Friday the 13th

13 Apr 2012 Leave a Comment

by Cocktails With Hemingway in Adam, Anxiety, Being broke, Child 'Protective' Services - CPS, Employment, Gestapo, HC, Homesick, JiLTED, Legal, Online Materials, Tatum

Visits with Adam give me strength.

Rise Magazine is by and for parents affected by the Child Welfare System.  Both the Editor and the Editorial Director thought I had some very interesting stories to tell.  I’m absolutely delighted to share with you that Rise accepted my submission packet and they’ll be publishing my w0rk!  As of now I’ll be doing several pieces for them– hopefully that number will multiply as time progresses– and am so thrilled to have this incredible opportunity to share my experiences with others.

It is with tremendous sadness that I must inform you I no longer work for the church.  Although I resigned [and I truly loved the job] it was an amicable parting of ways.  Because I try valiantly to keep my personal and professional lives private, my coworkers were largely in the dark about the magnitude of my situation.  I owed them the respect of being straightforward.  They did not realize that the second Adam’s free [whether he is returned to me or adopted by my parents]– whenever that may be– I am renting a U-Haul, packing my stuff, and driving back to Memphis immediately.  We all agreed that my focus should be getting Adam and reuniting my family as soon as possible.  Since I had not yet resumed work following my maternity leave, it made sense that this would be an appropriate time to make my departure.  What a tremendous honor it was to work for them.

My phenomenal coworkers, the church, and the countless individuals with servant’s hearts and infinite kindness I met through this special place will receive their own post at a later date.

Bills aren’t going to pay themselves, however.  I’m actively searching and have already started the interview circuit for two part-time jobs.  Not to sell myself short….but I’m not overly concerned with finding a position that is indicative of my experience and education.  Find me a place I can start TOMORROW and where I’m perfectly expendable.  ;)

Tatum, 7 weeks

Remember those pesky bruised ribs and that partially collapsed left lung I discussed?  The ribs still hurt like hell, my lung hasn’t gotten any better [though thankfully not any worse], and now I have severe bronchitis which is in danger of escalating into pneumonia.  Awesome.

I refrained from mentioning last week’s visitation debacle with Adam on my blog.  Facebook friends certainly got an earful but I just didn’t have the energy to rehash the upsetting and infuriating ordeal here.  One component of said debacle involved a ‘visitation agreement’ the social worker demanded I sign under threat of having my visits revoked entirely.  I refused.  Today I took a red pen– like the kind teachers use for grading papers– and modified 5 of the 18 statements on the document.  Upon giving it to our supervisor I asked her if she would be so kind as to pass it on to the social worker and if she agreed with my changes then I’d love to put my John Hancock on the bottom of it.

Exciting legal things are happening.  Without divulging too much information, all I can say is that Plan A, Plan B, and Plan C are in effect.  In the courtroom, behind the scenes, on the web….people are fighting for Adam.

No words can describe the hell I’ve endured since I returned to California alone.  Pure agony.  It’s a cruel and unusual punishment where the ones who truly suffer are my two innocent children.  Despite all the suffering, something’s changed recently:  I have a feeling fr0m deep within that this nightmare will be over soon, that we’re not going to be here very much longer. 

With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,

Sloane

So drained

20 Jan 2012 Leave a Comment

by Cocktails With Hemingway in Adam, Employment, Wanda

Kisses for the love of my life

His dessert didn't last very long

He refused pictures at this point

Chaos ensued this morning when I arrived at the office.  We’re not open on Fridays yet I wanted to meet our coffee distributor so all of our congregants would be sufficiently caffeinated come Sunday.  The alarm went off and I waddled downstairs in attempts to avoid the police dispatch, to no avail.  Shortly before the officer arrived the alarm sounded again [while I was on the phone with the security company nonetheless] so that was a pain.  Luckily the technician’s coming Monday so hopefully that’s a successful mission.  Better to be overreactive than unresponsive!

