UI Application, DE 1101I: California Unemployment Insurance Application
Today my company and I parted ways. I’m…well, I’m stunned. I’m really sad about how things went down. I loved my job, I loved my clients, and I love (PRESENT TENSE) my former co-workers. I wish things had turned out differently, but, alas.
Until now, I’ve always left jobs on my own terms, so this is a new experience for me. I don’t know how to feel. Four other people lost their jobs today, so it’s not just about me. It’s rough. Two months before Christmas. A few weeks before my daughter’s first birthday. I don’t think there is ever a good time to lose a job, but this time of year would definitely appear on the bottom of my list. And in this economic climate? Well. Yeah. Bad.
I’d worked at my job for four years. I started as a girl with a boyfriend, and I finished as a woman with a family. I became a different person during my time there, the most important time of my life. I am so thankful that they stood by me when I was on disability, through Maddie’s hospitalizations, and during all those doctor and specialist appointments. I gave it my all when I was there.
I wasn’t given a reason why, and I think that’s the hardest part of the whole thing. None of us were. I will forever wonder why. I will regret not being able to say goodbye to the people who were major players in my life for four years. My friendships will endure, this I know. But they will now be changed. That’s hard to accept. The hardest part.
To those that I wasn’t able to say goodbye to – I have amazing things to say about all of you, and wish I could have said them to you in person. The memories, laughs, and experiences will carry me through my sadness. To those who support me, I so appreciate you. I’m hoping that you will leave me comments that will make me smile and laugh. I need to laugh, I need to smile.
I am going to do my best to make the most of things. I never got a proper maternity leave with Madeline, so I’m going to pretend this is it. I’m going to do my best to ignore the overwhelming fear of finding insurance for a sick baby, and just relax and enjoy my mom’s birthday. But, ya know, if anyone wants to hire me, I am a DAMN GOOD employee. Seriously. Call me!
Happy birthday, Mom. I wish I had better news on your day.
Mr Lady says:
Tomorrow, first thing, MEDICAID. Get that baby insurance. My pediatrician, when I became a single mom and was toying with the idea of Medicaid, told me that it is his #1 preferred insurance carrier, because they’re predictable and they always pay on time. He said he had no problem at ALL if I went with them.
If that doens’t work, you call your pediatrician and you tell him what’s going on. Most of them will take cash payments, and oh my god you wouldn’t believe the difference in what they charge the insurance company vs what they charge you. My ped charged me $40 per visit cash. Which is a GREAT deal. And if I didn’t have it, he saw me anyway. We had a good relationship, if you hadn’t guessed.
Just call and talk to him. (Her, you might have a her. I just had a he) They will so totally work with you. And dude, I’m thinking of you. Enjoy your time with your baby. It will work out.
PS: Labor shortage in Canada right now. They’re handing out work visas like they’re we’re a rave and the visas are dipped in x. Just saying.
Mr Ladys last blog post..I Still Wish I Had, Just A Little.
Alison says:
This was so weird. It’s waaay past my bedtime and I had this feeling “I need to check my reader.” That sounds way hokey, right?
BUT, the important thing to know is that you’re amazing. You’ve inspired a lot of people here on the interwebs, with your honesty, your spreading of the Jackie! love, your brave baby. If there’s anyone who will be able to Tim Gunn this (“Make it work!”), it’s you.
I’ll be thinking good thoughts about the LA job market for you.
Los says:
The title summarizes the whole thing. I was one of the other four people that H.B. mentioned in her blog. They just read a document about what it is that they were doing to me / us. I too felt an empty feeling today as I was escorted back to my desk by my CFO; walking through a sea of employees wondering who was next or what the heck was going on. I have enjoyed my life with the team which I always was felt was just that a TEAM in every sense of the word. I have fond memories of driving to work before, during, and after hours: it was not a job but a lifestyle. I will remember attending social outings and talking to members of DAN wondering if I will be able to leave under my own accord or through the urge of someone else.
I had the dubious honor of being the last asked to leave today so I felt the eeriness present within the office. People knew what was going on. I had just had a meeting with one of the individuals as they said goodbye and had a feeling of emptiness as we walked up to the individuals vehicle. Upon my return i fell into my chair.
People have asked how i am doing…the truth i am not that bad right now. I know of individuals in far worse positions than i am in. I had an excellent year this year. I was able to experience so much within the organization that even my coworkers did not share the same experiences. Their reactions from watching what i was partaking in from a distance validated the expense i was incurring. Not the ultimate closure but i will leave you all with this (A quote told to be me from a great 81 year old man: “If you are too concerned with the door that just closed behind you, you’ll never be able to see the door that just opened in front of you”).
