Year In Review

This will be the very last blog post for the year 2009. So, I'm going to do a year in review. As I sit here thinking about the things I have been through over this last year, it's amazing how far I have came. At this time last year, I was literally living out of my car in Burlington, KY. I celebrated New Year's Eve in the back seat of my car. That is how I brought in the year 2009. All alone, cold, and homeless. 2009 saw me mainly struggle to stay afloat and keep my moral high. As many of you all know, back in April 2008, I was in the hospital with Cellulitis Infection. While in the hospital, I was also diagnosed with diabetes. So, the year 2009 was the first full year of my diabetes. It was only a few months after I was healed and went back to work before I decided it was time to leave SharpShooter Imaging. But I had to leave. So for me, it started my odyssey of finding me a new job. This task that took me over a year before I found employment with AmeriCorps VISTA. I'm working now at the Brighton Center.

Going back to New Year's Eve, as I sat in the back seat of my car, I couldn't believe how far my life went downhill. But what helped me carry on and stay positive was my personality. I refused to give up live. To me, this was just another challenge in my life and I was going to tackle it face on. I made a plan that night on how I was going to survive this situation I was in. It started with my spending habits. For one whole month, I tracked my spending from food to gas I was putting into the car to the monthly bills. After that month, I created my spending plan. I was able to get food stamps that kept me from spending any of my actual money on food. I was able to keep track of my gas mileage and cost of gas. I was going to have to keep track how many miles I went on one tank of gas and try to cut back on my driving. I was going to have to make my gas stretch over a period of time. But it was hard when you live in your car in the middle of the winter and I needed to run the heat. I came up with a plan on when to run the heat or turn the car on. I also had to watch what I spent my actual money on. I still went to the movies once a week or to Barnes and Nobles to read but I made sure when there I didn't go hog crazy buying stuff. To me it was my Saturday Night Date with myself. It was my way of relaxing and staying sane.

As I was doing all this, I was going to the Kenton County Library everyday from the time they opened to the time they closed I was there searching for a job, reading books on how I could better myself in the job market, how I can re-tool my resume, and etc. Can't tell you how many times I actually changed my resume or my cover letter. From January to March I was doing this every day. I was going to the library all day every day job searching and etc. Also, I was trying to elude the repo people. I was trying to savage keeping my car without it being repo. I managed to elude them until March. That's when I had a friend talked me into giving up my car and going out on the road with him in his truck. So, from March until like May I was riding in a semi-truck across the United States. It was a great experience for me. This was like a mini vacation for me but I knew I still needed to find a job. My friend decided to change jobs and in doing so, I could no longer ride along with him in the truck. So, he and his dad allowed me to stay there with them while he was on the road. At the trailer from the time I woke up to the time I went to sleep, I continue job searching. I was receiving the calls but they were job screening calls and I never heard back from them. I stayed with his dad from middle of May until end of June.

It was at the end of June, that my friend came up to me and basically told me that on June 29 that he was going to drop me off in Cincinnati no matter if I have a place to stay or not. Luckily, the day before, a couple of old friends that I consider as my 2^nd parents allowed me to stay with them. The idea was to stay with them for only a month and be gone. That was what was given to me. But this is where my year finally started turning into my favor. The month I was given, I was able to find employment with AmeriCorps VISTA volunteering my job and I do receive a living allowance. So, I have money coming in and I'm gaining full time experience as well. But I have to give a year of my time. Which it is very much worth it for me. From July until December, I stayed with them. I started working at the Brighton Center in September. Then in December, with the help of the HEARTH program and Brighton Center, I was able to get my own apartment for now. So, I'm slowly starting to get back on my feet.

What does the year 2010 have in store for me? Well already know that I'm going to be working until September and also have an apartment until then as well. I'm slowly building up my bank account and saving account. So, I'm slowly learning about finances. Still have a long ways to go but I'm heading in the right direction. So, continue following me and my blog over the upcoming year and watch me grow as a person. Happy New Year's everybody!

 

TL

Merry Christmas Everybody…

I want to wish everybody a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year’s.  I’m currently at Richard and Cathy’s place for the next few days for Christmas.  I came here right after work.  Maybe this is a change in me?  I usually don’t do anything for Christmas.  I usually just stay at my place and stay coup up and depressed but I’m here.  A lot has happened to me over a year.  So, hopefully this new year will bring a lot of great things for me.  I will be doing a more “Year in Review” post closer to New Year’s.  But for now, I hope everybody have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s.

TL

It's Christmas Eve's Christmas Eve...

That's right folks, it's Christmas Eve's Christmas Eve! Yippee..................(ok, I got carry away there) But it was fun on my part. Not much is really going. Continuing to get settle in my new place. It's been like two to three weeks now. Finding little problems here and there but nothing that can't be fixed. A lot of petty things are going on in my life but it will work out eventually. Just gotta hang around for support. It's been choatic around work these last few days with Brighton Center's Holiday Drive. Best way to explain how it was here at Brighton Center is to imagine that you are the frog on the game Frogger. Remember that game Frogger? You have to get to the other side of the street without being splat? Well, that's how it was here but advance level. *lol* But I did manage to get a lot of things done with the project I'm supposed to be getting done. I should be ready for a launch right after the New Years.

What is everybody's plan for Christmas? I'm going to head over to Richard's and Cathy's place for Christmas dinner. Thinking about leaving Christmas Eve to go there and stay until Saturday. Then I'm off until Tuesday. So, Sunday and Monday looks like cleaning and watching movies that I borrowed from my friend Chris. So, if anybody wants to do anything, I'm free.

TL

Like A Kid in a Candy Store...

That is exactly how I feel when it comes to finding cheap computers. Just like a kid in a candy store. That was me yesterday, a kid in a candy store when I found two computers in the Brighton Center Clothing Closet that somebody donated which I was able to buy for $8. One of the computers I got was similar to TRexSmarts (my very first computer I got in 2000). I was able to get TRexSmarts to come alive after matching up the ram correctly. I also found out in the process of checking out TRexSmarts that my tv cable is still on. Which allows me to use my tv tuner card on TRexSmarts. So, for now, one of my computers is up. Just have to get Glaive working. That might be a few weeks or months probably. As for the other two, I do know one of the computers I go does work. It is actually the same model but a different mhz speed. TRexSmarts is an 800 mhz whereas the other one is 730 mhz. I could basically take the sides panels off of the computer and give them to TRexSmarts if I want. But more importantly TRexSmarts is up and ready to go. Here is my to do list:

Internet:

1) Setup my network for my computers
2) See if I can get the internet

TRexSmarts:

1) Dust out the inside of computer.
2) Setup my surround sound to computer
3) Once I have internet connection:
A) update virus definitions & Nav 8
B) update windows
C) update spyware
D) update any drivers

Glaive:
1) Get Ram for computer
2) Dust out the inside of computer
3) Once I have internet connection: (same as TRexSmarts above)

So, as you can tell, I have a lot to do still with my two regular computers. But not only that, I also got two more computers to work on as well. Anyway, off to work I go feeling like a million bucks baby!!!!!!!!!!

TL

A lot has happened...

Just to give a few people some update about me. Last Saturday, December 5, some of you might have heard that I moved out of Richard and Cathy's place to my own apartment. Even though this is temporarily for the year I'm working as a VISTA unless the Brighton Center hires me on. But that's a different story. Anyway, it's going to be a while before I get my computers up and running. I'm literally going to have to bring them back from the dead. There are parts I'm going to have to buy that I don't quite have the money to buy the parts. So, it might be a while, and since I can't get my computers up and running, it might be a little longer than usual between my blogs. Hence this one...

Anyway, I have stayed a week in the new apartment in Dayton, KY. There are some little problems but I'm on it. With the windows being so huge, a lot of wind drifts are coming in under the windows. Which makes the bedroom like 3 to 5 degrees different than the living room. As of right now, I have moved all my stuff out of the bedroom and staying in the living room and basically closed the bedroom door and put a towel under the door. Also, it looks like the heat isn't coming out of the vent to good in the bedroom. Also, learned on Saturday that my panel to let people inside the building isn't working. So, I'm going to have to call the management team and let them know about that. Basically, it's just little stuff like that. Otherwise, the place is great.

Also, on Saturday, I fell and hit my head pretty good as I was walking up the steps. Hurt like hell but I'm alive and doing well. The somewhat funny thing is as I was doing laundry on Sunday I was watching people walking up the same steps and doing the same thing that I was but not as serious I did. I'm just like I hit the wood frame straight on rather than on the corner or go through the glass.

What about those Kentucky Wildcats? I have been watching those games when I can. I must say they are getting better and better after each game. Just two more wins away from 2000 wins. Sorry North Carolina, we are still the best program!

TL

My New Home Sweet Home…

This week has seen another big step in my big come back on setting this world on fire.  This week sees me signing a lease to a new place, and moving in to the new place.  So, this is another huge step for me.  Now, I can turn my attention to my finances and social networking.  In regards of my finances, I’m going to scale back my transfer of money into my saving account to build up my checking account again.  I hate to do it but I need too rebuild my checking account up.  As far for the social networking is going to help me down the road to find a job when I’m done with AmeriCorps.  Networking will be a major challenge for me.  But will be great for me working on this challenge.

But back to this new place.  I’m very thrilled to get back into a place.  I thought I would never see this for a while longer.  But I very thrilled.

