Where did I leave off? The last time you saw me, I was poking holes in watermelons (filling them with vodka), taking blurry pictures of fireworks and standing -- in awe -- of the overall majesty and beauty of Oregon. I was trying on my work clothes for the first time and hoping that I didn't look like a complete idiot.
Speaking of... I've sort of begun to get the swing of things at work. My managers all agree that I'm a fast learner and that they will be sad to see me go in December (though I know some of you are excited for that moment). While I come home smelling like various fried foods, splattered with little bits of deli meats and cheeses, and smeared with thick, gelatinous Chinese sauces, work is going okay. The obstacle that I'm in the process of tackling is the one of overall difference.
Let's assess: 1. I'm not pregnant, nor do I have children. 2. I'm with a woman, and not a man. 3. I'm interested in Literature and make comments on opera. 4. Soon, I'll have a degree from a public liberal arts university. 5. The Safeway deli is not my life.
Don't get me wrong -- the ladies and one guy that I work with are incredible hard workers, have good senses of humor, and are generally good co-workers. It's just that this taste of "real" life--life away from the intellectual chattering in Ramsey Library, away from scholastic achievements, away from Book Buy Back and paper-writing-procrastination--has given me something that I never thought that I would gain, and that's respect. Not an aloof, generalized statement of respect for the service industry, but a respect that one can only receive from standing long hours and helping customers who often don't understand how offensive it is when they're snippy. I complain about my job, yes, but (bring out the choir) in this economy, I'm glad to have it. Fortunate to have it. Blessed, even.
Now, I know that I haven't posted any pictures and that after this hiatus, I should be showing you the other reasons I've not posted (i.e. people visiting), but... well, they'll have to wait.
Until next time.
