So- Have you been reading the news???

Well, at least you know now. Scary as hell trying to decide what to do. If you do decide to come to DC, you have room and board.  Seriously, how much can an RNYr eat? lol  Do think about it. As far as I know, our neighbor still drives in to Merrifield every day alone. If you happen to land at Merrifield you could take advantage of HOV with him. 

((hugs))

--gina
 

Gina - thanks for the offer!  I'm using Marriott points from my travels, so its not costing us anything for the hotel. 

Actually, they're doing the same thing to Merrifield.  Part of that place is falling under us now - its just crazy how they've changed EVERYTHING - but I'm sure its for the better. 

I considered cancelling our vacation, but we BOTH need it terribly.  Actually, he needs it worse than I do... LOL... but it will be good for us to get away for awhile.

I have no words of wisdom or even advice, I have been a Stay at home Mom for 9 years now ( I am an ex Correctional Officer ) and we have managed with his income now for years. I am in the process of trying to find a part time job (on my term) to help out but I know it can be difficult. I am definately sending critters your way!

It is SCARY. 

When DH was laid off a few years ago, we were definately stressed.  He wasn't in good health and was 64 and no one was going to hire him.  After 9 months of paying cobra 1900.00 a month, he got a job driving a school bus which gave him enough hours that we could buy into the state insurance plan.  Things worked out but it was touch and go for a while.  Doors will open but it may be only a crack.

Study your options.  You are a smart lady and can make the best of this.

Sorry to hear this Jody!  It sounds like you've been mentally preparing for it though and that makes a big difference!  You will figure out what works for you!  You know a couple years is miniscule........you could go back to DC for a short time just to ensure you will beable to make it for the next 30.....I have faith you will make the best decision for you.......I'll be swinging for you hun that it all works out for you!  Take your time deciding and crunch all the numbers and go with what's most important to you!

Oh Jody, I'm so sorry!!  I know I talk about retiring a lot but I sure don't want to lose any money by having to go out early after working all these years and I know you don't either.

Maybe your package deal will be better than you think.  If not, think about all your options, if you only have 3 more years and the difference is $13000 per year, I would probably have to think seriously about trying for a DC position. 

Can you keep your health insurance the rest of your life??  We can if we retire and it is at the same employee rate instead of COBRA rate.

I sure hope everything works out for you and you can enjoy your retirement after working all these years for it.  You deserve it!!

Linda

Jody,
I'm so sorry about your job.  I don't know how to advise you, but I will remember you in prayer that you will make the decision that is right for you.  

Gee Jody, sorry you are having a time of it. 
You sound like you've done your thinking, and are weighing the pros/cons of each.
I hate making a decision without knowing every single fact: and sometimes that just isn't possible.  I'm not much of a gambler, and I'm not sure if I could gamble the next 30 years of my life/income.

Good luck. You're a smart lady and will make the right decision for yourself.
tracey 

Sorry to hear your news!  You have a great attitude about all of this ... or maybe you are shell shocked????  =)
 
Regardless ... Swinging lots of critters for you...

Wow!  That is a real kick in the ass!!  It would drive me right to the pantry for food..or outside for a long walk.  I hope things work out for you. I can only imagine the stress you are going through.  I hope the numbers come in to your benefit!