I just want to tell you....

[giantfan121262]

This thread is getting too far from the front. It's time to recycle it. I hope everyone had an enjoyable New Year.

Kis, we'd love to know your progress on your weight loss and job search. Please feel free to share with us anything that came out of it (that is if you want to)

 

[kis123]

Hey, it's kis singing in.....

I am still trying to find work. I had three great interviews with two great companies, then everything went dark. No one has responded to me since. I get the twenty questions routine-I personally think they want to find a reason not to hire me. I would be the only person of "color" on the staff of about 40 people. I was very impressive on the first interview of 4 people. When I interviewed with two people on the second day (president and CEO), everything turned crappy. They harped on my resume and the employment gaps. I tried to respond by letting them know about my son's issues and how they played a major role in my employment history. She just kept asking the same questions over and over with each job. I wanted to climb over the table and shake her!!! She is the one who hires and fires and she didn't even bother to review my resume or cover letter in advance of the interview. They call me every week to ask me more questions about my resume (which would be answered if they'd just read it), but no one's offered me a job. My bills are overdue and my landlord's in my tail. I don't know what to do.

I'm still hoping things will get better soon. I'm also thinking about going to grad school. At least, if I choose that option, I can get money to live off of. We'll see how things go from here.

As far as things as me and my daughter are concerned, there is a lot of work to do. She is very arrogant like her father and feels that her needs are above others. I have to live with the mistake of ever letting her live with her father-now she's just like him. I will regret my stupid decision for the rest of my life. I am still learning that forgivess is a process and I'm a work in progress. It will be a long time before we really get back together. I don't think I will ever really trust her again. I'm one of those people who take issues of trust very seriously-and I mean it across the board!

I'm happy the holidays are over and I can look forward to other opportunities in the year 2005. Hope to hear from you soon.

 

[featherfingers]

Hi, Kis! I just wanted to say "Happy New Year" to you, for what it's worth. The best thing for you to do as far as work is concerned is to keep on doing what you're doing. If you wanted to ask someone out for a date, you wouldn't let one guy's rejection prevent you from pursuing someone else, would you? Poor analogy, but I'm extremely tired right now. There's a job for you somewhere. Don't give up.

I just want you to know that I hope wonderful things begin happening for you. You've been putting forth the effort in all aspects of your life; your job search, your weight loss, etc. I'm sure you will be reaping the rewards soon enough. I'm rooting for you, Kis! Keep us posted!

 

[giantfan121262]

I know from my experience that the interview process takes time to master, and even the most seasoned veterans can't get it right. It is not a process that I would want my worst enemy going through let alone a friend on the board. Just think of how far you have come from the time you started to now. I know it's no consloation because you have to get money coming in to pay rent and bills but did you think of temping for the time being? I know it's not an end to the process but at least it would help make ends meet until you find a permanent position somewhere. Look at it like this, the employer would understand if you have an interview b/c he or she would (or at least shoul) know the score. Second, it would give you a chance to see how it is to work for that company on a day to day basis, hence make a more educated decision. Third, it would give you an opportunity to prove yourself.

This was just some food for thought. I have said it before, I am in your corner as well, and wish you the best of luck. I know you will find something soon. You just have to keep flooding your resume.

Good Luck again

 

[R. Davis]

You must take care of yourself. Great job with the weight loss.

 

[kis123]

The only problem with temping is that the employer expects a full committment from you even though they don't have to provide the same. I would not be able to go on interviews while on assignment. I wish they would consider my needs, but the company's needs are going to come first.

I'm still waiting to hear from the company I really wanted to work for, but no one's calling me. I just don't know if they're going to hire me. Like I said before, I suspect that I may provide too much color to the office, if you know what I mean . The staff is about 40-45, and they have no one of ethnicity in the entire office. There's really no excuse for that with today's job market. If you're staffing your office that way, it's intentional! Besides, they keep picking at my resume and trying to find reasons not to hire me. They don't have to look very far since my work history sucks. It was more important to me to be a mother to my disabled son than to sit at a desk 40 hrs/wk. So, now I'm being penalized for that, right?

I'm sick of all of this and don't know where to go from here. I feel like my life is on hold while these employers twiddle their thumbs and play around with my future. It's been pretty depressing to say the least.

My weight has not dropped in awhile. It could have something to do with the potato chips I ate last night and the night before. I'll be glad when the kids get home so they can eat this crap or take it out of the house with them. Whatever doesn't go by Sunday gets thrown in the trash. My willpower is at an all-time low and am not strong enough to say "no" to stuff right now. I'm still going to the gym as long as I can afford it, but it's not really fun anymore. It's been a major struggle to lose weight and it's been tough to hold on. I hope I make it.

Well, I've been up since 5am and am going to attempt a nap. Maybe the phone will ring with a job offer on the other end. Plus, I'm going to study for the notary exam. There's one tomorrow so I'm going to try to get a walk-in spot. At this point I'll take the test standing up-I don't even need a seat!

