I can officially stop stalking the mail man.
I'M GOING TO BELIZE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I depart on March 23rd and I couldn't be happier.
I've already read my basic hand books and sent my acceptance e-mails. Now, comes the rest of the packet. The hard part. I already have a few questions. I already have a U.S. Passport and it doesn't expire until 2014, so I'm not sure if I need another.
Anyways, I wanted to share the truly awesome news!!!
This is the happiest day of my life to date :-) I can hardly contain myself!
Butlers and Black Sheep
Today makes me think of a bad joke about a butler. I don't remember much about the joke, but the punch line was that the butler did it because he was out checking the mail on Sunday.
I really dislike the fact that there is no mail delivery on Sunday when I am impatiently awaiting the arrival of the invitation that is going to change my life. It's getting close to that 5 business day deadline too. I was told that if it don't get it by Wednesday to call immediately. So hopefully it will be here by then.
So, I've been dealing with a lot of backlash from family and a lot of support from friends.
A little background - I'm actually an orphan. My foster family took me in before my last remaining parent passed, but they've NEVER been supportive of anything I do. My original dream was to actually become a plumber. I was, in a way, forced to go to college, though I ultimately realized it meant 8 months a year on my own so I ran with it. Then I decided to go to grad school after finding social work - and I was told not to do that. Makes sense right? When I chose to study abroad in Africa for a month - I told them 3 weeks before I left because I didn't want to hear any complaining and yelling about it. I learned I should not have said anything until after I came back. I know they're not going to be supportive of it and I have a feeling they know because they're packing up everything I have left in the house and having it transported to Ohio. I'm pretty sure that means my branch has been officially cut off from the family tree - at least from 90% of my family.
All the extended family that I talk to is supportive and one of their daughters, Kathy, who feels like a best friend and a Mom to me and I really look up to - her and her husband Matt are worried of course, but will support me no matter what. They're both so loving and accepting, it's a wonderful feeling.
I broke the news to my brother just now too. He was surprisingly supportive. He was more on the indifferent side, but he was helping me with suggestions either way. I was actually terrified that he would be mad, but I'm glad he's not. His wife is supportive too, but I knew she would be. She's pretty awesome. I think sometimes I like her more than him :-P
I'm really lucky to have an amazing amount of support from my friends like Meghan (Meggles), Keith, Jesse, Laura (my RPCV savior), Jordan, Mohammad, Todd, Cherry, Gwen (who I believe is also applying), Andrew T., Sean, Eric and a plethora of others.
So I'm just going to work on distracting myself today. I found a goodwill donation center down the street from my house today, so I might start attacking my closet and basement and bring them tons and tons of stuff. No matter what, it's one day I can't stalk the mail man, so we'll see what happens.
Thanks for listening to my rambling today. :-)
I really dislike the fact that there is no mail delivery on Sunday when I am impatiently awaiting the arrival of the invitation that is going to change my life. It's getting close to that 5 business day deadline too. I was told that if it don't get it by Wednesday to call immediately. So hopefully it will be here by then.
So, I've been dealing with a lot of backlash from family and a lot of support from friends.
A little background - I'm actually an orphan. My foster family took me in before my last remaining parent passed, but they've NEVER been supportive of anything I do. My original dream was to actually become a plumber. I was, in a way, forced to go to college, though I ultimately realized it meant 8 months a year on my own so I ran with it. Then I decided to go to grad school after finding social work - and I was told not to do that. Makes sense right? When I chose to study abroad in Africa for a month - I told them 3 weeks before I left because I didn't want to hear any complaining and yelling about it. I learned I should not have said anything until after I came back. I know they're not going to be supportive of it and I have a feeling they know because they're packing up everything I have left in the house and having it transported to Ohio. I'm pretty sure that means my branch has been officially cut off from the family tree - at least from 90% of my family.
All the extended family that I talk to is supportive and one of their daughters, Kathy, who feels like a best friend and a Mom to me and I really look up to - her and her husband Matt are worried of course, but will support me no matter what. They're both so loving and accepting, it's a wonderful feeling.
I broke the news to my brother just now too. He was surprisingly supportive. He was more on the indifferent side, but he was helping me with suggestions either way. I was actually terrified that he would be mad, but I'm glad he's not. His wife is supportive too, but I knew she would be. She's pretty awesome. I think sometimes I like her more than him :-P
I'm really lucky to have an amazing amount of support from my friends like Meghan (Meggles), Keith, Jesse, Laura (my RPCV savior), Jordan, Mohammad, Todd, Cherry, Gwen (who I believe is also applying), Andrew T., Sean, Eric and a plethora of others.
