Getting Busy & Rockin' Out!

Hey all!  I'm just writing this post to inform you that I have not forgotten about this blog!  I have a lot of projects coming up, events to plan and put together, as well as volunteering obligations that are pulling me away.  I will be posting, but not as much between now and April.

So for now, I want to share an event that I put together with the general manager of the hotel.  For only having 2 weeks to plan and get the word out (and having NO marketing/advertising budget whatsoever), we had an amazing turn out!  Not to mention, Travis and I were able to hang out with the band AND hold a Grammy award!  It just so happens that the band had so much fun, they plan on making this an annual event!  YAY!

**More pictures will be posted later on our 365 Day Picture Challenge!**

Starstruck

I HAVE to brag.  I feel like such an idiot for not asking for a signature or picture.
Way to go Liz!  A big deal walks in the door and you talk to him, and you have this 365 Photo Project but, nah, we won't take a pic or anything to share.  BAH!

Next celebrity I meet, I'm getting a picture!

I work in a hotel.  I love it there.  You never know what in the world the next day is going to be like or who you are going to meet.  A local music.... I don't know what they are called.... they book concerts and make sure the musicians have a place to stay.  Well, majority of their country musicians stay at our hotel.  A lot of times, they are not your super iconic celebrities.

BUT, today, I said hello to Brantley Gilbert.  Ok, ok, you might be saying "who?"  He's growing in popularity in the country/class rock genre.  This is the dude:




It was so funny.  He walked up, was texting or something on his smart phone with all of his luggage, just checking out of his room.  I had to do a double look because I thought he looked familiar.  Hence, this is why I said hi to him - so I didn't seem super awkward or anything. ::rolls eyes::  The hotel manager, Lisa, had a message for him, so she chatted with him for a bit.  I could not figure out why he looked so stinkin' familiar.

Once he left, Lisa asked, "Is he some famous country singer?  He was with *name of client I cannot disclose*"  For some reason, the name sounded familiar but it didn't click this morning.

Gladys, one of my coworkers, replies, "I think so."

Lisa commented that he doesn't look like the typical country singer.  She and I both said he looked more a rocker dude.  Gladys agreed, "I don't know if he's country.  He has way too many piercings to be a country singer."  Gotta love Gladys!!! :P

I looked him up online.  Once I saw his most popular picture on the computer and the titles of his songs, I knew who he was!

I wish I had gotten a picture.  I wish I had gotten pictures of all the celebrities I've met:  Wenona Judd, Ron White, Meg Ryan, Howie from BSB, Angelo Pizzo.... *sigh*  I never think about getting an autograph or picture taken.  Who does that?!?  I cannot believe I spaced it.  I guess this pic will have to do.

WKLB Country 102.5

I have not forgotten about my 365 Photo/Video Project.  Tomorrow is my day off and I'll be uploading all of my pictures onto my computer and what not.  A lot of times, I'll take pictures throughout the day - and then I select the best pic from that day.  It's been a pretty stressful week.  Catch ya tomorrow!

He Got a Promotion!

Travis has been working so hard at his job.  He pulls long hours, and he's been working his way up through the ranks in a short amount of time.  Travis works at a local discount factory warehouse - and he started as a temp working in the back putting furniture together.  They hired him full time because he was a hard worker.  After his bosses got to know him, they decided he'd be a better fit on the sales floor during their auctions.  Travis nailed it.  Not only was Travis making great commissions, he still would help out in the back with inventory and set up.  Because of Travis's pure dedication and determination, he has been promoted to Manager in Training!

I'm so proud of him!

What Do I Want to Be When I Grow Up

For 2013, I'm going to get more active in a career path.  I'll admit it.  I haven't been that adamant about finding what it is I want to be when I grow up.  Even in college, I didn't have a clue.  I took useless classes that made me take the Meyers Briggs Type Indicator test, the Holland's Social Code, and I spent countless hours in the Career Development Center talking with advisors and looking through their library.  Then I thought I wanted to get into social media and marketing... but really, it isn't what suits my fancy.  I actually like having an office job not in advertising or marketing.

I have a great opportunity where I work.  It is a newly created position.  I'm the first.  Right now, I'm managing social media sites, assisting in sales and event planning, putting together flyers and going to bridal shows, managing a website, and helping create new menus and handbills.  I've even written radio advertisements and press releases.  However, there is no job description, so it can get overwhelming at times since we don't technically know what my duties are.  It's mostly administrative work, which is fine.  I'm grateful that I have a job, I love my coworkers, and I can say I enjoy what I'm doing.  What's even more great is that I have control over what this position really entails.  I could take my career in any direction I want.  But that's the question... what do I need to be doing?  What is it that I'm called to do?

I've debated about going back to college to pursue a Master's - but I'm not even sure what I want to do. I get a little jealous sometimes because I see people my age or younger than me who are moving forward in their careers.  I recently spoke to my family this past weekend.  Everyone said the same thing:  I'm holding myself back.

How am I holding myself back and why?
What am I holding back from?
What more could I be doing?
What do I need to be doing?
What do I even want to do?

