A Good Man. Tonight I watched one of my favorite shows on television; As Time Goes By. It is a British comedy, and if you haven't gotten the chance to watch it, I highly recommend that you do. In a nutshell, it's about a couple that were in love in their youth but were separated for many years. They never thought they'd meet again, but did years later and their love was reunited. The story picks up there, with their life and issues and kids and circumstances now. Lionel and Jean are the two main characters, and they are simply wonderful.
I have always been especially drawn to the character of Lionel, but as I watched tonight, it occured to me that he is quite possibly the outline of the perfect man. He is smart, very funny in a very sarcastic kinda way, he is absolutely devoted to Jean so much so that he ends up waist deep in whatever akward situation she's gotten herself into, he always has great advice for the many people that ask it, he knows when to talk and when to stay out of it, he is sensitive, and is manly and handsome in a non-showy, macho, or exaggerated way. Granted he is considerably older, but I think his personality traits are something that any man should emulate, and any woman should appreciate.
If I've learned one thing in my past relationships, it is that to settle is futile. I've done that, and can say without doubt that it is more miserable than being alone. Life is far too short to be spent with someone that has no chance of living up to many of the qualities listed above. Please don't misunderstand me and think I am demanding perfection and nothing less, that's impossible and not something I'd even wish for. But I do believe that there are Lionel's out there, men that aren't perfect, but do possess the basic but essential traits required in order to achieve a healthy and fullfilling relationship.
Perhaps this is an entry best left to a private journal, but since I'm lousy at keeping one of those, but love writting in this format, I decided to post it here anyway. Make of it what you wish. For me, it serves as a reminder of something I often forget and something I believe many other people forget as well. Perhaps the first step in finding happiness in life is to clearly identify what you want out of it, and I think a large part of that task is accomplished by reminding yourself of things that you don't want, so that you will recognize and avoid such mistakes in the future. When the details of my past begin to get foggy, as they inevitably do, I will turn to this entry as a lasting reminder. At the very least, maybe I will inspire someone to watch a great and very entertaining British show!
Mom, Jenny and I spent a terrific day shopping and lunching at the mall. Mom spent some of her birthday money, and even got her ears re-pierced. For some reason the holes closed up a couple of months ago. While browsing at the pagoda, I decided that I want to get the top part of my ear pierced. It's something I've thought about off and on for a long time. I've given up the tatoo dream, but I think I'm gonna let myself have the piercing. Not now though, I have to find out about CA first...they only allow one pair of modest earrings for women and I wouldn't be able to take out the ring for 6 weeks. It was great to spend a day with just us girls, window shopping at Haywood. Thank you Mom and J for a great day!
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Je Travaille
I Work. I went to work today, and it felt great! It may seem unusual to you, but my aimless, lazy days that were once refreshing and carefree had become monotonous, boring and were giving me entirely too much time to think about and analyze my life. Such analysis lead to some of my more depressing recent entries. But today at work I didn't find myself worrying about anything. I didn't think about when my career job will open up, I didn't obsess about CA, and I wasn't concerned about making connections here, in SC. On the contrary, I thoroughly enjoyed my work..meeting people, chatting about random subjects ranging from gas prices to Gator pride. I did think about California, and I do very much want that to happen, but the sector of that desire that was fed by my wish to escape confusion and uncertainty melted away leaving something more pure. My desire to have an unforgettable and adventurous Summer in California with a friend, while I still have the freedom to do so. And as to the connection...I didn't have time to think about that, because I was too busy talking all day to a friend, Jamie. I worked with her some last year and we got along well, but since then she's joined my church, and now plays on my softball team. Before she seemed to be more of a co-worker, but today among our various conversations, and laughter, I realized she was indeed a friend.
I received more encouragement from Cali today..when I got home and checked my email, I had a message from the Camp. It's purpose was to make sure I was aware of some key issues about the job before setting up an interview. I was informed about the salary, days off, a dress code and a moral code. I had no problem with any of them, so I replied to the email. Next comes the interview.
I received more encouragement from Cali today..when I got home and checked my email, I had a message from the Camp. It's purpose was to make sure I was aware of some key issues about the job before setting up an interview. I was informed about the salary, days off, a dress code and a moral code. I had no problem with any of them, so I replied to the email. Next comes the interview.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Choses Aléatoires
Random Things. I thought I should write a few random updates on things that have transpired over the last couple of days, if for no other reason than to avoid a super long entry...