So I'm just going to work on distracting myself today. I found a goodwill donation center down the street from my house today, so I might start attacking my closet and basement and bring them tons and tons of stuff. No matter what, it's one day I can't stalk the mail man, so we'll see what happens.
Thanks for listening to my rambling today. :-)
Quote stolen from another prospective PC Volunteer
Not sure where she got it or if she wrote it, but..
"It is not extraordinary for a woman to depend on herself, to travel independently, to learn about freedom at a young age, to carry these lessons forward in life, and to feel more like a woman for seeing the world than for introducing new life into it." ~ERIIKA ETSHOKIN
"It is not extraordinary for a woman to depend on herself, to travel independently, to learn about freedom at a young age, to carry these lessons forward in life, and to feel more like a woman for seeing the world than for introducing new life into it." ~ERIIKA ETSHOKIN
I know it won't be here today, but...
I can't help singing this song.
Dear Mr. Postman, look and see, do you have an invite in your bag for me? I've been waiting such a long time, to hear of that placement of mine <3
The last torturous days of waiting
Now that I've been officially INVITED comes the torturous days of stalking the mail carrier.
So here's the sitch:
I've been nominated for Youth Development in Latin America/The Caribbean for March 2011.
That only leaves Mexico or Belize on the table according to wiki which I am trusting with my life right now - literally.
Mexico leaves March 14th and Belize leaves March 23rd.
6 weeks from today is March 11th, so I'm really hoping it's Belize for many reasons.
1) More time to get my stuff together and fly around to see my loved ones. - that would be 12 whole extra days.
2) I really want to explore their rainforest. I've got a thing for the rainforest. I've been to a few and I'm happiest there.
3) I'd more likely get to learn a more unique language. I know conversational Spanish already, but I've love to learn Creole, Garifuna or Mayan or ALL OF THEM!
So now it's the torturous days waiting for invite. Tonight at work I came up with various plans on how to stalk the mail/ups/fed ex delivery person. These ranged from building a giant version of the mousetrap game to finding a homeless duckling and training it to alert me when any sort of mail carrier or delivery person arrived :-) Personally, I think the duckling idea is less messy and far more adorable.
I will definitely be posting more as I know it. I'm going to lay in bed and not sleep now, since it's going to be impossible for the next several days... BUT FOR THE BEST REASON EVER!!!
So here's the sitch:
I've been nominated for Youth Development in Latin America/The Caribbean for March 2011.
That only leaves Mexico or Belize on the table according to wiki which I am trusting with my life right now - literally.
Mexico leaves March 14th and Belize leaves March 23rd.
6 weeks from today is March 11th, so I'm really hoping it's Belize for many reasons.
1) More time to get my stuff together and fly around to see my loved ones. - that would be 12 whole extra days.
2) I really want to explore their rainforest. I've got a thing for the rainforest. I've been to a few and I'm happiest there.
3) I'd more likely get to learn a more unique language. I know conversational Spanish already, but I've love to learn Creole, Garifuna or Mayan or ALL OF THEM!
So now it's the torturous days waiting for invite. Tonight at work I came up with various plans on how to stalk the mail/ups/fed ex delivery person. These ranged from building a giant version of the mousetrap game to finding a homeless duckling and training it to alert me when any sort of mail carrier or delivery person arrived :-) Personally, I think the duckling idea is less messy and far more adorable.
I will definitely be posting more as I know it. I'm going to lay in bed and not sleep now, since it's going to be impossible for the next several days... BUT FOR THE BEST REASON EVER!!!
OMG - I'm IN!!!!
I was sitting here writing a blog.
I got a call from the 202 area code.
Of course, I picked up!!!
It ended up being my final interview!!!!!!
And.....
I'M IN!!!
Original nomination stuck!!!! Potential departure date: March 2011. Latin America/The Caribbean.
I'm really excited and completely terrified at the same time, if that makes sense.
It's either Belize or Mexico. Obviously I have my silent preference, but I'M BEING INVTED!!!!!
Please blue packet, come in the mail ASAP!!!
I got a call from the 202 area code.
Of course, I picked up!!!
It ended up being my final interview!!!!!!
And.....
I'M IN!!!
Original nomination stuck!!!! Potential departure date: March 2011. Latin America/The Caribbean.