I have no idea.  I wish someone could point me in the right direction.  I'm clueless.  I know what I want in regards to a job - but I don't know what fit.  I know I want to have benefits.  I know I want to have a salary job.  I work 20 hours one week and 60 hours the next.  I like that flexibility and know I'll still be able to pay my bills.  Plus, I don't like having to stop in the middle of something to prevent going into overtime.  I hate sales and really don't like commission jobs.  I know right now I need some supervision, just to make sure I'm on the right track.  I like working in groups.  I don't mind having to work my way up from the bottom.  I like knowing that there could be a promotion or a raise for my hard efforts.

So, I'm really interested in hearing how people came to the conclusion of what they were going to do.  When did you realize what you wanted to do?  How did you choose it?  How did you know that it would make you happy?  When you first entered the workforce after graduating, how did you know where to look?

Bumps in the Road

Trying to become established in this kind of job market and economy has really proven to me to be a vicious circle.  I feel so stuck sometimes.  Here I am, working full time for no benefits - but with a chance to move up in the company.  I don't really have any idea where this is going to take me and for how long I will have to work before I get advanced.  I know two women in the company have been waiting to retire, but they have been so short-staffed and overworked, that the possibility to retire is not available to them.... That is until I arrived.  So I am being trained for their jobs.  But with my previous work experience and with my degree, I have no idea where I am going since other opportunities are arriving every day.  I'd hate to say it because I love everyone I work with, but all of my coworkers have told me this regularly:  I'm over-qualified for all the jobs in this company.  I have to agree.  However, I'll do whatever I need to in this economy to build my experience for a better future for my family.

Travis is working hard in school.  He finished his math class 2 weeks early, which is no surprise to me. He loves math.  It's his Art History class that he can't seem to grasp.  I guess that is the engineer in him. Luckily, his fall semester is mostly math and science.  Travis also got a manager position part-time to work around his school schedule at a place that specializes in kayaking, boating, hiking, and extreme sports (mostly water sports).  Throughout the summer, they have a variety of sporting events.  I know Travis will love this.

I cannot lie and say that I'm extremely happy with where we are.  My student loans are going to get more expensive and I am not sure we can afford it.  Paying off the credit cards has become an endless feat.  We still have one more medical bill to pay off, granted it is only $500.  Some people may think we are careless with money because my credit isn't that great.  My credit has been hit multiple times for multiple reasons.  First, when I was sick, the medical debt almost destroyed my 680 credit score.  I have only had 1 credit card my entire life, and the max amount on it was $500.  I had to use it to pay rent one month, so it maxed out.  I tried to get another credit card to use only for gas so that I could increase my credit... but I was denied.  Travis only has one credit card, and it's debt is only $200.  When Travis and I were seeing opportunities with his company and he was promised a promotion, we began house hunting because Travis's credit score was great.  Due to my student loans and our limited income, we qualified for $70,000.  Not long after that, Travis was laid off.  So, needless to say, we didn't buy a house.  When I graduated, we moved in with family in Fort Wayne.  As I job searched, majority of companies were hitting my credit score even more.  It seemed like every time I applied for a job, I had to agree to a credit check.  When asked if I could print off a copy as to not hit my credit score, I was told no.  We wanted to get an apartment or a house or some place to live, but out of fear for being denied based on our credit scores, we don't want to risk more hits to our credit.  I've heard many people say that bad credit is better than no credit.  While that may be true, having bad or no credit still feels impossible to get established.  It looks like our goals of buying a home this year are not going to happen.  Next year, when my student loan payments rise, I'm afraid that we still are not going to be able to buy a house, especially with the income we both produce.  And to look for a new job, I'm afraid my credit will only get beaten up more just for applying.

But on a brighter note, Travis was able to sell his old car!  It only sold for $350, but it sure helped.  We hadn't gone on a date, so we used the money for a nice dinner, movie, and because I absolutely love fairs and festivals, we spent about $20 towards a day at the Three Rivers Festival.  At the festival, Travis gave me a brilliant idea!  I should start a blog about sweet stuff.  I love sweets!  I have a horrible sweet tooth.  So I am going to give it a try.  When I put the blog together, I will definitely post a link when it is ready for its debut.  So keep a look out for the Sweetest Blog on the Block!

Keeping My Options Open

Ever feel like you could be doing something more?  Ever feel like you are more valuable?  Well, luckily, that's how I have been feeling.

I absolutely adore my job at the zoo.  I'm just an intern.  I don't get paid to work from 8 AM to 5 PM every day I am there (which is 3 days a week).  But I wake up early and look forward to going to work there.  I love the people I work with.  I love being around animals, even the creepy, crawling ones.  I love the work I am doing.  I cannot think of any negative thing about the job - except that it will end when April ends.  I love this place so much, I do not want to leave.  Tuesday, I cut my eye pretty bad.  It's ok.  It's just taking time to heal.  But, yesterday, when the doctor told me to stay home and rest my eye - I still went into the office at the zoo to talk to everyone.  Right after I left the doctor's office, I went straight to the zoo because I didn't want them worrying about me and I wanted to fill them in on everything.  I didn't get to stay and work, and that made me sad.  I hated not being there.

