One of Those Cool Experiences

Today was my first day going into the school to be trained to work in the front office. I was there from 9-1 (the time flew by so fast) learning as much as I could from the secretary who has been there for 19 years, but who is switching to another position. I took notes, asked questions and answered about 20 phone calls and made many successful phone transfers (yea me!). I am feeling excited about this job now because contrary to my hermit-like ways and tendency toward solitude, I really do enjoy working with people and being busy. I find it energizing, even though it seems like it would be exhausting instead.

My main goal with this new job is to be a welcoming, helpful person in the front office. I have always been inspired by the secretary (actually there are 2, but Jean is the main one) who works in the front office at our elementary school because she is so kind and helpful and always seem genuinely glad to see everyone who visits the office. I've written about her before because her kindness in checking up on Landon when he broke his arm in 6th grade was so touching (it still moves me to tears when I talk about it). It is such a talent to make people feel cared for and special and that's something I would like to do in this new job. So as I was working today and imagining what it will be like when school is officially in session, I kept thinking about Jean and what a difference she makes at the elementary school

So after work I called Cafe Rio to order lunch (for the 2nd time this week thanks to a birthday gift card from Brooke & Ashley) and as I was tucking my gift card back into my wallet after I paid, I looked up and saw Jean at the register right next to me picking up her to-go order! I immediately got her attention and said hi and then got to tell her about my new job (she actually advised me last fall when I was interviewing with the school district) and how I admire her so much and want to be like her. It was one of those poetic experiences, like someone actually composed the day just for me. There was just something about running into her right then that felt significant, almost like a message of comfort for my new job. Very cool!

**Have you had an experience like this before?

Have you worked in a busy office?

Are you a good multi-tasker?

Have you had Cafe Rio recently?**

Comment Window Tidbit: Two of the math teachers I worked with during the school year came into the office today and let me know they were sad that I won't be working with them in class anymore. They were the only teachers who came in the office at all today, and that felt like it was just for me too.