I do work part-time and have started receiving a widow pension but it is not enough to cover the cost of living and at the same time have a little to spare . I`m often thinking that I should go work full time at a minimum wage job because of lack of education or training but I`m holding off because I am working part-time at a job that I love and bring me so much comfort. It`s at a school and the staff are so supportive. I am also hoping to be accepted to do a 2 year apprentice at the same school to become a teacher`s aid which would be so helpful with my finances down the road. I was looking at real estates options again today in order to down size my mortgage but the reality is that renting would cost as much as a mortgage and with real estate around here, houses have gone up so much in the last 6 years that it does not make sense to sell as I really would not be better off. I`m hoping to have things figured out in about 3 years when DD is done with her first phase of schooling.

I have discovered that employers are not terribly sympathetic to those who have last a spouse and are going through a lengthy grieving period. And let's face it....when you lose a spouse, the grieving is not over in a few weeks.

I have worked for a small company for many years. My boss was fairly understanding while Mark was ill, but when he died last April, it was like, "okay, he's gone. Back to normal."

Doesn't work that way, I have learned. So, please, be patient with yourself. And your jobs. You will find something that works for you. Sending hugs your way!

Mary

You have a lot to deal with right now. Just the grieving alone is so hard so I can understand how moving and a new job can make it even harder. I was lucky to still be working with folks who understood, though I still only got a week off after my wifes death. Please take care of yourself and I hope you find something that works for you.
Russ

7 months after my husbands death, I took a job as overnight Security Guard at a museum. I enjoyed it, looking at the artifacts. I didn't have to be around people, I could cry when I needed to. I couldn't sleep, and was getting paid for it too. When the job contained working in the weather, and it getting so cold In November I quit.
Now I can be around people again, am looking for a job again. But I really don't think I want to be a Customer Service Manager, and store manager again. Nerve Racking!!! But at my age no one wants me? I need to get a life again.

Sandee

I have to find a job soon but I haven't worked in 4 years and I'm 56 yrs old. I'll be lucky if Walmart gives me a blue vest.
I'm scared to bits about job interviews. But I know I have to for 2 reason...1) I am quickly running out of savings 2) I need to get out among people before I lose my mind
Maybe you're not ready to be out yet.If you have any way to stay home or just do volunteer work for now it might be better than the pressure of a job
Good luck & Hugs

darjar... Walmart fired me for taking FMLA to take care of my husband, after 10 yrs of being CSM. There are better places to work.

I didn't go back to work for over a month and the first few week were vry hard. Felt like everyone was looking at with pity or avoiding me as it was uncomfortable.

The longer I keep working though the better it gets and I don't dread getting up and going in the mornings. Good luck with your search, hang in there the right job will open itself up to you. Take care

Thanks to all for your support. I will take some time to heal before I look for job # 4! Hugs to all!