October 29, 2001

      So the never-ending temp job is over.  Well not completely – I’m claiming fame to it never really ending, since I left first.  But the women in the office thought it was pretty funny and the thank you card I got for them reflected that perfectly.  It went something like:  “Thank you for the help in my hour of need …. (then on the inside) bet you never thought it would be such a long hour!”  Along with the card, I bought them a box of those mixed jelly beans in a gazillion flavours, which turned out to be a big hit.

     They, on the other hand, spoiled me thoroughly.  I was taken out for dim sum (yummy), spent most of the day visiting because they kept coming to my desk one by one, and then late in the afternoon presented me with a large crème-laden chocolate cheesecake and card.  And I only got teary eyed a few times.  Right about the same time they had the cameras out.  Sheesh.  But it was the first ‘real’ job that I’ve had in this city, and they made the experience such a positive one.  And I’m not used to being so … well, liked! … by a large group of women.  I think that’s gone a long way in helping me to gain trust with them.

     I’m majorly nervous about the new job.  Especially since I heard through the grapevine that they fired 10 people on Friday.  Ick.  The pressure is on.  But Himself understands the importance of looking good in these places (much better than I do it seems!) and took me out shopping on Saturday, for the perfect little power items.  My first month’s paycheque is now well spent before I even get it! 

     I’m so not used to spending huge dollars on my clothes.  Either I wore other people’s cast offs or I found major sales.  Once in awhile I would indulge in a new item at full price, but that was never very often.  Now Himself is telling me to go back to that store once every 6 to 8 weeks and see what they have.  I admit I did have a blast with their $20.00 to $30.00 racks, while He and the owner browsed the $250.00 to $400.00 suits.  In the end we were all happy – I found deals and they managed to get two suits on me.

     And I even indulged in a (ahem) slightly pricey black and fringed and beaded and silly wild top that I know will always make me feel good.  Paired with a black mini skirt or pencil-thin pants (my tummy is nicely hidden with this top!) I just know I’m going to get years of wear out of it.  Especially since it’s fancy enough that it’s best suited for special occasions only. 

     So even if I’m not used to the big corporate environment, I’m going to look like I am.  Then I’ll have to start proving myself.  In an environment where everyone (except one of the VP’s) is 10 to 15 and even 20 years younger than I am.  I’m not looking forward to that part.  And not just because I’m going to feel like their mother, but because at their really young ages, most are still convinced they know everything and are invincible.  They haven’t been through the divorces or the baby raising or the family issues – or the mortgages and loans and creditors knocking on the door.  Ah well.  Maybe I should just feel sorry for them.  Their turn is coming.

     I’m really starting to enjoy our Saturday’s together though.  It seems like it’s falling into a pattern where most of the week is spent working, or seeing other people, or the kids are over visiting, but Saturday afternoons are clear.  And even though we spend them doing things we need to get done (ie shopping) we are doing it together and having a chance to catch up with each other.  Nice visits.  A quiet lunch and a stroll through Kensington Market.  Just regular stuff, but stuff i like and i’m very grateful Himself is indulging me in. 

     How the heck did I get to be so happy? 

                

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