A year ago Tuesday, I ventured down to DuBois meeting my new coworkers for the first time while also trying desperately to find an apartment. At the end of a very long, cold day, I found the perfect one. I went home that night, and for the first time, it actually hit me: my life was about to change like it never had before. I was terrified, excited, and thought for sure OVR would call me the next day and take their offer back- I couldn't imagine why they chose little old me for such a great first "real" job!
I never would have survived the first six weeks on my own without Leila- it's a miracle she didn't kill me- I'm not the easiest roommate! Helping me adjust to being on my own, getting me to and from work each day, and so much more!
My Mom- holy cow- I never give her enough credit! Truth be told, who knows where I'd be without her! Many a conversation has been had in the last year- I'm so thankful for her never ending love and support. She helped me get organized, setup a budget, gave me some good cooking tips, brainstorm ideas, etc. More than that, she believed in me, had faith that I could do this on my own, etc. Late in the summer, I called her in tears, telling her I hated my job and I didn't want to do it for the rest of my life- it had been a rough few weeks, to say the least- I had finally reached a breaking point of sorts. I was shocked when she was completely understanding and supportive of whatever I decided to do. After that conversation, I allowed myself to realize that I could do something different if I wanted to do so.
My Daddy- I will always be a Daddy's girl. There were many times I called him and didn't necessarily tell him that I was down or doubting myself, I simply just needed to hear his voice. I am so thankful for him and fail to truly appreciate all that he's done for me. The weekends he and Nan came down to visit were so needed and I'm grateful they were able to spend that time with me! In March, Nan stayed with me for a week trying to figure out why I was falling in the shower- who knows what I would've done had she not stayed with me, her evil step-daughter, that week!
My Grandparents- Words cannot adequately express how grateful I am for their love and support. Coming down, spending time with me, helping me clean, taking me places, bringing me meals and treats, and so much more!
January to May were bearable months as every four weeks I had to travel back to Edinboro for internship meetings. The internship meetings aren't what made a difference, though. While there each Monday, I cherished the time I spent with my dear friend and mentor- a woman who will always be one of my biggest cheerleaders. She helped me many, many times put things into perspective when all I wanted to do was give up. So blessed to say she's still a part of my life.
God certainly knew what He was doing when He allowed me to get the job at OVR in DuBois. I couldn't have asked for a better place to start my first job- everyone has been so supportive from day one. Sometimes I find myself frustrated because of the lack of transportation around me. I know that if I wanted to, I could probably transfer to another office with no problem- thus giving me access to public transportation. However, I'm a small town girl and don't do well in bigger areas. For now, this is where I'm supposed to be and I couldn't be happier.
May to September were probably the hardest months on the job. During that time, I was unsure of anything in my life- I was doubting every decision that I had ever made. I honestly hated my job- I was so overwhelmed and had a hard time articulating why. I just knew something didn't feel right and I didn't want to feel like that forever. Early on during that time, I'll never forget the many messages that were exchanged with someone who helped me push through those overwhelming moments. She tried her hardest to understand how best to help me while all the while never doubting my abilities and encouraging me to do what was best for me, no one else. I'm not sure I'd still be with OVR if not for her support.
It's amazing how many things can change with just a change in caseload. A new territory, new customers, and a new supervisor. Wow, what a difference all of that made! I can say now without hesitation that in fact I do love my job, not just the people I work with, but also the job. Beginning in November, I began to experience amazing changes which allowed me to realize that I can do my job, I can do it well, all while loving it- who would have thought?
I've formed many new relationships and friendships over the last year, but none more important than the one I now have with Tracy- seriously one of the best friends I could ever ask for. One of the hardest things I had to do in moving down here is realize that I didn't have much of a support system. Even after leaving OVR, Tracy continues to be my friend. When we get together, it's not because I need something or need to go somewhere- we're simply friends- she doesn't help me clean my house or take me to get groceries, or anything else, we're just friends- and I love it! It sounds so simple, but it means so much to me. That's not to say that she doesn't help me when I need it- trust me, she does more than most ever will- all the while living more than an hour away.
Carole and Phil- Wow, what a blessing she and Phil have been in my life! For loving me, listening to me, praying for me, and offering their never ending support- I love them more than words can say and am thankful for their new-found place in my life!
2014 was by far the hardest year I've experienced to date. I often fail to give myself credit for all that I've accomplished. Despite the many challenges I've had to deal with, I have accomplished great things. More often than not, I still can't believe where I've ended up. I wonder if I'll wake up sometimes and realize it's just a dream. So many that know me are in awe of all that I've done. To be honest, each and every one of you could do the same things with your lives. To God be all the Glory! Sure, I never give up and keep going, even when it's hard. But, I have an amazing support system. Without all of them, it's doubtful I'd be where I am today.