I'm really excited and completely terrified at the same time, if that makes sense.
It's either Belize or Mexico. Obviously I have my silent preference, but I'M BEING INVTED!!!!!
Please blue packet, come in the mail ASAP!!!
Just a quick note
Looks like a lot of people got their invites today/yesterday, so....
CONGRATULATIONS ALL!!!
Just wanted to send out some love before I hit the hay.
CONGRATULATIONS ALL!!!
Just wanted to send out some love before I hit the hay.
I keep having these dreams...
I keep having these vivid dreams of being contacted by my placement officer (whoever that is) by phone, having my interview and being accepted. Then the dream skips to my invite, but when I open it it's all filled out, except the spot where I'm going. Then it skips to me being in a country that's warm, sunny and naturally beautiful with these amazing people all around me as I walk down a dirt road on my way to a fresh market.
I really hope my dream comes true soon. Especially if my original nomination is going to stick. I figured out that if this nomination sticks, (which I hope it does), the last possible day I could get my invite would be February 9th, because that's exactly 6 weeks from departure of the last program that fits my original nomination (granted I would LOVE that last program).
But unfortunately the last few nights have been merely a dream. I really hope it comes true and soon.
On a random side note, where is everyone getting their cool widgets that they keep on their page like about other countries and maps of places you've been? I'd love to put some of those on my page too :-)
I really hope my dream comes true soon. Especially if my original nomination is going to stick. I figured out that if this nomination sticks, (which I hope it does), the last possible day I could get my invite would be February 9th, because that's exactly 6 weeks from departure of the last program that fits my original nomination (granted I would LOVE that last program).
But unfortunately the last few nights have been merely a dream. I really hope it comes true and soon.
On a random side note, where is everyone getting their cool widgets that they keep on their page like about other countries and maps of places you've been? I'd love to put some of those on my page too :-)
RAS is back again
So knowing that I'm supposed to depart in March is awesome, but also making me more restless than ever. I've counted by date to know exactly when the last possible date the Peace Corps could send me an invite. This way I know if I haven't heard within a week of then, I should be really, really worried.
I want to feel great about this and I want to go soooooo badly, especially to my nominated area, but I just have this ominous feeling I'm going to get pushed back again, which would make me truly upset. I really hope I'm wrong. In the meantime, I can hopefully continue condensing my life and hoping for the best.
Any suggestions how to handle my continuing RAS? I've had it for months now and I thought it was under control, but not really anymore. HELP!
I want to feel great about this and I want to go soooooo badly, especially to my nominated area, but I just have this ominous feeling I'm going to get pushed back again, which would make me truly upset. I really hope I'm wrong. In the meantime, I can hopefully continue condensing my life and hoping for the best.
Any suggestions how to handle my continuing RAS? I've had it for months now and I thought it was under control, but not really anymore. HELP!
Heartbreak and Haircuts
So this is going to be a long post filled with ups and downs. So I apologize in advance.
First things first - something mediocre - Peace Corps news - sort of. I did speak with a real live person the other day. She said my original nomination is still intact, the program departure is set for March, same region, same nomination. Of course this was immediately followed by "Nomination doesn't guarantee placement." and "Nominations can change.". I was told if I don't hear from a placement officer in a few weeks to call back. I'm really hoping my nomination sticks and I get to leave in March. That would be wonderful. I'm just afraid to get my hopes up, even though I really want to.
So some good news - I de-virginized my crock pot making some delicious chicken and black bean tacos. I have the recipe if anyone wants it. It's pretty fantastic and super healthy (at least until you put the cheese on it).
Now the bad news - I broke up with my boyfriend. I knew it was coming and it wasn't any sort of surprise. I just couldn't deal with his shenanigans anymore. He could tell me he loves me until the cows come home, but I'm a firm believer that actions speak a lot louder than words and his actions show anything, but love. Even though I knew he wouldn't be long term material and that things would ultimately end - it still sucks and still hurts. The hardest part is going to be going to his place today to get my stuff and drop of his and the key to his place.
I did get a nice haircut yesterday though and I got it colored. I was hoping she'd do something a little closer to my natural color so I can just let it grow out, but it's cute. I desperately needed a cut. I'm also learning a new song on guitar, which is cool.
That's about it really. Time for some breakfast and a hot shower, then off to pick-up/drop off stuff and keys and off to work for 8 hours of OT. At least work will distract me for a bit and I desperately need the cash.
