Some Exciting News

So something new and exciting is happening in my little corner of the world. I am happy to report that I am transitioning out of my current position at work. Since returning from work after having Jack I have been unhappy with my job. I don't know if it is my job or if its the idea that I would much rather be at home with my little boy.

A little background on what I do... For the last 8 years I have run 2 programs for a non profit agency. I run a day program for adults with Autism and other developmental disabilities and I also run an after school program for children with developmental disabilities. Our programs have grown more than I ever imagined. I currently have a caseload of 49 individuals with the potential to grow! I'm proud of the growth and the ability to support so many families. 

The problem I have are the long hours away from my family. I don't get home until at least 7:15 each night. I usually have to forego dinner in order to take walks with my family. I always miss Jack's dinner and it's heartbreaking for me. I keep thinking of all the times in the future I may miss because of my current position. 

Recently, my supervisor resigned. Although I am really going to miss her, her guidance and all that she has taught me in the last 7 years I am happy to say her position has been adjusted and I'll be transitioning in part of her current role. 

I will be staying on 4 days a week and I will be working with 31 families in the community. I will no longer be running 2 programs and will be able to flex my schedule according to meetings. I will not longer have to work until 6:30 when both programs end. I'll be able to get home and eat dinner with my family most nights. 

I'm so excited to be able to spend more time with my family. I'm so thankful that my company has give me the opportunity. I'm hoping to grow into this position, assist families all while enjoying mine. I've grown close to the families I've worked with over the last several years. I am lucky I'll be to work out of the same office and see the staff I have supervised over the years and the families I've grown to love. 

It's all about growing and learning. 

Wish me luck as I transition into this new position.

I Want To Go Back To School

Lately, it seems like I've been at a crossroad. I feel like one thing that would make me feel a little bit better is going back to school. I just feel so lost and confused about this whole thing. I haven't applied to school since 1997. I feel like the hardest part for me is finding a program online. My current hours at work are 10-6:30 and I have a 40 minute commute each way. I barely have time to eat dinner when I get home. I don't think I'd ever be able to get to a class or even think classes are held that late.

I graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services with a specialty in client services. I have worked in many roles with the Developmentally Disabled population since 2001. I have held many different positions from direct care, day program staff, residential services, quality assurance. Currently, I run a day program for adults and after school program for children with Autism and other developmental disabilities. It is a great job but working in the field has always been stressful. Recently, the field in which I work has suffered numerous hits and lots of budget cuts. It's a sad world we are living in. The stress has taken a toll on me and with a baby coming in just about 5 months I have an entire new view on my career. I find myself bringing my job home with me at night. Some nights I cry just thinking about the trying day I had. After my week long vacation in July I cried for 2 days at the thought of having to go back. It's not the place or the field for me any longer. I am lucky to have a job and I put in 100% while I'm there

I have been toying around with the idea of going back to school for a while. The problem was I just didn't know what I wanted to do or what would be a good decision for our family. I threw around the idea of a Veterinary Assistant and I would honestly LOVE that but the cut in pay would not be feasible for us. I couldn't believe they get paid so little for all they do. Doesn't seem fair to me.

I am currently thinking of a Occupational Therapy Assistant. Since I have worked with children and adults I've seen many of the great things that they do. The problem with an OT program is that the hours are impossible. I'd have to stop working in order to take the basic classes at a community college. Honestly, I would LOVE that but  if I wanted to take master's level OT classes they would be held for 6+ hours all weekend long. With a new baby I have no idea how I'd be able to do that either.

I feel like I'm stuck at a fork in the road with what I feel like are little options. Has any one else ever felt like this? Advice? Suggestions?

OHP SPRING

Hello friends. I have been such a busy little bee. I can't wait to post more about it too. This week has been nothing short of hectic. Between the stress of work, taking on a second job, bootcamp and a pulled groin I am wiped. Yes, I am asleep by 9pm every nightThe good news is it almost sort of feels like Spring. Well, its better than 30 degrees, right?!?! With Easter right around the corner and temps near 50 I am so ready.

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