On California...I now have faxed my application packet and handed out all three reference forms. I faxed one of them in myself, and the other two were supposed to have gone out yesterday and today. Earlier today I got a phone call from one of my references that she'd been called by the hiring manager at the Summer Camp and asked to verify what she'd written. I was encouraged by this. Even though things are far from a done deal, the fact that they're checking my references seems to be a good thing. Maybe they will be able to fit me into their staff!
On Strawberries...Most of you know, I don't like them, but starting at 12:30PM tomorrow, I will be selling them anyway. The Orchard owner called today asking if I'd be able to help out with the stand starting tomorrow. Being in my cash-strapped, no job position, I was more than willing to accomodate. If the CA job comes through, then I can save up money to help with the trip out, and if it doesn't, then I'll have a job to work this Summer until something more substantial comes along. Strawberries anyone?
On Other Jobs...After our softball game tonight a teammate came up to me and excitedly stated that she didn't know I was a Biology major. I told her that indeed I had recently gotten a degree in Microbiology and she asked if I'd considered teaching. I informed her that at this point, I'm considering anything remotely related to my field that pays. She told me that she knows of 3 and maybe four Science teaching jobs at the Middle School she's working at. They are at a critical need for teachers and are therefore waiving the Teaching Certificate requirement. Even better is the fact that our preacher's wife is the "right-hand man" of the principal there and might be able to hook me up. So I need to talk to her next time I see her to find out more. The job would be in the Fall, so my Summer plans might still work out too.
On Softball...Our game on Tuesday was great. Actually, it didn't look so great, but we won 12-3. It was terribly windy, which made pitching a horrendous task. My mom is the team pitcher. I'm glad she had to do that and not me. The other team was completely incapable of keeping their score book which caused alot of drama when they refused to recognize a run that I made. It was crazy since I came in and was sitting in the dug out talking to other people, when the next batter on our team got out. Their book only reflects a score of 11-3, and they had the home book, so it's the one that counts. But me, my team, and now you, my dear readers, know the truth ;-) Our game tonight did not go as well. We were tied almost the entire game. They got one lucky hit in the last inning that put them up 5-2, the final score. I had two great hits...probably my best so far. On my second time at bat, I heard their coaches and some of the infield hollaring to the outfiled that I had smacked it good the first time and that they needed to back up. That is always an ego boost. Towards the end of the game, though, they substituted their pitcher and she did this weird walk up pitch thing that made her pitches really too fast for slow pitch and really threw off our batting. My last at bat I only hit a grounder to short stop who tagged my sister out. It was a fun game though and relatively devoid of drama. We don't have any games next week, so you'll get a break from the sports news!
On Bed...I guess that's about all the news that is the news for now, and I'd better get to bed....since I have to go to work tomorrow! (Even if it is in the afternoon)
On California...I now have faxed my application packet and handed out all three reference forms. I faxed one of them in myself, and the other two were supposed to have gone out yesterday and today. Earlier today I got a phone call from one of my references that she'd been called by the hiring manager at the Summer Camp and asked to verify what she'd written. I was encouraged by this. Even though things are far from a done deal, the fact that they're checking my references seems to be a good thing. Maybe they will be able to fit me into their staff!
On Strawberries...Most of you know, I don't like them, but starting at 12:30PM tomorrow, I will be selling them anyway. The Orchard owner called today asking if I'd be able to help out with the stand starting tomorrow. Being in my cash-strapped, no job position, I was more than willing to accomodate. If the CA job comes through, then I can save up money to help with the trip out, and if it doesn't, then I'll have a job to work this Summer until something more substantial comes along. Strawberries anyone?
On Other Jobs...After our softball game tonight a teammate came up to me and excitedly stated that she didn't know I was a Biology major. I told her that indeed I had recently gotten a degree in Microbiology and she asked if I'd considered teaching. I informed her that at this point, I'm considering anything remotely related to my field that pays. She told me that she knows of 3 and maybe four Science teaching jobs at the Middle School she's working at. They are at a critical need for teachers and are therefore waiving the Teaching Certificate requirement. Even better is the fact that our preacher's wife is the "right-hand man" of the principal there and might be able to hook me up. So I need to talk to her next time I see her to find out more. The job would be in the Fall, so my Summer plans might still work out too.
