OT- but I need a whole lot of sympathy

 ((((hugs))))  There is so much more to a job of 23 years than employment...it becomes an identity and I'm sure lots of the longtimers become like family.  Unfortunately, this scenario is getting to be more commonplace now and I suspect it will continue into 2009.  You actually do go through a grief process, it is a loss, so be gentle with yourself and allow the sadness, anger and frustration to come out so you can be refreshed and renewed for your next adventure.  Good luck to you!  FYI...hubby lost his last job in engineering 2 1/2 years ago, it was the 2nd time in 5 years.  He decided to pursue what he always wanted to do instead of going back into engineering.  Today, he's a very happy high school physics and chemistry teacher.  And guess what...his old company scrapped their retirement health and pension plan while his union has a solid one going.  At our age (pushing 50) this is almost as important than the salary! Keep hope!

Michelle,
I'm so sorry to hear of your layoff.  Wow, how's that for thanks after 23 years?
I guess no job is "safe" any more.  My husband works in commercial construction here in So. Cal.  He was laid off in September, and there is NO work on the horizon.  We're losing our health insurance the end of this month, and that terrifies me.  He's turned to laying on the couch all day and drinking, and I'm left wondering if I can manage my full time job and perhaps look for a part time job in the evenings.  I can barely work full time with my reactive hypoglycemia in full swing. 
Take time to take care of yourself, I'm sure your expertise and skills will be valued somewhere else. Good help is very hard to find, and employers are starting to really value us "experienced" gals for our work ethic.
Big hugs,
Karen

{{{{{HUGS}}}}} to you Michele! !  I know exactly what you're going through as the program I work for is a federal contract that will not be renewed after this last year, so I will be out of work too.  You definitely will have emotional ups and downs in dealing with the process.  Be gentle with yourself and look for other ways of coping that do not involve food.  I know that is easier said than done as I'm an emotional eater.

Costco is the BOMB!!!!  It's a good thing the closest one is an hour away or I'd be there every week!  Thanks for the tip about the frozen smoothie mix...I'll have to look for it.

Mary Ellen