First things first - something mediocre - Peace Corps news - sort of. I did speak with a real live person the other day. She said my original nomination is still intact, the program departure is set for March, same region, same nomination. Of course this was immediately followed by "Nomination doesn't guarantee placement." and "Nominations can change.". I was told if I don't hear from a placement officer in a few weeks to call back. I'm really hoping my nomination sticks and I get to leave in March. That would be wonderful. I'm just afraid to get my hopes up, even though I really want to.
So some good news - I de-virginized my crock pot making some delicious chicken and black bean tacos. I have the recipe if anyone wants it. It's pretty fantastic and super healthy (at least until you put the cheese on it).
Now the bad news - I broke up with my boyfriend. I knew it was coming and it wasn't any sort of surprise. I just couldn't deal with his shenanigans anymore. He could tell me he loves me until the cows come home, but I'm a firm believer that actions speak a lot louder than words and his actions show anything, but love. Even though I knew he wouldn't be long term material and that things would ultimately end - it still sucks and still hurts. The hardest part is going to be going to his place today to get my stuff and drop of his and the key to his place.
I did get a nice haircut yesterday though and I got it colored. I was hoping she'd do something a little closer to my natural color so I can just let it grow out, but it's cute. I desperately needed a cut. I'm also learning a new song on guitar, which is cool.
That's about it really. Time for some breakfast and a hot shower, then off to pick-up/drop off stuff and keys and off to work for 8 hours of OT. At least work will distract me for a bit and I desperately need the cash.
Waiting for potential answers from 202
So I received a phone call at 6:30PM last night when I was at work from a 202 area code. I couldn't run away from my desk to answer it at that moment, and of course when I got the voicemail, she had left the office (I don't blame her, that's pretty late).
Her name is Susan and hopefully she'll be able to answer some of my questions about placement. She's the head of placement for Youth and Community Development and she received my e-mail about my concern about future placement, as I wasn't told my program filled up, was never contacted by a recruiter and have a time sensitive lease and roommate to worry about. She gave me a phone number to call back, so of course I did that when I woke up this morning. I was tempted to set my alarm for 9AM this morning, but I didn't want to bombard her, so I slept in and called her about 10:30. Now I'm just anxiously waiting for that 202 to pop up on my cell phone screen...
If I hear anything, I'll let you all know.
Her name is Susan and hopefully she'll be able to answer some of my questions about placement. She's the head of placement for Youth and Community Development and she received my e-mail about my concern about future placement, as I wasn't told my program filled up, was never contacted by a recruiter and have a time sensitive lease and roommate to worry about. She gave me a phone number to call back, so of course I did that when I woke up this morning. I was tempted to set my alarm for 9AM this morning, but I didn't want to bombard her, so I slept in and called her about 10:30. Now I'm just anxiously waiting for that 202 to pop up on my cell phone screen...
If I hear anything, I'll let you all know.
Distractions and random projects
So I think I did a pretty decent job of keeping myself distracted this weekend. I was at very least, semi-productive and even had the opportunity (which rarely comes along) to do some OT at work Saturday night, which I jumped on.
My party on Sunday was a success and I felt really loved that so many people came out for my Birthday. It was really nice and mellow and lots of fun.
Today I started my boot camp class at the gym. I'll be taking it Tuesdays and Wednesdays every week for 6 weeks and I'm spending this week trying to ween myself off my fast food habit, though I will say, Chipotle doesn't count. It's healthy as long as you get a bowl instead of a burrito and skip the chips. I will limit my chipotle intake, but I am not giving it up. Even the personal trainer said it was okay when I told her what I put in my regular bowl.
So I got a response from the Peace Corps. I think they misunderstood the fact that I've never, not once been contacted by my Placement Officer. Regardless, I was given a name of someone who can at very least direct my e-mails to my placement officer to find out if all systems are still a go. I was never informed my nomination was filled up until I asked about it and it was too late. So I'm a bit concerned, but I know I'm qualified at least educationally and my volunteer work is decent.
So my next giant distraction project is one for money, time and learning. I am going to call it Crockpot 28. My goal is to cook as many healthy and tasty meals in my new crockpot over the course of 28 days. I'm allowed to have other store bought things, but minimal frozen/microwavable food. (Think about it, are we really going to have microwaves in the PC?) I'm hoping to make lots of soups and chili and other yummy things. Of course, cereal, pasta, sandwiches and other cooked food is all still good.