On Softball...Our game on Tuesday was great. Actually, it didn't look so great, but we won 12-3. It was terribly windy, which made pitching a horrendous task. My mom is the team pitcher. I'm glad she had to do that and not me. The other team was completely incapable of keeping their score book which caused alot of drama when they refused to recognize a run that I made. It was crazy since I came in and was sitting in the dug out talking to other people, when the next batter on our team got out. Their book only reflects a score of 11-3, and they had the home book, so it's the one that counts. But me, my team, and now you, my dear readers, know the truth ;-) Our game tonight did not go as well. We were tied almost the entire game. They got one lucky hit in the last inning that put them up 5-2, the final score. I had two great hits...probably my best so far. On my second time at bat, I heard their coaches and some of the infield hollaring to the outfiled that I had smacked it good the first time and that they needed to back up. That is always an ego boost. Towards the end of the game, though, they substituted their pitcher and she did this weird walk up pitch thing that made her pitches really too fast for slow pitch and really threw off our batting. My last at bat I only hit a grounder to short stop who tagged my sister out. It was a fun game though and relatively devoid of drama. We don't have any games next week, so you'll get a break from the sports news!
On Bed...I guess that's about all the news that is the news for now, and I'd better get to bed....since I have to go to work tomorrow! (Even if it is in the afternoon)
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Un Voyage?
A Trip? Maybe. On the advice, encouragement, and connection of my great friend, Rob, I have decided to apply to a Summer Camp position in California. I'm not actually too sure that it will work out, since it appears that they already have alot of their help for this summer decided, but I'm giving it a try anyway. I had my doubts at first whether or not it was the best idea, and was concerned that I might just be running away from the difficulty and uncertainty that is my life right now...and maybe I am, but this is just too great of a chance to pass up on. Besides, I basically had to decide today whether or not I should apply since the positions are only going to get more filled by my procrastination. The chance to road trip across the country with a great friend, see The Grand Canyon, spend two months in sunny, beautiful Southern California, seeing the west coast, the Red Wood Forests, spending time playing in the great outdoors, all the while being paid more than I'd get working in the Peach business all summer is simply too good to not even try for. So, I'm faxing out the application first thing tomorrow...I pray that if this is an opportunity that God wants me to take, it will work out. As a sermon I heard last Sunday helped me to realize, we can not stand on the dock, but must jump on a ship...maybe my ship is headed to California?
In other news...our softball game tonight went exactly as we were afraid it would. New Jerusalem slaughtered us at 22-0! Despite the terrible record thus posted about our softball team, we are actually a good team but we had to play the two toughest teams in the league at the beginning of the season. That fact coupled with the hit-or-miss attendance of many key players has gotten us off to a rocky start. We have another game tomorrow (Tuesday) night against a team we are very confident against. In spite of our horrendous loss, we did enjoy the fellowship of the New J team. They are always a great team to play because of their friendly, sportsman, Christian attitudes. It is teams like them that make Church League different from any other.
In other news...our softball game tonight went exactly as we were afraid it would. New Jerusalem slaughtered us at 22-0! Despite the terrible record thus posted about our softball team, we are actually a good team but we had to play the two toughest teams in the league at the beginning of the season. That fact coupled with the hit-or-miss attendance of many key players has gotten us off to a rocky start. We have another game tomorrow (Tuesday) night against a team we are very confident against. In spite of our horrendous loss, we did enjoy the fellowship of the New J team. They are always a great team to play because of their friendly, sportsman, Christian attitudes. It is teams like them that make Church League different from any other.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Désolé
Sorry. I'm sorry I have not updated my blog lately. The truth is that nothing really extraordinary has happened lately. I've had a string of ordinary events, and a few moments better than that, but nothing worth an entire blog. So now, as I sit here watching/listening to Sabrina (the new one with Harrison Ford) I will attempt to fill you, my devoted and somewhat disgruntled readers, in on the highlights of my recent activities.
Softball...the season is now in full swing...hahaha...We lost our first game miserably ( 15-0). The score is really sad since it really only reflects one terribly unlucky inning. We really beat ourselves through careless mistakes and inconsistent batting. Our second game, however, was the opposite. We won big (16-4). We worked well as a team, fielded great, and our batting was on. Our third game, tonight, did not go so well. The game was called somewhere in the middle due to the weather...torrential rain, deadly lightning, howling wind, and even hail. Not exactly ideal playing weather. Prior to the storm trouble was already brewing...the score was already 13-0 in their favor. I am actually pretty thankful that the weather put an end to the misery. Our next game is slated for Monday at 6:30 against New Jerusalem our practice partners. They generally are much better than we are, but there is always hope I suppose, and at any rate, we always have fun playing with them.
