Something old, something new

For all the lamenting about the job search, the "real" world is rather routine. Not that I don't marvel at the fact that I'm entirely independent and am free to make my own decisions but -- a job is basically what gives you freedom to play after work.

I've been in Seattle for over four months now working in the advertising and marketing department at an international retailer. My primary responsibility is fulfilling all components of the ad cycle - beginning with the concept, morphing it into a layout, proofing, eventually printing and publishing ads for 12 Costco-esque stores in the Caribbean and South Pacific and then analyzing sales data to see what worked and what didn't. Gets me thinking about getting a certificate in graphic design. We outsource designers to make our ads visually appealing ... but if I were able to do that ... well, imagine the possibilities!

I love living in the big city. The snowy peak of Mt. Rainer serves as a backdrop to the Evergreen studded Eastside while Lake Union and Puget Sound bring the ocean practically to my backyard. Seattle and the surrounding area is a playground for nature lovers. The views take my breath away on a daily basis. Weather is as Seattle is famous for -- variable. It's been spectacular the past week or two but as we've all become familiar with, can go from the 80s to raining in one fell swoop.

I'm currently living with five fabulous young women like myself in a quaint house in a charming neighborhood on Queen Anne. That is all about to change. At the end of the month, I'm moving to a studio apartment in Eastlake. My drive home will be cut by 20 minutes easily. I've never lived alone and it's something I've always said I wanted to do. Why not now? And -- I can get a pet! I've been an animal lover since birth. Believe it or not ... my first "word" was actually a sentence ... "Good dog, Phaedra, good dog." Probably repeating what I'd heard my parents say countless times ... but still -- I was speaking to my pet.

Still with that special person I alluded to way back in January. Big smile.

On that note, I'll leave you be. Wanted to give an update before I proceed with Bakan parte dos once again.

XOXO - Bre