TL

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays…

Happy late Thanksgiving and a very early happy holidays.  For Thanksgiving, I went over to Cathy’s sister place for Thanksgiving.  We had turkey, sweet potatoes, green beans, stuffing, Mac and cheese, ham, bread, and pumpkin pie.  Talking about my blood sugar going up?  But I had a great time though.  Also, with the holiday season upon us, I’m looking forward for it this year.

I have an update on my apartment.  Coming December 1st, my apartment search will be over.  I officially got an apartment and with the help of United Ministries be able to pay for this apartment.  This apartment is in Dayton, which will be closer to the Brighton Center.  So, I don’t have to continue getting up at 5:30 am.  So, things are starting to look up for me more and more!

TL

The Week in Review…

This last week have been one of those weeks.  On Monday, Chris and I went to Lexington, KY to watch UK basketball take on Miami of Ohio.  Even though the game should had been a blow out, it wasn’t.  Walls hit a last second shot to win it for UK.  But overall it was great to be at Rupp Arena.  We had a great time at the time and etc.  This week was a great for UK.  UK Basketball won three games this week and UK football won at Georgia!  So, congratulations!

Still waiting to hear about my HEARTH case.  I know that on Wednesday, my case manager was supposed to meet up with the apartment people to inspect the apartment but due to the electric being turned off they had to reschedule the inspection until Monday, November 23rd.  So, hopefully I will hear something shortly.  I’m eager to move into my own place soon.  Hopefully this week will provide something for me.

Thanksgiving is coming up and I’m going to be spending it with Cathy’s sister’s place.  Hopefully it will be better.  I usually get depressed at holidays because I’m always not with my family.  I’m always with other people’s families.  Anyway, talk to you all soon again.

TL

It’s Here…

As I’m about to head to bed for the night, I’m excited about what’s I’m going to be waking up too.  It’s going to be a day of pampering for myself that will end up in Rupp Arena as Chris and I are going to be going to the UK Basketball game Monday night.  I’m looking forward for this game.  It’s going to be my second game that I have seen at Rupp.  So, I’m excited.  But before we get to Rupp Arena, there are a few errands that I’ll have to run Monday.  These errands made me take a day off of work.  But I must say that I definitely needed a day off.  But I must say I love working at Brighton Center so much that even though I have a few errands to run and the game in the evening I had a very hard time deciding if I wanted to just take the morning off and coming in for a few hours to just work and then head to Rupp.  But after asking several people, I decided to take the day off after my supervisor basically made the decision for me.  Even right now, I still think I should go in and work for a few hours.  Go figure?

As for my last week, it was very busy at Brighton Center.  With the recent food donation drive we had, it was busy everyday as people continue bringing in food.  Also, I had to make a few trips with Bear Clifton to a few companies during the week to pick up food donations from the companies employees.

Also, I learned about my HEARTH case.  Looks like United Ministries is willing to give me one month of assistance for me to move into a place.  But then after that month they will re-evaluate to see if I need anymore assistance afterward.  I’m hoping to get between three to six months of assistance.  Not just one.  But as of right now, they need to inspect the apartment that I picked up and then fax a letter over to the apartment people.  Then the apartment people will either approve me or denial me.  So, I’m hoping to get in by December 1st.  We shall see.

TL

Brighton Center’s Food Donation Drive

On Friday, November 6, 2009, I witness something that I never saw in my whole life and that was a community coming together to help out the Brighton Center.  All day, I saw our volunteers coming in and out with carts full of food.  It was just amazing.  Also there was WLXT doing a story about the shortage of food in our food pantry.  Let me just tell you all now that lonely box of cereal isn’t alone anymore.  I want to thank everybody in the community.  It was just amazing seeing carts after carts coming in.  Great job community!!!

TL

If I was a weather person…

The best way I can explain this last week was if I was like a weather man.  Maybe that is what I should had dressed up as for Halloween?  If I was a weather man, I would probably call this week like this.  High possibility of bad news with a sprinkle of good news over the week.  The bad news mostly came in form of this new program I’m helping out with called HEARTH.  Several people we are submitting for this program is being denied.  Therefore, it took a lot of me because some of these people really needed the help that this program would had provided.  But this is the same program I have applied for as well.  Even though the good news is that I was approved for the program, they decided that it would be a conflict of interest for the Brighton Center to be my case manager.  Therefore, moved me over to United Ministries.  What does this mean?  A lot because Brighton Center was going to work several things out for me.  Now, I’m going to have somebody at the Brighton Center to call United Ministries and talk to them so I can get the necessary help that I needed and that they were going to give me.

Now that I have been approved for that, the next good news come on Friday as well, when I was told by the apartment people that I put in my application in with last week, told me that if I do get the type of assistance from the HEARTH that I would be able to rent the 1 bedroom apartment.  Otherwise, I won’t be able too because they are concern with how much I’m bringing in money wise.  So, this week I’m going to have a few people call United Ministries to talk to them.

Also, I got some very good news.  I was offered some tickets to a Kentucky Basketball game this year.  A friend and I are going to be going the November 16, 2009 game against Miami University in Lexington.  I’m so pumped.  This will be his first time at Rupp and my second time to see a game.  But I love UK basketball.  I’m so excited to see this year’s team and to top it off, it will be Walls first game back.  So, I’m stoked!!!!!

TL

Uneventful Week…

Well, this last past week really didn’t bring anything that exciting until around Friday evening when I viewed an apartment in Dayton, KY.  I will know more about if I get it either Monday or Tuesday.  I saw a one and two bedroom.  I’m going to call Duke Energy on Monday to see about what the monthly average electric bill was for the previous owners.  Other than that, my week wasn’t really all that eventful.  But this upcoming week is going to be very busy as I have my days packed with appointments to see families for the HEARTH program that the Brighton Center is starting.  I’m going to be collecting a lot of documents and making sure people are eligible.  Not to mention be hearing back about the apartments.  Plus, I will find out what I will get from Brighton Center for housing.  Other than that, I’m not expecting that much to happen this week though.  But I’ll let you all know.

TL

One of My Best Week…

It’s going to be hard for me to explain my feelings on how this week was for me.  This week was very huge for me both from work and personal life perspective.  It’s been now one month since I started working at the Brighton Center as an AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteer.  According to our manual this is supposed to be about the time that we are supposedly start second guessing our self about joining AmeriCorps and possibly be over our heads at the job.  Well, I’m totally the opposite as I look back.  I can’t even be more happier about my decision to join AmeriCorps and do what I’m doing now.  As I’m typing this blog up, I really think doing this was one of my better decisions I ever made.  Just got to keep up the great work I’m doing.  But since I made the decision to become an AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteer, nothing but good things have been happening to me.  And I don’t mean good things but good things as in getting back on my feet.

This week alone, several things are happening in my life.  On Monday, I was able to get my IDA Orientation done one on one with the person in charge of the IDA program.  Then on Tuesday, I opened up my IDA Savings Account with the Bank of Kentucky with $100.  I have decided that each time that my paycheck gets direct deposited into my checking account which I opened last week that I’m going to put $100 into my IDA account.  So, that means that every month I’m going to be saving $200.  The minimum that I can put into the IDA account is $25.  Once I saved $2000, the Brighton Center will match that same about meaning I will be getting $4000.  I had a choice on how I was going to spend that money but I decided to use that money to buy a car.  But first I have to save $2000 before that happens.  I decided to go with $100 a month because I can but I will probably have to adjust that when I find an apartment.  But I will probably know more or at least become clearer after next week when the HEARTH Program starts which I’m hoping that I will be eligible for.  But for now I will continue to put in $100 per direct deposit that I get.

On Thursday, I went to my last of two finance class that I have to attend which now means that the counselor that taught the class can pull my credit report and I can start repairing my credit.  Not only is the credit repairing is critical but I will start learning on how to create a budget and keep to it.  Which is another huge reason why I went with AmeriCorps.  I knew once I was with Brighton Center that I could take advantage of these programs that were offered to become a better me and start the process of getting back on my feet.  So, I’m thrilled on how things are going for me in the financial department.  Just have to keep the momentum going that I have created.

Other things also happened to me this last week.  Some of my old bills got paid by the Butler Foundation.  I’m very grateful of the people from the Butler Foundation that took care of those three bills.  The three bills were my old Duke Energy from my last place was paid off.  My damage bill from my last place was paid off as well.  Then my past cell phone bill was paid off as well.  As many of you all know, I didn’t have cell phone service for about the last month.  But on Wednesday, my cell service was paid which meant I was able to get my cell service back.  Also, on Friday, I received the other two cell phones from my friend Michael.  So, now I have four phones and lines which I’m only using one of them.

Now, all the above mentioned things was just about my personal life.  Let’s talk about my work.  I couldn’t be more happier about work than I am right now.  The things I’m doing is what I really want to be doing.  I just can’t believe it took me this long to figure it out but at least I have figured it out.  Now I know where I want to go in my life.  Over this next year, I’m going to be doing some more personal growing as I try to get as much training as possible for what I want to do.  One of my goal is to start a non-profit organization to help fight poverty.  This goal is probably why I’m always so happy when I get to work and get ready to work.  I just love what I’m doing and can’t wait to see the end product.