Don't get me wrong, I love my actual job.  I work for an auction company with really great people.  However, I feel like there is more I could be doing.  And I know when we renegotiate my salary, I might not get the wage I am looking for.  I could be doing more and getting paid more.  I'll definitely hang out there for a while, but I feel like this is holding me back from what I could be doing.

For months, a financial advising company that is well known in Fort Wayne has been contacting me.  At first, they wanted me to apply for the recruiting coordinator position.  I applied, but didn't get the position.  However, one of the leading partners for the company still contacted me relentlessly.  He asked me to apply for a new position the company has created.  It is Marketing & Client Relations - and I will be working alongside the partner of the company.  From the job description, it sounds like something that is up my alley.  Literally, it sounds like they looked at my resume and created this position tailored to me.  So I sent in my updated resume and I have an interview this week.  This company has been rated in the top 20 companies to work for in Fort Wayne, and they are offering a "lucrative" salary with benefits. Can't beat that, huh?

Well, before I injured my eye on Tuesday, the education department had their weekly meeting at the zoo.  That is the department I intern for, so I attend the meetings as well.  At the meeting, we were gathering dates for everyone's vacation, holidays, etc.  The PR and Communications Director asked when my internship ends.  I shrugged at looked at my supervisor - the Volunteer Coordinator - and I asked her.  She joked saying, "you never put in a day, so we're just going to keep you all summer."  In response, I said, "good, I don't want to leave."  Then, the Education Coordinator, my buddy, Kristin says, "Hey, why don't you apply for Rebecca's job?"

No joke, this feels like serendipity.  What is Rebecca's job?  She is the Development Assistant at the zoo.  Her job requires client relations between the zoo's education department and sponsors and donors, she manages budgets for events and programs, and she does the more detailed office work of what I currently do at the zoo.  I'm a PR and event planning intern.  I just create all the fun stuff and implement it.  Her job is managing the funds and detailed paperwork of the events.  She does this for all education programs.  On the plus side, I could continue making videos for the zoo.

After Kristin's brilliant idea, everyone in the room was saying, "Do it!"  I didn't know Rebecca was offered another job elsewhere that was closer to home and paid a little bit more.  She didn't want to leave the zoo, however she wasn't going to turn down a great opportunity.  After the meeting, I walked up to Rebecca and I asked her if she would mind me job shadowing her for a day.  She's an absolute sweetheart, so of course she said, "sure!"  I sat there beside her and she showed me a little bit of what she was working on.  She had put together a detailed packet on how to do everything at the job so that the next person who came wouldn't be lost.  Rebecca filled me in on what she does and she said to me, "I know what you do for your internship, and you are very good at it.  You would be great at this position."  They are looking for someone to start right away - thinking the first week of May.  Um... hello - perfect timing?!  I went ahead and applied for the position.

Kristin and the volunteer coordinator were saying that if I get the job, I have to join them 2 nights a week with the rest of the "Zumba Zoo Crew" for Zumba nights.  Fine by me!  For the rest of the day after I had talked to Rebecca, Kristin and Susie (another sweet lady at the office) seemed really excited.  They filled me in on everything.  They said, "don't take the job if it isn't something you want to do.  But this is what the zoo offers in benefits...."  I told the girls that it would really come down to the dollar signs - but my heart automatically leans towards the zoo.  I have to keep my options open and think of Travis and I. So I will continue putting out my resume to different places, go to interviews, and see if I get any offers.  Travis and I will discuss each job that is offered to me, and I'll choose which place is the best decision.

I did tell the volunteer coordinator that if I don't get the job, I would like to volunteer.  She seemed super happy about that. :)

So Close, I Can Taste It!

I am super excited!  We've already accomplish Baby Step #1 by creating a $1000 emergency fund.  Baby Step #2 (other than student loans) will be complete this summer!  I can actually see ourselves getting established.  Travis has decided, after working a factory job that was detrimental to his health, he is going back to college.  He has a strong interest in figuring out how things work, why they work, and he's super good at working with electrical stuff.  Travis is pursuing a B.S. in Electrical Engineering Technology.  I couldn't be more proud of him.

What have I been up to?  Well, I got a nice job doing a variety of things!  Right now, I am finishing up my internship at the zoo in Public Relations/Marketing/Event Planning.  I'm busy making training videos, putting together activity packets, planning the Earth Day event, and I get to help out the PR/Director of Communications with any projects she needs done.  Not long ago, I had to take pictures of a leopard getting a dental.  I even got my picture with the furry guy!  (Sorry, I can't post pics on here.  It's against policy.)  The internship ends April 27th.  I told my bosses I am not leaving.  One will have to take my arms and the other will have to take my legs and drag me out crying.  I love it there.  I'll never forget it.

I graduate on May 5, 2012 at 3 PM!  I already ordered my cap and gown.  I plan on making my own graduation invitations using the pictures my friend Kylee took.  I will post pictures of them when I am done!