Recipes are gladly accepted :-) I'll post some of my favorites too.
Hopefully I'll have PC news soon though.
Oh, and does anyone know where I can see that 20/20 special online???
My party on Sunday was a success and I felt really loved that so many people came out for my Birthday. It was really nice and mellow and lots of fun.
Today I started my boot camp class at the gym. I'll be taking it Tuesdays and Wednesdays every week for 6 weeks and I'm spending this week trying to ween myself off my fast food habit, though I will say, Chipotle doesn't count. It's healthy as long as you get a bowl instead of a burrito and skip the chips. I will limit my chipotle intake, but I am not giving it up. Even the personal trainer said it was okay when I told her what I put in my regular bowl.
So I got a response from the Peace Corps. I think they misunderstood the fact that I've never, not once been contacted by my Placement Officer. Regardless, I was given a name of someone who can at very least direct my e-mails to my placement officer to find out if all systems are still a go. I was never informed my nomination was filled up until I asked about it and it was too late. So I'm a bit concerned, but I know I'm qualified at least educationally and my volunteer work is decent.
So my next giant distraction project is one for money, time and learning. I am going to call it Crockpot 28. My goal is to cook as many healthy and tasty meals in my new crockpot over the course of 28 days. I'm allowed to have other store bought things, but minimal frozen/microwavable food. (Think about it, are we really going to have microwaves in the PC?) I'm hoping to make lots of soups and chili and other yummy things. Of course, cereal, pasta, sandwiches and other cooked food is all still good.
Recipes are gladly accepted :-) I'll post some of my favorites too.
Hopefully I'll have PC news soon though.
Oh, and does anyone know where I can see that 20/20 special online???
Project Distraction
My RAS is getting out of control, so I really need to get get some distraction plans going this 3 day weekend. So I'm trying to fill it with chores and a few fun things here and there.
I desperately need to clean my house, so I might go get myself a cart full of cleaning supplies (because I know I'll go through what I have left). Then spend my Monday in my sweatpants cleaning the house from top to bottom (yes, even the basement).
I'm also hoping to at least start reading a book this weekend and go to the gym at least once. The lady from the gym rescheduled my evaluation for Monday and now my classes will be Tuesday/Thursday for 6 weeks starting this Tuesday. She tried to bribe me with a protein shake for my great inconvenience yesterday, but they already owe me a protein shake because it came with the program I bought. It was kind of insulting, but I'll take it.
I'm having a Birthday party Sunday with my friends, so I'm pretty excited for that. My one friend Rachel who I haven't talked to in a really long time is coming. I'm really excited to see her.
Saturday I have my guitar lesson to help keep me distracted, but I'm also attending an astrology class with this great astrologer I know. I always learn a lot of cool stuff at his seminars.
Another project I'm trying to formulate to help me with my RAS is the 30 day no take-out challenge. I eat lunch out pretty much every day. I do keep it healthy by mainly purchasing noodles and co and chipotle, but I'm trying to see how cheap I can go. I'm getting a crock pot as a belated festivus present, so that'll be my main helper, as I rarely have time to cook. So if anyone has any recipes they'd like to share - I would love that. :-)
Anyway, I hope everyone has a great weekend. I'll probably blog again to help with the distraction factor. Until then...
I desperately need to clean my house, so I might go get myself a cart full of cleaning supplies (because I know I'll go through what I have left). Then spend my Monday in my sweatpants cleaning the house from top to bottom (yes, even the basement).
I'm also hoping to at least start reading a book this weekend and go to the gym at least once. The lady from the gym rescheduled my evaluation for Monday and now my classes will be Tuesday/Thursday for 6 weeks starting this Tuesday. She tried to bribe me with a protein shake for my great inconvenience yesterday, but they already owe me a protein shake because it came with the program I bought. It was kind of insulting, but I'll take it.
I'm having a Birthday party Sunday with my friends, so I'm pretty excited for that. My one friend Rachel who I haven't talked to in a really long time is coming. I'm really excited to see her.
Saturday I have my guitar lesson to help keep me distracted, but I'm also attending an astrology class with this great astrologer I know. I always learn a lot of cool stuff at his seminars.
Another project I'm trying to formulate to help me with my RAS is the 30 day no take-out challenge. I eat lunch out pretty much every day. I do keep it healthy by mainly purchasing noodles and co and chipotle, but I'm trying to see how cheap I can go. I'm getting a crock pot as a belated festivus present, so that'll be my main helper, as I rarely have time to cook. So if anyone has any recipes they'd like to share - I would love that. :-)
Anyway, I hope everyone has a great weekend. I'll probably blog again to help with the distraction factor. Until then...