Then as I was coming home today from work, I was wondering how could things get any better for me as things were this week?  Well, can you all believe that I forgot what happens tonight?  I actually did!  Tonight was the first official start of the NCAA College Basketball teams can practice.  Which of course means just one thing?  BIG BLUE MADNESS!!!!!!  Do I need to say any more?  I was actually able to watch it on the internet.  I’m so excited for UK this year.  But not because we got rid of Gillispe but because that excitement is back and I can’t wait to watch that excitement!  GO CATS!!!!!  So, what a perfect way to end a great week by watching my all-time favorite sports team, THE KENTUCKY WILDCATS!!!!  Or should I say the 2010 National Champions Kentucky Wildcats?  Actually, I’m thrilled and can’t wait for the season.  I want to see how Calipari will blend this team together with 6 newcomers and 7 returnees?  I want to see a “team”.  Calipari is right that it’s “one heartbeat…if this team can become one heartbeat, they will be unbreakable and unbeatable.”  Can’t wait until the exhibition games to really see this team in action before I will make a prediction on this season and some of the players.  But couldn’t think of any better way to end this great week than to watch the BIG BLUE MADNESS!!!!

TL

In the Right Direction…

This week for me was a very exciting week for me.  On Thursday, October 8, I started my growing experience.  This night was just one step forward for me as I start my trip getting back on my feet.  I went to a Budget class that is just one of my two classes that I must attend before I can start getting one on one financial help.  That is something I need help with is my finances.  So, I can’t wait until I get the second class done this Thursday coming up.  That’s when I can get my credit report pulled and also start creating a budget.  So, getting this help will be great.  After that I have attend an IDA orientation that will get me started saving money.

Another big step for me was on Friday, October 9, I was able to re-open a bank account.  I have been without a bank account for about 8 months.  After 15 years of being with Fifth Third and giving them one last chance, I decided it was time for me to change banks.  So, my new bank is “The Bank of Kentucky”.  It’s a big step again in the right direction.  This will now allow me to get my living allowance from AmeriCorps deposited directly and get it a much earlier than waiting for the actual check in the mail.  Another good thing that could help me is that the Bank of Kentucky is a little stricter than Fifth Third.  So, it will help me be better at managing my money.

Also, another step is my social life is starting to take off again as well as I was able to hang out with my friend Chris and Mark as I played some Magic the Gathering game for a few hours.  Then on Saturday, I meet up with my other friend Bret and hung out for a few hours.  I had a great time with him and my other friends.  So, all of this is a great direction to be heading for me.  Let’s keep this up!

TL

Just one of those days…

Just like the title says, it really was!  My day started out on the wrong foot and ended on the wrong foot but there was some good news sandwiched in between though.  Apparently, in downtown Cincinnati thought they needed a motivational speak but it didn’t work as it made me late by 50 minutes.  Stupid traffic that was chaotic had Cincinnati backup big times.  Should had just walked across the bridge like I normally do but decided to test out the Shuttle Tank rides.  Did that backfire on me?  Anyway, when I did finally get to work, I learn that I didn’t get my paycheck but did get information that the Butler Foundation is going to pay my back bills.  Therefore, I’m going to get my cell service back, along with being able to get utilities in my own name as well.  So, I’m excited about that.  Then, on my way back home, the bus that I was on almost got hit by a car.  After finally getting off the bus to start walking home, it started to rain.  What a perfect ending to a pretty messed up day basically huh?

TL 

Week 2 came and went…

Week 2 was here and now it’s gone.  Where do the days go when you are having so much fun working?  I’ll be honest, in the last year and half the days went by so slow that I would actually forget what day it was.  Now, the days are flying by again.  But you know what?  I love it!  Getting back to work is huge for me.  It makes me feel like I’m a part of something again.  This last week’s highlight.

Mainly this last week, I had several appointment with different program coordinators that run different programs for Brighton Center.  All the appointments were very useful to me as I came away from them with better understanding of the programs and with tons of valuable information that is vital for my success in the job I’ll be doing over the next year.  Out of the 17 program coordinators that I have to meet with, I have already met with 6 of them.

Also, during the week, the new project that I was asked to take over re-launched with a new face lift as I reformatted the apartment listing that is used for our customers that are looking for apartments and houses to rent.  I was also able to target a certain website that could benefit this project big times.  I have that meeting this week coming with the owner of the website.

On Wednesday, I had a luncheon to attend and my vegetable salad was a big hit.  I was hoping to have some left over so I could eat it for lunch during the week but it wasn’t meant to be as it was all ate up. 

On Friday, I had the New Hire Orientation that I had to attend.  It was 4 hours of information about the history of the Brighton Center, the different programs within the program, and some great Papa John’s pizza!  It was at this orientation that I was able to find some key piece of information that I will need to make my year long service a success.  I was able to find a way to gather landlord’s name and address without having to send out letters and etc.  Now, I just provided more work for myself.  Which I love to see happen to me!  The more work I do, the more successful I’ll be in life and at my job!

Outside of work, I did a few things but not much really.  It’s very tough to be able to do anything when you have a 2 hour trip to get home.  So, 4 hours total a day on the bus really doesn’t help your life outside of work.  But on Friday, I was to catch up with my friend Chris.  We went to get Chinese food and then went to see GI Joe.  What a great action movie it was.  Can’t wait to see what they will do with the second movie!  Other than that, I really didn’t do anything outside of work during the week.  I love having the weekend off!

So, what’s going on this upcoming work week #3?  Well, I still have program coordinator’s appointment during the week.  I have a meeting with a website owner on Monday.  Along with meeting with my supervisor.  Another meeting about customer service task that might be required of the Vistas.  Will know more about this on Monday.  I have to update the apartment listing on Wednesday.  Also, have to figure out the best method of reviewing information out of files to be put into a database regarding landlords.  Plus, I have to setup a few appointments as well, review a lot of information, and whatever else comes about during the week.

Outside of the work week, there are some major things going on.  I’m going to be starting to work on my personal life starting with budgeting.  This week on Thursday, I have a budgeting class that I’ll be attending.  These classes are required for me to attend if I’m planning on participating in the IDA program.  Also, will be finally getting a checking account back after not having one for the last 6 to 7 months.  Just waiting on my 1st paycheck this upcoming week to come in.  Then I also will be viewing an apartment this week as well.   So, as you can tell things are starting to look back up for me and I can’t be more happier!

TL

First Week Came and Went…

As everybody by now knows, I started my year long volunteer job with the Brighton Center.  I’m the Housing Support Vista Volunteer.  My main job for this year is to work on creating a resource list that is full of housing information from agencies around the Northern Kentucky area.  Plus, I’ll be creating a tracking system on how these agencies use this resource list and what they think about the resource list.  That is my main goal for this year.  Other things I’ll be doing is helping Brighton Center counselors with any help in regards to housing.  This first week was very information packed!  My first task is to meet like 17 different program coordinators to help me better understand the different programs that Brighton Center has but also let them know who I am and see what I can do for them during my year service.

So, in this first week, I had a lot of information given to me and I also read a lot of information.  Already did a few things like reformatting the apartment listing and working on another document that they wanted reformatted.  Plus, I started setting up appointments with the different coordinators that must be done by the end of October.  Been reading a lot of information about Brighton Center and the programs they offer.  This upcoming week is going to be as busy because I already have something like seven meetings all this week and more to come.  Not to mention continuing to get the computer and office the way I want it.  I’m very much going to enjoy working there.

Now on the TL’s front, things are going pretty good.  My mom would be proud of me because I’m using a gift that she gave me a long time ago when I graduated with my bachelor degree back in 2002.  She gave me a briefcase that I have mainly been using to carry odds and ends things whenever I move and then it sits in the closet.  Really didn’t have anything to really use it for until now.  So, I have dusted it off, re-organized the inside, and stuffed it with work from Brighton Center.  Are you proud of me mom?

I have to start acting and looking professional now.  I guess I better look and act like one?  My friend Chris commented on how professional I sounded on the phone.  Not to mention I have been taken steps to keep myself more professional and making sure that I don’t get any complaints similar to the ones I did at other jobs.  For example, where I’m currently staying here in Delhi, it takes me two hours to get to work.  I get up at 5:30 am every weekday morning.  I walk from the house to the bus stop on Delhi Pike to wait for a bus.  That is maybe a quarter of a mile if that.  Then I take a 40 minutes bus trip downtown to Government Square in Cincinnati.   Where then I walk from there to Ann Street in Newport.  A very long walk (roughly 45 minutes) but I love it.  So, as you know, I’m a big person that sweats a lot.  Well, now I’m not wearing my work shirt but I’m carrying it with me in my briefcase.  Plus, I have deodorant and cologne in my office now.  I didn’t do this in the pass.  So, when I get to work in the mornings, I go and change my shirt to a clean shirt and reapply deodorant and etc.  That way, I’m hoping it will help me eliminate the complaints I got at the other jobs at this new job.  This is all part of me trying to work on things I know I need to work on.  But I do this walk twice a day and I love it!  But with winter coming won’t be doing it that much though.  Hopefully not at all as I’m trying to get housing closer to the Brighton Center.

