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Friday, March 5, 2010

Where am I going???


“In this life, it doesn’t matter where you are, but in what direction you are moving.” I’ve always loved that quote. The problem is... right now I don’t know which direction to go. I got laid off from my job this week. It was a job that I loved. I got to play with dogs everyday. I managed a dog grooming shop and it was a great shop with great clients and beautiful dogs. But the economy has taken it’s tole on the business and my dear sweet wonderful (ex) boss had to lay me off and start working in the shop herself. Now, instead of being employer and employee we can just be friends. But I find myself mourning the loss of this job more than I thought I would. I wake up every morning and realize I won’t be going in to the shop. Now if I was able to take an early retirement and just spend everyday creating in my studio, keeping a beautiful home, playing with my dogs and maybe take some classes... then I would be in heaven. But I have to find another job. And I’m scared to death. The thought of going to work everyday to a job I don’t like makes me sick to my stomach. My husband hates his job and I see how it affects him. The careers that I would be good at are the types of things that have really been affected by the times. I’ve never had to go out searching for a job. They have always just come at the right time. (I suppose I have been lucky so far.) I believe I will be okay. I really do. I’m just feeling a little overwhelmed because I truly have no idea what I want to do now. What path should I take? Which direction should I go? I just don’t know. Fear of the unknown can be pretty debilitating sometimes.

Thank you all for letting me vent my feelings. This is the first time I let the tears really fall and I feel better because of it. Next week I must start my job search. Maybe I’ll be lucky and find someone who is looking for an artist/interior designer/dog lover/control freak/perfectionist!!! Hey, it could happen!!!

63 comments:

Sheila Rumney said...

My heart goes out to you... My husband got laid off a few weeks ago. Even to type it makes it all to real... I haven't told many people, because it just makes it that much more real. You are in my prayers!

Heirlooms For You said...

Karen, I understand my husband place of business is closing. He has been there 40 years as of this June.It was sometimes stressful but he loved it also. God bless you and I will keep you in my prayers that you will find a job that you love. Carol

Sweet Magnolias Farm said...

Karen ..you are so full of talent and life ..Your sure to find a job you love ..I'm so sorry you lost your job ..it seems it's part of our times ..I will keep your endeavor of searching for a new job ..in my prayers.

As well Sheila and Carol ..I'm sorry to hear about your husbands jobs ..My goodness ..it seems every which way we turn there is someone hurting and in a time of unsuredness. I will keep you both in my prayers as well. I think over the next few years ..we will see a great time of new beginnings for young and old alike.

Warmest Regards ..Sara of Sweet Magnolias Farm

Patricia said...

I am so sorry!
I was laid off in the early fall from my job (family shop) that I loved and I am STILL trying to find something!
My husband was laid off in November we are both trying to make a new start.
I cried and then got mad and now I am at peace knowing that something will come along that I can love again. Right now I am just working a job that I was able to get although I am grateful, I am waiting for something I love again!

Linens Lace and Lattes said...

Hang in there and trust that God will put you exactly where he needs you.
deb

Theresa MacNaughton said...

I am really sorry to hear of the loss of your job. Most especially since it was one that you dearly loved. We've experienced more cutbacks on staff and hours where I work. These are still very difficult times we live in. But you have talent and strength, so I am positive something will (perhaps even better) will come your way...Theresa

NicNacManiac said...

Oh my gosh sweetie....my heart is heavy for you right now. I left my job last April and I am now finding that it is the best thing that ever happened to me! You have the spirit and the drive and I know that you will find another place that will still let your joy shine through everyday and you will be happy! It may be a journey and it may be frustrating, but I know that it will happen for you...just keep the faith sweet friend!!
Now go and cry some more, get it out of your system, you deserve it!!
I will keep you in my prayers and put in a good word for you with the job fairy!!
Big Hugs xOxO Nerina

Hearts Turned said...