Adam and I had a wonderful morning.  He loved meeting Wanda.  Maybe sometime before his eighteenth birthday he’ll get to enjoy a ride.  He was filled with loaded questions today ["Are you still married to Daddy?"  "When can I come home with you?"  "Does sister live with us or does she stay with my aunt?"  "How much does Daddy love you?"] that broke my heart while simultaneously making my blood boil.  I seriously contemplated calling my social worker to defer to her unsurpassed authority on matters of consequence….but opted against it.

Today’s meeting with my therapist went well.  She insisted upon a meeting with herself [and her supervisor] and my social worker [and her supervisor] along with me.  Our hope is that in a group setting our concerns will not be dismissed because they will go ‘on the record’ for multiple individuals to hear.  Additionally, they intend to medically refute some of the diagnoses that came from Dr. Will.  They’ll also inquire as to why the social worker refuses to amend the report when there is factual evidence exonerating me from some of the less than savory allegations.

I know I’ve reneged on my original stance to say nothing regarding all of this.  Do I have a choice?  Not the way I see it….while I have always [and will always] be compliant with the powers that be, gone are the days where I am cooperative and polite.  See how far that got me.  Gone are the days of frustration– and utter helplessness– where I feel backed into a corner.  Nobody puts Sloane Reed in a corner!  I’ll use my proverbial sledgehammer to knock down the walls and create my own exit, thank you very much.

Without going into too much detail– that’s disrespectful to Facebook and/or CWH about job plans before I speak directly to my employers– I need to consider my options for an early maternity leave as soon as possible.  Three professionals now have told me that my bed rest should have started, like, yesterday.  Sigh.

Forgive me for my failure to adequately blog.  I’m just so drained.

With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,

Sloane

‘The Edge of Glory’: 2011 edition

31 Dec 2011 4 Comments

by Cocktails With Hemingway in Adam, Ambition, Blessings, Brandi, California, Changes, Da Real Homiez, Employment, Family, Friends, Giving, HC, Heroes, Holidays, Independence, JiLTED, Love, Moving, My Humble Oasis, NYE, Passion, Pregnancy, Religion, Single mama, Sloane, Spirituality, STiR, Support, The Wee One

Lady Gaga’s not my cup of peculiar tea.  Had it not been for some fabulous gay divas whom I’m lucky enough to call friends, I never would have known this was a song of hers.  But the title fits.  As ridiculously corny as it sounds, I truly feel as though I’m on the edge of glory.  I’ve been to hell and back this year….2012 is my vindication.  A fresh start.  The first year of the rest of my life.  Watch out, world.

“I have learned that success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.”  ~ Booker T. Washington

Now it’s time to give credit where it’s due and reflect on the joys of this year. 

Tatum wishes you all a happy new year!

11 Blessings of 2011:

1)  Tatum Maris Reed, my precious unborn daughter, serves as a constant reminder of the greatest blessing in life– a child.  Of all the times for me to be pregnant, it is no accident that I’m expecting right now.  Our sweet little girl was a complete surprise but I know the life inside my womb keeps me strong and focused while reminding me that everything I do is for my family.  With the presence of Tatum, depending on me in every sense of the word, I can’t afford to crumble. 

2)  If not for my beloved Adam, my fighting spirit would be crushed, and it would be so easy to lose hope.  Nobody will ever have the satisfaction of seeing me ‘break’ nor will I ever give up, shut up, or go away until the outcome and my desires are one in the same.  The only person tougher than me in this situation is my son.  To be yanked apart from the people he loves– not once but twice– with zero explanation is beyond traumatizing.  Even before his removal from school that fateful day he had already seen too much.  But my Adam is a trooper.  We’ll get through this.  Our first few months in California will NOT define our family’s time here.  Watching him dote on his little sister and be the best big brother will be the ultimate reward. 

3)  During a time of tremendous uncertainty I stumbled across an advertisement for a job that ultimately became mine.  Fate works in mysterious ways.  Who would have thought I’d ever skim through a local newspaper– I turn to the internet for my news– my second day in Paso and see a promising employment opportunity?  And a church of all places!  To say I was ‘de-churched’ [more on that in #8] is putting it mildly.  Two weeks elapsed from my series of interviews until I was offered the position and I began work on October 5th, exactly one month after arriving in the women’s shelter.  Not only do I love the work I do but I am so lucky do being doing it surrounded by kind, talented, and inspirational coworkers.  It’s an honor to work for a church whose mission and philosophy I support wholeheartedly, the place I attend on Sundays.  Even daily tasks that may seem ‘dull’ fly by because it’s fulfilling for me to know that I’m helping others and making their lives easier.