Which brings me up to the next thing which is housing.  I took a step toward gaining a new place to live this week as well.  Just waiting to hear that it has been accepted.  I filled out my Butler Foundation paperwork today.  If they get accepted then it’s in a positive step toward gaining a place.  As of right now, even if I did find a place to live, I wouldn’t be able to the utilities into my own name because I owe Duke Energy, and my last landlord money.  This could keep me from getting my own place.  What the Butler Foundation does his it will pay off those past bills if they accept it.  So, in doing my paperwork, we also added my cell phone bill.  So, hoping that all three of these bills get paid!  Keep your fingers crossed.  Once I know about those, then things really open up when it comes to finding housing because not only will those bills be paid off, I’m also available for the Hearth Program as well.  The Hearth Program will pay for my rent and/or utilities for up to a year.  So, that is another huge help on my part.

Wow, look how much I wrote?  I guess I bored you all enough for now.  I’m trying to get more involved in writing sooner rather than having a long wait between blogs.  Keeping praying for me and call me if you know my number!

TL

The Time Has Come…

It has finally arrived.  T-minus 14 hours until I start fighting poverty.  I can’t wait to enter the work field again.  I’m going to get the experience I need over the next year as I become a new me.  So, what isn’t there be excited about?  Over the next few week, I will start to gradually continue getting my stuff out of storage.  Tomorrow night I will start with my clothes.  Since I’m starting to work I need more choices than what I currently have.  Then when I get my new apartment, I’ll get the rest of my stuff.  I really miss my computers and some of my stuff.  But more importantly I’m thrilled to be working again.

TL

I’m Back Baby…

That’s right, I’m back from Catlanta.  Just to bad I wasn’t there to watch the UK Wildcats but I was there for my next favorite thing.  That would be my new passion which is fighting poverty.  I’m officially now an AmeriCorps VISTA.  Which also means that on Monday, I will start my assignment with the Brighton Center here in Newport, KY as I start getting back on my feet myself.  So, let’s get this going.  A new path in my life is starting.

Catlanta was rainy and more rain.  It didn’t stop until we got on the bus to leave for the airport.  But the whole time down there, I must admit it was a real eye opener for me.  Not to mention I met a lot of people that will probably be friends with for years to come.  So, if you are thinking about becoming an AmeriCorps Volunteer I would wholly recommend that you do.  Everything that happened that was involved with the conference was great.  My only complaint was the very last thing on our way home in Chicago as we were on time until a cargo net got tangled up and we sat on the tarmac for about an hour and was late arriving in Cincinnati.  But know what?  That I can take because that was the only thing that was bad and it was at the very end.

But today is my day of rest before I start looking over my assignment and start working on things for Monday.  I also have some other things to do as well.  I’m also glad to see somebody looked me up from the conference.  I can’t believe somebody actually beat me to the punch on that.  She was going to be the first person I looked up as well.  So, Majal glad to be your friend and hope we can keep in contact as we start our journey.

Also, I realized why I was gone to Catlanta that I really do like Windows Live when it comes doing my blog.  Just couldn’t believe that I couldn’t twitter out my blog post each time I did a blog entry each day.  But now I can.

TL

The End is Here...

It's with sadness that the Vista Conference here in Atlanta, GA has came to an end. Today we got sworn in as we are officially AmeriCorps Vista Volunteers. *jumping for joy* As my group and I are waiting for the shuttle to take us to the airport to start our journey back to KY, I have been thinking back over the last few days. I learned a lot of things here and I meet many friends in the process that no doubt will be seeing down the road. The conference here was planned great. It went smoothly. Not to mention the Emory Conference Hotel did a great job providing great service here at the hotel. The more and more I think about my decision on to become a AmeriCorp Vista Volunteer is one of my greatest choice I possibly could have made. This is where my life will now take a change for the best. This will be that spark that will prevail me to greatness and the path in my life that I like to go. Over the next year, I'm going to grow as a person that a lot of my friends and families will be shocked to see in years time. The conference here might have came to an end but the friendship I have foster and the experience I'll be gaining over the next year will continue. If I had to choose today, I would possibly be serving another year of AmeriCorps!

TL

Day Three Reflection...

Not only is this day coming to an end but also the training here in Atlanta is coming to an end as well. We have a half of day of training tomorrow before we are whisk off to the airport. But before that happens, let me tell you about today. Day three started with me having a headache and it looks like I'm going to end with a headache as well. Overall, today's training was all about understanding our VAD's and how we were choosen to serve in the capacity we are going to be serving.

Over the weekend, I'll be dissecting my VAD a little bit more before I start at the Brighton Center. As I'm starting to get even more excited to be serving my time with the Brighton Center. Also, I'm going to miss the number of people I have met here over these last few days. I hope some of us will keep in touch with me and vice versa. There are a lot of people that have similar stories or in the same situation as me. It's good to feel that I'm not alone.

Something else that I learned today that has nothing to do with AmeriCorps is that I need to freakin get more people to view my blog. I know a few people view my blog but how come you aren't responding? You know how much I hate talking to myself? That's what this is feeling like. Maybe I should do a strip tease and maybe then I'll get people speaking up. Anybody out there? *as I hear crickets cricketing*

Over and out!

TL

Day 2 Reflection...

As day two comes to an end, the information that I gathered today has been overwhelming but at the same time it has helped me better understand the situation that I have been in over the last year and half better. For me, it's like putting a name to the face finally. That's the best way I can finally describe the situation I have been in. You see, everytime I was asked to explain the current situation I'm in, it has been hard for me to explain because I wasn't really homeless even though that's what it seems like. Today, here at training, I learned that I was what is called "situational poverty". Basically "situational poverty" is where a certain situation has put me into poverty. Another example of situational poverty are the people in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina hit. A devasting event can have a devasting affect on people and/or individual. So, I challenge you to see if you can define what is poverty? What does poverty mean to you? Can poverty be totally eliminated? To better understand poverty, you have to define poverty. It's not just "lack of money", or "lack thereof anything". Defining poverty can be just about anything. Now that I better understand my situation by figuring out the name of it, it has helped me to figure out a roadmap for me to get out of this situation.

So, as today comes to a close, I'm so very glad that I decided to follow this path and become a Vista. I'm excited to get back to the Northern Kentucky area and put to use what I have and will be learning here. Anybody want to help me with this challenge? Poverty can be eliminated but not just totally. We all have to work together. I'm only one, but one can become many.

TL

Day 1 Reflection...

As the first day of my training comes to a close, I thought I would reflect on the common theme of the first day. That is, "Is Vista right for you". In this case that means me. As I sat in the first session today after registration and dinner, I couldn't help to think for now that Vista is right for me. To make a difference in a person's life, let alone a community is a very big thing for me. All my times growing up, I didn't just want to make a difference in a person's life but also in a community. Up to now, all I have been doing is making a difference in somebody's life but I have been leading up to this moment but just didn't realized it until today. So, I'm beyond thrilled to be starting this new chapter in my life. So, as I'm off to bed here shortly, I really can't wait until we start early in the morning with our training sessions.

TL

Coming to you from Atlanta...

As many know today I set off for Atlanta at 5:00 am. I have arrived in Atlanta safe and sound. So, after taking a small nap, I'm about to head off to the registration table to register. But thought I would stop by a computer and do a quick blog.

The trip to Atlanta went a whole lot smoother than the last time I came to Atlanta. All the planes were on time and I didn't even have to walk that far to change planes in Chicago. But the only question I have is "how does one go north to get south?" To start my trip I went from Cincinnati to Chicago and then on to Atlanta. I must say though United Airline's planes were very clean and comfortable. Not to mention the hot stewardesses. Apparently Delta need to checkout the stewardesses hiring processes of United Airlines. And take a cue from United Airlines ontime and take off time as well. Even the shuttle from the airport to the hotel was also in style. We were in a limo bus. Isn't that cool? I think Brad Harris might be happy to know where his tax dollars are going? Not only to volunteerism but I guess you can call it luxury volunteerism, Brad?

Anyway, I'm safe and sound here in Atlanta. I'm about to head down to registration and then dinner starts at 5:30 pm and then our first session of this training starts at 6:45 pm. Then the schedule for Wednesday and thursday is training from 8 am to 5 pm. Then on Friday it's from 8 am to 1 pm. Then I'll be flying back that night which is another mystery like the "flying north" that I mention above. The training and conference ends at 1 pm on Friday. Checkout of our rooms is at 12 pm. So, one will think that planes departure would be two or three hours afterward? Wrong, my plane doesn't leave until 7:30 pm. Which means, I'm going to be doing a whole lotta nothing at the airport. Anyway, I'm off to registration now. Talk to everybody later!

TL

It’s Go Time…

The day has become where I’m going to be heading back to work has finally arrived.  First stop is Atlanta, GA where I’m going to be doing training for AmeriCorps from September 15 to September 18.  Then I will start working at the Brighton Center on Monday, September 21.  I’m so excited but yet somewhat nervous.  Praying that everything will go smoothly as I start this new path in my life.  The only only thing left for me to do is where I find my own place and really start the process of getting back on my feet.  So, I will post more when I can get back from my trip.

TL

8 days and counting…

That’s right, eight days and counting for me before I head out to Atlanta for training to work for AmeriCorps.  Then when I come back, I will start working at the Brighton Center on the 21st of September.  Things are starting to move a little faster now.  Just a few days ago, I received my itinerary for my flight down to Atlanta.  So, things are going to be moving a lot faster.  I can’t wait and I’m excited but at the same time nervous.  But I’m going to love it!

