My name is David. Last week I was "asked to resign" from my job as a nursing home administrator - first time I've ever been fired in my life. Once the shock wore off (does it ever really?), I began to think about my next step. Being a nursing home administrator, particularly for a larger facility, is 24/7 all-consuming - I hadn't had a vacation in years (made for a great last check though....). So what to do?
One thing I have always wanted to do all my life was drive cross country. The opportunity had never presented itself before now... so why not? I was not convinced at first. My first inclination was to start to look for a new job - which I did. Old habits die slowly.
Then I had dinner with my partner of 19 years and some friends on this past Sunday and we were talking about it. Well, thanks to Euhler, Kirk and Susan - and Keith of course, I am packed this Tuesday morning and ready to go.
I am leaving four dogs at home with my partner - hoping not to return home later to any new rugs on the floor. I will miss them terribly. There is no schedule and no deadlines... a first for me ever! The feeling is strange and I am a bit apprehensive but also very excited.
My goals (have to at least have some goals right?!) are to see some great sites; meet new people; relax; eat a disgusting amount of food; and eventually make my way back to New England to visit my family.
This blog will allow me to keep people posted on my progress and activity, as well as allow me to work through losing a job that I loved and moving on toward the next big thing - whatever or where ever that will be.
I haven't written much since college so if they are any readers - please be forgiving.
David,
ReplyDeletePaul and I woke up thinking of you this morning! First, we were angry. (HOW COULD THEY?!) Then we fantasized about revenge (for about a minute!). Then we were happy. And that's where we are now: happy that you have this wonderful opportunity to relax, drive (with all your favorite tunes blasting) and unleash the inner David! We just know that when you're ready -- many weeks down the pike, we hope! -- there will be an amazing job awaiting you that will inspire, challenge and be the outlet for all that love and passion for what you do. And they will be so lucky to have you. Until then, enjoy this well deserved time on the road and with your families. We hope to hear of your adventures via your blog and Keith. Drive safely!
Happy trails and lots of love,
Elaine and Paul
Hello dear brother of the heart,
ReplyDeleteI'm so very sorry to hear about what happened at Tunnel. You didn't deserve that and I am certainly a witness to how amazing you are in your chosen career. I have to remind you that losing a job may need a bit of grieving- even if the losing will lead to better things- as this ending will. Be very good to yourself and enjoy this trip.
I am an old hand at crosscountry driving. My advice is to become a trucker and help them on their journey and they will help and look out for you too. They are amazing resources and I used to enjoy my conversations with so many at the 24-hour truck stops. In the old days I used to sleep in my car right outside the door to the 24 hour truck stop cafe. I'd go in and eat dinner, then brush my teeth, get into the back seat and pull the covers over my head and sleep unmolested. I'd wake up to the sound of the truck brakes around 4:30am when they stopped for breakfast- I'd have my own breakfast, brush my teeth, sometimes take a shower (a lot of those places have GREAT shower facilities and give you a clean towel and soap in the price of the shower- or a gas fill up :), then I'd be on the road again. Truckers can also give you heads up on traffic or police traps... great resources and by helping them on the road (bright lights flash to let them know they can change lanes in front of you), you keep focused and awake on the road.
Wish I could go along for a bit of it but I will be with you in spirit!
Sending my love,
Deanna
You betta make your way to DC! You don't even have to get a hotel since this house is HUMONGOUS!
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to hear about your job, but this just means bigger and better things ahead with a nice vacation built in. You were just too awesome for them, you're now free to go change the world like you always wanted too.
That said, if you want me to send Knuck Knuck and JuJu Bead to go bust some heads over there you just give me the code word ;)
Hi honey. Drive safely and stop taking pictures while you're driving. No, the corgis and willy (nor I) want you to bring homne any animals.
ReplyDelete