough decision to take a full time job with the government. I started my new job on Monday the 16th and so far feel right at home. There are many things that prompted this decision.

• Wrist problems. This is probably the number one reason. My right wrist has been giving me trouble. I had worked a LOT of overtime typing before vacation in July and it really brought out the problem. My choice was either to slow way, way down on the typing, or suffer pain and eventual need for surgery or therapy. While I really like typing, I want to stay as healthy as possible.
• Pressured atmosphere. When overtime is available every single day, it really puts the pressure on. I don’t think that as an employee working from home I felt the pressure too much. When visiting the hospital for administrative issues though, you could feel the tension, pressure. Most people handle it well and were very considerate, patient and friendly, but how much fun is it to work in that kind of environment all the time? I want to feel like I make a contribution to something.
• Vacation. After getting what I consider to be flack for daring to take 2 weeks off in July, (“no one else took two weeks off” – which is not true, as two other typists did), I decided I would have to find a different job within the hospital, or if that failed, try to get back into government service so I would have some benefit status already. At my age and time in life, I really want as many vacation days as possible. I plan to continue to take a two week vacation every year, in addition to other miscellaneous days off during the year.
• Disenchantment. I am an idea person. I know that not every idea I think of can, or should be implemented. It would be nice to know though that suggestions were appreciated and truly considered.
• Cabin Fever. After working from home for so many years, and being more of a people person, I was ready to get back into the world.

I am still working for the hospital on a PRN basis. I actually typed an hour Monday night and a couple of hours last night. I can sure type FAST when it is only for one hour or so! That is kind of fun. Used to be I had to pace myself, but now I can just go full steam ahead!

In other news………

Jordan will head off to a debate tourney this weekend, her first of the season. I have to work for the hospital this weekend, as I am fulfilling my every six weekend commitment until they hire my replacement. John will be heading to Austin for some training, so that will be a bummer. Steve has a new girlfriend. Oct 20th is the 17th anniversary of my 1st date with John. I am having a turkey sandwich and an apple for my lunch. AND a can of REAL Mountain Dew. Exciting stuff, I know.