I waited my 1 week
So last week I spoke to placement who said that if I didn't hear anything from a recruiter in a week - to send a follow up e-mail, which is exactly what I did.
I spent a good 20 minutes writing this 1 paragraph e-mail. I made sure none of my frustrations came out (like about new graduates taking precedence). I did however mention making sure I don't get stuck in some sort of extended lease with my landlord. I'm lucky enough to have an awesome landlord, but I still need to be considerate of her as she lives in another state and I take care of some major things on her behalf like repairs and utilities.
Hopefully I'll know something soon.
On a random note, I went to this new gym I'm doing a 6 week program at for my fitness evaluation this morning. They set up an appointment for me last week, so I got up, trudged through the snow and ice in my rear wheel drive car - made it there- 30 minutes later - no trainer. I had to leave since they were clearly not showing up. It was sad. I was really looking forward to that and starting the program on Monday, that I can't start now because I didn't have my evaluation. :-(
Anyways, that's all for now. If I hear anything from PC, I'll definitely post. In the meantime I'm just going to try to look forward to my 3 day weekend.
Oh, and to all those who have written awesome comments, Thank You so much for your support and encouragement. I really needed it. And to all those who have been placed - CONGRATULATIONS!!!
I spent a good 20 minutes writing this 1 paragraph e-mail. I made sure none of my frustrations came out (like about new graduates taking precedence). I did however mention making sure I don't get stuck in some sort of extended lease with my landlord. I'm lucky enough to have an awesome landlord, but I still need to be considerate of her as she lives in another state and I take care of some major things on her behalf like repairs and utilities.
Hopefully I'll know something soon.
On a random note, I went to this new gym I'm doing a 6 week program at for my fitness evaluation this morning. They set up an appointment for me last week, so I got up, trudged through the snow and ice in my rear wheel drive car - made it there- 30 minutes later - no trainer. I had to leave since they were clearly not showing up. It was sad. I was really looking forward to that and starting the program on Monday, that I can't start now because I didn't have my evaluation. :-(
Anyways, that's all for now. If I hear anything from PC, I'll definitely post. In the meantime I'm just going to try to look forward to my 3 day weekend.
Oh, and to all those who have written awesome comments, Thank You so much for your support and encouragement. I really needed it. And to all those who have been placed - CONGRATULATIONS!!!
The Best and only Birthday gift I received
If anyone has seen the movie Up - which if you haven't I highly recommend it - you know how awesome this is.
A co-worker who knows about my hopeful PC endeavours gave it to me. It seriously made my day and I pinned it on and wore it all day.
Birthday Blizzards and Failed Wishes
Of course it has to blizzard on my Birthday. It wouldn't be the curse if it didn't. I hope someone can take me to work today, because my car is not going ANYWHERE. Despite new tires, my car still isn't friends with snow.
So yes, it's my 26th Birthday. I feel old. I don't like cake other than cheesecake, but I am making cupcakes for my co-workers... if I can get to work today. I don't bother making wishes if I have the opportunity to blow out the candles anymore because it just leads to disappointment.
I was hoping I would hear from my placement officer today, but that would mean something good happened.
Maybe they'll close work, but that's unlikely too.
One can dream.
So yes, it's my 26th Birthday. I feel old. I don't like cake other than cheesecake, but I am making cupcakes for my co-workers... if I can get to work today. I don't bother making wishes if I have the opportunity to blow out the candles anymore because it just leads to disappointment.
I was hoping I would hear from my placement officer today, but that would mean something good happened.
Maybe they'll close work, but that's unlikely too.
One can dream.
Paw Prints, Keys, Guitars and Birthday Candles
As the January curse (which I do promise to explain soon) continues, I've been busy and at this point am completely exhausted.
So my boyfriend gave me a key to his house. I'm still sort of reacting. I don't really know what to do. I think he's way more serious about our relationship than I am. I didn't even want a relationship because of the potential Peace Corps invite (that I still know absolutely nothing about) and there's very little that could stop me from leaving. Pretty much only death or pregnancy, both of which I take extreme precautions against.
On a positive note, my guitar teacher is back from holiday break and lessons started up again. I am learning "The Hardest Button to Button" by The White Stripes and it's surprisingly easy. Definitely helping me with my power cord muscles.