It's going to be okay! The right thing WILL come to you, I'm sure! Glad you could express yourself--a blog is a safe place to do that, I think--aren't we lucky to have that?!

I think a lot of us are facing this possibility right now...we are, as well, but I just have a real feeling of peace--I know it will all be okay--no matter what comes our way. I hope you can find that same peace--and a job, too!

Peridots Garden Blog said...

Dear Karen,

I am truly sorry for the loss of your job...you're so right in that it can be a debilitating situation...it's a loss...BUT...the first step in overcoming a loss is to talk about it and then let the tears flow...think of it as a cleansing.

Now, adjust your attitude about the fear factor...change that into positive energy...remember the layoff is not because you did anything wrong...your boss is probably hurting even more than you are...this economy is non-discrimanatory....

I used to work for a non-profit....and I interviewed hundreds of people a year...some would come in and say to me...I don't know why I applied...I have no experience...well let's look at your history-intersts-things you do in your everyday life...amazingly they started to see the potential in themselves that I saw.

Volunteer! Sounds crazy but it works...first you are out in the community, making contacts, the workplace will train volunteers and more often than not when a job opening comes up a voluteer can apply and usually gets the job because you've shown what you're capable of ... companies like that...and it works!

Have faith in yourself...I've read the other comments from your friends in the land of blog...you're a very special person and that's reflected in the caring comments they are leaving for you.

Now, if I believe in you...then you go for it...you'll do it...you're the type of person every boss wishes was in their workplace.

Sandy

Rustique Gal said...

Dear Karen, So sorry! I know how it feels. Everyone here has so many wonderful ideas for you. I believe you will find another good one soon!

If you keep a positive attitude and keep your self esteem up, you can do anything! I did free-lance temp work and got hired on the first job! We can't see tomorrow, so it seems unsure and even scary. Keep smiling! You'll be settled in soon. Sherry

DeeDee said...

Karen

keeping you in my prayers for you to find another fun place to be everyday...it will come..

Though day I know....

Cyn said...

Karen I am truly sorry you lost your job. It is even worse if you LOVED it. I can't stand my job! BUT I have wonderful co-workers! I hope you find something that you like soon!

Debby said...

Karen, I know exactly how you are feeling as the economy has hit our community very hard. I do believe that you should think positive thoughts and good things will come your way. You are such a kind, talented lady that the perfect job is going to come out of this. Always remember when one door closes, another door opens and I would bet that door is waiting for you right now. I will hold you in my thoughts and prayers.

hugs,
debby

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

I'm sorry to hear this, Karen. Especially when it happens to someone who enjoys their job. I'm not real happy at my day job, but it is a job and it is 10 minutes from my house. I'm sure you will find something. You know how sometimes a door closes but another one opens ~ you might be surprised to find something next week that will fit you perfectly. I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and hope you can find something you will enjoy doing. Everyone should like their job ~ we spend more time there than anywhere else!

Karen said...

Karen - I am so sorry. Being self-employed - boy do I know the name of this tune. (We were greeted this week with an $800 a month health insurance hike! It's just ridiculous! Welcome to California!)
Pray. Be patient. Don't be scared - because you are more valuable than you realize. You have to keep thinking "I am SO worth it - I am a great employee and somebody is going to be LUCKY to hire me!" Be positive!
I will be praying for you and in the meantime - you have us to "vent" to. We will be here for you every step of the way.
HUGZ! Karen

Linda K. said...

Times really are getting rough. I understand what you are feeling at this point. I believe if you follow your hearts desire, 'windows and doors' will open up for you. You have so many talents, those opportunities are bound to be there for you. Many Blessings to you, Karen.

Linda

Embellished Bayou said...

So sorry to hear this, Karen. I know how it feels to be laid off from a job you love. I hope you are able to find something soon that fits your needs. Good luck!

Debra said...