Garden...We planted our garden last week. It is very exciting, especially since I was allowed to be in charge of the lay out and design. Dad and I did the actual planting. It was really nice to work in a garden of my own after learning so much in the two gardening classes I took in my last year at UF. Hopefully the blend of my new knowledge, and my dad's experience will be just what is needed to create a successful and pleasing garden come harvest time! I'm sure you'll be hearing much more about the garden in the upcoming months.
Family...Over Easter weekend my Grandpa and Step-Grandma came up from Florida, and my Uncle Kyle, his girlfriend and his girlfriend's mom came down from Ohio. It was, as always, a wonderful visit. My only complaint was that it was too short. We ate good food (Dad even smoked a roast for Easter), we did alot of talking and catching up, we played some croquet, we did some shopping, looked at some property my Grandpa is interested in buying, and we watched Walk the Line. A busy, but great weekend. We got a preview of the week we are planning to spend in Florida for Christmas with the family, and we simply can't wait.
Job...Nothing much to report here, I'm afraid. I have recently finished re-writing my resume. I decided that it might help to re-vamp it in order to draw more attention to some aspects of my experience, and to nearly eliminate experiences that aren't going to do me any good in the Microbiology market. I think it now is much more focused and hope it will be more effective at garnishing interviews. I have once again become frustrated with the way things are going. I'm sure you are as tired of that subject as I am, but there it is. I've felt lately so stagnant and stalled that it's almost stifling at times. Sometimes I just get overwhelmed by the fact that I have no real job opportunity lined up, no significant other in my life, and honestly not even any insignificant others. My Step-Grandma asked me on the first day of their visit whether or not I had met any new people here at church or wherever, and the answer is a resounding no. It's a sound that often echos through my mind. I hate how pathetic it sounds, but the truth of the matter is, that other than my family, and softball, I have absolutely no life here, and it's really starting to get to me. I know I should get involved in something...something that would allow me to interact with people my age, but I don't even know where to begin, and these days hardly have the time or money to try. I'm sure this paragraph is coming off worse than the reality...in truth, I am not that depressed about things, but just wish things weren't so stagnant..that my life just didn't feel so stalled out. It makes me frustrated and listless. I'd go for a trip somewhere if I had the money...
To add insult to injury, things haven't been so smooth at home lately. I think my family has just gotten to the point that we all want our own lives and space, but are too dependant right now to do anything about it. I want to move on with my life, and move out on my own..buy a house...pay my on bills...in short, be independant. My parents want the same. They want, and after all these years, are entitled, to their own space and money and time. While we all love each other dearly, and get along better than most would...frustrations are building and I think we are all growing weary. If I do not get a job by the end of May, I will be working for Fisher's Orchard...a local peach grower, working at their roadside stand. The job can run through October, so at least I'll have some money coming in for a while. My dad the other day told me that if I didn't get another job by the time the peach one was over, that I will probably have to break down and go to work in fast food. Maybe I am being over-sensitive, but I resented the remark, and it's been gnawing at me ever since. The conversation bothered me on several levels...first, it doesn't inspire much hope and faith that I will get a career job before November. Secondly, the not so subtle hint made me feel like a free-loading bum; one of those people that lives at home, doing nothing but watching t.v., eating all the food, and annoying everyone in the house. Thirdly, dad suggested that my objection to working fast food was pride and that I'd have to eventually "face my demons" and work whatever I had to in order to make money. I resent that thought because pride is the least of my concerns. I feel that my dad should know that. I worked many weeks recently cleaning house for a member of my church. It is hard to feel proud as you scrub someone else's dirty toilet!
A job in fast food will not get me out of the house one second faster, and since I only have a couple minimal bills right now, won't even help out much financially. I have applied for any and every job that I've seen available that I was the slightest bit interested in, including Lowe's. I am, as all these penny-annie companies know, over qualified for these positions. None of them are going to hire me knowing that I will only quit as soon as a serious job comes along. Hopefully by November I will have such a serious job and the fast-food dilemma will be irrelevent anyway...for now it just hurts me a little.
