Working on this Hodgepodge

 

1. Something you're working on currently? 

Next week, the Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) will begin, and as the group discussion leader, I want to ensure that all the women in our group are well-prepared. I am checking with each of them to make sure they have their workbooks, helping those who plan to bring children or grandchildren register, and answering any questions that may arise, especially for those who are attending BSF for the first time.

2. Tell us something about your first job? Was it a positive or negative experience for you? Did your parents insist you work while in school (either high school or college) or did you work because you wanted to? 

When I was a freshman, my very first job involved typing up contracts for my dad’s business, and I found the work enjoyable. Throughout high school, I exclusively babysat for one family who paid me well, which was above the average rate. After high school, I decided to deviate from the original plan of attending nursing school - a path my parents had already paid for. Instead, I took a union clerical job in San Francisco, which was an incredibly exciting opportunity for an 18-year-old. Despite initially telling my parents that it was just a temporary summer job, I ended up staying due to the promotions and training opportunities that came my way. I felt totally content with my job and was able to move out, get my own apartment, and even buy a brand-new car. 

3. Have you ever had a job that required overnight travel? How did you feel about that? Have you ever had a job that required you to wear a uniform? Do you work better in the morning or at night? 

Before I met and married my second husband, I dedicated 16 years to owning and operating a successful preschool/daycare (KIDCROSSING) that "specialized in on infants, toddlers, and two's," as my business card said.  A close friend suggested that I consider becoming a nanny, given the high demand for such services in Silicon Valley. Intrigued by the idea, I decided to register with a reputable nanny agency in Palo Alto, leveraging my extensive experience in early childhood education.  This transition not only allowed me to earn a higher income but also allowed me to enjoy paid vacations and benefits, which was an incredibly beneficial move for a divorced mom. 

For twelve years, I had the privilege of working with a lovely family from Sweden. During our time together, I had the opportunity to accompany them on trips to Big Bear and Tahoe, thanks to their incredible generosity in planning such wonderful getaways, always on weekends when my son's grandmother would have the boys. However, I had to set boundaries when they proposed that I accompany them to Sweden. As much as it pained me to decline, I knew that prioritizing my own family's needs was paramount, even if it meant foregoing my personal desires.

I recall a time when I went for an interview for a Nanny position. The prospective employer requested that I wear a uniform that she provided for all the household staff. Unfortunately, the uniform was quite unattractive. I wasn't that desperate! 

I'm an early bird - 

4. What's something you bake or cook that is labor intensive? Is it worth it? 

I remember having a recipe for yeast cookies that was quite an ordeal, taking two whole days to make. My husband, who loves to bake, made them either last year or the year before, and even he said it was a lot of work. While the cookies turned out delicious, the process required way too much effort.

If it isn't easy, forget about it. 

5. One thing you're looking forward to in the month of September? 

In September, we can look forward to the beauty of the changing seasons and the celebration of my youngest son's 40th birthday.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

We're heading into the 100s once again—it's supposed to be 107 on Thursday. You'll find me inside, in the AC, literally "chillin'." 

Thanks for stopping by. 

Until Next Hodgepodge 

Debby