I landed a great job with an auction company.  I enjoy the people I work with.  I have my own desk all set up.  I just need to add some personal touches - like family photos and quotes.  I have a good system down already, so now I'm not struggling to get things done on time.  They work around my internship, which is fantastic.  I only work 2 or 3 days a week (sometimes I have to pick up a Saturday to stay on top of things, but that's only happened twice).  I love dressing up for work, so I thoroughly enjoy that.  The two guys who are my bosses are super cool.  They have a part-time administrative assistant, and she's such a bubbly, friendly lady.  I look forward to the days that she is there.  They also have a lot of staff that comes and goes.  The head maintenance guy comes around and jokes with everyone.  He's a hoot.  His wife works with my bosses on properties and payroll/finances.  She's a sweet lady too.  Every once in a while, I see a cute elderly man named Larry.  His desk is in the cubicle across from mine.  BTW: the cubicles are not the typical cubicle.  These are freaking fancy and large.  Anyways, Larry has become my buddy.  Right now, I just put together ads, brochures, post cards, and manage the ad budgets.  I don't have time to do much else since I'm not there full-time.  In April, we are going to sit down and re-negotiate my salary.  They casually mentioned something about getting me a Mac computer for my desk!!  AHH!  I'm so excited!  They are hooking me up nicely.  Anyways, they have full intentions on keeping me full-time, so that is why we will negotiate a salary.  Once I am full-time, I will manage all social networking sites for the company, create videos for the company and properties we will be auctioning, and I will be putting together more promotional things for the company that can be used on an iPad.  That way, when they go to speak with prospective clientele, they can show them a nice looking "powerpoint" (but more professional and fancy) of all the different types of auctions we do.  Can I just say... I love my job.  And to think when I applied, I didn't think I would get it.  Out of 155 applicants, I was the lucky one.

I'm so happy that things are falling into place.  Everyone asks me if Travis is working.  But you know, I don't mind him not working.  He's still getting a lot of things done and taken care of.  Plus, he's looking for an easy part-time job so that he can finish school.  When I was in school, I worked part-time.  I tried focusing solely on schoolwork.  I want him to do the same.  This man busted his ass off for 3 years.  He worked like a dog just so that we could keep a roof over our heads.  He's taken such good care of me... it's time I do the same for him.  It is his turn to focus on getting an education and pursuing a career.  It is my turn to buck up, take on more responsibilities, and keep our heads afloat.  After all, if it wasn't for Travis's hard work, I would have never finished this degree and landed this job.  Besides, he is going to be making the big bucks when he's done! :)  Behind every great man is a great woman - and I tend to keep that reputation strong.  He's such a great husband - I need to be his great wife.  I cannot explain how proud I am of him and what we've accomplished as a team.  We're a force to be reckoned with.

Once we pay off these credit cards and polish off that medical debt (yeah, there was a debt for $500 that somehow got lost.  We're not done yet.  ::headdesk::), we are buying my husband a car.  This summer, we are hoping to get a starter home.  It won't be our forever home, but it will turn a great profit when we re-sell it in 5 years time.  We are thinking after getting a car, we should be set with a down deposit plus fees by fall.  Who knows, maybe next year we'll buy a house and have a little bit more saved up.  But it's still fun to look at our options.

I'm not going to lie.  We did break our habit of saving.  This Sunday, Travis and I went on a shopping spree.  I found heels that I could wear to work on clearance!  I got a black pair and a tan pair.  Then I found really cute tops and tanks to wear underneath my suits for work for real cheap!  Then I found two blazers that fit perfectly!  I had looked at Travis and said, "watch, this is going to be too big."  I put it on and it fit!  I about shat myself!  So I got 2 - one is white with a gold button; the other is a black boyfriend blazer.  I also found some nice jewelry on sale that would go with any outfit.  So now I have 4 necklaces and a pair of earring to wear to work!  Since I splurged on work stuff, I told Travis that he should have some fun.  So he bought a new XBox controller (his was broken) and he pre-ordered the new Resident Evil game.  While splurging like that is a terrible idea, we don't do it often.  We rarely, if ever, buy anything for ourselves.  So my first paycheck went towards treating ourselves.  But that's it.  No more frivolous spending until we get another car.

In my very rare amounts of down time, I've been socializing with friends and talking with family members.  I've also been putting together the Woenker Recipe Book.  When I am done, I will post free printables on here just for fun.  Just don't hold your breath.  It'll be a while!

Oh My Golly Gee Wiz!

I must say that I really do love 2012!  Travis got the job he applied for, so right now, he is finishing up the mandatory tests, background check, la di da.  I had a bit of a run-in with my financial aid.  It still hasn't shown up in the mail yet, which is super frustrating.  In order to keep my financial aid, I had to register for 6 credit hours instead of only 4.  That means I would have to complete 300 hours at my internship.  I asked my supervisor, and she said that worked great for her!  I'm super happy it all worked out.  Plus, I freaking LOVE my job at the zoo.  Right now, I'm making training videos.  It is super fun because I get to see all the animals up close.  Sorry, I cannot post pictures.  It's against the policy.  But let me tell you, I've pretty much gotten over my fear of snakes. haha!