4)  An incredible organization dedicated to providing women with safety, education, healing, and community resources took me in when I had nobody in this foreign land and completely changed my life.  Where would I be without the Women’s Shelter of San Luis Obispo?  Their support and the resources they provided helped me steer myself back on the path instead of wandering around aimlessly because I was so stunned by recent events.  It boggles my mind to think of it– getting picked up from the Atascadero police station after filing a domestic violence report by a shelter volunteer who took us to a safe facility in Paso Robles, getting settled into our suite the same day, and having a dedicated group of professionals point me in the right direction when I knew absolutely nothing about opportunities available to me in this new area.  Even after I left the house they’ve continued to care for me.  Once life settles down a bit I most definitely plan to volunteer for WSSLO….but I know I can never express my gratitude or repay the debt. 

California palm trees never cease to lift my spirits

5)  Despite the fact that I missed a narrow window where I could have returned to Memphis, I am here in California for the foreseeable future….and I not only survived but flourished independently. Let me be the first to tell you I’ve had tremendous assistance from organizations and individuals getting on my feet.  Within a month of arriving in Paso not only had I started my job as an Administrative Assistant but I’d enrolled Adam in a prestigious private preschool.  By Thanksgiving  I had the keys to my apartment.  I’m not on Section 8, I don’t live in low income housing, and I definitely pay rent.  All of my expenses are paid on time.  My parents aren’t paying my bills and I don’t rely on a man to provide for me.  This may not sound like anything novel….but considering the complete 180 I did in such a short period, I’m damn proud of myself.

6)  Brandi Crook is the woman of my dreams.  Neither one of us is embarrassed or ashamed to discuss our time at the shelter, so I can tell you that is where we met.  We shared a suite and she a huge factor in my ability to acclimate to the shelter and get my behind into gear.  I felt an instant connection with her.  She went above and beyond to help me with listening ears, insightful advice, and even child care when I needed a sitter for a few days after I’d started work and before Adam’s child care went into effect.  One night she even put lotion on my feet and gave me a foot massage that took me to Cloud 9.  I loved our book swaps and I’m so glad we’re still close after we both left the shelter.  Sassy, witty, opinionated, intelligent, courageous, fun, direct, sarcastic, an excellent mother, refuses to settle for less or let people escape accountability– there is simply no one else on this planet like her– and that’s one of the absolute highest compliments I can give.  All hail Brandi.  Maybe it can’t happen for 2012 but we’re on for Sandals ’13.  ;)

7)  My family is the greatest, as are my friends, old and new.  I come from a very close-knit family, especially with those in Memphis….there are my incredible parents, Aunt Sarah & Uncle Tommy, Oliver & Gideon [my first cousins and their wives, Katrina & Carly, respectively], and Sharon and Kenny.  As we say in the South my ‘people’ are everywhere.  And I miss them so much.  I’m hoping to use my time out west to connect with my California family as well.  Additionally, my friends are the most eclectic yet amazing bunch.  They are sorely missed and loved beyond comprehension.  Thank you for reminding me why you’re the best group of loved ones, especially during my absence.  It’s been so nice making new friends here too.

8)  Spirituality became my anchor during this tumultuous time.  With the exception of Bella Luna Bliss back in Memphis, I’d all but lost touch with the divine.  I thank my church for reminding me that organized religion can be a very positive thing and restoring my faith in Christianity.  Let’s just say what I hear on Sundays here ain’t nothing like the Bible belt!  Of course the role of UU always has a prominent place in my life as do other meaningful spiritual traditions….I’ll never lose that insatiable urge to learn about the faiths of others and I’ll always lead by example as opposed to proselytizing.  But I’m in a much better place now, considerably more whole. 

