A Long Winter

December was extremely long, even though the daylight wasn't.

The second round of layoffs at the plant hit, and I, along with 42 others, were part of the exodus. Probably the kick in the ass I needed to get on with my professional life - I hadn't been able to execute many of the plans I had in place and frustration was getting the better part of me. I was more concerned for the people who were left as the workload wasn't going to diminish any.

There were a lot of "goodbyes" to be said after 12 years, it was going to be the people I miss the most. Last week, yet another round of 30 people were let go. By March, the place is going to be a pale ghost of the plant that used to be the jewel in the crown for Zomax during the last 10 years.

I should be able to complete my CPIM designation by next fall and, in the interim (if I can get the study materials and exams scheduled), get my CSCP designation before spring. I think I am going to take a little time before I get seriously looking for the right position. There have been a few postings I've applied for and my resume seems to be getting noticed on the job websites.

Hopefully, I'll be able to help some of the folks out who have been let go in that last round. I still have a few contacts in the valley. I'm probably in a lot better position than most.

The last week was the first week out of work - and man did it drag on. Even trying to keep a routine going (applications, gym, canoe, housework) it felt like the days went on forever. This will probably change once I get accustomed to it, but to go from the fast pace of work to a slow crawl is very hard.