This has become a fantastic month as well.  Previously, I applied to 1 job here in town.  I was not expecting to get a call back.  Last week, I was offered an interview.  I just came back from it.  The job sounds great.  I know I would enjoy it.  I don't know if it is something I really want to do, but hey, it's a job!  I'd be an administrative/marketing assistant that helps with their social media sites.  Definitely a job that is in my niche.  The great thing about it was that out of 155 applicants, they only chose the top ten applicants they liked for an interview.  Yup, that's right kiddos.  I was one of them!  My interview blunder:  I totally under-sold myself.  They asked what I would expect in compensation on an hourly basis.  Uh... I probably should have thought about that.  I'm so used to being told how much I make.  I didn't take into consideration how much I expect to get paid hourly.  I figured for salary, maybe $30-$40,000.  Yeah.... ::cringes:: I said $10-$13/hour, but I would have to think about it more depending on the amount of work I would be doing.  YIKES!   I sold myself short by $10!  ::facepalm::  I feel like crawling under a rock.  But who knows, maybe they'll see that I am genuine.  Maybe they'll pay me a decent wage for my work if they hire me, not the low-ball price I said.  And who knows, maybe everyone else was asking for a much higher wage and the interviewers tuned them out.  I still cannot believe I did that.  I have to keep reminding myself... this is a big kid job!  Not some side, part-time gig to make ends meet.  GAH, I'm worth more than that!

However, I did get offered a job that might pay more.  I was invited to an interview with one of the top ten companies to work for in Fort Wayne, IN.  The position is a Recruiting Coordinator/Client Support position.  They found me through Monster.com.  We'll see where the wind takes me.  It would be nice to have options available.  Besides, I'm really blessed.  Two offers for an interview when I wasn't really trying to look for a job... that's pure blessings.  So many people out there are struggling to find a job.  My heart goes out to them.  It's such a scary position to be in.  Even if I do not get either of these jobs, I still remember to count my blessings.  I was offered TWO interviews.  Let's just say that I'm worth more than I originally thought I was.  That, my friends, makes all the difference.

So, to make me feel a little better, anyone want to share their greatest interview blunders? :P

Here's to a New Beginning!

We are officially starting over!  I think 2012 is going to be our year!  I finished my classes at Indiana University and now I am finishing up 200 hours of an internship before graduation.  I will be graduating in May 2012!  I can't believe it is finally here!  Travis and I packed up our things, and we moved in with my father-in-law and grandfather-in-law.  They are fantastic.  We have lived here almost 2 weeks.  Mornings are spent talking to grandpa and enjoying a nice cup of coffee with some danishes.  In the evenings, we sometimes lounge in the living room with dad and watch TV shows.  Once in a while, we visit with friends and family.  I'm slowly figuring my way around Fort Wayne.  It's a little confusing, but I'll get the hang of it soon enough.

Today was a great day.  I found out that I begin working next week at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo as an intern in Public Relations and Social Media.  It was meant to be.  They were looking for someone to help with the social media and communications department - and that is what I do best!  Since the internship won't be every day, I'm looking for a part-time job to fill in some of the gaps.  Travis just received a phone call about a job he applied for on Friday.  They really liked his experience and quickness with math.  He has an interview this Friday, so fingers are crossed!  I am also getting a chance to really put my talents to work.  I am putting together multiple websites for different companies and organizations voluntarily.  Right now, I am finishing up a website for Merle Norman Luxe Spa & Salon in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  Then I will be working on an interactive website for an awareness/support group for Intestinal Malrotation.  I think the hardest part about web design is the color scheme.  That's what I'm playing around with right now for the awareness/support group's website.

We still have the apartment in Bloomington.  It is available if anyone is interested.  Right now, we need to pay next month's rent, and it will automatically be put on the market as vacant.  We have to pay the rent and electricity until someone decides to take the lease.  Then, our lease is no longer in existence.  Our apartment complex is a great area, and they currently have no vacancies.  People have been looking for a one-bedroom apartment, and after our luck with trying to find a sublessor - the complex decided to help us with the process so that they can advertise an available apartment for the demand they have been receiving.

We only have one medical bill left to pay.  Then we have about $1000 in credit cards to pay off.  We still only have one car, but it'll work just fine.  My internship is in walking distance, and family members have offered to drop me off or pick me up whenever I need a ride.  Once Travis is working, he'll more than likely use the car more than me.  And my internship isn't every day of the week, so I will be able to pick him up and drop him off whenever I have errands to run and he needs to work.  Right now, Travis and I have developed a goal list.

1.  Re-establish $1000 in our savings fund (we had to use the money to move)
2.  Pay off remaining medical bill.
3.  Pay off credit cards.
4.  Buy a second car.
5.  Save up for an apartment (or possibly a house).

Things are really starting to look up for us.  All I can say is: it's about time!  Travis and I made some New Year's resolutions, and the number 1 resolution is "Always stay positive."  So far, it's been working.  Positivity goes a long way! :)

I hope everyone enjoyed their holidays and are off to a great start to the new year!  Just for fun, what are your goals for this upcoming new year as you build your nest?