R. Davis, thanks for the encouragement. I'm a little bummed out right now, but hope to recover in a day or two. Maybe things will be better by then.

 

[kis123]

Drumroll please!!!!!!!!

KIS HAS A JOB!!! KIS HAS A JOB!!!


I celebrated so much and was so excited, I haven't even told my own family yet! I wanted to share it with my TMF family first. It really didn't sink in until last night and I just wanted to savor the victory for myself, then spread the news.

Thanks to all of you for being so supportive and encouraging. I still can't friggin' believe that my long job search is over. I actually got the job I wanted-the salary is kinda' sucky, but the monthly and annual bonuses make up for it. Did I mention the annual company trip? I should be eligible for it next year this time. I am actually going to have benefits! I don't have to be nervous every time my daughter plays basketball because if she were to be seriously injured, I had no health insurance (not to mention her father who works a crappy job without insurance either). I can work on back rent with my landlord. I can pay my utilities and credit cards. I AM BACK IN THE REAL WORLD!!!!!!

I must admit that I'm scared as hell about this job. I've never worked in this industry before and hope I have what it takes to be successful in this genre. I want to be the consumate employee because I know how hard I've worked to get this job and don't want to mess it up. But I'm really happy that I made it through the fire and have come out on the other side a completely different person.

Now, to get back to the weight issue. I think I'm in a plateau period. I haven't lost any weight in awhile. It could be because I threw the dieting out of the window for the holidays. I've lost about 1/2"-1" around the entire body though. I have this really nice blouse I bought last Sept. and it was way too small. I have a habit of not trying on things due to the disappointment in the changing room. It's hard to watch your kid pull anything she wants off the rack while you squeeze into the biggest thing you can find. Anyway, I tried the blouse on two days ago and it fits (just a little snug in the front)! I'll be able to wear that a month from now if I stay on course. Now, I feel like I can get back to the gym six days a week and put some real effort in my workouts.

I'm happier because I feel like a productive member of society, not some overaged deadbeat who can't take care of herself without help. Thanks guys, I don't think I could've made it through this without you.

 

[featherfingers]

KIS HAS A JOB!!! HIP, HIP HOORAY!!!!

Kis! I am very proud of you, honey!!! I knew you could do it! WE knew you could do it! Just goes to show you what a little hard work and perseverance will do for a person (Practice what you preach, Frankie). I realize that getting a new job is a little scary at first but give it time... you'll meet new people and get into the groove and before you know it, you'll look back and say, "What was I so nervous about!"

Congratulations on your weight loss, too. Don't be discouraged, though. The last few pounds are usually the hardest to get rid of. Be thankful and happy with the progress you've made so far. Attitude has a lot to do with success, you know.

Again, thank you for sharing the news with us. I feel so priveleged to know something about you even before your own family does! Like Sister Sledge sang, "We Are Family!" I'm sure the others will be here soon with their responses! Prepare to be overwhelmed!🙂

 

[kis123]

Congratulations on your weight loss, too. Don't be discouraged, though. The last few pounds are usually the hardest to get rid of. Be thankful and happy with the progress you've made so far. Attitude has a lot to do with success, you know.

I'm not even 1/3 towards my goal right now, but thanks for the support! I wish I only had 45lbs to lose-how funny ! Well, it's okay and I can now concentrate on tackling the weight issue. I'll have to incorporate it into the workplace. I'm taking suggestions from anyone who has done it successfully. I want to bring lunches instead of buying food, besides, I'm going to be catching up on my bills and the budget will be tight for awhile.

Once again, thank all of you for your encouragement and support. Now I can really get to working on the weight.

Gotta run-I'm going downtown today to attempt to take the Notary exam. I would be on a walk-in status so they may not have room. I hope they do. See 'ya and have a great day!

 

[featherfingers]

Kis! Knowing me, I'll be entering a lot of these links, but try these for now:

http://mydietbuddy.com/healthy dieting.htm

http://www.thehappyguy.com/healthy-dieting-tips.html

http://www.coolnurse.com/dieting.htm

 

[featherfingers]

You already know that drinking lots of water is very good for you... just don't overdue it. May I suggest you try one of my favorite beverages? Check it out!

http://www.green-teas-guide.com/green-tea-diet.html

 

[giantfan121262]

Drumroll please!!!!!!!!

KIS HAS A JOB!!! KIS HAS A JOB!!!


I celebrated so much and was so excited, I haven't even told my own family yet! I wanted to share it with my TMF family first. It really didn't sink in until last night and I just wanted to savor the victory for myself, then spread the news.