I have really been missing my friends alot lately...especially my best friend. We got the chance to talk on the phone the other night for 3 1/2 hours! Although my left ear was sore for quite some time, it really did my soul a world of good. We've determined that after about 2 months...the length of a typical summer break...the distance seems worse. I'm not used to living this far away...and the thought that this is a permanent reality is a scary and sad thought. I need to call my French friends, as I have seriously neglected my friendships with them. I don't know why I have an aversion to calling people, but I really need to get over it.
I began this blog with an apology, and now I will close it with one. I kind of got carried away writting this post. I wasn't sure I had enough to really write about, but it turned out that once I got going, I couldn't stop. Thank you, my devoted and weary readers, for enduring my rambling...I'll try to write more regularly in the future.
Softball...the season is now in full swing...hahaha...We lost our first game miserably ( 15-0). The score is really sad since it really only reflects one terribly unlucky inning. We really beat ourselves through careless mistakes and inconsistent batting. Our second game, however, was the opposite. We won big (16-4). We worked well as a team, fielded great, and our batting was on. Our third game, tonight, did not go so well. The game was called somewhere in the middle due to the weather...torrential rain, deadly lightning, howling wind, and even hail. Not exactly ideal playing weather. Prior to the storm trouble was already brewing...the score was already 13-0 in their favor. I am actually pretty thankful that the weather put an end to the misery. Our next game is slated for Monday at 6:30 against New Jerusalem our practice partners. They generally are much better than we are, but there is always hope I suppose, and at any rate, we always have fun playing with them.
Garden...We planted our garden last week. It is very exciting, especially since I was allowed to be in charge of the lay out and design. Dad and I did the actual planting. It was really nice to work in a garden of my own after learning so much in the two gardening classes I took in my last year at UF. Hopefully the blend of my new knowledge, and my dad's experience will be just what is needed to create a successful and pleasing garden come harvest time! I'm sure you'll be hearing much more about the garden in the upcoming months.
Family...Over Easter weekend my Grandpa and Step-Grandma came up from Florida, and my Uncle Kyle, his girlfriend and his girlfriend's mom came down from Ohio. It was, as always, a wonderful visit. My only complaint was that it was too short. We ate good food (Dad even smoked a roast for Easter), we did alot of talking and catching up, we played some croquet, we did some shopping, looked at some property my Grandpa is interested in buying, and we watched Walk the Line. A busy, but great weekend. We got a preview of the week we are planning to spend in Florida for Christmas with the family, and we simply can't wait.
Job...Nothing much to report here, I'm afraid. I have recently finished re-writing my resume. I decided that it might help to re-vamp it in order to draw more attention to some aspects of my experience, and to nearly eliminate experiences that aren't going to do me any good in the Microbiology market. I think it now is much more focused and hope it will be more effective at garnishing interviews. I have once again become frustrated with the way things are going. I'm sure you are as tired of that subject as I am, but there it is. I've felt lately so stagnant and stalled that it's almost stifling at times. Sometimes I just get overwhelmed by the fact that I have no real job opportunity lined up, no significant other in my life, and honestly not even any insignificant others. My Step-Grandma asked me on the first day of their visit whether or not I had met any new people here at church or wherever, and the answer is a resounding no. It's a sound that often echos through my mind. I hate how pathetic it sounds, but the truth of the matter is, that other than my family, and softball, I have absolutely no life here, and it's really starting to get to me. I know I should get involved in something...something that would allow me to interact with people my age, but I don't even know where to begin, and these days hardly have the time or money to try. I'm sure this paragraph is coming off worse than the reality...in truth, I am not that depressed about things, but just wish things weren't so stagnant..that my life just didn't feel so stalled out. It makes me frustrated and listless. I'd go for a trip somewhere if I had the money...
To add insult to injury, things haven't been so smooth at home lately. I think my family has just gotten to the point that we all want our own lives and space, but are too dependant right now to do anything about it. I want to move on with my life, and move out on my own..buy a house...pay my on bills...in short, be independant. My parents want the same. They want, and after all these years, are entitled, to their own space and money and time. While we all love each other dearly, and get along better than most would...frustrations are building and I think we are all growing weary. If I do not get a job by the end of May, I will be working for Fisher's Orchard...a local peach grower, working at their roadside stand. The job can run through October, so at least I'll have some money coming in for a while. My dad the other day told me that if I didn't get another job by the time the peach one was over, that I will probably have to break down and go to work in fast food. Maybe I am being over-sensitive, but I resented the remark, and it's been gnawing at me ever since. The conversation bothered me on several levels...first, it doesn't inspire much hope and faith that I will get a career job before November. Secondly, the not so subtle hint made me feel like a free-loading bum; one of those people that lives at home, doing nothing but watching t.v., eating all the food, and annoying everyone in the house. Thirdly, dad suggested that my objection to working fast food was pride and that I'd have to eventually "face my demons" and work whatever I had to in order to make money. I resent that thought because pride is the least of my concerns. I feel that my dad should know that. I worked many weeks recently cleaning house for a member of my church. It is hard to feel proud as you scrub someone else's dirty toilet!