Where Are We Going? Who Cares, Let's Dance!

I didn't find a work study position.  But that's ok.  I got things worked out with the financial aid office.  Right now, I'm just focused on getting through this semester.  It is rather chaotic.  Doing 18 credit hours worth of work, two intensive writing courses, two astronomy classes (I'm not that great at science)... plus I'm trying to figure out an internship for next semester.

Travis and I have been having a mini-identity crisis.  We have no idea what we are going to do with our lives.  Choosing a career is such a HUGE decision.  It isn't something to just take lightly.  After having some disappointment with Trav's job, he's made the decision to go to college.  We are going to be sticking around Bloomington just a little longer.  He's been fancying a nationally recognized program at Indiana University.  I think it fits him perfectly.  I think... wait, I know he will be happy in this field.  He is interested in two majors.  I don't think he can double major - but the majors are so similar, a lot of the courses can be counted for both.  So until he finds his niche, he won't be sacrificing years at college if he chooses to do one major over the other.  The majors are a B.S. in Park & Recreation Management and a B.S. in Outdoor Recreation and Resource Management.  Getting set up for next year is actually on Trav's To-Do List for today!  This will be exciting!  

What am I going to do?  Well I have no idea.  I won't lie.  Not long ago, I attended a networking night on campus.  I met a gentleman from a local publishing company.  It is a fast growing publishing company!  As I talked with him, the company sounded better and better.  It literally fit everything I desire in a career.  I asked the gentleman about internships.  He responded saying that the company does not believe in un-paid internships.  That sounds amazing, right?  Well, due to budgeting, they do not have room currently for interns.  I was crushed.  I need an internship to graduate next semester.  I am really looking to intern for a company where I could be hired on full-time.  This publishing company has multiple job openings.  The hours are a typical 8-5 shift, but starting and ending times can vary once in a while.  Even though they are not hiring interns, they are hiring full-time positions.  What would be the harm in applying now anyways?  I have really no commitments next semester.  

The problem:  I still need 20 hours a week in an internship (Rabble Rabble).  So, I did a lot of research these past few days.  I have a strong interest for genealogy.  I've been exposed to genealogy since I was a wee-little thing.  I have a passion for research.  I contemplated going to graduate school, but I am afraid I will over-qualify myself for the careers that I want.  I really feel like my only desire to continue to graduate school is my love for writing and research.  Well... if I apply for a position with a publishing company - I satisfy my writing passion.  Where could I get the research?  Genealogy!  I looked online for the genealogical library here in Bloomington.  They hire interns and are in need for volunteers all the time!  They have flexible scheduling, because they expect that majority of interns and volunteers work during the day!  Why, this is perfect!  They are not open on Sunday or Monday, but they are open on Fridays and Saturdays.  I could dedicate a lot of hours on Fridays and Saturdays (when they need people most) to an internship!  I could work in Event Planning or the Genealogical Library.  I really like this idea!

So today, I am meeting with the career center on campus.  I have so many questions to ask.  I'd also like them to review my resume and help me with cover letters.  I have such a difficult time selling myself.  Maybe it's because of a lack of direction and/or self-confidence and fear of rejection.  I don't know.  But I always blow it on interviews.  I practice with family and friends - and I do great practicing interviews.  Yet, the moment arises to hand over my resume and tell the possible employer about myself, and I fumble.  More than likely, I'm going to need another appointment with the career advisor.  But I'm super excited to at least talk to someone today about my career objectives.  We'll see how it goes.

Oh yeah!  I haven't updated the stats, but we paid off another medical bill!!  YAY!  And we have more money in our emergency fund!  We still have a ways to go, but we're getting closer!  

Happy dance! 

happy dance+animation pics on Sodahead

Opportunities, but What Path Should I Take?

Well, I have put out my resumes for work study positions.  I have to have a work study set by September 30th!  YIKES!  I'm just waiting to hear back from these people.  As of yesterday, the IDS school newspaper and student media has scheduled an orientation for me:  Thursday, September 22nd at 7 PM.  This should be fun!  It's definitely ideal, since afterall, I'll get to play around with many more interactive programs for the internet and come up with fun blog and website ideas.  I know I'll like it.

However, I had my heart set on a work study position at this theater here in town.  It is a historic theater, and the work study positions were as assistants in public relations and marketing.  It is totally up my alley.  I would love this.  But they haven't e-mailed me or called me back all week.  I'm bummed.  But who knows, maybe they'll ask for me to join their crew later?  This ideal situation has me thinking....

I will not turn away this position with the IDS school newspaper and student media.  As a matter of fact, it is a paying job.  But they work with the university, so I can do my work study there.  AWESOME!  But what if... what if the theater calls me up and says that they want to hire me as their work study assistant?  I don't know if I could switch work study jobs.... My ideal situation would be to set up the IDS as a work study position.  Then IF the theater hires me, I'd like to switch my work study position to the theater (because they only hire work-study), and take the IDS as a part time job.  If I did that... I would have to quit my job at Five Guys.

