This is it...

I'm officially RETIRED on May 31st.  Today was my last day of work.  WOW - what a change in my life... exciting but scary at the same time.

I've been applying for jobs but have heard nada back from any of them.  Today I found a Bariatric Program Coordinator job at a hospital in Saginaw - I applied for it but won't be considered because I'm not an RN and that was a requirement.  I can be a Program Manager without an RN degree, especially if I've got the life experience necessary to do it!!  I wrote a nice cover letter explaining how I could still do the job without the required degree, but I doubt I'll hear from them.  I figured I had to give it a shot. 

I've got a possible Program Mgr job that is a temporary position (which is ok) with the Navy from my buddy out in the DC area (actually its an ex-boyfriend).  Its about a 60/40 chance it will happen.  I'm ok with that.  Actually I'd LOVE a temp job until things settle down financially for me, then I can see where I'm at and decide whether I want to keep working or not.

LOTS of life changes with my son moving to Houston, me retiring and looking for a job, etc.  I may be buying me a "new" retirement present to myself.  If I do, I'll be sure to post a pic and let everyone know.  The bosses in DC did call me today and wished me the best, thanked me for my years of service, etc.  Was nice, didn't expect it. 

I'm looking at it as a new chapter in my life.  Yes, at times I do stress about it, but get over it pretty quick.  I'm fortunate Tom's on board with it and keeps telling me "everything will work out ok"... glad he thinks so - LOL. 

My girlfriend has a summer home about 45 mins from here and her and hubby will be there all week.  I may go spend a day with her for some girl R&R time.  Its been a long time since we've seen each other. 

One of the main reasons I want a temporary job is so that when its winter time I can go to FL to see her and TX to see my son... do a little traveling to the warmer climates.  By then my finances should be straightened around - I hope!!

Hope everyone has a GREAT Memorial Weekend.  The weather here is supposed to rain at night and clear up by 8 or 9 am each morning - that's the way it supposed to be!!!

Jody, congratulations on your service and retirement! I'm sure all these new decisions you are having to make are pretty exciting. You would be perfect for the Bariatric Program Coordinator position! I hope they see past the silly requirements.

Enjoy the next few days!!

Thanks for the vote of confidence Carla!  Its been a tough job search out there - seems to be LOTS of qualified applicants for every job... oh well...

Jody, I'm really excited for you! 

When I lost my job 3 years ago I had a lot of decisions to make but I took my time, spoiled my 2 new grandbabies, and enjoyed sleeping in every day....Oh and I almost forgot the most important thing...had WLS.   Take a little Jody time and enjoy yourself a little.   It took me 2 years until I decided I was ready to go back to work.  I love my job now and so glad I didn't rush into some of the other ones I was offered.

Is the something "new" going to be a new bike?

Nope... not a new bike....

What a great new adventure for you! I'm so happy for you. And wouldn't you be perfect for the Bariatric PC! If they were able to truly know you, you'd get that job in a snap.

I can't wait to be able to travel frequently. It'll be a blast!

Enjoy the YOU time!

Thanks Kelly! 

Congratulations, Jody. Your plan sounds perfect. I hope it works out the way you want it. Part time 1/2 the year and travel the other 1/2 sounds wonderful. Job well done, Jody!

--gina

Now I just need to find that perfect job where I can do that - LOL... I hear Home Depot calling!!

With your shopping savvy, why not retail or personal shopper? Maybe market yourself towards new biker wifies as a biker babe with style. lol