TL

Apartment Searching not going to good…

Let’s see the first place I went to see was to small.  It reminded me more of college dorms.  If it didn’t have the small fridge like back in college I probably would be considering it now.  Even though there would be major drawbacks.  The second place I went to see was very decent in size.  Again some drawbacks like the guy that was renting out the room was also job searching nationwide and said that if he got an offer tomorrow in Hawaii, that he would sell the house and move there.  Which means that I would have to apartment search again.  But they guy choose somebody else to rent that room.  The third place was a little to far away where I wanted to be.  The fourth place which was RiverChase Apartments, the guy never showed up even though I told him I was going to be there.  I might give them a second chance but after being jerked around all last week, I’m not sure.  But would be in an area where I want it to be and within walking distance to the Brighton Center.  But I will continue searching for that apartment.  If I had a car, the search would be a lot easier but since I don’t it’s making it very difficult but of course I love challenges.

So, if anybody is looking for a roommate in Newport, KY, e-mail me.  My cell phone has been temporarily turned off for lack of payment but will probably be back on in October.  I can still receive calls until T-Mobile decides to officially turn it off.  So, if I gave you the number to where I’m staying, please use it when you can’t get a hold of me.  Otherwise, you can e-mail me, facebook me, and etc.

TL

Long week last week…

As you all can tell, it’s been a little over a week since I last wrote an entry into this blog.  A lot has been going on here.  I have been helping the people I’m staying with clean up their place to get ready for a 50th Birthday party on Saturday.  So, there was a lot of carrying stuff here and there and downstairs and etc.  Not to mention, I have been trying to find a place to stay as well.  As most of you all know, I have found a volunteering job that gives me a living allowance.  So, I have been looking at a few places.  I will probably know about one later this week or early next week.  But for the mean time I will continue searching.  I also helped a friend move.  I also had to go and get another months of medication.  And now, I’m resting my ankle as it’s very sore from all the walking, moving, and etc.

TL

Ex-NFL running back convicted of 7 felony counts…

Man, talking about a big waste of his talents.  This kid has been nothing but trouble since day one of his life!  I’m sorry, as many chances as this kid has been given over the years, I hope the judge really give him a very long sentence added on to what he is already serving.  I remember watching him at Nebraska and he had great talent but now it’s just going to waste because of his anger and stupidity.  Once a promising star now a bust in life.  Article below:  Ex-NFL running back Lawrence Phillips convicted of 7 felony counts

TL

What Proper Diagnoses means…

Ever since I have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes back in April 2008, it has changed my life in drastic way.  One of those ways is understanding my body better.  Before I was diagnosed with diabetes, I used to get hot and sweaty whenever I go to sleep at night.  Whenever I would explain to doctors and friends, they would tell me it’s stress related.  Which back then could have been true.  But I always thought it might be something else because these hot flashes came every night.  But was told the same thing over and over, it’s stress related.  Things changed after I was diagnosed with diabetes.  As I study the symptoms of both low and high blood sugars, I notice that getting hot and start sweating was a symptom.  I started to notice that I wasn’t having these hot flashes or getting hot and sweaty during the night as I tried to sleep.  As the months went by, every time I get hot and sweaty or of these hot flashes I would check my blood sugar to notice that my blood sugar levels were low.  So, I would maybe drink a small glass of milk, orange juice, or apple juice and wait 15 minutes and test my blood sugar again and it would be back to normal.  Doctors want my blood sugar to be between 70 to 140.  I have been noticing when I have those hot flashes or getting hot and sweaty that my blood sugars have been below 70.

Last night was no different, when I went to bed I was fine and as I tossed and turned while I couldn’t sleep, I started to get hot and sweaty.  So, I got up and tested my blood sugars to see how low my blood sugar level was.  It was down to 65.  So, I got up and had a glass of milk and a piece of Dove Chocolate.  I waited my 15 minutes or so and rechecked my blood sugars and notice it was back up to 84 which was within my normal range.  My hotness and sweats went away.  I had a great night of sleep after that.

With me being properly diagnosed with my diabetes, I’m starting to really understand my body better as I have been putting the two things together from my past and now my present to notice the different symptoms of my diabetes.  Understanding these has helped me become a better person and more confident in life now because now I have the controls and not the other way around.

TL

Apartment Searching…

So, today when I woke up I had an e-mail regarding an ad I placed on Craigslist for housing wanted.  But talking about being a small world after all.  Since I’ve been in my current situation, it seems that I have been getting back in touch with old friends that I haven’t seen in years.  Well, today was no different.  I received an e-mail from a person regarding my ad.  He was letting me know that he had a possible place for me if I was interested.  As I got to the end of the e-mail I notice that the guy’s last name was “Vater” and I saw that his place that he had was in Southgate.  So, I sent back an e-mail letting him know that I was interested in the place but wanted to come out to view the place.  Then asked him if he knew “Tim Vater”.  I let him know that I went to college with a “Tim Vater” and was wondering if he was his father.  Come find out he was.  What a small world after all?

You see, Tim and I met when I started college in August 1995.  Of course I was a little older than him.  But soon we became good friends and where you saw him, you would see me or vice versa.  Of course he graduated in 1999 as I continue on with my college journey for my bachelor.  He was a great friend and in the last few months I have been looking to get back in touch with him.  So, I thought this was a little sign maybe when I met his dad today.  But like all good things, things have to come to an end.  After he graduated, we lost touch.  Also, we didn’t leave things in good term but let’s see if he will contact me now a days.  I’m hearing that he is married now for about two years and that he is working over in Cinti Metro Housing Association.  Which is another consequence because with me starting working for Brighton Center, I’ll be doing with housing information.  So, I’m sure I’ll be contacting him over at CMHA.  So, it will be interesting if he will even contact me.

As for the place, it was ok.  And yes, Tim also lived in the same place as well.  I wasn’t to fond of the of the kitchen because it has a college like refrigerator that had very limited freezer which I would like.  But the place did go furnished.  Another thing I didn’t like was the many steps that it had to get to the place.  For this I’m thinking about my mom.  She won’t come and visit due to her knees.  She hated working up like six steps at my last place.  So, imagine how much more she would had 20 steps?  Actually she wouldn’t come to visit me at all.  But the good thing is though that he is willing to work with me and Brighton Center as well.  Not to mention, the landlord’s daughter is also in the AmeriCorps Vista program as well.  But this is only my first place that I really looked at.  So, as I mention probably in a few other of my post, I’m looking to move into an apartment sometimes in the month of September.

Also, I want to thank my friend Brett for coming to pick me up and go see this place.  I wouldn’t be able to do this today if it wasn’t for him.  So, thank you Brett!

TL

My Twitter Updates…

I just noticed today, Saturday, August 8, 2009, that my text updates that I have been sending via my cell phone aren’t getting to my great followers.  But I’m receiving everybody’s updates that I’m following on Twitter.  So, looks like the DoS that Twitter is receiving messed up my ability to update my great followers.  So, please be patient as I try to figure what’s going on.

Also, I have added “Twitter” section to my blog.  So, now when people come to my blog, they can see what I’m doing.  I’m going to be working on updating my blog a little bit more by adding more links and other things over the next few months.  So, if you have any suggestions, please feel free to comment on this thread.

TL

A change of direction…

As of yesterday, Wednesday, August 5th, I had my last interview.  Even though I had my mind made up on accepting the AmeriCorps position, I went to this interview because I didn’t want to burn any bridges.  But I also made sure I didn’t set any other interviews up.  Which on Tuesday, August 4th, I received three calls for interviews.  Which, of course, I told them I accepted another position.  My heart is pretty set on the AmeriCorps position.  There are a lot of great pros for taking this position.  Like, for example:  1)  Federal employee experience status – after working with AmeriCorps, this position will give me federal status which down the road will open up a whole another job area for me when I start job searching again.  2)  new experience in a new field – I feel that this job is giving me a new direction in my life.  3)  Volunteering will make a huge impact on my resume.  4)  The year time frame will help me work on personals issues I have that will set me for the rest of the life, so this last year or almost two years won’t happen again.  So, no matter what happens with this latest job interview, I’m already know in my mind that I’m not going to accept the position.  With that said and the interviews portion over, I can change the direction that I’m going in.

That new direction is to now start finding a place to live.  Theoretically, I would like to move into a new place by September 1st.  But really starting to think it might be middle to late September.  I would like to find a place either in Newport or maybe Covington.  Just depends on what I’m looking for.  Which I would love to be able to get rent and utilities for under $500 but I think the only way that is going to happen is if I find a person that is looking for a roommate or I find a place with somebody.  But with past experiences with roommates, this might be out of the question.  I would love to find a place for myself to live.  That would be my ultimate goal.  So, if anybody knows of a place or maybe a friend that’s looking for a roommate, please let me know.

