One thing I didn't mention in my post about my day with my daughter was something she told me there. A week ago today her Mom was laid off from her job as a cost accountant with a major manufacturer here. There had been wholesale layoffs there in recent months but this took almost half (33 of 75) salaried personnel including a large number of key positions like hers.

I spoke with her tonight and she's been sending resumes, networking and interviewing ever since. One firm has had her back for two follow up interviews already but that's no guarantee even that will result in a job tender. I am praying she finds something soon. I could hear the stress in her voice tonight.

The only thing I could do was offer to do a cookout and bring all the food and such for our son's graduation gathering she had been planning. I know it's not much but I figured it was at least something. I'm sure she doesn't need that expense right now when she's not sure when her next paycheck might be coming.

I have to admit it will be a little odd being the chef at her house but if we're OK with it no other opinions really matter, right? Well, that was the rest of the story of how things are going here in the heartland. Not all roses, but we'll get by. ;o)

-- Gary in Indiana (gk6854@aol.com), May 08, 2002

Answers

Hats off to you Gary. It is your son's special day and the fact the you and his mom are working this day out to be special for him is noone's business but what is set up between the two of you. I think you are doing a great thing and I am sure others will agree. May you and your family have a wonderful day that day. Jennathome

-- jennathome (normaj3@iwon.com), May 09, 2002.

To bad more divorced couples could not be as cival .Your doing the right thing and all that matters is what your son thinks on his special day .And i am sure he will be as proud of you as you ae of him.

-- Patty {NY State} (fodfarms@hotmail.com), May 09, 2002.

Being unemployed is stressful enough, so it is good that you can help with this party! Your children will apreciate it forever I am sure.

-- Melissa in SE Ohio (me@home.net), May 09, 2002.

Gary,

The state has some job openings, if you would like to know how to find them email me and I can send you the website. She can fill out the application on line. The pay isn't always that great but the benifits make up for them.

Melinda

-- Melinda (speciallady104@hotmail.com), May 09, 2002.