Transition

There is nothing like getting that call: “We would like to offer you the position of…” It is like sweet music to the ears, tasting the finest Bordeaux, watching a sunset over the ocean, the sound of a beautiful woman saying “yes.” I have longed for those words for close to two years, and last Monday, it happened. I will be in my dream position, doing what I was trained and educated to do, working with wonderful people inside and outside the organization. It is perfect.

But there is no time to celebrate. I never planned for the chaos that happens after those words. There are things to do and it has been a whirlwind of activity since that call. First of all, I have my foot in two offices at once. I am basically wrapping up projects and cleaning out my desk in one and studying, preparing, observing and participating in another. I am the kind of person who likes to be as informed and prepared as possible when I enter a new position – yes, type A all the way. That would be fine if that were all I needed to do but holy Moses, that is just the tip of the iceberg!

I am moving to the community where I will be working. This is taking a fully engaged effort on my part. Here is the list of things to do:

1. Find apartment
2. Shop for household items
3. Shop for furniture (a bed!)
4. Find truck to move stuff
5. Find new bank
6. Get in to see dentist and doctor (so I don’t have to take time off right away)
7. Shop for more professional clothing (this is an administrative position)
8. Pack, pack, pack
9. Pack some more
10. Move stuff in truck
11. Unpack, unpack
12. Unpack some more
13. Set up living spaces
14. Connect utilities/cable/internet (gotta have my internet)
15. Settle in (optional since I will basically be living at work anyway)

These are just the main bullet points. There is so much that has to be done in order to accomplish each one. But I am happy to announce that the first thing on the list is completed. I found an apartment!  After a week of looking, it happened. When I saw the location, before I even went into the apartment, I got excited. It borders a city park complete with gazebo, pavilion and a statue of a WWI soldier. Even better news is that on the other side of the park, there is an Irish bar! I was always told to step into a local establishment to see what the natives were like before you decide to settle there. So I did and had the time of my life! These people knew how to sit at a bar and have fun and I made friends with them quickly.

As soon as I walked into the apartment I knew this was going to be my new home. It is all newly renovated with very spacious front rooms, three bedrooms and an incredible kitchen. I love to cook so this is huge for me. I began envisioning great parties, get-togethers, cooking for people, having friends and family overnight. It is only 2 miles from my office and it will be an easy commute.

Find apartment – check.  Now on to #2

*Update!  I just heard from the owner. It looks like I move in on Saturday. Better find that truck!

My new apartment!

Dining room facing the front room

The Kitchen

The front master bedroom (out of three)

The Park

The Irish Bar