Thank you for allowing me to share my feelings…
Backpacking Dad says:
If you move up here Maddie can play with Erin all day and I can give you all of that daycare money.
Did that just sound like I was offering you a babysitting gig?
Chips are in the cupboard; soda’s in the fridge. No boys after 11.
More seriously though: fucking hell.
Backpacking Dads last blog post..Pupal
natalie says:
I’m sorry Heather. I know you will find something amazing. Praying for you.
natalies last blog post..Loopy
Jamie says:
I’m so sorry. I can’t believe this happened. I am sure that you will enjoy your time with Maddie and find something amazing. Thinking of you…
Mom24@4evermom says:
I am so, so sorry. Yeah, I know that helps. At my husband’s company (not his, just where he works), they’ve been letting go. Everyone who stayed had to take a pay cut. It really stinks. Still, better a pay cut than being out of a job.
I hope you can enjoy this time with Maddie. Good luck finding a job. I know it’s scary. {{{Hugs}}}
Mom24@4evermoms last blog post..Playdough…
Anna Marie says:
Holy Hell Heather, that SUCKS. It’s scary but you will come through this. I know, I know, words like that are small comfort right now, but you are an amazing woman and you will come out on top. I wish there was something I could do!
Enjoy your time with Maddie and I’ll be thinking about you over here on the East Coast.
Anna Maries last blog post..AAAAARRR Maties
Sassy says:
It’s such a scary time to have the rug pulled from under you. I hope you can find a new job where you’re appreciated soon.
Sassys last blog post..Day 4 of IComLeavWe – Frosting Cupcakes
Mary Beth says:
Wow! A former teacher told me that “every time God closes a door, he opens a window” but it’s sometimes difficult to see the new opening through the unbelievable panic that you experience when you hear that news. Good luck with everything and we’re sending you all tons of positive vibes from NJ.
Mary Beths last blog post..YOU CAN WHAT?!
preTzel says:
That sucks rocks Heather. Mr. used to get laid off every year the day before Thanksgiving and wouldn’t go back until after Christmas. Those were some very hard years for us and I’m constantly worrying that it might happen again. If it does we’ll possibly lose our home because of our mortgage payments. It sucks.
(((HUGS))) and I’m going to do a “Get a Great Job” dance for you.
koehmstedt says:
Good luck with everything. I lost my job – was downsized – was laid off after 9/11 and it was the worst… Pres. Bush had just told everyone to get out there and shop and shop we did – we bought a new car. It was not the best of times, but we made it. Right now, we’re just holding our breath to see what happens, this economy is scary to say the least. Best wishes to you and your family.
koehmstedts last blog post..Happy Guard
Anissa@Hope4peyton says:
Ok, well this really falls into my BIG.PLANS
You come here (forget about Backpacking dad and his silly ‘ol chips and stuff), but as the ultimate thumb to your org, get a job for a certain OTHER team.
I’m pissed that they choose to terminate just before all the big holidays, that’s complete jackass and is worthy of serious car vandalism: butter on the windshield (it never really ever comes off) and pepperspray on all the door handles (which is oh so entertaining when they rub their face driving at 75 miles an hour) .
This is going to be some ROCK ON good Maddie time and I hope you take full advantage of it. Maybe it’s the sign of better things to come. You’re going to be ok, I know that.
Anissa@Hope4peytons last blog post..Blogging weekend
Kristin says:
Oh that sucks. I’m so sorry.
Enjoy your time with Maddie. I know it will be hard.
Thinking really good thoughts for you.
Kristins last blog post..On Having Twins
Heather at Domestic Extraordinaire says:
This sucks big time, but enjoy your time with Maddie and your hubby.
Heather at Domestic Extraordinaires last blog post..A walk thru town square
moosh in indy. says:
Want to hear the whole “Close one door open a window thing?”
Yeah, I want to tell people to bite me too.
xoxo
How about I come out and keep you company for a bit?
moosh in indy.s last blog post..From the Archives: Is your punk son missing his shoes?
Memphislis says:
WTF ?????? I’m coming to Cali with some matches, beotches. I can’t believe they did that to you. Need some money? Some clothes for Maddie? Some Valium?
catnip says:
Oh crap. I’m so sorry Heather.
catnips last blog post..my fear, in focus
Andrea's Sweet Life says:
Oh Heather, that sucks big hairy goat balls. Cobra is so freaking expensive… but if you can’t go with Medicaid as someone else mentioned, see if you can try to swing it for a little while.