Dear Karen,
I'm sorry to hear.If you need to chat I'm here. I will keep you in mind if I hear anything about a job when it comes to pets.
Stay strong!
Debra

Wanda said...

Dear Karen:
I know you will find a job that fullfill you and make you happy. My prayers are with you.

best regards,

Wanda C.

alveen said...

Karen.... So sorry to hear about the job loss, yes it is bit scary when you don't know what is ahead of you, but stay positive and I'm sure that eventually it will all turn out for the best. With all the talent you have I'm sure that if you chose to you could start your own freelance business, it may be hard at the start but the end rewards would be sweet.
Dry those tears and go get em !
Regards Alveen

Tracie~MyPetiteMaison said...

Karen,
I am so sorry to hear about this. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I truly believe with your caring/giving spirit the right job will find its way to you! I would let everyone you know the kind of job you're looking for and word of mouth is really a great thing... someone you know may know another that's looking for someone with your qualifications. Who knows, maybe someone through your blog. I have two friends that live in Phoenix... I think you may not be too far from them. When you feel like it, let me know what you're looking for (and what you're not ;)
xo~Tracie

Debra said...

I lost my job last June so I know how you feel. You may want to try Snagajob.com

Laura @ 52 FLEA said...

Such a shame! Me too...only another week and a half before I'm released. Keeping my fingers crossed that it's all part of the plan!
...and, you are right.. it is scary!
We will have to keep each other positive!:)

Tammy/Yesterday's Cottage said...

Oh Sweet Karen,
I'm so sorry to hear this. I know just how you feel. My job of 17 years ended in June when the company ceased to exist. I'm still unemployed and still devastated. It's truly a grief experience - it is a loss afterall. You'll be in my thoughts and prayers and hopefully something wonderful will come along soon for all of us in this situation.

Ellen said...

Hello Karen,

How awful, losing your job.These are very difficult times throughout the world. I hope that you'll find soon something new job. I will for your thumbs. I think about you!!!!

Big hugs,
Ellenxxx

Dorthe said...

I wish you all the best of luck,
as you know, :when one door closes,another opens up, I so hope for you, the new one will be the best ever.

xo Dorthe

Rose ~Victorian Rose ~ said...

Karen...I was sent over here by your friend and mine...Sandy from Texas....isn't she the sweetest ?
I have joined your blog as well.

I am truly sympathetic, with the fact that you have lost a job you LOVED...it seems to hurt a great deal more when that is the fact.

And as a Christian ..I really had to pray and pray and pray and have others pray for me as well to get me thru that time in my life a number of years ago.

I will pray for you right now too.

You will be fine,
Rose (from Texas )

Rose ~Victorian Rose ~ said...

P.S. I just read Sandy's advice to you...she is 100% RIGHT...you need to be OUT in the "public's eye"..and that is how things will "happen" for you.
It is amazing how many people know people... who know people...and that is usually the key to getting where you want to be again.

My "gut feelings" tells me you will be hired back by your boss..when she gets REALLLY...tired of going in everyday. Even if it is only part time, I bet you would be delighted.

I use to own my own business so I know how important my employee's were to me..and the extra "free" time it allowed me to enjoy life and travel with my husband...during those 15 years that I had my Studio.

I worked until I had to close my BELOVED Portrait Photography business due to Fibomyalgia..at the age of 58.
If you are healthy, intelligent and are able to work...you are about 99% better off than a lot of individuals that are looking for a job right now too...so you are already ahead of the game.

Wish you the best,
Rose

Brynwood Needleworks said...

Karen:
"God never closes a door without opening a window." I don't believe this is a cliche', but a comfort when one faces the unknown. I will pray that your eyes are wide open when He places your next opportunity in front of you - and for your sake, I'll pray that it happens soon for you. I'll also ask that this next opportunity will be something you love as much as what you've just lost.
Huge Hugs to you, my friend.
xoxo
Donna

nancarts said...

Karen, so sorry you lost your job.
Will remember you in my prayers.
God doesn't close one door, that HE opens another!

