Extension!

Extension n. The act of a condition being lengthened; an allowance of extra time.

As the months and days counted down, I was becoming more and more discouraged. It didn't look good.

A year ago on this exact date, I was interviewed by a city department in Seattle. I passed and was given access to apply to staff-only positions as they became vacant.

The catch was, that access would expire in one year...today being the last day.

I had only a couple interviews with them over the course of this year but was never picked for those jobs. My time has run out.

However, because my experience is still current/relevant (my university job is in the same field) I asked for an extension...and it was granted...for another year!

I feel really good about this. This means I still have a chance of finding a good job in Seattle and relocating there.

And with twelve more months on my side, I don't feel so pressured.

I'm thankful for the continued opportunity.

Now I just have to hold on, keep trying, and hope something good comes of it!

The return of Bow Boy!

"Are you all caught up?" the store manager asked me.

"Why?" I answered, fearing I'd be wrangled into some time-consuming, annoying project.

"I need some more bows,"  he said.

You see, the arts-and-crafts store I work at sells pre-made bows for the holidays but our store manager wanted custom-made ones. 

Custom bows sell for more and the floral ribbon we use to make them is given to us directly by Corporate. It doesn't cost the store a cent. Each handmade bow is pure profit.

"I can do that," I replied. "Bow Boy is back!"

I only had about an hour-and-a-half to work with but here's what I made the other day.....

Some turned out better than others. What do you think?

The store manager said mine are just as good--if not better than--the coworker that originally showed me how to make bows!

Shhh, don't tell her that though!

It was a nice diversion. A chance to create and play and not stress over work. If only it could be like that every day there.

Until next time...Bow Boy over and out!

Battle-Hymn

There's power in her words, energy in her voice.

She's tapping into greatness and sharing her vulnerability with those around her. Amazing. Just amazing.

During those times when I've become depleted, or lost, or too scared to take action, I watch this video.

It's a rousing reminder that God is with me every step of the way.

That even though the journey seems lonely and arduous and endless, that I was meant for something great and one day it'll all come together and make sense and be more beautiful than I could ever dream or hope.

An anthem of perseverance no matter how much has been sacrificed along the way.

To be courageous, resolute, hopeful.

I hope Judy Garland's performance resonates with you as much as it does me.