We’ve got a thriving business and there are tons of empty houses up here right now, but I think y’all would keel over from the differences between S.CA and N.CA if you relocated for any job I could offer you!
I hope all that overtime you’ve been putting in means a big fat last check!!
Andrea’s Sweet Lifes last blog post..Laughter Trumps Tears
Maria says:
Holy shit, woman. I’m so sorry to hear this, especially since you’ve been working your ass off lately.
I hope things work out for the best with insurance, and soon. Keep us all updated. I’ll be thinking about you.
Marias last blog post..tell me something good
Black Hockey Jesus says:
Well, thank God you have Mike’s income to fall back on.
Shit.
STUPID! STUPID! STUPID!
Black Hockey Jesuss last blog post..There’s No I In Karma
daddy dan says:
That’s terrible news, Heather, and I just don’t understand why they did it. The team just both made a boatload of extra money from the playoffs, so they had a very good year money-wise. Those McCourts have always seemed cheap to me, and I guess this proves it.
On the bright side, you’ll get to spend a lot more time with Maddie, and us fans will hopefully get to see a lot more of her adventures. You’ll also have more time to style that new hair of hers.
The best part of this whole f’ed up situation for me is that your time will be freed up to respond to my “ask the bloggers” questions.
Hang in there, Heather. Some company is about to get themselves a kick-ass new employee.
Anna says:
Since you already know it completely sucks ass, there isn’t really much to add to what everyone else has said. I’ll be sending, “High paying, low in office hours” job vibes your way.
Annas last blog post..What I haven’t done…
Mahala says:
I am so sorry
Mahalas last blog post..Office Drama and Postage Malfunctions
Kristin says:
I am so sorry. Do not be afraid or ashamed to apply for public assistance. You have done nothing wrong. Medicaid, WIC, and other things can be your friend right now. Praying for you.
Kristins last blog post..Reflections
Insta-Mom says:
I have the overwhelming urge to hop in my car and drive your direction. Beers on me. As many as you want. Maybe even some tequila if you need it.
Patti B. says:
That so sucks! Esp. with how much and how hard you’ve been working the past few months. GAHHH!!! It will be ok – somehow it will. Mike, Maddie & Rigby are fun to hang with all the day in the meantime!
Summer says:
I lost my job on Monday. IT IS HARD. I feel your pain. I didn’t go through as much as you at this job, but I went through the most important stages of my life so far also and IT SUCKS. I haven’t even been able to write a nice blog about it. You inspire me to do that. But I doubt I will haha
Summers last blog post..The Economy finally affected me.. or at least that’s the bullshit lie my EX boss gave to me.. but not to others.
Andrea says:
oh CRAPonacracker that sucks!
BUT, get Maddie some insurance – Medicaid or maybe something else through the state (here in NY we have Healthy Child PLUS – free and way the hell better than what I pay out the ass for).
Enjoy your “maternity leave” – you’re kick ass and will find something kick ass soon!
Andreas last blog post..Week in review
Christy says:
I’m sorry H! You worked your butt off for them. They’re the worst doing this right after the season is over and before the holidays. Let me know if I can help.
Elaine says:
Damn it to hell! Heather, I’ve been reading your and Mike’s blogs for about six months now (by way of Baby on Bored) and I have found so much joy and inspiration in your writing, yet haven’t made the leap of leaving a comment until this morning. Your humor, your honesty and your warmth coming shining through in every post that you write. And, don’t even get me started on that amazing little girl of yours! Today’s post made my heart sink, but I can’t help but think that someone with your wit and intelligence will find a way to land on your feet, even in this tough market. I’m rooting for you and your family! Go Spohrs!
patois says:
Damn. Damn. I hope you’re able to keep the rosy outlook on what this time at home will be like. On the upside, if you’re able to swing it, not only do you get the 18 months of COBRA through the feds, but you get another 18 months in California. So three full years of health care — guaranteed — so long as you can afford to pay it. (I know that’s a big “so long as.” Why do I know? Because that’s what my husband and I are doing.)
patoiss last blog post..The Yard
Amy says:
I am SHOCKED Heather!!!
Maybe now is the time to try out some of your dreams that you blogged about some time ago!
I am sorry they lost you, but is definitely THEIR LOSS! I will take it as MY/OUR gain until another job comes about, since I just know you’ll take us on all of your Spohr adventures!!!
Danielle says:
Shit Heather. I’m speechless.