I will ALWAYS find a way to make trips to Arkansas to see my first true love's resting place. It's important for my son to know his namesake. *R.i.P.*

9)  JiLTED– the magazine formerly know as STiR– is back in business.  So I guess this means I’ve officially announced the name change.  The word itself resonated deeply with Mandy and me– and is a literary reference to one of our favorite authors– thus making it a perfect choice.  All of us are thrilled beyond belief to get it started again and there are so many fresh faces lending their time and talents!  For those of you who don’t know, ours is an online magazine covering a wide variety of content [books, spirituality, art, politics, etc.] and we don’t shy away from controversy.  The mini issue arrives on January 7th and our debut issue hits the presses on April 7th.  Please contact me for additional details about writing, artistic involvement, or other ways you can contribute.

10)   Would you believe me if I said I have learned some serious lessons this year?  I honestly can’t even begin to list them all here.  What most people consider ‘regrets’ I view as learning experiences and I’ve had the education of my life in 2011.  I’ll never be the same.  My relationships will never be the same.  Our family will never be the same.  My outlook on virtually everything will never be the same.  Perhaps my greatest triumph will be my refusal to capitulate to the anger, bitterness, and negativity and prevail.

11)  Angels are among us, truly good people exist, kindness is everywhere, love is all around us, and I am fortunate enough to realize this firsthand.  Literally there are tears [of the happy variety] streaming down my face as I write this.  Whether it’s a non-profit, friends from church with true servant’s hearts, or other acts of kindness I’ve encountered I am so eternally grateful for all the love and support I’ve received.  When I arrived at my apartment I had nothing– by the end of the first day I had a loveseat, two end tables, a breakfast table, kitchen items, towels and blankets, two lamps, and a full-sized bed with a mattress, pillows, and linens.  Wow.  People have gone above and beyond to give me rides and call/text just to check up on me.  I’ve had invitations for holiday meals  and know that help– for anything– is only a phone call away.  How truly blessed I am.

With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,

Sloane

Christmas party, beta fish, and baby toupees

17 Dec 2011 Leave a Comment

by Cocktails With Hemingway in Brandi, Employment, HC, Holidays, Parties, Restaurants

Tatum decided to make her presence known shortly before our 7th month of pregnancy. ;)

 

The Upper Crust Trattoria hosted our office Christmas party last night, something I wouldn’t have missed for the world.  Although the event was for ‘employees and spouses,’ my husband was a bit indisposed with previous engagements….so Brandi and I made an event out of it!  Of course we completely forgot to take a snapshot of us all dolled up– or of the festivities at the restaurant– so you’ll just have to take my word when I say both of us had a blast.

Brandi ordered the ribeye steak while I opted for the chicken marsala.  Tatum must have known we were someplace wonderful because she kicked incessantly…and proceeded to nap for four and a half hours [she never stops moving] after I wolfed down a plate of Caesar salad, half of each entree, Brandi’s leftovers, and my entire raspberry cheese cake. I typically don’t pay too much attention to aspects of a restaurant other than food and service, but the ambiance at Upper Crust was great.  I loved their cozy waiting area, modern bar space, and the general layout.  For those of you who live in Memphis it reminded me of the entry area of the remodeled Benihana.  The similarities end there but if I had to make a comparison that would be it.

Italian food– and also Indian cuisine [which I have no had since I've been to this area with the exception of a yummy homemade meal prepared by Brandi at NCWS]– keeps me healthy.  Place cheese, pasta, or an Indian buffet in front of me and I’ll devour half my body weight in food.  Not to justify spending money I don’t have on dining out, but it’s hard to feel upset about feeding my pregnant self a hearty meal when I’d be too stressed to eat well otherwise.

Who doesn’t love a white elephant gift exchange?  Thankfully there was a CVS in the shopping center next door so we were able to politely excuse ourselves and make a mad dash when I inevitably forgot to bring my present.  Watching the gifts being opened proved hysterical– some of us thought we were bringing gag gifts while others stuck to more serious items.  Gift cards, candles, and holiday items were sandwiched between a beta fish, a mini golf set that you can play while sitting on the toilet, and the infamous ‘butt/face’ towel…ha.