Make 2015 a great year- you're as strong as you think you are. If you believe in yourself and have a support system, you too can achieve what seems impossible today. Let God be your guide. Trust Him always.
I never would have survived the first six weeks on my own without Leila- it's a miracle she didn't kill me- I'm not the easiest roommate! Helping me adjust to being on my own, getting me to and from work each day, and so much more!
My Mom- holy cow- I never give her enough credit! Truth be told, who knows where I'd be without her! Many a conversation has been had in the last year- I'm so thankful for her never ending love and support. She helped me get organized, setup a budget, gave me some good cooking tips, brainstorm ideas, etc. More than that, she believed in me, had faith that I could do this on my own, etc. Late in the summer, I called her in tears, telling her I hated my job and I didn't want to do it for the rest of my life- it had been a rough few weeks, to say the least- I had finally reached a breaking point of sorts. I was shocked when she was completely understanding and supportive of whatever I decided to do. After that conversation, I allowed myself to realize that I could do something different if I wanted to do so.
My Daddy- I will always be a Daddy's girl. There were many times I called him and didn't necessarily tell him that I was down or doubting myself, I simply just needed to hear his voice. I am so thankful for him and fail to truly appreciate all that he's done for me. The weekends he and Nan came down to visit were so needed and I'm grateful they were able to spend that time with me! In March, Nan stayed with me for a week trying to figure out why I was falling in the shower- who knows what I would've done had she not stayed with me, her evil step-daughter, that week!
My Grandparents- Words cannot adequately express how grateful I am for their love and support. Coming down, spending time with me, helping me clean, taking me places, bringing me meals and treats, and so much more!
January to May were bearable months as every four weeks I had to travel back to Edinboro for internship meetings. The internship meetings aren't what made a difference, though. While there each Monday, I cherished the time I spent with my dear friend and mentor- a woman who will always be one of my biggest cheerleaders. She helped me many, many times put things into perspective when all I wanted to do was give up. So blessed to say she's still a part of my life.
God certainly knew what He was doing when He allowed me to get the job at OVR in DuBois. I couldn't have asked for a better place to start my first job- everyone has been so supportive from day one. Sometimes I find myself frustrated because of the lack of transportation around me. I know that if I wanted to, I could probably transfer to another office with no problem- thus giving me access to public transportation. However, I'm a small town girl and don't do well in bigger areas. For now, this is where I'm supposed to be and I couldn't be happier.
May to September were probably the hardest months on the job. During that time, I was unsure of anything in my life- I was doubting every decision that I had ever made. I honestly hated my job- I was so overwhelmed and had a hard time articulating why. I just knew something didn't feel right and I didn't want to feel like that forever. Early on during that time, I'll never forget the many messages that were exchanged with someone who helped me push through those overwhelming moments. She tried her hardest to understand how best to help me while all the while never doubting my abilities and encouraging me to do what was best for me, no one else. I'm not sure I'd still be with OVR if not for her support.
It's amazing how many things can change with just a change in caseload. A new territory, new customers, and a new supervisor. Wow, what a difference all of that made! I can say now without hesitation that in fact I do love my job, not just the people I work with, but also the job. Beginning in November, I began to experience amazing changes which allowed me to realize that I can do my job, I can do it well, all while loving it- who would have thought?
I've formed many new relationships and friendships over the last year, but none more important than the one I now have with Tracy- seriously one of the best friends I could ever ask for. One of the hardest things I had to do in moving down here is realize that I didn't have much of a support system. Even after leaving OVR, Tracy continues to be my friend. When we get together, it's not because I need something or need to go somewhere- we're simply friends- she doesn't help me clean my house or take me to get groceries, or anything else, we're just friends- and I love it! It sounds so simple, but it means so much to me. That's not to say that she doesn't help me when I need it- trust me, she does more than most ever will- all the while living more than an hour away.
Carole and Phil- Wow, what a blessing she and Phil have been in my life! For loving me, listening to me, praying for me, and offering their never ending support- I love them more than words can say and am thankful for their new-found place in my life!
2014 was by far the hardest year I've experienced to date. I often fail to give myself credit for all that I've accomplished. Despite the many challenges I've had to deal with, I have accomplished great things. More often than not, I still can't believe where I've ended up. I wonder if I'll wake up sometimes and realize it's just a dream. So many that know me are in awe of all that I've done. To be honest, each and every one of you could do the same things with your lives. To God be all the Glory! Sure, I never give up and keep going, even when it's hard. But, I have an amazing support system. Without all of them, it's doubtful I'd be where I am today.
Make 2015 a great year- you're as strong as you think you are. If you believe in yourself and have a support system, you too can achieve what seems impossible today. Let God be your guide. Trust Him always.
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