New Beginnings

Well here I am again writing in this silly blog. Pretty sure Kris and Mom are the only readers I have left. :) But it is definitely time to update what I've been doing in the past few months.

I got myself a grown up job! (Although I wouldn't go so far as to call my coworkers grown ups...) I am a direct care giver for a group home in Oregon City. I basically get to hang out with five adult residents with varied disabilities all day. Most of the time, it is perfectly wonderful. The only thing that gets me are the petty fights that staff create with each other. I don't really understand why people would do this work unless they truly loved it. It is not the kind of job you get just to pay the bills. But it's just another lovely side effect of our devastated economy. I wish I could write all about the people I serve, but apparently that's against the law. (Psht.) But I will say that each of them have special gifts that I am blessed to experience every day. One of the guys reminds me a lot of my old buddy Paul Lockery that sang my song and arm wrestled me mercilessly. He loves Elvis more than any one I've ever met, which instantly makes him the coolest person I know. He alternates between telling me he loves me and asking me the ever popular question, "You wanna FIGHT, Claire?" :)

I am officially living with Katie again! It will be nice to move into my own space, but I will miss seeing my parents as much as I was. (Yes, I know it wasn't enough, Mom.) But I can't stay away from Salem for too long before I crave family time.

And then there's the other life update of my new relationship. I suppose I don't really feel like writing about the details in an open blog, but I will say that I am so happy with him. Life has surprised me with the curve balls it's thrown me, but I've finally found contentment in my personal life. I must admit that I never expected that to happen. :P

My only struggle at the moment is organizing my time. It is difficult to juggle work, a boyfriend, family, and friends. I knew what I was signing up for when I took a relief position (meaning I am open to work any shift at any time.) I thrive with the constant challenge of never knowing what a day will be like, but I need to start making an effort to see my friends too or I'll go crazy. So, readers, this blog will hold me accountable. I have no excuses now. :)

To those still putting up with me, thank you. I hope to bring you more good stories from the ironic mix of chaos and monotony that is Claire World.