You'll love this one...!! A book club & more discussion
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Watcha Doin'? 2024
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Kristie, Moderator
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Mar 31, 2024 12:43PM
We just had a lovely dinner, just the two of us. We would normally walk the dogs now, but it is starting to rain. I have dessert in the oven and hubby is doing the dishes, so perfect time to read some of my book for my monthly challenge. It is unlikely that I'll finish on time, but I haven't given up just yet. lol
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I stuffed the hubby silly with food and he fell asleep. More reading time for me! I didn't think I'd have time to finish my book today, but I may actually make it. Shhh..... 🤫
I’m right there with you Kristie, we can do it 👍
Jenn wrote: "I’m right there with you Kristie, we can do it 👍"Did you finish, Jenn? I was able to finish, but a little later than I expected. We had some thunder, so my dog needed to come get comfort from me and woke the hubby up. lol
Weeeeeellllll, yes, I did finish lol, but I had a brain fart and had actually intended that book for this months challenge 🤦♀️ I was reading it on a recommendation from a friend, so was going to read it at some point anyway, and it would no longer fit for our April weather 🤷♀️ although we are supposed to get more snow I am doubtful it will be enough to justify that cover, maybe I’ll have a look for something windy 🤷♀️
Oh no!!! haha I've done stuff like that too. I actually just finished a book for a different challenge and realized it didn't work when I went to report it. 🤦🏼♀️
I hope everyone had a lovely weekend. I played an RPG with some friends and board games with another set, went in my cold water pod, watched Nimona (NetFlix film adaptation of a graphic novel I read and loved years ago), plus a trip to Glastonbury with my boyfriend and we walked up the Tor, wandered around town before having a pint and heading home. It has been a nice weekend. Back to work today, although I eased in gently with just 2 clients. This week, I have shifted one of my clinic days from a Monday morning to a Friday afternoon. I was finding working Monday mornings a struggle, especially when I've also worked in Bournemouth over the weekend. This should make things a lot easier on me. And it also means I don't lose money on bank holidays, which I was worrying about for May as we have a lot of them!
Sounds like things are going well, Sarah. What a nice weekend. We went into the city on Saturday and played a murder mystery game. You walk around and use an app to question suspects and find clues. It took us about 3 hours, which is pretty long, but we only had the two of us on the team and we figured out all the tasks. It was a lot of fun, if tiring, and the weather was perfect for it.
Switching days like that makes sense, Sarah. Most of our stat holidays fall on a Monday here as well.
I am so sorry for your loss, Janice. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts.
That sounds a lot of fun Kristie. Is it an app that is available to anyone or was it through a company?
The app is available to anyone, but you have to purchase a ticket for the game day and they give you access to the event in the app. The app is pretty useless without it. One ticket is for a team of up to 6 people though, so if you all pitch in it's a pretty inexpensive day. It's supposed to be a competition, so it is timed, but you can pause the timer to stop for a bathroom break or lunch or something like that if you want to.
Maybe this is a stupid question, but I've got a Kindle and when I want to track my progress on Goodreads, it registers in percent, but I want to track my reading in pages. How can I change that on my Kindle?
Saar The Book owl wrote: "Maybe this is a stupid question, but I've got a Kindle and when I want to track my progress on Goodreads, it registers in percent, but I want to track my reading in pages. How can I change that on ..."Saar I know with my kindle, which is the paper white, that if I hit the bottom left corner which indicates percentage it will keep switching until it changes to pages - does that make sense? And does yours do that?
If you have a theme in mind for our May reads, today is the last day to nominate it:https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Jayme wrote: "Saar The Book owl wrote: "Maybe this is a stupid question, but I've got a Kindle and when I want to track my progress on Goodreads, it registers in percent, but I want to track my reading in pages...."Ah, thanks, I'll check that this evening. I know I can change that in the left bottom corner, but it doesn't stay on pages.
