Closing the Door

Finally, my W2 arrived from my old job  (they are early, I know...), but I have been anxiously awaiting this envelop for two reasons.  1. Because I didn't make enough in 2010 to be past the federal poverty line so I actually get all my money back :) and 2: It's the last that I have to deal with my old job, so I get to close the door to that chapter of my life.

Ironically, tomorrow is the first day I am out of training at my new job and going to one of my new schools.  I am nervous: butterflies and all.  I haven't been to high school since I was in high school.  So much has changed with teens since I was there.  There is texting, sexting, and i-poding.  It's normal to dye your hair, pierce your face, get a boob job and have babies before you can drive a car.  I'M OLD!  But yet, it feels like I was just there not that long ago. (At least I know how to blog... that's gotta be sorta hip, isn't it??)  When I was in high school, I thought therapy was for weirdo's with issues (and clearly I wasn't one of those), so I am sure this generation will be tickled pink to hear I will be at their school two days a week.  I got out folders about drug use, pamphlets about teen pregnancy, fun family work books about building self esteem.  OMG!  I am excited!

I met some neat people at my training today.  A woman who works for the company who was a CTS grad (24 years ago) who said it's the best agency to work for in the state.  I also met a therapist I worked with on another case and got a long awaited smile that one of my kiddo's was ok.  And over all, a good sense about my two placements for work continues to roll in through all kinds of experiences and comments from others.  I think I can really handle this.  I can quite honestly say, I really enjoy going to work.  I haven't said that since practicum.  I am so happy the road led down this way.  I am so glad I sense the sun is going to rise.  I think something amazing is going to come out of this.

So tomorrow is my new beginning.  New clients, new office space, new procedures, new in-take format, new paperwork, new outfits, and really, a new me.  My passion for therapy (not just doing social work) is returning.  I am so excited for what God has planned for me.  I feel like a kid knee deep in the sand box ready to build something amazing.  I just know this is a good place for me to be.  God keeps putting person after person in at work who just keeps saying the same thing: "This is a good company, a safe company, and a company that supports their employees".  Keep speaking!!

So here is to closing doors and opening new ones... Tomorrow I return as Ms. Byrnes (or Ms. Kerrie, which ever you prefer).  I CAN'T WAIT!