A job in fast food will not get me out of the house one second faster, and since I only have a couple minimal bills right now, won't even help out much financially. I have applied for any and every job that I've seen available that I was the slightest bit interested in, including Lowe's. I am, as all these penny-annie companies know, over qualified for these positions. None of them are going to hire me knowing that I will only quit as soon as a serious job comes along. Hopefully by November I will have such a serious job and the fast-food dilemma will be irrelevent anyway...for now it just hurts me a little.
I have really been missing my friends alot lately...especially my best friend. We got the chance to talk on the phone the other night for 3 1/2 hours! Although my left ear was sore for quite some time, it really did my soul a world of good. We've determined that after about 2 months...the length of a typical summer break...the distance seems worse. I'm not used to living this far away...and the thought that this is a permanent reality is a scary and sad thought. I need to call my French friends, as I have seriously neglected my friendships with them. I don't know why I have an aversion to calling people, but I really need to get over it.
I began this blog with an apology, and now I will close it with one. I kind of got carried away writting this post. I wasn't sure I had enough to really write about, but it turned out that once I got going, I couldn't stop. Thank you, my devoted and weary readers, for enduring my rambling...I'll try to write more regularly in the future.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Un Peu D'aide
A Little Help. I finally heard back from the Head Hunter today, or as he refers to himself, the professional recruiter. I was at the store when he called, but I returned his call as soon as I returned. He said he didn't have any Microbiology positions to fill right now, but that he would definitely keep me in mind and my resume in hand, if anything did come up. He said he has placed many Microbiologists in the past. Even though he was not able to give me any specific leads, he was able to give me some advice:
1) Don't feel discouraged by ETT not calling. Apparently most companies don't call interviewees back if they don't intend to hire them, it's too personal and they don't want to answer questions. It wasn't personal, it just didn't work.
2) He gave me several online job search resources that he feels are useful and recommended not only searching them, but posting my resume on them. I hadn't heard of some of them before, so that was very useful.
3) He gave me the names of a couple of local companies that he has placed Microbiologists at before.
4) He gave me some general advice regarding professional recruiters. He said it's likely that I will at some point be approached by people wanting to help place me, but he explained that I should never be required to pay for such a service. Recruiters that are above board should be paid by the employer, not by the potential employee.
5) He is a Gator fan...always a great sign, and at the very least it makes for interesting conversation. We shared a moment of pride over the Basketball Championship and expressed mutual hope that the upcoming Football season will do exactly as well. Go Gators!
6) Last, but certainly not least, he gave me some empathy and encouragement. It wasn't anything that I haven't already heard many times over from family and friends, but as these things tend to do, it meant a bit more since it was coming from a professional; or at least someone less biased. He said that he understands how tough this point in your life can be, but that I should not get discouraged and frustrated. He said he knows that searching for a job is a full-time job in and of itself. He said that I have a great background, and a strong degree, and that I will find a Microbiology job, I just have to stick with it until I can get my foot in the door. He also said I should not hesitate to call if I needed any more help or even just had some more questions on the job search.
It was very nice talking with him, and even though he did not have any job placements for me at this time, I am very glad he called.
In other news...our first official softball game is tomorrow...Tuesday, April 10th at 6:30...pray for us, I have a feeling we'll need it!
1) Don't feel discouraged by ETT not calling. Apparently most companies don't call interviewees back if they don't intend to hire them, it's too personal and they don't want to answer questions. It wasn't personal, it just didn't work.
2) He gave me several online job search resources that he feels are useful and recommended not only searching them, but posting my resume on them. I hadn't heard of some of them before, so that was very useful.
3) He gave me the names of a couple of local companies that he has placed Microbiologists at before.
4) He gave me some general advice regarding professional recruiters. He said it's likely that I will at some point be approached by people wanting to help place me, but he explained that I should never be required to pay for such a service. Recruiters that are above board should be paid by the employer, not by the potential employee.
