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Friday, January 30, 2009

When the sky falls in



Have you ever felt like Charlie Brown? Like you're running along all excited and feeling powerful, then someone sweeps the rug right out from underneath you?

That's how I feel today.

Today I was told that due to massive funding cuts, my position is being eliminated. In more basic terms, as of 5:00 pm EST on Friday, February 13, I no longer have a job. Laid off. Fired. Jobless. Another statistic.




I feel like the wind has just been knocked out of me. The tears haven't really come yet. I'm sure there will be enough tears to fill a bathtub when I have to start telling my clients that I will no longer be their counselor, well my tears anyhow. I am just vain enough to hope that a few clients will be tearful as well, lol

I'm not sure it has really hit me yet.

Some good things though: This makes it easy for me to decide whether or not I should have mediation to try to save my house. Without a job, that's pointless. Makes that decision easy.

On the other hand, I had viewed a cute 2 bedroom condo, not far from where I live now. It won't be on a river and won't be as private, but I will have a nice yard and its in a nice setting, almost rural but still in town. I have already called and left a message to see if it is still available. If it isn't, the condo next to it is coming up for rent. And they will let us keep the dog!

Although I couldn't see the good points at the time, thank goodness I got sick when I did and still had insurance! I also used up the almost 6 weeks worth of paid sick leave that I have earned over the years due to my excellent attendance. Otherwise, I would have lost it all. I also have almost three weeks of paid vacation coming to me, so I should be able to get a check for that. I just got the bills this week for my hospitalization, and although I won't be able to work out a deal for the surgeon and anesthesiologists fee, I can apply for financial aid on the hospital bill, and there is a chance that I can get a good percentage of the bill reduced, or not have to pay at all due to my income and bills.

As far as continuing health care, I may be eligible for medicaid. Hey, I paid taxes for all those years and I don't feel bad if I have to get that help now! I intend to get a full time job with benefits as soon as I possibly can, though in this economy, that will be very difficult.

Job availability is very poor in this town right now. There are people who spent their lives working in factories who are accepting positions at fast food places. Hopefully, I can find a job locally so that I can stay in this city until my son graduates from high school in 2011. Worst case scenario would be to re-locate, but that's only as a very last resort.

It's a scary time right now. I don't have family that can help me out, and I don't have a lot of savings (in part because some of it went to my mortgage)!

No matter what, I know that my children and I are in God's hands. I am hoping that the economy turns around soon. If that happens, they may start hiring at my workplace again, but I don't expect that to happen soon. A good point is that they are willing to write me nice letters of recommendation, and I will be leaving in very good standing.

Right now, I don't have any more words...



26 comments:

SmilingSally said...

Oh, Kady! I feel so badly for you!

I did think about your surgery and how fortunate you are that it is behind you; I'm glad that you're able to be grateful for that.

I would suggest that you talk to your pastor. And, I know you're already talking to God. I will pray with you. I wish that I were wealthy and could do more.

Neabear said...

Oh dear. This is the second blogger friend losing their job. My goodness. It is a good thing you got sick while you were still there. Thank God for the blessings. I wish you luck and pray that things work out for you somehow. Keep us posted. Otherwise we will worry about you.

Edie Marie's Attic said...

Kady I'm shocked! I shouldn't be but I am! I'm so sorry this has happened to such a wonderful gal!! I will be praying for you along with our one nephew who found out today that his job is gone AND his last day was today!! How terrible!
Please let us know what's happening. Don't feel like you are complaining or depressing, that's what we're here for, the good times and the bad!

Big huge hugs, Sherry

Bridget said...

Oh dear, I hate to hear of so many of my friends facing unemployment. I hold my breath and hope we will not be in that boat again. The Mr. was lucky to get a job with his company just before they put a hiring freeze in place. I was hoping to get a job with my old company but it looks like they are not hiring right now even though their business is going well right now. We all have to tighten our belts and try to ride this out. I have no doubt that your positive attitude will be a distinct advantage to you in your search for a new position. There is always temporary agencies that might help you get through the rough patch.
My prayers are with you!

Justine said...

{{{{{{{{{Kady}}}}}}}} I know you're probably still in shock, but do you realize how positive you're looking at this, when most people would have run and hid under the covers? I just know you're going to be okay, and yes, grab any help you can get from the government. You are no slacker and deserve some help right now!
How did the boys take it? How do they feel about sharing a room? You just might find that you enjoy condo living. You won't have to mow the grass anymore!

I am so sorry girl. I'll pray for you, although I know God is already watching over and will guide you through.

Justine :o )

Lori said...

Kady,
Oh sweetie, I can so sypsthize! Were in the same situation. John broke his arm in November and two days before Christmas they told us when he heals, he's laid off! Our insurance runs till the end of February! And wouldn't you know I find out two weeks ago I have cateracts on both eyes from epidural pain shots I took before my spine surgery! Please know if you need to talk or vent, email me, I'll be there ! Sending hugs of care, concern and love,Lori

Deb said...

Oh Kady! I'm so sorry to hear this! I don't know what to say other than do all you can and put the rest in the Lord's hands His promises still stand. I will be praying that you find something soon. Deb

Tootsie said...

oh girl. I am so sorry to hear that your life is giving you lemons. I hope you stay healthy as possible, strong as you need to be, and as determined as I have seen you be in the past.
I will include you in my prayers. Hang in there friend...this too shall pass.
I have learned over the most difficult last 8 months of my life, that every thing will happen for a reason, and that too shall be shown to you soon.
have as good a weekend as you can.

Raxx - A day in the life said...

Oh Kady, I'm sorry to hear about your job loss, but I am proof that things can turn around! You may know that I spent ALL of last year job hunting and the year ended and nothing!

