It had been 310 days since I had lost my full time, benefitted gig. I’d been on 32 face to face interviews and numerous phone screens. I estimate I’ve answered the “What are your weaknesses” interview question over 50 times.

Finally, it all paid off. I was offered a job on Friday.

The pay is good. The employer is actually thriving in this tight economy. The benefits are amazing. O health insurance, how I have missed thee. (sniffle) I really, really like my prospective boss. I think I’ll be able to learn a lot from her. This job is a departure from my previous career path, which is scary but  exciting. It will point me in the right direction when I go back for a Master’s Degree later this year.

Oh yes, tuition reimbursement… come to Lisa.

It really hasn’t sunk in yet. I got the call on my cell phone on Friday afternoon while at my temp gig. My coworkers were ecstatic. They were clapping in glee and hugging the stuffing outta me. They have seen me schlepping my suit and heels and hose to work so that I could change mid-day to go to interviews. They have listened to me tell job search war stories, laughing politely and occasionally groaning and saying,” Lisa you didn’t really say that, did you?” I think they were as ready for me to move on as I was.

Today is the first Sunday in a year that I haven’t searched the local want ads online.

Today is the first day in a long time that I feel hopeful. It feels good.