5) He is a Gator fan...always a great sign, and at the very least it makes for interesting conversation. We shared a moment of pride over the Basketball Championship and expressed mutual hope that the upcoming Football season will do exactly as well. Go Gators!
6) Last, but certainly not least, he gave me some empathy and encouragement. It wasn't anything that I haven't already heard many times over from family and friends, but as these things tend to do, it meant a bit more since it was coming from a professional; or at least someone less biased. He said that he understands how tough this point in your life can be, but that I should not get discouraged and frustrated. He said he knows that searching for a job is a full-time job in and of itself. He said that I have a great background, and a strong degree, and that I will find a Microbiology job, I just have to stick with it until I can get my foot in the door. He also said I should not hesitate to call if I needed any more help or even just had some more questions on the job search.
It was very nice talking with him, and even though he did not have any job placements for me at this time, I am very glad he called.
In other news...our first official softball game is tomorrow...Tuesday, April 10th at 6:30...pray for us, I have a feeling we'll need it!
Friday, April 07, 2006
Nous Avons Perdu
We Lost. Last night, our Church League soft-ball team had their first game. The official games won't start until next week at the earliest, but we decided to scrimmage with the people that practice the hour before us, New Jerusalem. We have played them in the regular season before, but it was a couple of years ago. The time away certainly did not hurt their game. They skunked us just as they always had before. We didn't keep score since it was more or less just a practice, but they definitely won. Even the little girls on their team, and one little 7 year old or so boy that was filling in because they didn't have enough, got on base. It certainly didn't help us that most of our really good players didn't show up. Few of the people that were there were actually playing the position they usually play in order to cover important positions like 1st base and short-stop. I played at second and did get one great hit that went well into the outfield. Those of us that were there tried our best, but it's hard to win when half the normal team is gone. This also represents a problem when our actual games start up. We have now held three team practices and many of the "starter" players haven't even made an attempt to show up. The problem, then, is whether we should be more concerned with competition or sportsmanship. If we are trying to win a game, we shouldn't bench some of our best players, but then if we care about fairness, we can't bench hard working yet less talented players that have made every practice. Another dimension is added to the problem when you take into account that we are a church league and we all wish to represent our church and Christ as best we can.
Despite our horrific loss, we did have alot of fun. New Jerusalem is an extremely nice team, and we laughed and joked with them throughout the game. If you must lose a game, they are the best opponents you could wish for. The schedules for the season have not been finished yet and we may have an official game next Thursday, but if we don't, we are planning to scrimmage again. We'll have to see who shows up next week, and see if we do any better. At least we are getting plenty of practice with a team that is tougher than most of those we encounter in our regular season.
Despite our horrific loss, we did have alot of fun. New Jerusalem is an extremely nice team, and we laughed and joked with them throughout the game. If you must lose a game, they are the best opponents you could wish for. The schedules for the season have not been finished yet and we may have an official game next Thursday, but if we don't, we are planning to scrimmage again. We'll have to see who shows up next week, and see if we do any better. At least we are getting plenty of practice with a team that is tougher than most of those we encounter in our regular season.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Quatre Choses
Four things. First, The Chronicles of Narnia:The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe came out on DVD today! I am very excited about that and can't wait to buy it. If I currently had a job, I would have bought it today, but since I don't, I'm trying to be a responsible adult and pay as much of my own bills as possible, and therefore can't spend the money on it right now. I definitely plan to purchase it as soon as possible. I suggest you do the same! I saw the movie twice in the theater and read the series. I think it's great and am very much looking forward to the release of Prince Caspian Christmas '07!
Secondly, I've moved a little further in the job search. Not only did I finally contact the Head Hunter I was supposed to have contacted back in August when I first moved here, and I finally posted my resume on Monster.com, but I applied for my first out of state job! Thus far I've been hesitant to do that, thinking a local job would pan out sooner or later, but since that is not falling in place as easily as I hoped, I decided to look a little further. I think the job is probably pretty competitive, but I figure the worst they can do is never contact me, and I've been there and done that, so what can I lose? The job is in Dahlgren, Virginia. It is about 8 hours from here, Greer, South Carolina and I'm afraid quite a bit further from my friends in Gainesville. I'm not too happy about the distance, but that's what planes are for right? It is a Microbiologist job at The Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren. It is 55 miles from Washington D.C. The work involves Research and Development on weapons and defense systems for the Department of the Navy, but is a civilian job. I think the job sounds fascinating, and it's fun to think about if nothing else. Keep for fingers crossed...who knows, this one might be it...