Smiles and Blessings,
Nancy C

nancarts said...

Am sorry, but I didn't read the comment above mine! Oh, well.
Smiles,
Nancy

Lisa said...

Oh sweet friend, I am so sorry to hear about your troubles. This
*(&^$ economy has taken a toll on so many. I am here for you if you need to talk ever. Email me & I'll give you my number. You are such a creative soul, it would be wonderful if you could get a job doing something where you could use your gift. Maybe working as a visual merchandiser, I did that for Dillards years ago. The Anthro by me is hiring for that, how cool would that be! I always try to have the attitude that God has a plan & something better is waiting for you. As you said, when one door opens. Keep your chin up Karen. Lisa

Unknown said...

Hi Karen,
I am so sorry.
I'm not sure what part of the valley you are in but I do know of a consignment shop that is looking for help. Full time and part time.
Email me and let me know if you would like to know more. lizr8r@gmail.com

~Liz

Unknown said...

yup...anything can happen. I truly believe all things happen for a reason!
I am hoping you will find what you are looking for as soon as you want to.
stay positive.
michele

Claudia said...

Karen, I'm so sorry about the loss of your job. We struggle with this every day as both my husband and I are in the arts and freelance. It makes for a sometimes stressful life.

But we have learned that something always comes our way. A new job will find you. Make a list of what you want in a new job - say it out loud and affirm it.

xo
Claudia

Debbies Doodle said...

I think a job you love is hard to find. Sooo I say start your own dog grooming business.!!! You can do it.. You have the experience. There is nothing like having a job you love.
Hope you look into it,
Deb

WW said...

I know what you mean about jobs. I graduated college a little over 3 years ago, I still don't know what I want to do, but I didn't have a job until May after I graduated (I graduated in Dec), and it was a great job. I worked in an independent art supply store, where I got to play with the art supplies and help people out. Unfortunately that store closed the following January, and I was out of a job until that August (and this new job was very part-time, 12 hours a week, when I was used to almost 30 hrs a week), but I also got a temp job for about 2 weeks 40 hrs a week. I've always been looking for a full-time job, but as I have no idea what I want to do (that bothers my parents a lot), I'm 26 now and have 3 part-time jobs, two are 12 hrs a week, one is very random, usually about 2 hrs a month.
At the moment, I'm more or less happy with my situation, I get time for myself, but I also have jobs that break up the massive amount of extra time I have. I like having multiple jobs, I don't like that I don't have very good medical insurance (I pay for my own, and at the moment have an almost $2000 medical bill I can't pay). I don't think I can have that happy balance of liking my job and getting benefits, but I'm always looking.
You should at least look into a part-time job, then you have something to keep you busy (if only for a little while every day or so), and you are making money. Plus, my friend says employers usually want to hire you when you have a job (OK, she had a much cuter way of saying it, but I don't remember that).
I hope you find something.

Anonymous said...

a wealth of advice in the above comments...glean wisely.
nothing more i can add to them but know you are in my heartfelt prayers
and to that God is right there wanting your best.
it might take some time for you to see the pathway
but you will.

Lynn said...

Karen,
I am so sorry about your job loss. It is so very hard on one to lose their job, and then especially when it happens to be a job that you really love doing.

Hopefully another door will open up soon for you..

I will have you in my thoughts and prayers.
Blessings,
~Lynn

Rebecca said...

Hi Karen
So sorry to hear you lost your job that you enjoyed so much...
I do know that things work out for the best, so I will look forward to hearing about your next great opportunity!
We got home late last night and I was really dissappointed we couldn't get together but there will be another time. I enjoyed the weather so much this trip and had a good time with my family. It was really nice talking to you and I wish you the best.
Blessings
Rebecca

DVArtist said...

