In Light of it All

 I have written recently about feeling reclusive with the changing season. I have written about continuing the job search and my dismay of not having a new job yet. I really don't want to regret my choice, but I do have concerns. I really thought I'd have a new job, a new wallet that has some bills in it. I thought I'd be making marked improvements with tardy bills, not just minimum payments. I thought I'd have more financial freedom by now. A new zest for my future. That is not happening as of yet. (sigh here.)
 I am, however, in light of it all, continuing to forge new connections, attend workshops on "marketing yourself," and resume writing. I must admit, each time I attend classes at the Worksource Center, I do make new connections, and learn something of value that I can apply to my resume. I have been somewhat discerning of the jobs I apply for, but may have to open that realm, also, despite hesitation in doing so. I don't really want to work for a company as seasonal retail help, despite knowing one thing can lead to another, but...that is not my goal, that is not my skill set. I have always "settled" for things. This is my time to recognize I can do so much better and not settle for anything in desperation.
 Despite the continued time spent in job searching, I have had some invitations to attend some very nice functions lately. Ah, a breath of fresh air. A week ago, a friend of mine hosted a going away party for a mutual friend. I have mentioned her in earlier blogs and her move to AZ. She is on her way to that sunny state. At the party, I was able to meet and connect with some new folks, visit with some acquaintances and even had some people share insight on job hunting or good websites to view for the search. That same weekend, my friend kp hosted a jazz party. Her invitations were sent to about 30 people, and most of them attended. Her husband, Jack, had been a jazz pianist with the Harry James band and Duke Ellington, plus more. Five band mates were at the party to perform for the group. It was very exciting to see that so many of these joint musicians have remained friends. Boy, did I hear some stories!
 There was a guy named Steve playing the bass. He appeared, and was verified by my friend later, he is about 60, however, doesn't look it. During one of their breaks, he made a point to visit with me, and at the end of the evening, he made another point to tell me good bye. (smile here.) During his visit before leaving, he explained that he plays bass with other musicians at a local, Red Lion Hotel, every Friday & Saturday night. He welcomed me to come and observe. Interesting, I thought.
 When most of the guests cleared out, leaving me, kp, and two of her other long time friends to visit, I heard so many stories, had so many laughs, and felt very comfortable with them all. I feel there is some new found friends here, thanks to kp. Last Thursday, a gent of a friend, from my ole stoppin' town, got together at a local restaurant for a drink. We talked for three hours and caught up with old times and current events of life. He took a resume of mine in an effort to keep his eyes peeled for a job for me. He said, "I have this knack of finding people work." Be still, there is no future, romantic involvement brewing here.
 Tonight, me and kp are going to the Red Lion Hotel to listen to some jazz music, and I am in hopes that Steve is playing. Despite the fact he doesn't meet my 6' tall criteria, quite the opposite actually, he seemed very nice and kind with a handsome smile and golden skin. I may wager a guess he has some Hawaiian in him, and we all know how much I loved Hawaii! (laugh here.)
 Tomorrow I will be going to a family gathering with my friend kp. They have a fall festival each year, and I attended with her last year, also. I am getting to know her family better, all of the time. They were at her birthday party a while back, too. Very nice folks. I have been productive of late but am enjoying some time getting out of the house.