Tomorrow is my 26th Birthday. I'm honestly, not a fan of my Birthday, but I try to make the best of it. I'm hoping that tonight after work I can make myself some cupcakes and bring them to work tomorrow. I even bought festive cupcake wrappers. One with monkeys on them and the other with pirate skulls. I also bought M&M Minis to put on top. It's the little things that make me happy...
Like this picture I took last week. I don't have a dog and honestly don't even like dogs that much, but enjoyed that though most everything else around it melted, this stayed intact.
So my boyfriend gave me a key to his house. I'm still sort of reacting. I don't really know what to do. I think he's way more serious about our relationship than I am. I didn't even want a relationship because of the potential Peace Corps invite (that I still know absolutely nothing about) and there's very little that could stop me from leaving. Pretty much only death or pregnancy, both of which I take extreme precautions against.
On a positive note, my guitar teacher is back from holiday break and lessons started up again. I am learning "The Hardest Button to Button" by The White Stripes and it's surprisingly easy. Definitely helping me with my power cord muscles.
Tomorrow is my 26th Birthday. I'm honestly, not a fan of my Birthday, but I try to make the best of it. I'm hoping that tonight after work I can make myself some cupcakes and bring them to work tomorrow. I even bought festive cupcake wrappers. One with monkeys on them and the other with pirate skulls. I also bought M&M Minis to put on top. It's the little things that make me happy...
Like this picture I took last week. I don't have a dog and honestly don't even like dogs that much, but enjoyed that though most everything else around it melted, this stayed intact.
Still leaving in February? Unlikely.
So I broke down and called the PC office in DC and spoke to a woman on the phone. She was super nice, and very honest. I've only called once before and that was over a month ago, but I'm glad I called today despite what she had to say.
I explained to her that I sent my updated information back in November and she saw that. I explained that I never heard from a placement officer and just wanted to make sure things were still on track. She informed me that there were still a handful of slots open in my current nomination, but that they'd most likely be looking at things after April. That's a minimum of 3 months more of waiting and putting my entire life on hold :-(
She also gave me an e-mail address so that if I don't hear anything in a week - to send an e-mail and see what, if anything, has changed. She was very understanding that I was merely looking for a date range and to make sure things are still in motion.
I was really hoping to at least have my interview by my Birthday, but clearly that's not going to happen and I feel more in the dark than ever. I kind of feel like crying.
Now I know I really have to start applying for better jobs. That's a whole other aspect of life that's frustrating because of "over-qualification". Just because I went to school and got a Masters Degree doesn't mean I won't work for less. Especially in a different field than what I originally studied. All my Masters has gotten me so far is a depressing job working night shift at a call center, a lot of rejection notices and a general grim outlook on our economy right now. Anything is better than my job now, so maybe I can find something, but that's most likely wishful thinking.
And the January curse continues...
I explained to her that I sent my updated information back in November and she saw that. I explained that I never heard from a placement officer and just wanted to make sure things were still on track. She informed me that there were still a handful of slots open in my current nomination, but that they'd most likely be looking at things after April. That's a minimum of 3 months more of waiting and putting my entire life on hold :-(
She also gave me an e-mail address so that if I don't hear anything in a week - to send an e-mail and see what, if anything, has changed. She was very understanding that I was merely looking for a date range and to make sure things are still in motion.
I was really hoping to at least have my interview by my Birthday, but clearly that's not going to happen and I feel more in the dark than ever. I kind of feel like crying.
Now I know I really have to start applying for better jobs. That's a whole other aspect of life that's frustrating because of "over-qualification". Just because I went to school and got a Masters Degree doesn't mean I won't work for less. Especially in a different field than what I originally studied. All my Masters has gotten me so far is a depressing job working night shift at a call center, a lot of rejection notices and a general grim outlook on our economy right now. Anything is better than my job now, so maybe I can find something, but that's most likely wishful thinking.
And the January curse continues...
Sweat and worry lines
Today I got up early so I could go get one of my fillings replaced so if I get into The Peace Corps, I won't have to worry about it. I also had to go buy new tires for my car. I was trying to hold out in case I leave, but I just couldn't anymore. There goes my Birthday money.
Also - Timeline Update: I sent my updated resume back on November 16, 2010 and have been waiting for my placement officer to contact me since.