I'm going to appologize for my rant in advance. I just have one good friend in my life and who I told about this morning, but I'm still boiling...I think I'm going to change jobs. I've been now working there for more than 7 years now. In the second year one of my collegues became our responsible and then things started then until it got very personal. She wasn't talking about my work ethics, but my attitude: that I don't look people in the eyes constantly (sorry, I've got troubles with that), my handwritting isn't always readable and so on...Then she put me on a special evaluation traject with the director. I went to the union and explained everything. I've got mails and documents with comments from her and they say that this was all not the way things had to go, that I was being bullied by her. Then things calmed down, because we've gotten a new collegue (she's gotten to be my one good friend in life now), but she couldn't do anything good. Instead of targeting me, our responsible targetted her and 2 other collegues did the same (we work in a team of 6). The 2 other collegues can't be trusted too: anything you do/say and that is not in their line, they say to the responsible. So, that collegue got fired. It was her or me. If she wasn't here, I'm sure I've got fired. So, that was 2 years ago and things calmed down. But the last couple of weeks it started again. With the 'highlight' today: I work at the reception in a mental hospital and if you've got the early shift, then you sit at the front as first line help for visitors, patients and the like. Now, today, there's a press conference with the mayor and the minister of Welfare. There are 2 huge building projects in the pipeline and they will announce that in a press conference. So, there was an email that, because of the press conference, my collegue has to sit at the front and do the reception and I've got to sit at the back, answering calls and mail. With no further explenation, but I know she did that to bully me again, because she doesn't find me professional enough to receive a minister and a mayor.
Sorry, it may sound childish or that I don't have a right to complain or maybe I explained it wrong (typed words have a tendency to come different than spoken words), but I'm so tired of this.
Ugh, it sounds like your job is costing you way more than it gives you Saar. I totally understand wanting to look for something else. You spend a lot of time at your job, it should make you happy (and definitely not frustrated or miserable).
Thanks, Peggy, it's not just only that. It's a flexible job. So, I work on weekdays, holidays, weekends...and dayshift, early shifts and late shifts. One week I work 18 hours/week, another 48 hours/week. Recently, my son of 11 burst into tears everytime I need to work late shifts, because he doesn't see me in the evening and misses me.But, I'm turning 41 and I've got still 2 years to go to graduate as a vet tech. So, I don't know what to do anymore...I'm a bit lost.
That sounds like a difficult situation Saar that you've had since starting there. I woule also have been annoyed with the stunt they pulled today because of the mayor visit. I worked in a hospital many years ago and really struggled with the shift work so can empathasie on that aspect. And i didnt have kids or a family to juggle at the same time like you do. I know younare still working towards the new wualification and your takint steps to shift professions. But if its makingnyou unhappy now, maybe it is time to move onto something different. Or at least a different ward or hospital.
Saar, I'm really sorry you are going through this. Harassment at work is a thing, and it is not fun. My husband suffered it for many years, and and unfortunately, there is no support or resources to people suffering it. No matter who you go for help, you are always seen as the troublesome one. It is a good idea to start looking around and see your chances of getting a different job until you graduate. Even small steps in that direction would help you stop feeling trapped and helpless.
Could you try looking for a new job that also links to being a vet tech? So maybe something similar to your current job but in a setting that's more like where you could work as a vet tech? Maybe once you finish your studies it will also make it easier to find a vet tech job because you already know some organisations, and have a foot in the door already.
Thanks for the kind words, everyone. I just hate insecurity and making difficult decisions, but who doesn't? At work there are collegues specialized to talk to for those kind of problems, but how far does confidentiality goes? It's just making me really unhappy and I doubt about myself and my qualities. Also, the older you get, the more difficult it seems to find a job. That's a smart idea, Peggy, I think I'll look if something interesting with animals comes my way.
@Sandra: I'm sorry that your husband had to go through harassment too.
Lol Saar, I just turned 40 two weeks ago, we're young!! ;-)I get what you mean, but I think 40 is still young enough to find a new job, it's not like 61 and close to retirement. Think of all the experience you bring with you :)
Maybe a talk with a job coach outside your organisation could help too? Not with the harassment, but maybe with making decisions about what to do and what kind of jobs you could apply for.
I think it's a great idea, Peggy.And also, I'm 45 and finishing my 3rd semester at the university. Still have 5 more to go. I know age is a factor, but you shouldn't get discouraged by that, Saar.
Well to me you're all spring chickens - I'll turn 58 this year so in my veiw Saar, you have loads of time. I also think Peggys suggestion is a great one. Veteriny receptionist looks like perfect fit for you. Life is too short to be unhappy at work, and to steal too much precious family time away from you. Personally I enjoy change, but my hubby is of a similar personality type to you and would put up with a lot to avoid alteration. I've seen how unhappy it's made him over the years so I speak from experience when I tell you, life is too short! You owe it to yourself to make a change.
