Days Gone By
I used to have a career. Loved it! I was a networking manager (and Project Manager) for high dollar servers and also provided support from “mouse” to “router” to over 200 people. (mouse to router means that I handled all technical issues from someones computer mouse all the way until the data left the building to enter the internet via the “router”). I was trained in unique and interesting flavors of networking, NetWare, HP-Unix, Solaris and many more.
As I pulled my coffee cup down this morning for my daily infusion of caffeine, I was a bit startled when I really looked at the mug. It was from a training event and says: Novell. the power to chaNge. Two and a half years out of the industry now makes me obsolete, the technology isn’t the same as when I left to stay home with my boys. With technology changing and evolving everyday, I fear that I have now reached my expiration date. Getting back in now would be next to impossible. I have antiquated knowledge and let’s face it; I’m no spring chicken anymore! Just for fun, I’ve actually applied for a few things here and there. Even things that I’m way over-qualified for and I only received one nibble.
Nathan is SO ready to go to school, but with 1 income (yes I’m a web designer from home but I don’t charge enough for any of that money to make it into the family coffers) we just can’t afford tuition for 2 kids. This morning while dropping Ian off, Nathan threw a HUGE fit wanting to stay and go to school. Most kids cry when their parents leave, mine cried because I wouldn’t/couldn’t let him stay.
With our economy in it’s current state, the job market is flooded with nerds like myself who haven’t taken a 2 1/2 year voluntary hiatus. I think it’s time to say good-bye to my beloved career in I.T. and look towards something else… or I need to resign myself that I’m a stay at home mom…. one who needs to learn how to be a housewife. Me? A HOUSEWIFE? Like June Cleaver? Ummmmm… Maybe I can grow Pages By Nancy into something bigger and better than it is. I have plenty of business, just not enough income.
But today, I reflect on Days Gone By. Novell is right… we have the power to change. Into what? What does the future hold? Only time will tell.
Everything happens for a reason…and I think, right now, you are exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Robin´s last blog ..Happy Valentines Day!
Nancy, you’ll be a success at whatever you choose. In our nine years together I’ve never seen you yet fail at something you chose to pursue. Maybe it’s time to take Pages by Nancy into the next realm of web businesses–start marketing, do sales calls, hire a staff / consultants. Or, go in an entirely different direction away from the technology world. Whatever it is, you’ll make it the best it can be.
Hi Nancy!
Honey, if YOU think YOU are antiquated and obsolete, I’m the equivalent of six feet under! And then some!
I gave up my “career” to stay home with the kids too. But I always had SOMEthing going, mostly part-time on the side. Weird stuff sometimes that I never would have predicted but I just stayed open to possibilities and had no fears/worries about being some raging success at any of it. (In other words, “failing” didn’t count, I’d just find something else!) Network your ass off and stay open to possibilities. I raise my coffee cup to yours and will cheer you on!
Hugs
suZen
You’re already way more successful than I am!! I gave up my career too so I could stay home with my kids and just tonight my husband was asking me what I thought I would do as soon as all the kids are in school full-time. I have no clue. I’m not sure anyone would hire me, being that many years out of the social work field.
I think, whatever you do, you’ll be successful at!
Helene´s last blog ..You win some, you lose some…such is life
My husband works in the IT field, so I know exactly how quickly things change there. I’m sure you will find a solution that will work for both you and your family. I’m sure you’ll be great at whatever you decide to do!
Michaela´s last blog ..Tell it Tuesday – Getting Closer
Just wanted to let you know that I enjoy reading your blog. I am a mom of all boys and I think your blog is great. I have a Beautiful Blogger Award for you over on my site! http://crazytoddlers.blogspot.com/2010/02/i-won-award.html