And now I just started a job, it took me a while to develop an attitude like yours, so positive and upbeat, I was depressed for such a long time, and then I blogged about it and of course prayed about it and I put it in God's hands!

The new year started out great! I will pray for you and most of all pray that you keep your spirits up! It really really helps to have a positive attitude and you already have that! I know you will ding somehting soon with your excellent recommendations.

Anonymous said...

Kady, I'm so sorry to hear this news. Hopefully you'll find another job soon. I worry and pray everyday for my girls. My oldest runs a Day Care, so she's safe. My middle one works for the state as a criminal investigator, she's not had a raise in 3 years and worse than that, they just had a lay off. What's up with that?, crime rate such as it is. My youngest one has an upper position in management at a technogly firm, they just laid off 75 people last week. It's scarey in the old USA. I will pray for you.

Hugs,
Chris

Jill said...

Kady... I am so sorry! You have been through enough lately with your health and now this! I am truly sorry! Will you at least get unemployment while you look for another job? I hope things start changing in this country really quick!

Unknown said...

HI Kady!
I am so sorry to hear about what is happening to you. I also wanted to let you know you are NOT alone. Since Aug, my hubby's been w/o a job and has no prospective jobs yet. Our daughter graduates in 2010 so there is much up in the air too.

I am glad to see that you are relying on GOD to get you through. That has been my solace as well. Change is NOT ever easy, but it always seems to have a reason and it usually is very good!

Come by and visit if you ever need to.

Blessings...Lorena

Tara said...

Kady

Thinking of you and keeping my fingers crossed the job loss is temporary and something comes your way soon!

Anonymous said...

Hi,

I have been reviewing your blog along with all the other ladies from the good days of RMS. I have never commented before on your blog, however I felt compelled to after reading this post. From your blog I can tell you are a positive person and that attitude helps. What I know about my GOD is that he will never leave you especially during your time of need. We all are struggling and I am very thankful for what we do have. Prayer changes things, and we will continue to pray in my family for all in need.

Tiffany
RMS "caniquitmyjobanddecorate"

nikkicrumpet said...

I'm so sorry Kady. It is such a scary time right now. People are getting laid off all over and it makes me worry every day whether I'll have a job tomorrow. Hopefully this move will help you financially and a new job will become available. I'll be keeping you in my prayers.

bj said...

Oh, Kady, I am sorry to hear this, girlfriend. So so many people losing jobs and now you. DANG IT !!
You know how God has stayed with you all this time...HE will be there for you. Just continue to pray, all day and night, and HE will present a job and home for you.
Sure sorry and just know I am saying prayers for you, too.
xo bj

Helen said...

Dear Kady ... please know that we are all thinking of you as we read this post. I have so many friends in the same position as you - I wish I could wave a magic wand and make it all go away. Try to stay as positive as possible..this will be hard I know ... but it's how you are going to get through it. Again, I am thinking of you today and for many todays to come....

Queenie's Vintage Finds said...

Hey Kady,
sweetie...I know it's been a while since I've stopped over, I'm so sorry...I've been so busy with my new etsy shop that I started back in Dec. that I haven't been visiting as much around blogland...but I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am about this news. You will be in my prayers...I believe that when a door shuts that God is going to open a better door and that it is going to be okay. You are such a sweet person....and I just hate this has happened to you and your family.
I also want to say that you have done so good with your weight loss... congratulations on that goal. That is amazing...you look wonderful, but I know that's the last thing on your mind right now...but you do look great girl!
Queenie~

Sharon said...

Oh Dear, I am so sorry to here about your job, it is so sad what is happening to so many people that have a good job. My prayers go out to you and your son that soon you will find work. I sure hope you will get an unimployment check until things get better. Hugs and prayers to you my friend.

bj said...

Just to say I am keeping my fingers crossed that another job, even better than this one, comes along the day after you are laid off!! Or..at least, SOON!
xo bj

Lori said...

Kady
Left you a comment on my recent posts comments! Sending you love,Lori

kat449 said...

Kady,
((((Honey))))) I am with you until the shock wears away, but I dont have a doubt in my mind although this isnt what you had planned on, and now you have a different road to take....I just KNOW its all because God has something mindblowing awaiting you. Kady, you prayed me thru my near homelssness, My Moms death and now my new career...you have me and all these friends close in spirit just praying you through this.
The devil is a coward and a liar... were not going to tell God about your problems, were gonna tell your problems about your GOD!!!!!!
Im on my way out but I will be in touch. You keep that beautiful head & spirit held HIGH! Im excited for you actually, cuz this is going to be a blessing. I FEEL IT! HUgs, Kat-erpillars-no-more

Bargain Decorating with Laurie said...

Oh, I am SO sorry to read this. I know this is scary for you, but it sounds like you are trying to look on the bright side. With an attitude like that, I just know you will be able to find a job right away. I will put you on my prayer list. You are loved in Blogland, so keep your chin up. Your courage is shining through, but I'm sure you will have difficult days. We are here for you. laurie

Rue said...

Oh Kady! I'm so sorry. I knew you were having house issues, but I had no idea exactly what you meant. I hope you find a great new place to live and an even better job soon.

(((hugs)))
rue

bj said...

Hi, Kady..it's Pink Sat. and I came over to visit..Guess your post isn't up yet..so I will come back.
Bless your heart...I do hope things are going better for you.
xo bj

Donna said...

Kady, what an inspiration you are. You absolutely look at the positive in every situation. I am very sorry about the loss of your job; I hope that your company is back to hiring very soon. I'm sure you'll be one of the first they hire back when that time comes. I know you will miss Bonnie Lane, but once again, you are looking at the positive and the condo and/or rental sounds darling. Your weight loss photos are also an inspiration - you are just on fire! You look mah-velous! ... Donna @ An Enchanted Cottage