So I am late on this post, however, you are right to have these feelings. Now, before I got sick I was a Vet Tech. With your background in animals and grooming hit the Veterinary clinics. You will be surprised at the opportunities there.
Good luck
Nicole/Beadwright

Lisa said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your job! I have no doubt that you will find an even BETTER job soon. You are so smart and talented that any employer would be thrilled to get you. Don't give up and don't get down. This too shall pass.

Terri said...

I am sorry the job you love ended, but I am thrilled that you have another opportunity ahead of you. If you have always created a job, it will happen again. You are an amazing creator, not just with art, but with your own life!

CFLanger said...

Karen - I am praying right now that the right job will find you. You are so insightful I believe you will know it when you find the place you're supposed to be. In the meantime keep your chin up. Change is scary. Hugs!

DaniVerdeSalvia said...

Cara, seat and have a rest, everything will go ok, I know.
In Italy too times are very difficult, lots of people are loosing their jobs. My husband has been compelled to choose or laid off or workig in Milan, 300 kilometers far from home. Now he is working in Milan, but he is so sad!
Let your tears come off but be hopefull! Think pink...
A hug,
Daniela

Brenda Pruitt said...

I'm so sorry this has happened. And it's happened to so many. I love dogs, and I can see that working with them would bring me happiness more than working with people! I hope things turn around and you find something really special.
Brenda

June said...

And if it's gonna happen, it's gonna happen to you, sweet Karen. I imagine it would be so hard. I haven't worked for so long ( I always joke that I have the best boss (Landon is my boss)) that I don't even know if I could anymore. I wish you well in your search sweetie. It will happen!!!
hugs

Princess of many sorts. said...

Hi:)
I am in the same position, but you have to trust that everything will work itself out:)

The law of attraction and all that:)

Have a good day - SP

Melissa/Piney Rose said...

I'm so sorry, Karen, about your job loss, but I can relate. I had been without work for awhile and I just put it in the Lord's hands. I had taken a couple of things that I knew were not right - I hated both those jobs. Then I asked Him to just give me a real sense of KNOWING when it came along. It took a little while, 2 or 3 months, but it came, and I knew this was it. I'm now working at home doing transcription for a group of pulmonary docs. Who knows what doors will be opened by the WHERE WOMEN CREATE opportunity!

Shell said...

You my dear, are SO talented! I'm sorry for your current situation, but as others said, this is an opportunity for something new!

First thing I thought of was a personal assistant to a woman with too much time and too much money on her hands,,,You could decorate, shop, walk and groom her "babies"....I'm sure you'd get lots of referrals and recommendations from your blogging friends for whatever you undertake. You do it all well!

Big Hugs!
Shell

Cheryl Carey Bass said...

Oh, Karen. I'm so sorry you're having to go through this. I personally know exactly what you are going through, as I went through the same thing over a year ago. I still haven't found the right new job and it can be so demoralizing. It's hard having to depend solely on my husband for our support. We've had to let a lot of things go because of finances, as have many others in this nation. You are not alone! I will hope for you and have you in my thoughts. But, if it takes a while, it's ok. You WILL get through it. I know, because I have/am. Please keep us all updated! And if you ever need someone to vent to about the frustrations and uncertainties, I think I can speak for the rest of your followers and say, "We're here for you!"

Anonymous said...

Hi Karen,
I came over here from Lisa's blog because I saw a comment you made there. The name Karen Valentine caught my eye. There was a TV actress many years ago by that name. Then when I got here I discovered you live in Scottsdale. So do I. Actually I live in Phoenix, but have a Scottsdale address. I was sorry to hear you had lost the job you love. I hope you will find something that you love as much as you did that job. I know just looking can be a traumatic experience.
I'm enjoying the rain we're getting here today.
Blessings,
Charlotte

Myrna said...

Well, I don't know what to say that's not been already said, except amen to all of the above!
You're in my prayers. I'm so sorry you have to go thru this..
Hmmmm...maybe this means you're suppose to move up my way! ;-)
Seriously~I'm glad you felt comfortable enough to 'vent'..it must feel so good to know how much you're loved and cared about!!
Hugs,
Myrna

GranthamLynn said...