Thanks to all of you for being so supportive and encouraging. I still can't friggin' believe that my long job search is over. I actually got the job I wanted-the salary is kinda' sucky, but the monthly and annual bonuses make up for it. Did I mention the annual company trip? I should be eligible for it next year this time. I am actually going to have benefits! I don't have to be nervous every time my daughter plays basketball because if she were to be seriously injured, I had no health insurance (not to mention her father who works a crappy job without insurance either). I can work on back rent with my landlord. I can pay my utilities and credit cards. I AM BACK IN THE REAL WORLD!!!!!!

I must admit that I'm scared as hell about this job. I've never worked in this industry before and hope I have what it takes to be successful in this genre. I want to be the consumate employee because I know how hard I've worked to get this job and don't want to mess it up. But I'm really happy that I made it through the fire and have come out on the other side a completely different person.

Now, to get back to the weight issue. I think I'm in a plateau period. I haven't lost any weight in awhile. It could be because I threw the dieting out of the window for the holidays. I've lost about 1/2"-1" around the entire body though. I have this really nice blouse I bought last Sept. and it was way too small. I have a habit of not trying on things due to the disappointment in the changing room. It's hard to watch your kid pull anything she wants off the rack while you squeeze into the biggest thing you can find. Anyway, I tried the blouse on two days ago and it fits (just a little snug in the front)! I'll be able to wear that a month from now if I stay on course. Now, I feel like I can get back to the gym six days a week and put some real effort in my workouts.

I'm happier because I feel like a productive member of society, not some overaged deadbeat who can't take care of herself without help. Thanks guys, I don't think I could've made it through this without you.

Kis, that is phenominal, I am so proud of you, really! they don't know how good they will have it with you as part of their team. I knew all along you could do it.

You have come such a long way in the past few months with the weight loss, getting your degree and now you found a job. What is it you will be doing? Just curious. I know you give us credit for giving you support but it was YOU that made it happen. Don't ever EVER forget that. We can tell you stuff until we are blue in the face but it would do no good if the receipent doesn't do something about it. That was all you, there is no doubt about it.

It's normal to be nervous when you are starting a new job but just be yourself. You have come out smelling like a rose all the time. A little apprehension is a good thing b/c you will be motivated to do well. I'm sure the people close to you will be happy for you as well. It's healthy to be scared b/c you care about how things will go. There is no doubt in my mind you will succeed. You just have to believe it. Kis, you are a survivor, and that's a good thing.

I respect you tremendously for everything you have been up against in your life and you will do well.

😉 🙂 😀

 

[steph]

OMG OMG OMG!!!

YAY, YAY, a thousands times YAY babe! I hope it was your amazing resume that got you in the door 🙄 Just kidding, I am so happy for you I could cry!!! Now get out there and kick ass, you can soooooooooooooo do it! we love ya hon!

XOXO

Drumroll please!!!!!!!!

KIS HAS A JOB!!! KIS HAS A JOB!!!


Thanks guys, I don't think I could've made it through this without you.

 

[kis123]

I'll be doing sales for a temporary physician staffing service. There are a lot of reasons doctors temp-fill in gaps like maternity leave, illness, or just trying to find out if this is the career specialty for them. So I'll be doing the sales end of things. It seems like a pretty good position. I'll actually have benefits and perks like a real job. Until now, I've never had one of those before.

Steph, actually they had the old resume when they contacted me. Boy, did I have to do the dance around that one!! Good thing my old manager and I are friends. We cooked up a little something and got our stories straight. He's one of the reasons my last three jobs ended up on my resume-I followed him to three companies to work with him. He's a big grouch sometimes, but really has a big heart and is generally a nice guy. If he didn't give me a good reference I probably wouldn't have gotten the job. Thanks for all of your help anyway. It was great advice.

I also took my notary exam today. I wasn't supposed to take it until Feb 4, but I'd be working the new job and didn't want to take time off on a brand new job. So I sneaked in as a walk in. I told them I called that morning and got permission to come in and test. I already told God "sorry" for the lie, so I think I'm okay in that department ! Every time I called in advance, I'd be told there was no space. They were lying-I could've walked in just like I did today. They were just too lazy to take the elevator up two floors and check for space availability. Anyway, I passed the exam and will get my notary license in 4-6wks. With my mortgage background, I can do loan closings part-time. At 80-100 bucks per closing, I only need to do a few closings a week for extra money. Besides, I will NEVER be put in a position where I'm this broke ever again. At least I'll have a skill I can use to make money whenever I want. I won't have to kiss anyone else's ring and beg for a job anymore. If I get laid off, I'll have this to fall back on. If not, it'll be extra income.

Thanks giantfan-I know what you're saying, but if you guys weren't there to talk to during my crisis, I wouldn't know what to do. So thanks to all of you for getting me through the last several months. A lot has happened over the last week and I'm pretty tired. It's bedtime for kis and I'll hear from you soon!

 

[giantfan121262]

Congratulations on passing the exam as well. Another example of your perseverance. Good job.

 

[steph]

😀 It's no problem kis~it's why I chose to re-work yours non-chron (avoids sticky questions) but the only thing that matters is that you got the job!

XOXO