I won't lie.  Quitting Five Guys sounds awesome because the work is just not my cup of tea.  I needed a job.  I got the job.  I established great relationships there.  I haven't worked there long, but I really like the crew (some of them) and my bosses.  One of my bosses is one of my references.  I would hate to lose a good reference by being a short-term employee.  I've been there for about a month and a half.  To put my 2 weeks notice in (IF I get the theater job) now... I feel like I'm cheating on them!  Why?!  I have no idea.  But there is no way I could do 18 credit hours in school and work 3 jobs.  No. Way.  Besides, the IDS position and the theater are in my field of studies.... Five Guys is not.

So, I am kind of worried.  I would hate to let everyone at Five Guys down.  I'd hate to leave them.  But I will have to if these opportunities present themselves.  And, I'm worried about what that will do to my references....  Also, there is an incentive to stay.... a chance at $1000 (which is highly likely due to our scores) at the end of the quarter.  An extra $1000 on my last paycheck there would be super nice.


Other than that, we're still kickin' it.  We've got all the bills caught up.  We're doing alright.  I'm a little bit behind on my school work.  I'm going to get serious about catching up this weekend.  Luckily, nothing is going on this weekend that will prevent me from spending a lot of time reading.

Everyone Wants Paid... Except Me?

I am really frustrated with my previous job at the moment.  I have a $300-$400 check that was mailed to the wrong address.  I have went in personally to speak with the supervisors about my check, and the gentleman took my name, my correct address, and my phone number.  He told me that he would "take care of it."  A week went by, and I still hadn't received it.  So I called, only to be directed to voicemail.  I left a detailed message, explaining my paycheck was mailed to the wrong address and I would like to know the status of my paycheck.  I did not get a call back.

Here it is, one month later, and I still haven't received it.  I went in another time, only to give my information all over again to someone new.  I called a total of 5 times.  By this point, I was upset.  More like pissed off.  I had to go in person again to the office.  ALL of the supervisors were standing outside smoking.  The gentleman I spoke to the first time said bye to everyone and left.  Convenient.... As I spoke to another supervisor, this girl tries to give me every excuse in the book.

"We just fired a bunch of staff."
That sucks... I don't really care.

"We cannot handle checks here."
Ok, direct me to someone who can.

"Oh, I remember you.  Did you not get my e-mail?"
Nope, never got an e-mail.

"Did someone call you?"
No, that's why I'm here.

Then another supervisor (the one who told me that during my telemarketing calls, if the prospect says they are dying of cancer, I was supposed to ask "is it terminal?") comes up and asks if my check is even valid.  He began asking if there even was a check for me.  He was trying to persuade me into thinking this check didn't exist.  I gave him a snarky remark, saying I know for a fact because the other supervisor had told me it existed!  And um... HELLOOO.... I freaking worked for free practically!  That's not going to just fly by me.

After pressing for a while, the girl finally repeats, "well, we don't handle paychecks here."  I asked her who does.  She gives me the name, e-mail address, and phone number of the lady that handles the paychecks.  Then she feeds me the additional excuse, "yeah, like I said, we just fired a bunch of people last week, so it has been hectic."  I reply that this has been an issue for over a month now.  I wasn't buying the excuse.  She gives me a snarky apology, and the other supervisor (the one that didn't believe me) says that there was no way a paycheck could be lost for a month unless I didn't contact them about it.  Fired up, I responded, "Well, after coming in here multiple times and having my voicemails ignored, I don't really care what's happening here.  If I have to return here again, I'll bring my attorney with me."  They restate that they don't handle the paychecks, so I replied, "well then I'm sure your higher ups won't mind speaking to my attorney about your mishap."  I thanked them, and left.

They tried telling me that they don't handle the paychecks - which I know is a downright lie.  They handle them bi-weekly.  They send the paychecks out.  They were the ones that sent the paycheck to the wrong address.  And they were the ones avoiding my calls about the status of my paycheck for an entire month.

All the while, I think of how I received numerous calls from debt collectors and bills in the mail.  Everything has a due date.  I cannot go past the due date without paying - or else I could be given a fee.  But, when it comes to people paying ME back, they can take as long as they can.  Not only am I waiting on this paycheck, I'm still waiting on my reimbursement check from the Pathologists for over-paying.  Everyone wants their money, and they want it now.  But if I don't get paid for my work, I'm supposed to wait for when it is convenient for them.  What a load of crap!  UGH.

Everyone wants paid... but apparently I don't..... **sarcasm**

Time Got Away from Me.

So much is going on!  I am so sorry I left ya'll behind!  I'm going to update you on EVERYTHING! :)

My husband received a promotion at his job!  It is now a typical 9-5 job.  He has more responsibility at the business.  I am so proud of him!  On top of this 9-5 job, he is also working with me at a burger joint called Five Guys Burgers and Fries.  That's right.  We both picked up a second job and are working together!  It's a lot of fun, and our bosses like us.  Hard work pays off.