Then once I find this place, get settled in both the new place and the job I’m going to be doing, then my next plan of action is to start on working on my personal issues.  I’m determined not to let this happened to me again.  But as I look back though, this could have been a blessing in disguise though.  Finding out that I had diabetes made a big difference in my life.  It has helped me see that I can lose weight correctly.  So, getting my own place would be a battle won itself because then I can start eating correctly again and pay attention to what I’m eating as well.  I lost a little over 80 pounds from April 2008 till October 2008.  Then from October 2008 until now, I find it very encouraging that I only gain 15 pounds back.  Normally I would gain back the weight and then double that as well.  But it’s encouraging to see that I haven’t.  Another blessing in disguise is knowing how determined I am still.  With the up and downs in my life, most people would have given up.  I was determined not too.  I will admit that there were a few times I wanted too.  When I felt like I was going too, I either took some “me” days and just cutback on what I was doing and let myself tell me when I’m ready to get back with to it.  I would do a lot of reading or researching on the internet that would give me a great idea or something and I would feel refresh to start back at what I’m doing again.  Another blessing out of this whole situation is finally giving my life a sense of direction.  Up until about a month ago, I didn’t have a direction.  I was struggling with what I wanted to.  Then about a month ago, a light came on to help me find AmeriCorps and do what I would like to do and that is using my skill set to help poverty communities and the people that live in those communities.  Once I figured that out, things went fast and now I’m very excited and feel like some weight has been taken off my shoulders.  Now, I just have to face some fallout on things that have happened in my last year or two.  But tell you what though?  Going through this situation has really showed me a lot.  It showed me things that I need to work on personally and professionally.  So, that’s what I’m planning on doing this upcoming year.

So, continue checking back more often once I find my place because then I’ll will be doing more updates more often because I will have my stuff out.  Not to mention feeling better emotionally and physically as I start the healing process.  Thank you everybody that has helped me out over the last two years.  You all know who you are!

TL

It’s official…

As the title says, it’s official, I have been accepted into the AmeriCorps.  Which means that I will be serving one year of my time to my assigned location.  I will be getting a modest living expense and other help.  This is a very slow way back on my feet which I think will be helpful for the rest of my life.  I have been assigned to work with the Brighton Center, which is kind of funny because I have been trying to get a job with them.  So, this is a way I can show what I can do and hope that they will hire me at the end of the year.  But during this year, I will be working on a lot of personal issues I have.  But bottom line is I’m excited to be serving my time and getting experience in the process.  This is a very positive move in the right direction for my life!

 

TL

Good News but…

I have some good news to report today.  I’m halfway there to having a job.  Last week, I submitted my application to the AmeriCorps Vista Program.  Then on Monday, July, 27, 2009, I applied to eight different programs that was looking for AmeriCorps Vista.  By the time I got back to the house, I had two interviews set up for Wednesday, July 29 and Thursday, July 30.  I’m about to go to the later interview in about an hour.  But as I’ll be going there, it a big relief to know that the interview I had on Wednesday, has officially selected to fill one of their positions.  And this is where the BUT goes…even though I’m excited, now I have to wait for the main AmeriCorps accepts me.  As soon as they accept me and sends me that e-mail then I can officially accept the position that I’m selected for.  So, I’m halfway there and just waiting for that e-mail.  Once I have accepted the position, I will have to attend a training in Atlanta on September 15th thru the 18th.  Then I will start the position shortly there after.  I will get paid $891 per month.  Remember this is an AmeriCorps job which is a service job that I have to commit one year of my time too.  Plus, I get other benefits as well.

But I do see another major decision for me coming up soon that could put an end to my current situation.  This AmeriCorps position is only one year.  After the year is up, I will either have to re-apply for another Vista position or try to find a full-time job all over again.  This is where I’m faced with the decision.  As of right now, on August 5, 2009, I have an interview for a full time job that isn’t an AmeriCorps job.  So, that basically means if they offer me the job and I accept that in one year, I will continue working with them until they decide to let me go.  Which also means I could get out of my current situation and back on my feet faster rather than waiting another year before I can get back on my feet.  Does that make sense?  But first they have to offer me this job that I have the interview for on August 5th before I can make that decision or do I stay with my word that I gave to the person that selected me for the AmeriCorps position?

But the good news is that there is a light at the end of the tunnel for me!  Yeah me!!!!!!

TL

What a great busy week this going to be…

In my last post, I talked about how busy my last week was going to be.  Well, this week is as busy if not busier.  But it didn’t start off that busy for this week.  But before I get into this week, let me give everybody a run down on last week happenings.  As I mention in my last post, Monday, July 20, I had to go and pick up my medicine from Pike Street Clinic.  Also, as I mention in last post, this was very huge for me because now I can get my diabetes medicine without have to pay for it.  I was there for like three hours.  Then I walked back up to the Cincinnati Public Library where I continue my research on homelessness.  Then on Tuesday, July 21, I had to go to a WIA Program Orientation at One Stop.  This program will help me pay for my training for a MCSE Certification if I qualify for the program.  This WIA Program is a three step process.  There are two Orientations that I have to attend and a one on one meeting with a Career Advisor.  So, on Tuesday, July 21 and Thursday, July 23, I went to the two orientations.  Plus, on Thursday, I went with Cathy to the Free Food Bank Store.  That was a great adventure.  Also, on Wednesday, July 22, I applied for AmeriCorps Vista program which was a great move for me because it is this move that has made this week a hot busy week for me.  Also, I learned that my interview I had with Siemens IT Solution had their contract pulled from them meaning that job no longer exist.

So, what does this week have for me?  Well, originally this was going to be a light week.  As I only had one appointment this week and that was on Monday.  But what I didn’t expect was that one appointment turned into this busy week.

A)  Monday, July 27 – I had my one on one session with my Career Advisor from One Stop regarding my qualification into the WIA Program.  But before I know if I have qualify there are numerous things I had to gather before our next meeting which is Friday, July 31.  From this session, I learned more about how I to apply for AmeriCorps Vista.  So, when I went to the library I ended up applying for eight Vista programs.  By the time I got back to the house, I had a job interview set for Wednesday, July 29.  So, here is what I have to gather for my Career Advisor:

1)  Proof of Residence from Cathy here.

2)  My birth certificate and social security card

3)  Research and fill out a Q&A form about the program certification I want to attend.

4)  Have to apply for financial aid.

5)  Have to go back three months of my job searching and printout all my correspondence regarding the jobs I have applied for.  This is going to take a few days.

B)  Tuesday, July 28 – Mainly used this day to gather a lot of my information I need to gather for my Career Advisor, did my research for my certification, and started the printing out of my last three months of my job searching.  Plus, had to help Cathy with her test that she had for her job interview she has also on Wednesday, July 29.  (Good luck Cathy).  As I was doing my stuff, I got a call for yet another job interview that will be on Thursday, July 30.  Doing this post is my last thing for me to do on this computer for the night!

C)  Wednesday, July 29 – I have a 3:00 pm interview at the Brighton Center for the Recover Northern Kentucky AmeriCorps Vista program.  So, I hope the rain will stop by the time I get on the bus around 12:00 pm.  Let’s pray that it will!  Plus, I will be continuing working on the job searching printout for the last three months and probably start applying for financial aid as well.

D)  Thursday, July 30 – I will know more on Wednesday when my interview for the Home Ownership Center of Greater Cincinnati Visa will be on this day.  Plus, I will be putting finishing touches on my job searching project for the last three months and financial aid in preparation of my meeting with my Career Advisor on Friday.

E)  Friday, July 31 – I have my meeting with my Career Advisor at 9:00 am.  I have to present all my stuff that I have gather for her at this meeting.  Then it will probably be like a week or so before I will know if I have qualified for the WIA Program.

As you see, what turned out to be a light week for me is turning out to be a very busy week.  I’m not complaining but just glad to be doing something that is meaningful and productive.  And there is still things I have to do like call the Ohio Food Stamp Office to figure out where my appointment letter is that was turned in over two weeks ago.  This weekend will be a much needed rest when it gets here.  Anyway, back to my busy week.

TL

Another busy week coming up…

If last week wasn’t a busy week, this week coming up is.  Last week, I had a job interview up in Mason, OH with Siemens for a short term job which fail through that I just recently learned.  Also, I went to re-apply for my KY Food Stamps Benefits again since I missed the re-certification meeting that I was supposed to have in June.  In which I learned I was denied because they consider me a resident of OH.  Go figure on that one out?  So, the next day I turned in my paperwork for the OH Food Stamps Benefits.  I’m just waiting on my appointment to be sent to me by mail.  So, that might be added to my to do list for this upcoming week if I get that in the mail.  Also, learned that Recovery Network Center in Covington, KY went through changes and I’ll be unable to use their address anymore.  In the process of this, I also heard that there were big changes made in March of this year to programs around these services.  Then on Friday, I go to go to the Pike Street Clinic to talk to them regarding my meds.  As for this week, Monday, Tuesday, and possibly Thursday are booked for me.  This is what’s on my agenda this week.

On Monday, I’m going to be picking up my meds and my test strips from the Pike Street Clinic in Covington, KY.  This is a huge thing for me because I don’t have to spend $21 each month to get my meds plus the $60 for my test strips.  Not to mention I don’t have to pay for any doctors visits and etc.  I just have to go into the clinic once a month which is also free for me.  So, this is a huge monkey off my back or at least until I can get back up on my feet but then I can use St. Vincent DePaul to get at least my meds for free but will have to start paying for my test strips.  But until then, I will worry about that later when it comes.  Then after I’m done there, I will be going to the library again to continue doing my research and my job searching.

On Tuesday, I’m going to be going to an orientation at the Career Connection inside One Stop in Covington, KY.  This I’m very excited about and really will be excited if I qualify for their certification program.  Career Connection has a program where they will help individuals obtain various certifications like the A+ or the Microsoft Office certification and etc.  In which the Career Connection will pay up to a certain amount to help you obtain your certification.  So, I hope I qualify!  If I do, that means, my Thursday will be busy as well as I would have to go back to the Career Connection as well.  But one step at a time.  Then after I’m done there, I’ll be going back to the library again to continue my researching and job searching.