Thirdly, Congratulations to the Florida Gator Men's Basketball team for winning the NCAA Division 1 National Championship!!! It's always "Great to be a Florida Gator" but sometimes it is exceptional. My heart swelled with Gator pride as I watched Noah stand on the table and Gator Chomp along with the audience. As the signs around campus say, "The University of Florida is in Gainesville, but the Gator Nation is everywhere." Go Gators!
Fourthly, As many of you know, I own a Bassett Hound. His name is Socrates. He knows how to sit, stay, speak, come, lay down, and even whisper. He has never, however, been good at walking decently on a leash..preferring to drag me down the street. Despite all his tricks, he also goes crazy anytime new people or other dogs are around. Today, we made the first step toward correcting that. I have been watching alot of "The Dog Whisperer" lately and have gotten empowered by it. I learned that I can, with a choker chain, some confidence, and the famous "chhht" sound, can be the pack leader of my dog. As I attached the leash to Socrates this afternoon, I certainly had my doubts, but it worked! In a matter of minutes, my unruly hound was heeling as if he'd been to obedience school! It was amazing. We ended up spending a long time walking, and playing and chewing on sticks (I'd like to make sure you know that Socrates was chewing on sticks..I refrained) in the yard. A good time was had by all, and I look forward to more training sessions and being able to take my well-behaved bassett to parks and other public places without having to worry about him acting like an idiot. Cesar is a genius, chht!
***On the cold front...I'm feeling much better, without having resorted to a Fanta and Cough Syrup Cocktail. I'm still coughing some, and at times lose my voice, but on the whole, I'm definitely feeling better!***
Secondly, I've moved a little further in the job search. Not only did I finally contact the Head Hunter I was supposed to have contacted back in August when I first moved here, and I finally posted my resume on Monster.com, but I applied for my first out of state job! Thus far I've been hesitant to do that, thinking a local job would pan out sooner or later, but since that is not falling in place as easily as I hoped, I decided to look a little further. I think the job is probably pretty competitive, but I figure the worst they can do is never contact me, and I've been there and done that, so what can I lose? The job is in Dahlgren, Virginia. It is about 8 hours from here, Greer, South Carolina and I'm afraid quite a bit further from my friends in Gainesville. I'm not too happy about the distance, but that's what planes are for right? It is a Microbiologist job at The Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren. It is 55 miles from Washington D.C. The work involves Research and Development on weapons and defense systems for the Department of the Navy, but is a civilian job. I think the job sounds fascinating, and it's fun to think about if nothing else. Keep for fingers crossed...who knows, this one might be it...
Thirdly, Congratulations to the Florida Gator Men's Basketball team for winning the NCAA Division 1 National Championship!!! It's always "Great to be a Florida Gator" but sometimes it is exceptional. My heart swelled with Gator pride as I watched Noah stand on the table and Gator Chomp along with the audience. As the signs around campus say, "The University of Florida is in Gainesville, but the Gator Nation is everywhere." Go Gators!
Fourthly, As many of you know, I own a Bassett Hound. His name is Socrates. He knows how to sit, stay, speak, come, lay down, and even whisper. He has never, however, been good at walking decently on a leash..preferring to drag me down the street. Despite all his tricks, he also goes crazy anytime new people or other dogs are around. Today, we made the first step toward correcting that. I have been watching alot of "The Dog Whisperer" lately and have gotten empowered by it. I learned that I can, with a choker chain, some confidence, and the famous "chhht" sound, can be the pack leader of my dog. As I attached the leash to Socrates this afternoon, I certainly had my doubts, but it worked! In a matter of minutes, my unruly hound was heeling as if he'd been to obedience school! It was amazing. We ended up spending a long time walking, and playing and chewing on sticks (I'd like to make sure you know that Socrates was chewing on sticks..I refrained) in the yard. A good time was had by all, and I look forward to more training sessions and being able to take my well-behaved bassett to parks and other public places without having to worry about him acting like an idiot. Cesar is a genius, chht!
***On the cold front...I'm feeling much better, without having resorted to a Fanta and Cough Syrup Cocktail. I'm still coughing some, and at times lose my voice, but on the whole, I'm definitely feeling better!***
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