My white elephant loot

I couldn’t have picked a better gift from the pile.  It was a large coffee mug [you can never have too many cups in a new apartment] with a colorful bouncy ball that Adam will love.  Bonus points for the fact that it came in an cute box that will be perfect for holding my trinkets.  J also gave Tatum ‘The Donald’– a baby toupee!– and some sweet potato puffs.  Our pastor was kind enough to present us with a very generous Starbucks card and fudge.  It takes lots of coffee and sweets to make a church function smoothly!  ;)

It meant so much to me that Brandi came.  While I don’t let it detract from my professionalism and the work I do for the church, everyone knows I’ve been through some rough times lately.  Having a friend from the ‘outside’ made me feel normal and I know Brandi loved getting to meet these incredible people.  Endless thanks to R & P, our chauffeurs for the evening.

I felt terrible yesterday and even worse today but it was so worth it to have a delightful evening with my coworkers and Brandi.  We’re already excited about 2012′s soiree!

With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,

Sloane

Le sigh

16 Nov 2011 Leave a Comment

by Cocktails With Hemingway in Adam, Changes, Controversy, Employment, Frustration, Motherhood, Paso Robles, Pregnancy, Psychiatric Issues, Single mama, Spirituality, Support, Unconventional Parenting, Will Reed

Somebody loves the outlet mall and Pismo Beach....and could care less about the retail experience!

Tomorrow I desperately need to play catch up with my ’30 Days of Thanksgiving.’  In my current state of sadness, anxiety, and stress it’s crucial to remain focused on the positive and be thankful for my blessings.  The dual combination of no psychiatric help and a pregnancy entering its third trimester is taking its toll on me.

[[ Because I am hyper aware of everything I post on here let me say that 'psychiatric help' refers to therapists/counseling and my usual antidepressant and anxiety medications.  I'm not crazy or mentally ill...at least that's the concensus reached by all of my personalities. ]]

I expect to hear tomorrow about the final verdict regarding my apartment– and hopefully a move-in date within a matter of days.  Until this morning I did not know the complex had an additional form they requested from my social worker.  As luck would have it she’s out of the office on Tuesdays but she’s always prompt and efficient so I’m thrilled to enter the home stretch of the application process!

During my lunch today, S, my wonderful housing worker treated me to a large bowl of homemade tomato soup at Cider Creek Bakery.  I signed the paperwork that officially admits me into the program.  She’ll be paying my deposit in full….isn’t that fantastic?!  I cannot wait to tell you more about this lifesavi ng program once I get settled.

Shifting gears…..

I’m undergoing a sort of internal struggle about what I write on Cocktails With Hemingway.  To think that one of my coworkers follows this blog is such an exciting thought.  I’m sure it’s not difficult to find and others may have seen it as well.  Everyone at my job appreciates my aspirations as a writer and the freelance work I do– and the reviews for my writings [including this blog] have been wonderful.  It’s so difficult for me to censor myself on the internet yet I feel it is in the best interests of my professional repuation and my character in general.  You’ve lost your ever loving mind, however, if you think this site will be devoid of controversy.  I’ll always push the envelope, stay true to myself, and speak my mind.  It’s just that these things will be done in a way that reflects the profound love and respect of the church I represent and portrays me as the adult I am, a woman with strong morals and convictions, who understands the value of discretion and realizes that sometimes less truly is more.

With that being said, I am extremely upset with Will.  I could sit here and talk for hours on end about all the negative emotions I feel and be justified in doing so.  But there is one thing he he has said since this entire ordeal began– and continues to say through third parties– that kills me.  He constantly references this “game” in which we’re involved.

To reduce so much ugliness and dismiss all that our son has endured as a ‘game’ makes me ill.  There are no winners here…and the biggest loser is Adam.  This is all so very serious.  Will is acting as if the ‘objective’ here is whichever parent can make their ‘opponent’ look the worst.  It’s truly heartbreaking.  I could care less [of course it bothers me but my priority is mothering my children] about mudslinging and attempted character assassination, insults and intimidation, and other less than pleasant aspects of human behavior.  What I care about is Adam and his best interests, his safety and stability.  That’s the only thing anyone should care about, not ‘winning’ or ‘losing,’ and going to extreme lengths to ‘play’ dirty.