I'm sorry you are going through that, Saar. It makes things really miserable when people treat you like that at work. I agree with Peggy. You could look for a kennel assistant position in a vet's office. They help with the room prep and cleaning after visits. It's the perfect position to be in to learn your way around a vet's office and gain some experience while still interacting with the animals, then you can move up to vet tech after you graduate. They also have front office staff, which could be a great transitional position because it's in the vet's office, but also incorporates what you've already been doing.
I'm sorry to hear about the issues you are having at work, Saar. As someone who has also dealt with bullying, particularly in a subtle way, in the workplace - I agree, the best thing to do is start looking around. Peggy's correct, you spend about a third of your week at your workplace. You don't need this added emotional stress on top of your day to day, which already sounds challenging but hopefully more in a good way.Just brain storming for shift work options that may work with your uni and possible future job options. Do you have vet surgeries that are open longer hours? I went past my local vet tonight and they were open late. No way the receptionist was pulling 12 hour days. Emergency vets? Animal shelters? Overnight vet accommodation/hospitals? All need front desk/reception staff. And they would probably love a person in training/student on the desk for extra hands in real emergencies.
And I completely agree with Sandra and Peggy. As another 40 year old, I think things have changed a lot in the past decades. I remember my Mum trying to change jobs in her early 40s after she and my Dad split, and her just so upset and discouraged as no one would hire a woman so "old" (my god... how stupid) in the 1990s.
With my hires now, I'm always excited to get women in their 40s-60s apply. They are frequently amazing multitaskers and problem solvers, tend to be reliable (of course caring comes in as a factor) as they are choosing to be there, and usually stay long term. They have life and work experience, want to learn and get opportunities of course, but also are not applying for promotions after being in their new role for 2 months (Seriously? What is up with that?). I have one woman working for me at the moment who taught me everything I know about her area when I started 13 years ago and is still in the same job looking to retire in the next year or so. I showed her a promotion opp and her response was "I took this job when my kids left school as I knew I could do it and it would be interesting, but I could walk out the door and forget about the work. So my husband and I have been just enjoying life, not thinking about work when we are not there, and paying the bills. Thanks, but I don't want a promotion to ruin that." Power to her, that's awesome.
So don't be discouraged. The market is different and heaps more open now, especially as all our retirement ages have been pushed back by decades (less good). Also, Mum did get a job in the 90s, eventually retired, and then went back to working as a part time librarian which was her original career out of the five she trained/retrained for.
First of all: Happy birthday, Peggy!@Peggy: a job coach is an interesting option. I will search for one and see to make an appointement.
@Sandra: 5 more to go. That's so strong of you!
Thanks for all the warm words. It means a lot to me. I know that age mustn't be 'a thing', but I'm afraid of change too. It's a huge jump into the dark. It's the first job I've got now longer than 3 years and it used to be good, untill what all happened now.
My original career was a librarian. I've studied for that and worked in the area, but everytime to get a permanent position, you needed to do exams with lots of candidates and the field keeps evolving too.
A kennel assistant position in a vet's office doesn't exist here. You've got front office (reception) and then the vet tech assistants (who prepare the rooms, cleans up, assist at surgery...), but it's a good idea to look in the direction of working with animals. I think I need to sit down and have a good conversation with myself and what I want to do now. I don't think that I can put up with that for the 2 years to come until graduation.
All the vet offices have 'normal hours'. I think from 9 in the morning until 7 in the evening. Where I do my internship they've got different shifts too, but with normal hours. Like, if you start at midday, you work until 7 in the evening.
If I could (and if I've got all the money in the world) I would start a cat café with myself as a behaviour therapist for cats. Another thing is, that I would love to work as a grief counselor for people who lost their beloved pet.
It's hard to admit to myself, but I'm a person of habit and I'm scared of new things, but I can't put up with it anymore. I saw my responsible yesterday and I just said to her that the minister was here and that she went to the reception, just spontaniously and offered us her hand. I thought she would take the hint and explain why she send that email. I was just stuborn to mention it myself, but she didn't said anything.
We've got a team meeting next Monday. I'm stressed already.
Sounds like you're doing a lot of self-reflection already Saar. If it's hard to figure all this out by yourself or by talking to family or friends, I think a talk with someone you don't know can help a lot too. I'm sure you'll make the right decision in the end!
