House/Car Shopping

Well, I have had one heck of a busy few days. J and I have been super busy house shopping at a local builder, but we've decided to put a hold on it for a while. Yes, we can afford one of their houses right now, but 1) The location is somewhat questionable 2) There is a commercial area where they are planning to build a grocery store and other things -- not okay! and 3) The lot size was .25. So, we're now putting a hold on house hunting -- at least with that company, and we decided it was smarter to save money and as of now, look for a CAR.

Here's the deal: my Jeep sucks. Let's just say, we've learned a lot in the past year as far as buying used cars, buying used cars without my dad checking them first, buying old Jeeps. The money was worth all the education; however, I don't want to do it again!

The other day, it started acting up (again), and it actually made a horrible cackling, slapping noise after getting stuck in gear for a while. The oil-pressure thing (yeah) also was jumping up and down. I don't know what all of that was about, but I didn't like it!

I need a reliable car. Case closed.

So, I'm looking into getting one of these:

OR one of these:

I sat in both of these cars today, and they were both fantastic. However, the Equinox has a HUGE back seat, and the Camry was obviously tighter. The Camry is always sooo smooth, but the Chevy is still nice. We have a Chevy right now, and it's been great. They don't have much re-sale value, or at least that's what I've heard, but I'm looking for a crossover/car that will last me as long as possible; that's the only reason we're looking into a newer car. So, any of you heard about these or have a preference?

Sadly enough, they had an affordable Jeep Compass (too cool!), but I just don't know if I trust the Jeep company anymore. I've heard they're hit or miss, and I have to say I agree. Toyota is my perfect car, but the crossover version might be out of our range.

Hope you all have a great Sunday! I'll be at the pool or car hunting. :)

Catchy tune :)

I'm employed once again!

...and guess what? I landed a high school English teaching job! Is there a way to take back my sorrowful post with comical relief? On my Monday post, I mentioned an interview on Tuesday. Well, that interview went very well! I felt great about. But, then a job opening showed up online Tuesday afternoon, so I quickly applied (this was the school I originally wanted a job in). I got a call early this morning, and they wanted me to meet at two (I already interviewed for two jobs at this place, so they knew what I was about at this point). We had a laid back discussion about the job, looked at the potential classroom, and I made my way home! Next thing I know, I got a call about fifteen minutes later in order to offer me the job. Great timing! This school is only fifteen minutes from where I live, so that's perfect.

So...everything worked out for the best. My mom always tells me that "everything will be alright" and "it will work out," but sometimes those are some hard words to listen to. I always do listen, but sometimes I quickly forget. I try to remind myself that "everything happens for a reason" which is another good phrase to keep in mind. Sometimes, though, life gets a little more difficult, and you wonder what the heck the reasoning is behind the hardship. What's funny is that even though I'm not an overly "religious" person, I am a Christian, and the one thing that calms me -- truly -- when I'm stressing out, is the feeling of safety in knowing God is looking out for me and holding me through the tough times.

Fortunately, I am past the hardship, and I will now move on to the hard part: planning and preparing! I'll admit, I'm nervous and anxious about it, but I hope I will do a great job.

Job hunting...

I have another interview tomorrow (yes, another), and I'm hoping I'll get a job out of it. However, I probably won't. Why, you ask? I have been through numerous interviews for a few different teaching jobs so far and no sucess. Also, I know many other teachers who are searching, searching, searching for the right job. At this point, I've been applying anywhere from receptionist positions to legal secretary positions. I've also applied to help with child care.

Should I be a nanny?

How about an insurance agent?

Those are the jobs I seem to think I might have to do in order to get hired. Thank God J has a job because otherwise, we would be in so much trouble!

The good news in all of this? Once I get a decent job, we can afford a house..yes, a house!! There is some first-time buyer/lower income loan (great for teachers) that will allow us to buy. Considering we are paying only about $100 less than we could pay for a mortgage, we're really looking into it! The idea of buying a house in the next year (if all works out) is such a positive thought compared to the dark, jobless surroundings. It's funny that I might even think we can buy any time soon, but you know, I've always wanted a house, and at this point in the market, it's a smart idea.

Becoming a true adult in the midst of a new marriage sure is stressful. Luckily, J and I are keeping the positive outlook on things (or at least trying to).

Yes, I have another interview tomorrow, but hey, at least it's experience!

Wish me luck.