I will never get used to Christmas decorations amidst palm trees.

Still I cannot help but think of what could have been.  MY dreams [minus the nightmare] are coming true in California…subtracting an adult member from our family of four.  I have a job I love, my son’s in a school he loves, and I am about to move into my own apartment with my kids while saving for a car in my name.  All that is missing from this equation is my husband and everything he was supposed to provide:  love, support, protection, parental guidance, an extra pair of hands, a second income, and so much more.

For the first time in my life I am entirely alone with the single mother label.  Millions of women [and plenty of men] are the only parent in their family home.  I am not unique in my predicament– and I have done the solo mommy thing before– but never 2000+ miles away from my parents, the vast majority of my family, and my best friends.  One child is difficult enough when you don’t have the luxury of both parents in the home, two kids will be infinitely more difficult.  How I miss my support system.

I know I can do it though.  Challenges build character and make you that much stronger.  It’s not the life I would have preferred for any of us but our bond will be unbreakable, my son and daughter and me.

Some people ask if I miss Will.  Yes and no.  I sure as hell don’t miss California Will, that person is a stranger to me.  I miss the friend I used to have, the father of my children, the person who was my co-pilot in life.  In all honesty it’s having help that I miss the most.

Romantic love is not something that has ever ranked high in my world– all my exes can attest to this.  I’m too independent and focused on my own passions and ambitions.  After giving so much of myself to my children I want to be selfish with the Sloane that is left over….not surprisingly I am always critcized by my partners for being ‘distant,’ ‘self-absorbed,’ and ‘not giving enough attention’ to them.  So no, I’m not missing Will in the sense that I’m longing for companionship or pining away for my next boyfriend….it’s always nice to relish in my freedom and independence with no apologies.

Can you believe I type all of this on my phone?  My Christmas present to myself, a new laptop, will make a world of difference.  Come pay day I’m heading to Walmart to put one on layaway.  Ah the lifestyles of the rich and the famous.  ;)

With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,
Sloane

Give thanks

10 Nov 2011 1 Comment

by Cocktails With Hemingway in Adam, Books, Employment, Family, Friends, HC, Health, Holidays, Home Sweet Home, Support, The Wee One, Welfare, Will Reed

Made with Adam's handprints and footprints for Thanksgiving <3

Many of my Facebook friends have been sharing their ’30 Days of Thanksgiving’ blessings in their daily statuses.  What an excellent idea…one day simply isn’t enough to focus on all of the things for which we are thankful.  Obviously I’m a little behind with this idea so allow me to present to you my first ten days of gratitude:

1)  My son, Adam Harrison Reed, brings me unparalleled joy.  As you all know, he’s the coolest kid ever, and beyond precious.  I cannot even remember my life without him and wouldn’t trade motherhood for the world.  He is in such a fun, creative, and exciting stage of development right now!  I prefer his company to anyone else’s.

2)  Our new arrival, Tatum Marisann Reed, will complete our little family.  I’m sure any expecting parent can attest to this fact, but I love her so much and I haven’t even met her.  She’s kicking up a storm as I write this and I know these next fifteen weeks will fly by at lightening speed.  During my initial pregnancy with Adam [before I knew his sex] I wanted a baby girl but I became so obsessed with my little dude– and even still I am so thrilled that I had my son first– yet the timing is just perfect for my daughter.

3)  I cannot give enough thanks for the support we’ll receive with our apartment!  This doesn’t even need an explanation, heh.  Being ‘homeless’ [especially when you are pregnant and have a small child] is one of the absolute worst situations and this entire ordeal has made me a lot more cognizant of the struggles others face in their own lives.  So many people associate homelessness with hobos sifting through garbage, sleeping on the concrete, and panhandling when in reality it can be any transitional living situation between one address and the next.  An unexpected crisis does not discriminate.

4)  Adding on to the previous blessing, I am eternally grateful for all of the support that is available in San Luis Obispo County.  If not for all the resources at my disposal….I shudder just thinking about it.  All of the empowerment reaffirms my desire to be involved with this community and give back to organizations that have helped me.