Even though the above doesn’t seem that busy, it’s actually the waiting that kills me.  Good thing I’m a very patience person.  It will take 4 to 5 hours of waiting at both the Pike Street Clinic and One Stop but it will be worth every penny though!  But besides that, there are other things that could come up that will require me to add to my to do list this week.  Like:

1)  Have e-mails out regarding volunteering at various places like the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless.

2)  Also, trying to get various meetings with some of my networking contacts in regards of projects I’m trying to get started or ideas I have that I need to pitch.

3)  If my OH Food Stamps Benefits Office mails my appointment, I could have a meeting this week?

4)  Could have a few job interviews as well. 

So, as you can see I will have a lot on my plate if things start coming through.  Also, I will continue researching my idea that I’m having and continue working on my project to get it up off the ground.  So, expect in the next month or two big news coming from me in regards of me taking my life in a new direction.

Enjoy and I hope everybody have a great week!

- TL

Interesting day…

Today was a very interesting day for me.  I learned from the Kentucky Food Stamps Office today that they consider me an Ohio resident because I have been staying at friend’s places in Ohio for the last two week.  So, in their book that makes me an Ohio resident and have to register for food stamps in Ohio now.  Which I will be doing tomorrow.  Now I will see what the people here in Ohio will say.  It wouldn’t surprise me if they tell me I’m a Kentucky resident.  At which point, I’m going to tell them to call the Kentucky Food Stamps Office and tell them that.  Then whoever wins the battle, gets me.  Sounds like a plan to me?

In other developments, with my recent struggles in life and today’s development has given me a fire in my stomach that has caused me to send out feelers that could possibly lead me and my life in a new direction.  More to come about this over the next few week.

Also, I have been doing a lot of walking lately.  Which is good for me because it helps me lose weights and get back in shape.

Yesterday, I had a great interview which I’m waiting to hear back from.  I should hear something about it tomorrow.  Now the only little and I mean little draw back is that the job is only three weeks long.  But it will help me get the necessary experience that I need to get updated.  So, let’s hope it works out.

TL

Miscellaneous…

Well, things are starting to heat up around here when it comes to the job searching.  Earlier this week, I took a different direction when it came to my job searching process.  I re-did my cover letter and created a broadcast letter that I sent out to potential companies.  Plus, I have been doing a lot more networking and seem to be getting my job leads.  All of this has lead me to my first interview that I had in a while that’s not connected with a recruiter.  That interview is Tuesday in Mason, OH with Siemens IT Solutions for a month or two job that could lead into full-time.  But it’s a start at least.

In other news about me, I have been doing a lot of walking lately and notice how much strength I have after walking long distance.  I have notice that since I have lost weight how much better I have felt.  So, I guess a good side effect of the diabetes medication is losing weight?  But it’s time for me to believe in myself.  I’m just asking friends of mine to not lose confidence in me or stop believing in me.  Things will turn around for me.  Just got to believe!

TL

Great day today…

Today, I was in very high spirits and energy as I was job searching today.  I took my job searching in a different direction and thought it was very great day after all.  As I ended up with so good networking contacts that possibly could lead somewhere?  We shall see!

TL

Happy 4th of July…

First, let me wish everybody a happy 4th of July.  As America grows older, so does my job search.  But like this 4th of July a new year for America, so will my job search.  Over the next few days, I’m going to be making some changes to my job searching methods by adding some more things.  I have a little over three weeks left here at Cathy and Richard’s place.  If something doesn’t come up soon, I might be out in the streets for good.  But I’m trying to avoid that as much as possible as I’m on the computer job searching like on average of five to six hours a day.  Not to mention, making cold calls, sending out e-mails, and trying my best.  There isn’t a single thing I haven’t tried that hasn’t gotten me a job or an interview.  Hiring managers only want to take a few seconds to look over resumes really skips all the good fit people like me.  But it’s only a matter of time something will start showing up for me.  But until then, back to searching I go.

TL

Still Trying…

Well, able to get on for a few to write this.  Been here in Delhi, OH since Sunday, June 28, 2009.  Went to my interview on Monday, June 29, 2009, and thought I did a great job.  RHT has yet to get back with me but they did say they will suggest forwarding my application to the two companies we talked about in our interview.  Now just waiting to hear back from RHT.  While I was still downtown, I put in my resume to Kroger, Chiquita, Wendy’s, and Walgreens.  Then on Tuesday and Wednesday, I have been job searching on the computer more.  Now, not only have I been job searching, I also been helping Richard and Cathy around the house as well.  Otherwise, just been keeping myself busy.  Just keep praying and applying that something will come up.

TL

Off on another adventure…

Here later today, I will be going down to Delhi, Ohio to stay with Cathy and Richard for at the most a month.  A lot is happening here with me.  There might be a good chance I won’t be updating this blog as much as I have been after I move down to Delhi, Ohio.  I won’t have access to a computer like I did here in Lima, Ohio.  Then on Monday, I have an interview with Robert Half Technology for a few positions they feel that I’m a strong fit for.  If I see things aren’t working out by the middle of July, I might be taking up an offer from a person in San Antonio, Texas by the end of July.  This is getting down to a crucial time for me majorly.  I will continue to post as soon as I can.

TL

$30 Million Bikini

   As I was browsing one of my favorite website HighT3ch, I came upon this great looking bikini that will more likely be my future wife’s first purchase whenever 1) I get married and 2) when I get rich.  I wonder if any women besides Molly Sims of course would actually wear this bikini?  Yes, it’s real diamonds.  So, women, what would it take for you to wear this in public?  *lol*  I think it would almost be worth it if I was rich to offer a woman some kind of deal?  What would it take for you to wear this in public?  So, are diamonds really women’s best friend?

 

You can find this at the following link:  High T3ch » $30 Million Bikini

TL

No Apology? No Diploma

I have been noticing a lot of trends lately with school’s withholding diplomas or giving outrageous punishments to students over the last few months to a year that it’s alarming.  I ask myself “Who is right?”  Is there really a right or wrong answer to that question?  Is it the faults of the schools?  Is it the faults of the students?  Or is it the faults of both the school and students?   The schools job is to teach our kinds respect, to become leaders, and become a better person.  When does schools have the right to bully kids to fit a certain mold?

In this article, No Apology? No Diploma out of Los Angeles, a group of 15 students at a middle school protested the guest speaker by not standing and turning their back on the guess speaker.  The kids  and the parents were protesting teacher cuts and oversize classes.  After some of the parents heard why the kids where protesting even some agreed with the kids.  Would it had matter if the guest speaker wasn’t part of the school’s board?  In a statement released by the middle school states that “the LAUSD's John Liechty Middle School works to provide students with an appropriate learning environment that includes being safe, being responsible and being respectful. During any school event, Liechty Middle School expects students to demonstrate respectful behavior….”

In my opinion, last I heard this is America.  We are allowed freedom of speech.  I think the school should had taken the high road and not responded to the actions of the kids.  By withholding their certificates was a bad move.  It’s a school that is trying to bully a group of kids because the bully got their feelings hurt.  There really isn’t a right or wrong in this situation.  Some can make a case to say the kids were disrespectful which I can see but two wrongs don’t make a right.  The school shouldn’t have responded the way they should.  The media will make the school out to be wrong in this case.  Can respect be taught?  In the statement above from the school they mention they “expects students to demonstrate respectful behavior” but the kids were only following the behavior that they were shown by the school during the year.

Over the last few months, I have been reading a lot of articles regarding schools taking extreme actions against students for what they feel is disrespectful behavior.  Of course on the other hand, it is only 8th grade?  Should the parents and student just apology and just move on?  Makes me wonder what schools are coming to now a days?  Do you all think schools are going overboard these days?  Let me hear your opinions on this subject.

TL

Father’s Day…

As I was celebrating Father’s Day with Michael and his family I couldn’t help but wishing two things:  1)  That my father was a part of my life but he hasn’t been since I was six years old.  I always wonder what it would be like if my father was in my life in some sort of fashion.  Would I had grown up any different with a father figure in my life?  Not a day goes by I think about this.  But I have told myself that if I was ever going to get married that I was going to find my dad and invite him to my wedding.  He would of course have a choice to attend or not to attend but if he wants a life with his son, he needs to attend the wedding so that way I know he wants a life with his son with what’s left of it; 2)  The second thing as I was enjoying the celebration at Michael’s grandma’s place involving  several of his family members it also makes me wonder what it would be like if my family had some kind of get together like Michael’s family did.  It was a very great day as I was in the pool all day long, talking to one another, playing volleyball in the pool, and eating out as we celebrated Father’s Day.  Other than family reunions, my family didn’t have anything like this.  Another reason I wish I had a father.

Of course, after a perfect day like this, I thought it couldn’t get any better until Michael decided to go to the movies.  We watched “Hangover” and let me tell you that it was very funny movie.  Better than I thought it would be.  It seriously made me laugh.  Must say though, it’s definitely not a kids or a teenager movie though.  So, I would whole heartedly recommend this movie to others.

