Thanks for all the well wishes!
More on the job: it's the one I applied for in February. The government takes a LONG time to process things! I'll be working for the Department of Homeland Security (same as Robert, but in a different job and different location). I have to go through a background investigation that typically takes 1-2 months. I applied because my boss now (the judge) will be retiring in 18 months. I technically work for her and it would be up to the new judge if they'd like to keep me on. Many times they bring their own staff to the position, so I didn't want to chance it. Plus, judges can be a temperamental bunch and I didn't want to take my chances in that area either. What really appeals to me about this new job: the benefits (I'll be a fed, YAY!), the promotion potential (in 5 years I could be making more than twice what I'm making now), the flexible schedule (I'm hoping I could possibly work 4 10's), the ability to take vacation time whenever I want (I currently have to take time when my judge does), the change, the ability to retire at 53 (I'll have 20 years in then!). What I'm going to miss: the wonderful group of women I currently work with (I'll be working with mostly men), the ability to go out the lunch (my new office is in the middle of nowhere), my comfort zone (I've been here eight years and know my job and the people). Overall, I'm excited and a bit nervous because the new job involved quite a few aspects (budget, human resources) that I haven't had a ton of experience in.
I am on vacation all of next week. But, here's the kicker, the kids are in school (except for Monday)! YAY me! I may keep the little ones home from preschool on Wednesday, but Tuesday and Thursday are mine, all mine. I'm going to do some sorting at home (my photo/scrapbooking closet), but then I'm going to the movies BY MYSELF (Forgetting Sarah Marshall or Baby Mama?) and getting my nails done and maybe walking around a store or two BY MYSELF!!!! It will be so nice. I tried to get my hubby to play hooky with me one day, but he's trying to work some overtime to pay off bills, so I don't think he's going to.
Then on Friday I'm going to Phoenix to visit my parents. The ones that didn't come down last weekend for their granddaughter's 2nd birthday. Whatever! I'm actually meeting some of my online/real life friends for dinner on Friday. Then hanging at my mom's on Saturday. I may even stay Saturday night so that I can visit the only Steve and Barry's in the state on Sunday. Think it's worth it?
Right now I'm trying to figure out where to go for lunch. I'm trying to not spend too much and eat semi healthy, but nothing sounds good. Suggestions?
I am soooo jealous of all the alone time you will have next week. Tell the hubby you will make it worth it if he plays hooky!!!!
Posted by: Absurdly Yours | July 25, 2008 at 10:58 AM
YAY for having dinner with your online/real friends!! ;-) I can't wait! Did we decide where we are going?
I had ChickFilet for lunch...Chicken Strips Salads are the BEST!
YAY about the job! Sounds like a wonderful opportunity! And retirement at 53...AWESOME!
Posted by: Andrea | July 25, 2008 at 12:58 PM
Congratulations!!!
Posted by: Ingrid | July 25, 2008 at 03:59 PM
Congrats on the new job! Also...in Phoenix...Scottsdale actually...you need to go to Don & Charlie's. It is the best Chicago style ribs ever!
Posted by: Mike | July 25, 2008 at 09:07 PM
Congratulations again on getting the job!
Oh, and... I haven't seen Baby Mama, but Forgetting Sarah Marshall was FREAKING HILARIOUS!!!!!!! I wish I could go see it again with you.
Posted by: Meghan | July 27, 2008 at 02:07 PM
niiiiice on the week off! enjoy it. no rEAlly enjoy it. but i think you plan to do that anyway. i just like to be bossy.
no actually, i don't. i's jes' tired...
Posted by: holly | July 27, 2008 at 03:03 PM
Sounds like this is a great opportunity for you! Congrats.
Enjoy your time off.
Posted by: bubblewench | July 28, 2008 at 04:42 AM
Healthy lunch... hmm.... eat at home?!
The job sounds fantastic, as does the week off! Woohooo!
However, I almost thouhgt, "How did I manage to go back to an old post?!", when I saw your movie choices. Are those two movies still out in theaters?!
I say, "Baby Mama". :)
Posted by: Sybil Law | July 28, 2008 at 09:41 AM
Brilliant news sweetie. Well done, and I can't believe I missed Jocelyn turning two. Hope she had a wonderful time.
Posted by: Jo Beaufoix | July 28, 2008 at 06:16 PM
I'd be happy to help with the background check. ;)
Posted by: missburrows | July 28, 2008 at 10:51 PM