5)  I am thankful for my job.  Getting paid to do work you enjoy with people you love = WIN.  Of course in this economy anyone with gainful employment has reason to give thanks but how many folks can honestly say they enjoy how they make a living?  I’m so lucky to be one of them.

6)  Everyone probably thinks they have the greatest friends ever– I know I do.  Seeing the countless individuals [some of whom I barely knew] who have reached out to me lately– whether it’s sending me a care package, offering to babysit, lending me their ears, or just messaging me to let me know I was in their thoughts and prayers– y’all are amazing.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Brandi is one of my newest friends....and I am ever so thankful she's in my world.

7)  Despite the waiting rooms and medical bills, can you even imagine what our lives would be like without all the doctors, nurses, and other medical staff working tirelessly to keep us healthy?  Katie Porter mentioned this earlier and I must agree:  healthcare professionals make the world go ’round.  And I’m also so glad that my son rarely has to see people in this field except for yearly wellness checkups.

8)  Without reading material I would be so lost.  Whether it’s books, magazines, blogs, or anything else– I devour it.  Imagine my delight when a kind man came into work today– and told me that he’d heard from our pastor that I like to read– and offered to bring me bunches of magazines!  Yes please.  Speaking of books, I am think I may be overdue at the library.  Thanks to the library as well for giving me a card even though I did not have California identification.  Maybe I’ll add that to my list of places to volunteer at as well.

9)  My family as a whole, especially my parents, do so much for me and I appreciate it more than I can ever express.  No matter how old a girl gets, she always needs her mama.  ;)

10)  And last but not least, I’m thankful for Will Reed.  Perhaps that strikes you as strange but I learned so much from my marriage with him– and more importantly– he helped me create the two best children to ever walk the face of this planet.  I would be remiss to not mention the father of my kids and pray daily that he takes positive steps towards achieving a fulfilling life.

With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,

Sloane

First day on the job

05 Oct 2011 Leave a Comment

by Cocktails With Hemingway in Employment, HC

image

I could not ask for a better work environment.  The people are fantastic– so helpful and friendly– and I loved meeting the folks I didn’t already know.  Luckily the woman training me served as the interim fill for my position….and she is an active member of the congregation so help is readily available if I need it.

Isn’t the view great too?

With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,
Sloane

Working woman ;)

01 Oct 2011 Leave a Comment

by Cocktails With Hemingway in Changes, Employment

image

Last Monday I had an interview with an area church here in Paso for the position of Office Manager.  The pastor and his associate were throroughly impressed with my resume and said I was overqualified.  They asked me lots of questions about my interests and life experiences– with genuine interest– and I considered it more of an interesting conversation than an interview.  I enjoyed chatting with them and thought it went very well, a fact comfirmed when I was emailed within an hour of my departure asking for a second interview two days later with several members of the board.  Round two was quite similar to the first except I was asked if my UU beliefs would conflict with their conservative church.  It struck me as odd that they considered their establishment to be anything but liberal….then again we aren’t in the hellfire and brimstone of the Bible Belt.  I assured them that I had researched the church and thought it was a positive place making a difference in the community as opposed to striking fear in people’s hearts.

A few days elapsed without hearing from them and I started to doubt myself.  Interviews don’t phase me and neither does rejection– I am confident in my abilities and experience and understand that sometimes certain people just aren’t the right fit for certain jobs– but these interviews went so well I felt disappointed.

Yesterday they called to offer me the position!!  Of course I eagerly accepted and start Wednesday.  Things seem to have a way of working themselves out….

Essentially I perform all the duties of a secretary and am also responsible for the weekly newsletter.  Beyond that I make myself available to any parishoners who need an ear and direct them to the proper person/resources if it is beyond my scope.  I work Monday through Thursday, 9-4.  Those hours are ideal for me and coincide nicely with childcare for Adam.  Even though it is only 28 hours I am very satisfied with the pay.

A job like this is perfect for my pregnancy though I certainly plan to remain on board after the baby is born.  Oh and speaking of baby:  THE BIG GENDER REVEAL ULTRASOUND IS FRIDAY!!!

Did I mention yet I am in love with my spectacular phone?  Said love multiplied exponentially with the discovery of the Word Press app.  <3

With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,
Sloane