TL

Cincinnati, OH and San Antonio, TX vs. the rest of the US…

What is it about both Cincinnati, Ohio (Northern Kentucky Area) and San Antonio, Texas that seems to attract my attention to these areas compared to any where else in the United States?  Since August of 1995, I transferred to Northern Kentucky University and have been in the Northern Kentucky area every since.  The Northern Kentucky area consist of Cincinnati, OH, Covington, KY, Newport, KY, Bellevue, KY, Dayton, KY, Florence, KY, and a few other cities.  When I did try to move out of this area, I seem to be drawn back to this area.  Including the three years living in Williamstown, KY from when I was 3 years old to 6 years old, I have lived in the Northern Kentucky area now for 17 years.  Am I meant to stay in this area?  Every time I seem to try and move out of this area it falls through or the time isn’t right for me.  The thing about it though is I can see myself living in a great area any where in the US but I know what will happen when I try to make things happen.  If the time isn’t right for me to move than I’m always going to be staying in this area.

San Antonio, Texas on the other hand has another strong attraction to me for some reason.  Ever since I went down there for vacation with my brother back in the mid 1990’s, I feel in live with San Antonio.  Ever since, I have told myself I’m going to move down there when the time for me is right.  Is that time ever going to come?  When I was down in San Antonio for my brother’s wedding, my family member all saw how happy I was down there.  I honestly can see myself living there.  But will San Antonio be able to keep me away from the Northern Kentucky area or is it meant for me to stay in the Northern Kentucky area where the rest of the US will be good for vacation?

TL

Doctoral Degree Discussion…

Well, today, I called the University of Phoenix to see about their Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership/Information Systems and Technology degree.  This was my first real thought and research about going back to school to get my doctrine degree.  You can read more about this degree here.  I think this would be a great addition to my already collection of degrees that I go.  This doctor degree would go great with my Bachelor of Organizational Studies, which is now called Organizational Leadership.  Also, great with my Master of Science in Technology degree that I have.  So, I feel that this doctor degree would connect the both of those degrees together lovely.  But before I get to carried away, I need to really consider this.

Here is what I found out from the Phoenix people.  This is a three year degree that will cost $53,000 to complete.  Basically, my financial aid would have to cover all of this.  Learned that there is a cap that the US Government give for financial aid and that is $138,500.  Right now, I think I’m near $120,000.  Not to mention there are some in class seminars that I would have to attend at a regional campus of Phoenix at my own cost for that trip.  Very doubtful I’ll be able to do this.  Plus, I will need to have access to a work environment as well.  I will have more discussions with my “campus representative” on Wednesday afternoon regarding this.

What I would have to do is figure out if going back for my doctoral degree is really worth my time and effort or would it just be ridiculous to even attempt?  As my friend Brett told me, “it would be a stupid move on my part because if a Master Degree can’t get me a job than what’s the chances that a doctrine degree will?”  I will also see what my current financial aid situation is with FAFSA to see if even going back to school is even remotely an option.  Only way I can go to college is if I can get financial aid or whenever I find a job, I get them to pay my way.  Another thing I have to clear up is why am I wanting to go back to college for another degree?  Am I doing this because I feel like I have no other option or because I think this will help me with my job?  What is it that is making me want to research the fact that I want to go back to school after all the years I was already in?  I told myself when I graduated with my Master Degree that I wouldn’t be going back to school unless the company I work for pays it.  Of course I said the same thing about my Master degree after I graduated with my Bachelors degree.  Only a year and after after graduating with my Bachelor degree that I went back for my Masters degree.  And now after thinking about it, it’s basically been a year and half after graduating with my Masters degree that I’m thinking about going back to school for my doctrine degree.  Also, have to figure out is Phoenix right for me or should I think about going to actual college?  Would it be cheaper to go to a college compare to Phoenix?

Things are the things that I have to think about over the next few weeks to months.  One thing I do know for a fact that I’m not in any hurry to make a decision on this.  But if I was forced to make a decision tomorrow, it would be a “no”.  I’m 95% sure that I wouldn’t go back for my doctrine degree.  But don’t count out that 5% because as I continue to discuss this with friends, families, and continue researching, I’m sure that 5"% will change.

TL

It’s Official…

I won’t be going to San Antonio, Texas at this time.  After talking to Michael to wee hours of the morning (as you can tell by the time of this blog post) and that even he consider this plan that I had very high risk along with me basically doing this because he gave me an ultimatum and that I know it was high risk as well.  We determine to put it on hold for now.  I do still want to go to San Antonio but it will be at a better time.  Michael has asked me to think about possibly going back to school for my doctrine degree.  Could be a possibility?  Maybe I can tie it into a school down in San Antonio?  But the bottom line is I will continue to job search and whenever I get a job that is where I will move too.  Thank you Michael.  So, back to the drawing board I go and continue researching things.

TL

Probably Not Going Now…

As you all know, I have been making arrangements to go down to San Antonio, Texas lately but it looks like I want be going right now.  For one, even I know it’s a very high risk to go to San Antonio without a job lined up, no place to stay, and no money.  Yes, I do have job leads but as Michael said “I have job leads here too”.  Then after doing research and talking to people about homeless shelters, I have been getting basically the same answers from everybody to not stay in one unless it’s your very last resort and they mean very last resort!  It is supposedly one of the worst shelters to be in.  But I had a plan to move in with a friend down in San Antonio but that looks like it fell through because I haven’t heard from him in like three days or so.  Then I had a talk with Michael and told him basically why I’m doing this move is two reason:  1)  Even though I consider this move very high risk that maybe going to another area will jumpstart things.  It’s a new area, supposedly a little better job situation down in San Antonio than here?  2)  Because he gave me originally until the 15th of June to find a job or I could no longer stay.  Which I then was able to get him to extend until July 1st.  When I mention the second thing to him he said that he meant for me to find a job and that it didn’t mean I have to leave.  Once I heard that, a little bit of pressure was off but not much.  But I still need to get this more clarified with this.

But don’t get me wrong, I still want to go down to San Antonio when the time is right and it’s not high risk.  If I can solidify a place of living down there for two or three months rent free or can go down there with money myself to rent a place than I will still go down there.  But one thing I do know is that I don’t want to stay in a homeless shelter.  So, it looks like San Antonio is on hold for now?

Haven’t heard back from the recruiter down in Cincinnati about the Scanning Tech job.  That was the two month temp job.  I was supposed to hear something back on Friday but I didn’t.  I did call and leave a message but still didn’t get a response back from them.  So, I’m still praying and keeping my fingers cross that I get this job because it could be what I need to go down to San Antonio with cash in my pocket.  Until I hear back from them I will continue searching for a place to stay in Cincinnati for those two months just in case I do get the job.  I like to plan ahead.

My friend Adam called me last night.  He was sitting on his back porch of his new apartment drinking a Long Island Ice Tea and smoking a cigar just relaxing and he was buzzed a little.  We talked for about an hour or so.  He was telling me that the movie company that he was working for was up for sale and about this time next year it will be sold.  I find that very surprising though as it’s one of the top Five theatre company behind AMC I thought.  I guess I could be wrong.  I wouldn’t mind getting even a part-time job with a movie theatre because then maybe Chris will stop telling me to find a better outlet for my stress that’s free because it would be free?  *lol*  Anyway, the one thing that stuck out in my mind from Adam’s call is that he asked me “not to move because he will miss me and my friendship”.

It felt good to know my friendship is wanted.  Which got me thinking over night?  I see myself as having more acquaintances than friends.  I can basically count all my friends on my fingers.  Right now I have Chris, Brett, Michael, Adam, and Sean.  Looks like it was less than I thought as I was thinking I could count them on both of my hands but look like I was wrong.  Anyway, this got me rethinking my move to San Antonio as well.  If I move down there, I will be somewhat giving them up as I won’t have them close by like I did when I was here in Cincinnati.  I do miss hanging out with my friends.  I don’t know what I would do if Michael wasn’t my friend.  Who knows where I would be right now without him?  Seems like every time that I think about moving away from Cincinnati that something keeps me from pulling the string to move away.  Is this a sign that I’m meant to stay in the Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati area?  Or am I just being indecisive?

TL

A Promising Week…

This last week was a promising week and hopefully next week will be just as promising as it was this week.  I got a call back for a two month temp job down in Cincinnati that I might have.  My resume was moved to the top of the pile they said.  Better to have a job and some money than not having a job.  Yea, it kind of will put a two month wrinkle on my plans to move down to San Antonio.  Maybe by the middle of next week, I will know more about if there will be a two month hold on my move or not.  I’m hoping there will be so that I can have some money when I do go down to San Antonio.  But either way there will be little bumps that I need to clear whichever way I go.  So, keep your fingers crossed for me and pray for me.

TL

No Joe B's for Cats, since NCAA 'disassociated' restaurateur…

The times I ate at Joe B’s I meet a few UK players.  I must say, I love Joe B’s restaurant though.  Hard to believe Joe would do something like this since pretty much how all UK Athletics went there.  So, even though Joe B’s will survive this but he will lose some money for this mistake.  But it just goes and show how tedious that the NCAA is.  Hard to believe the NCAA goes this far.  But will admit though if you haven’t ate at Joe B’s that you should definitely go and eat there.  The food is great!  Enjoy reading this article below:

No Joe B's for Cats, since NCAA 'disassociated' restaurateur - Latest News - Kentucky.com

TL