Oh Karen,
I am so sorry you lost your job. I will be praying for you.
Check out the local vets. With your experience you might can find something. Alot of vets do boarding. Maybe you can be the weekend girl to go in and check on the boarded dogs/cats. Feed/water/walk/play/cleanup. Well the fedd/water/play part would be fun.
I know what you mean about a cross roads. We are moving and can't take our horse and 2 donkeys. We have found a home for the donkeys but still trying to find a home for a 22 year old horse. And a home for us!
It is hard especially when you trust in God and he seems to be slow in giving direction.
I wil be praying for you. I hope I have given you some suggestions you haven't thought of. Good luck on the job search.
Hugs,
Sherry

Charlene said...

Oh Karen I AM SOOOOOOOOOOO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR JOB! I know that you are just heart broken. I wish I could be there to give you a great big hug!!! Consider one coming your way right now over blogland channels. I will try to give you a call tomorrow & we can chat. But, of course by then some wonderful person may have scooped you up & you may have started your dream job. ORRRRRRRRRRRRR your old boss could have changed her mind & you may back in business! HUGS SWEETIE! I love the new tablecloth. I had to get caught up with your blog today & checked out what I had missed while I was gone. You did a great job on the tablecloth & the nests are darling. Charlene

Tammy@T's Daily Treasures said...

Dear Karen, so sorry to hear your news. It is hard to give up something you love. But I believe if you set your intention, good things will come your way. It may not be in the timeframe you imagine, but it will happen when the time is right. Stay positive and keep doing what you are doing. You have so much talent and positive energy to share. Sometimes we all need to step back and contemplate life. God has given you this opportunity to do just that. Many blessings for a bright and beautiful week. :) Tammy

Megan Chamberlain said...

Karen, I hope you are feeling a bit better. It helps to rant about it and then I think you just calm down and accept it.
I have been 'officially' unemployed for the past year and a half and my Mom and sister are working temp jobs. I am making money from selling my crafts, it pays the rent and buys food and keeps me going. The big thing to remember is that each day has got new possibilities and something will turn up. In the most unexpected way you just might find out what you are meant to be doing.

debi said...

Karen, I'm so sorry to hear about your job loss. It's scary how uncertain so many things are right now.
I wish you luck in your job search.
Sending hugs your way, Debi

Faded Charm said...

I'm so sorry Karen. I'm wishing the best to you and your job search. Be postitive and something will work out for you. I love the last part of your post because I can relate.

Good luck to you.

Kathleen

Jonny J Petros said...

Karen Sorry to hear about your job,these times are tough and the economy is terrible. Im 47 and I have always had jobs I hated and will never probably know what its like to be a working artist. I am hoping you find something you love again!!! My Best wishes, Sincerely Jonny

Denali EarthSong Lodge said...

I just love your blog, so much so, that I added your blog as my favorite to follow. Living up here in Alaska, especially on a very cold day (wind chill -24 below), I could use all the brightness possible. Your blog brings me sunshine. Thank you.
Karin in Alaska
www.karininalaska.blogspot.com

Michelle May-The Raspberry Rabbits said...

Oh girlfriend...I feel your pain. My last day at my job "project manager" for a custom home builder will end April 29. I've been here for 10 years. Scary indeed, but I believe there is a reason for everything. Your path will be placed right before you, I know it. It truly is the most important thing to love what you do.
Hugs and thinking of you.
Your friend,
shell

Lori @ Katies Rose Cottage Designs said...

Karen ~
I am so sorry about your job loss ~ It sounds like you so very much loved it ~
You are so wonderfully talented ~ I wonder if you could make up the income by selling more online ~ everything you do is gorgeous !
You are in my thoughts and prayers sweet Karen ~
xoxo
Lori

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