As a person of strong habits myself, I feel your pain, but I also know that once we are pushed to something new we adjust and make it work pretty fast, because we need to be in control and create new habits! We are good creating new zone of comfort. :)
I'm sorry you're being bullied at work Saar. I hope you get some resolution with your situation.
This last week has been an emotional rollercoaster and I was super happy to luxuriate in my own bed last night, and with peace and quiet.I ended up staying at my dad's house with my 2 nephews and their families. There were 5 adults and 8 children ranging from 7-16. During the day, everyone else congregated there. I'm not used to the commotion since I live alone.
My nieces, my sister, and I all love reading and had some great conversations. We've decided we're going to start a private group for us to talk about the books we're reading. It's one way for us to keep connected. We're so spread out. Canada, Hawaii, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana. And now that both my parents are gone, we need to keep an anchor somehow.
That's a wonderful way to stay connected, Janice.
I'm in New Hampshire for a friend's wedding. I was happy to arrive early and spend some time with my daughters, grandson, and mom. We are in full wedding mode now as it all begins in just a few hours.
Janice wrote: "My nieces, my sister, and I all love reading and had some great conversations. We've decided we're going to start a private group for us to talk about the books we're reading. It's one way for us to keep connected. We're so spread out. Canada, Hawaii, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana. And now that both my parents are gone, we need to keep an anchor somehow."That's a fantastic idea, Janice.
Kristie wrote: "I'm in New Hampshire for a friend's wedding. I was happy to arrive early and spend some time with my daughters, grandson, and mom. We are in full wedding mode now as it all begins in just a few hours."I love weddings. Enjoy, Kristie!
Sounds like an overwhelming stay Janice! That's a really lovely idea though to form a group to discuss books in and stay connected. I wish my family read. I'm lucky to have found a boyfriend who enjoys reading which is a novelty lol.I handed in my last assignment for my uni module. I still have an examinable essay to go which is due end of May but then that will be it for Year 1. Whoop. I get a summer holiday but then no more until the end of the course. I've decided to speed things up. Instead ofmpart time like I've been doing, I'm going to start the next module in october and the following in February, staggering them, and ill do the same for year 3. It means i complete in the same time as a full time degree but will only be technically full time for 4 months each year. Takes the pressure off a bit but means i don't get impatient lol. Im on track to finish this year with a 1st, although it doesnt count towards my final grade. Just need to keep it up for the final 2 lol.
I missed your post Janice. I already get overwhelmed after an afternoon like you describe, so I can relate. It's lovely you have a book club together now :)Good luck with your final assignments Sarah!
Oh guys, I had 118 messages to go through!@Janice - I'm so so sorry to hear about your dad. Big hugs for you!
@Saar - I'm really sorry about your job situation. Fingers crossed for the team meeting on Monday. I can imagine it being scary starting something new but it sounds to me like you would really benefit from it.
@Peggy - Happy birthday!
@Sarah - Good luck for your essay! Great that you're able to do it sort of full time :)
I sold my car in the beginning of March and traveling everywhere by bus sucks so much. They don't go where I need them to go, they come so rarely..
But I started a second job last week so I can save more money to get a new car faster :)
My hip is killing me. I feel like 90 while I'm actually 28.
It started about 1-1.5 years ago that my right hip/leg/inguinal canal area started cracking and I had to do it a few times a day so that it wouldn't hurt after sitting so long. It only started hurting about 2 months ago. I went to the doctor, she said go get physio therapy and see an orthopedic doctor. So I went and did that. Physio didn't help and the orthopedic doctor sent me to the hospital to get an MRI. Of course with an almost 2 month waiting time. 2 weeks ago I had the MRI appointment and they said the results would be sent to the orthopedic doctor and he will call me about it. I saw the pictures and I don't know what it looks like but it doesn't look good. The doctor didn't call me yet though. After almost 2 weeks! I already called them twice to ask where my results are and all I got was "the doctor will call". Meanwhile the pain is getting worse every day. Ugh..
I hope you get some answers soon Fiona.
Fingers crossed you hear something soon Fiona. I hate waiting for appointments and results.
Sarah, good luck with your last assignment! You have this. Fiona, I hope you don't have to wait too long and start feeling better soon.
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You'll love this one...!! A book club & more
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