Update On My Life...
I haven't been on for a couple of weeks. Life has been very busy, all work related. Here is an update...
I retired from my job on October 31st, and returned to work as a "temporary" on November 1st. Life's path is uncertain, and I don't know what is next. I'm not not in a position to really be retired financially - so I need to work.
So, I work for the local electric utility, I was a director of power stations. We, like many companies, reorganized and my job was cut. However, the most painful part of the re-organization is that is has taken years. It was announced in 2004, and they are still filling the director and higher slots. The skilled workforce (engineers and high voltage electrical workers) are leaving faster than they can be replaced - it appears they appreciate stability in employment. So, for over a year I was involved in contract negotiations on behalf of management. Then I was asked to work to develop an asset management program, which I'm now working on. We've brought in some consultants and our final product is due next week.
However, since my job was eliminated, I needed to move to another job or retire. Since they weren't going to meet my request for a pay raise, I retired. Yet, they still needed the work done. So, I came back as a temporary employee. The company says they want me to become a consultant, I still have to find out if they are serious, or if they are just saying it so they don't feel bad as I head out into the sunset.
So the options are: get a job, any job; become a consultant (and pick up my professional project manager certificate); or go back to school and be a teacher. If I get a job/become a consultant, then I'd volunteer with the schools.
I'm all mixed up and not certain where I'm going. However, I do get some retirement income so I won't be broke. It will be years before social security, and paying for health care sucks up $700 a month for my husband and I (ouch). Thus, a job is a requirement.
Attitude - overall, very positive. I'm having fun on this project, and even the bad options aren't really bad. Just scary to go in a new direction.
Weight wise - I've been holding for months. I'm happy with the weight maintenance. I watch what I eat, loosely, and work out at least once a week. Losing another 40 pounds would be great. But I'm thrilled with the 130 pounds that has stayed gone.
Hope you all have been doing well.
-Pam
What a privilege it is to read the special messages where you've shared unique wisdom, insight, and caring. I think you're on the right track: your options appear solid. I like the consultant idea mainly because it provides a greater measure of options.
I retire next month into a healthier life filled with so many options (after the honey-dos).
For now, I'm going to be writing and joining our financial consultant part-time.
Dave
Most Active
Recent Topics