As for me, I am pulling 18 credit hours this semester.  I was able to receive grants and aid to cover my education costs.  I will be walking in the graduation ceremony this December, however I won't actually be finished with my degree until May 2012.  Since I am doing 18 credit hours this semester, I barely have time for fun.  But the sacrifice is so worth it.  I only have 4 credit hours once this semester is over - and those 4 credits are dedicated to an internship.  It seems absolutely crazy, and honestly, my life is so hectic.  However, in the long run, it is going to be cheaper than doing 12 credit hours this semester and 10 credit hours next.  Plus, next semester, I'll only be doing 20 hours a week for the internship.  The rest of my time will be dedicated to a work study position that is 10 hours a week, and a remaining 10-20 hours a week for my part-time job at Five Guys.  It's doable.  It's stressful, but it's going to be so worth it.

Right now, I'm always doing homework, I'm always in class or at work, and I have to say "no" to many of the invitations friends give me.  So many friends and family members will beg, guilt trip me, or try to persuade me into thinking I deserve time off.  My only response is, "my time off will be paid back to me in due time."  Right now, looking at all the bills and having graduation so close I can taste it, I don't want "time off."  I want to push harder.  I have more drive, more motivation.  I'll get up some days and dread being busy for 13-15 hours.  But I look at how much all this work is going to pay me back in due time.  I'll drag my feet to make it to class or to whine about writing papers every week, but in the end, I do it with vigor and passion.  I don't half-ass (excuse the language) anything because this is not just what I need, I have everything I really need; this is what I want, and that's what makes the difference.

Unfortunately, we were not able to sell the car.  We still have it with a "For Sale" sign on it, but no one is interested.  Husband turned the car on and found out the brake line had broken.  We've still put up a Craigslist ad for it, but no one has been interested in it.  If no one buys it, we're selling it for scrap parts.

GOOD NEWS THOUGH!

We're paying off our debts completely!  Woo hoo!!  I am super excited about it!  We've also paid off the remaining amount required for my student loans.  It is now officially in deferment until 3 months after graduation.  So far, as it looks, we should have 2 more debts completely paid off by 2012!  We have also added to our emergency fund!  This gives me such motivation to keep on keepin' on!

So right now:
- Emergency fund $123.91
- Husband's Promptcare Lab bill Paid off as of Sept. 1, 2011
- Sallie Mae $150 bill for deferment Paid off as of Sept. 1, 2011
- Direct Loans $323.74 bill Paid off as of Sept. 14, 2011
- Unity Physician's bill Currently $904 remaining
- Dr. Greene bill Currently $540 remaining
- SIRA radiology bill Currently $325 remaining
- Capital One credit card Currently $492.12 remaining
- Credit One credit card Currently $306 remaining

Putting in the Extra Effort.

Today has been a great day!  My husband's unemployment FINALLY arrived.  Turns out, they had put all the deposits on the wrong card.  Yeah....  their mistake took a while to fix.  So, today, we finally received the unemployment card and we paid off many of our bills.  It felt great to finally get caught up.

So, I had a hold at the financial aid office.  A hold means they wouldn't allow me to access my financial aid money.  I went into the financial aid office today, and I asked them what the dealio was.  Turns out, they just need a statement from my advisor saying I am graduating in May.  ::shrug::  I'll just give them what they want and schedule an appointment tomorrow with my advisor.  Kind of annoying, but oh well.  But, I do believe I qualify for work study.  I already know there is an available position at the Career Center on campus.  I've already spoken to someone about it.  I just have to wait for the hold at the financial aid office to go away before I can apply for the position.  I really want this work study at the Career Center, because I will have access to all the information about job fairs, resume building, career advising, etc.  That is so perfect for my senior year.  The work study would only allow 10 hours a week. But that is why I have my part-time job at Five Guys Burgers & Fries.

My husband did something pretty cool today.  My parents came to visit - a surprise visit.  That was completely fine with me.  We never get to see our families much, so when they surprise us with a visit, we are overly excited about it.  We just tidied up the apartment after we got all our errands done for the day, and just in time for my parents' arrival.  My parents *always* want to see where I'm working.  I don't know why... they are just curious and excited, I guess.  Last week, they visited my sister (who is an occupational therapist) during her lunch break, and she showed them around a little bit.  I guess it's just something we grew up accustomed to....  So, when they came, they wanted to go eat at Five Guys and they wanted dessert from my husband's bakery.  It was fun!  We had a great time.  So, how does this apply to my husband doing something pretty cool?  While we were at Five Guys, we casually talked to my boss and my boss's boss (the GM and the owner).  My husband just got to talking with the guys, and they ended up hiring him on the spot!

So yes, my husband and I will be working a part-time job together at Five Guys Burgers and Fries.  I think it is hilariously awesome.  Everyone has asked me, "do you want to work with your husband?"  This is how I look at it:  it pays the bills.  Beggars can't be choosers.  Why does it matter if I'm working the same job as my husband?  Sure, we might drive each other crazy - but a job is a job - and if you are desperate for money, you take what you can get.  Needless to say, I'm very happy for my hubby.  He's taking this "building our nest" seriously.  So seriously, he's picking up another job.  And I'm super happy he got the job!  This is going to be a saving grace!

I just had to brag about how awesome my darling hubby is.  Putting in the extra effort is tough, but we're doing whatever we can to get where we want to be.