I think my friend Meghan said it perfectly - she told me I'm treating the Peace Corps like a man, and reminded me that I never put my life on hold for a man, so why for this and that I should keep applying for jobs since the one I have now is depressing and just horrid. So hopefully I can start doing that by next week. She also said something to the effect that "Having a back-up plan is not giving up on your dream." and I know she's right.
Also, thanks to Groupon - I'll be starting a new fitness regimen next week at a different gym. 'm really excited to get back to the gym and sweat. It's the only way I've ever really de-stressed and I haven't gotten to since November when I started getting sick with what was ultimately discovered to be appendicitis. So at least I've got that to look forward to.
Anyway, that's all for now - back to watching my DVR'd Biggest Loser episode.
Ciao.
Also - Timeline Update: I sent my updated resume back on November 16, 2010 and have been waiting for my placement officer to contact me since.
I think my friend Meghan said it perfectly - she told me I'm treating the Peace Corps like a man, and reminded me that I never put my life on hold for a man, so why for this and that I should keep applying for jobs since the one I have now is depressing and just horrid. So hopefully I can start doing that by next week. She also said something to the effect that "Having a back-up plan is not giving up on your dream." and I know she's right.
Also, thanks to Groupon - I'll be starting a new fitness regimen next week at a different gym. 'm really excited to get back to the gym and sweat. It's the only way I've ever really de-stressed and I haven't gotten to since November when I started getting sick with what was ultimately discovered to be appendicitis. So at least I've got that to look forward to.
Anyway, that's all for now - back to watching my DVR'd Biggest Loser episode.
Ciao.
January Curse
I promise I will actually explain the curse soon, but here is my 2011 thus far. I really just need to vent.
January 1st - I choke on a children CHEWABLE vitamin and get told my seasonal PT job is ending and that I have to go find a new one.
January 2nd - What was supposed to be a day off - is not that - and I am forced to go to work. I come home to find out my boyfriend was arrested for a DUI even thought there is NO EVIDENCE he was drunk (because he wasn't). He's smarter than that and I saw the "evidence" of a passed field sobriety test and 2 invalid (machine wasn't working) breathalyzers. He was driving people too drunk to drive home, to their home. Just because they were wasted doesn't mean he was. I guarantee you the evidence will not hold up in court. Seriously, wtf?
January 3 - I spent my ACTUAL day off - helping the boyfriend get things straightened out. It was also the 25th anniversary of my mothers death and my brothers birthday.
Way to start the year - if this is the first 3 days, I'm so screwed.
Also, no news from the Peace Corps - not even a "Hey, you're not leaving in February" (when I'm scheduled to leave). 6 weeks from today is MORE than halfway through February. I feel like I'm going to cry and that I'm putting my life on hold for something that won't come into fruition, but that something is the one thing I've wanted most in my life. Its really upsetting and frustrating. I think if I make it through work today and I don't get run over by a clown car or some random crap like that, I'm just going to come home and have a good cry about everything.
I hate January.
January 1st - I choke on a children CHEWABLE vitamin and get told my seasonal PT job is ending and that I have to go find a new one.
January 2nd - What was supposed to be a day off - is not that - and I am forced to go to work. I come home to find out my boyfriend was arrested for a DUI even thought there is NO EVIDENCE he was drunk (because he wasn't). He's smarter than that and I saw the "evidence" of a passed field sobriety test and 2 invalid (machine wasn't working) breathalyzers. He was driving people too drunk to drive home, to their home. Just because they were wasted doesn't mean he was. I guarantee you the evidence will not hold up in court. Seriously, wtf?
January 3 - I spent my ACTUAL day off - helping the boyfriend get things straightened out. It was also the 25th anniversary of my mothers death and my brothers birthday.
Way to start the year - if this is the first 3 days, I'm so screwed.
Also, no news from the Peace Corps - not even a "Hey, you're not leaving in February" (when I'm scheduled to leave). 6 weeks from today is MORE than halfway through February. I feel like I'm going to cry and that I'm putting my life on hold for something that won't come into fruition, but that something is the one thing I've wanted most in my life. Its really upsetting and frustrating. I think if I make it through work today and I don't get run over by a clown car or some random crap like that, I'm just going to come home and have a good cry about everything.
I hate January.
About Me
- S. Wanderlust
- I'm Stephanie, a 26 year old Social Worker who got bitten by the travel bug at a young age. My innate need to see the world and philanthropic ways have led me to become a Peace Corps volunteer leaving for Belize in March 2011 as a Youth HIV/AIDS Facilitator.
S. Wanderlust
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