First Day

My first day at work today was wonderful. I got lost on the way there. A couple of times actually, but that's nothing unusual for me. I got to listen to the entirety of Switchfoot's Vice Verses which was glorious. Plus I got to see both the sunrise and the sunset on my treks. Worth the hour-long drive--today at least.

I got to listen to orientation and watch a video about the community I work in. Apparently, this place has a theme song. It reminds me of Disney World and it makes me happy. We also went over core values. Always a good place to start when you begin a career!

My boss took me to lunch at a country club (he treats newbies on their first day) and as I pored over the menu, deciding on a turkey panini (which wasn't amazing but pretty good once I added in some roasted red pepper mayonnaise that was on the side), this older gentlemen came up to me and said "Are you Demi Moore?" When I shook my head, laughing, he held out a napkin and said he was going to ask for my autograph. My boss thought this was very funny and shared this at the budget meeting where I was told by another editor that I looked like Jennifer Connolley. Wow, two firsts in one day!

After lunch, I spent an hour while my boss was at a meeting cleaning and disinfecting and organizing my desk. I used almost all of my kind neighbor's Lysol wipes which I plan on replacing this weekend. I can't wait to personalize my desk area a little bit but already I have a 2011 AP stylebook, a handful of phone books, a desktop that runs an Apple operating system (#win), a couple of new pens and highlighters, post-it notes and a rolodex. As soon as some tech guy remote accessed my computer and got my work e-mail set up, I basically had all the tools for my trade. Picking out desk supplies from the supply shelf made me feel like I was playing make-believe. I don't actually feel 22 years old in that sense. I still feel too young to have my own work space.

Anyway, I'm really excited to see where this is all heading. Tomorrow, I get to do a scavenger hunt. As in, I have to go drive around with a map and try to find certain places. For the directionally-challenged self, this is going to be quite the adventure.

Working woman

Wow. I can’t believe I start work tomorrow. It sure has been a long time coming for my first real job. I can’t believe that starting tomorrow I can call myself a journalist. In high school and throughout college, I’ve been preparing for this with countless articles, too many all-nighters and probably enough stress to cause an ulcer, though I’ve escaped with my health intact, thank God. It’s funny now to look back at Foley’s reporting class and remember my first interview, my first fact error, my first phone call to the UF President. I was so shaky and unsure and nervous. Now my confidence is where it should be, I think. I can ask anyone almost anything but I’m not so overconfident that I forget sources are people and lose my manners or compassion. I really do credit the UF J-School for teaching me more skills I could have ever imagined. Now it’s just time to put them to the test.

This job is the same job I saw this past summer, fresh out of the O’Connell center after graduating. I applied too late, though, but not before I had already fantasized the location (relatively close to family and friends) and the newspaper. About 5 months later, another reporting position opened up and I sent my application in within minutes.

After my interview, I knew for certain that I was the right fit for the newsroom and the community.

Luckily, they felt the same way. And here I am, just one sleep away from this job I thought was beyond my grasp. I’m so blessed and grateful.

Divine providence makes me smile.

It’s going to be quite an adventure, this journalism career. Here goes.

The human heart plans the way, but the LORD directs the steps –Proverbs 19:9

New beginnings

I love new beginnings and I love plans, goals, lists, reflections, hopes. So New Year's is quite a party for me.

I've learned more in 2011 than probably any other year in my life.

I learned that God is faithful and rewards those who wait. Employment

I learned that God loves to lavish us with gifts. Friendship. The opportunity to travel. Grace.

I learned that God never fails. Daily strength.

I learned that He alone is enough. Finding joy and companionship amid being alone. I've had plenty of time to get to know myself better and learn to appreciate the quiet time.

I learned that God surprises us! That he doesn’t always give us what we expect. Like moving in with my parents after graduation and waiting 8 months for a job.

I learned that God is never done forming us, teaching us.

I learned that I am stronger than I thought. 

This year I have truly understood the meaning behind being redeemed, made new and washed clean by my Savior.

I learned the definition of being the bride of the Beloved Christ and sacrificing for Him. 

This year, my love has become greater.

I learned that we all have a story and I have never felt more sure that I am in the right place—ready to do what I think I’m meant to do. Tell people’s stories. Right now, in today’s opportunity, I get to tell the stories of those who are closer to the grave. I get to record the wisdom and life experiences of the elderly. Stories that are worthy of being passed down. And it is my responsibility as a journalist to do that. Both the every day and the otherworldly. I’m so thankful for the people in my life who have supported me and loved me and I’m thankful for those who didn’t. Because every bit of discouragement just strengthens my conviction to rely on my Creator and lean on His plans for me instead of listening to mere mortals.

And this next year is going to be hard, without a doubt. But by grace alone, I’ll make it through. It’s an adventure. And I couldn't be more excited.

"Each day comes to me with both hands full off possibilities." -Hellen Keller