In the past six months my family has added a child, changed jobs and become a one income family. Although my husband's job gave him a large promotion, budgeting issues are proving that we aren't going to be able to remain a one income family. To resolve the issue, I am going to try to find a job in a town where the unemployment was 11.1% in May 2012.
Living in Bend, Oregon is tough. With almost 9,000 people unemployed and the unemployment rate raising only minimally over time, it's a cut throat job market. Most employers are looking for experienced persons with graduate degrees or some college under their belt. As a mother of two I just don't have the time (or money) to go to school at the moment, so that leaves me little options.
In order to snag a job, I've realized that I have to create an amazing resume. Along with that, I am going to have to stick to something that I know. This means that my options are extremely limited, pertaining to customer service and retail only. Unfortunately, retail and customer service jobs aren't well paid occupations.
Before our last child was born, both my husband and I had jobs. We brought in only a little more than he brings in now with only one income. This may seem like it isn't that big of a deal, but budgeting for one child is easier than budgeting for two. Hopefully adding an income will give us some extra leeway for saving.
My goal in finding a job is to work 20 hours per week, remaining very much involved in my children's lives and making some extra money. The money that is earned from my job will go directly into paying medical bills, part in savings and a little extra mad money just for me. It isn't necessarily what I want to do, but in this day and age it's what I have to do.
In a small tourist town like Bend, jobs can be hard to come by. I do know, however, that with persistence it is fully possible to find a good job. With a professional demeanor and a little luck, I will be able to find a job that fits my preferences and vice versa. As Sam Ewing said, "Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don't turn up at all." I choose to turn up my sleeves.
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