Speechless.
Keep writing. You are a fantastic writer.
Shit. I have no idea what to say.
I’m going to send you a beer. Or at least an IOU for one….
Danielles last blog post..Happy Birthday, Mr. Husband
Danielle says:
http://foamee.com/
Danielles last blog post..Happy Birthday, Mr. Husband
Joe says:
That totally sucks… how quickly can Mike write a novel and get it published??? Maybe he can try the stand-up thing again. If I was at one of his shows I promise I’ll laugh so that the comedy club will feel inclined to invite him back.
Seriously though… I really really really hope things bounce back really quickly for you and the fam. Things have a way of working out. Houses are cheap up here in Indiana… me and the wife need friends, so move up here.
Joes last blog post..Semi-Wordless Thursday??
Danes says:
They have a whole lot of baaad karma coming. You don’t deserve that, and I love you. Onward and upward!
anymommy says:
That absolutely sucks. I’m so sorry. I wish there was something more to offer.
anymommys last blog post..Mommy Crack
Andrea says:
I’m so sorry. Can you look into COBRA to extend your company’s benefits? I can’t believe they didn’t give you any reason. Just sucky economic times, I guess. I so hope you find something else soon! Sounds like you are a very dedicated employee, so I’m sure you will. Good luck! ((HUGS))
Andreas last blog post..Wednesday is the big day!
Erin says:
Sorry that you lost your job. That must be so hard. Wishing you luck and happiness!
ICLW.
Erins last blog post..Still Different…
mandy says:
suuuuuuux!!! hang in there, heather.
Aunt Becky says:
Oh shit, Heather. Just what you needed, right? I’m sorry, man. Anything I can do? Perhaps you and my friend Maddie can come and have a visit out in Chicago. You can see snow! And leaves falling! And meet your future in-laws (that would be me. And Dave).
Aunt Beckys last blog post..Huffin’ And Puffin’ My Way To The Top
Mags says:
I’m so sorry, Heather. That sucks donkey balls!!! Enjoy your time with Maddie and take care of yourself and your family first. Things will work out.
Magss last blog post..Happy Anniversary, Mr. O!!!
Becky Mochaface says:
Heather, I’m so sorry to hear about your job situation. I can empathize as I lost my job in the beginning of September. I wish I could tell you a happy tale of how I found another place of employment by the end of the month but that’s not true. Enjoy the break and continue to stay positive. You – and I – will get through this. The only unknown is when.
Becky Mochafaces last blog post..Pushing Daisies S2ep4
Nanette says:
I’m sorry again to hear about your loss. On the bright side, I’m happy to hang out with you during your “maternity leave” as long as Em and Maddie are up for it.
Nanettes last blog post..Touching base
Colleen says:
From one DG to another, I wish you and your family the best. ITB
kate says:
Everything will work out try not to stress about things you can not control. So much easier said then done.
I am sorry I know how much you loved your job.
Just think you and Maddie get to spend the best time of year together. Her first birthday and the holidays.
Amanda says:
You don’t know me, but I’ve read your blog for the past 9 months. When I read this morning’s post, I felt like I had been punched in the stomach. I am so very sorry about your job. It was obvious how much you enjoyed it. You’ll be in our thoughts and prayers this week.
Kiss Maddie for us!
Amandas last blog post..The Zoo that went Boo!
cindy w says:
Oh Heather, I’m so, so sorry. There’s nothing else to say, just that “this too shall pass.” It’ll be ok – some company or organization is going to realize how kick-ass you are and snatch you up in a heartbeat.
Hope you get to enjoy your time with Maddie in the meantime.
cindy ws last blog post..“I Made Freedom Count”
ali says:
two months before Christmas? now that’s just shitty. i’m so sorry. but you are awesome and smart and lovely and all that jazz. you are going to find something BETTER. even if you have to move to Canada (free health care anyone?)
alis last blog post..I went to bovine university and all i brought back was this lousy blog post…
Loralee says:
Jesus, Heather. I am so damn sorry. I have been there and it is really tough. All my love and hugs flowing your way.
Loralees last blog post..It was said in the MOST appropriate and medically observant,”compliments to the surgeon’s skill” way, but it still made my husband and I laugh our asses off after my doctor’s appointment was over.
Jamie says:
Well, SHIT-DAMN-HELL
I don’t even know what to say. I am sooo sorry and I will be sending good thoughts and wishes for a dream job your way.
Jamies last blog post..Confession….
Heather B. says:
Oh man. I’m so sorry. Would you like for me to send you some cookies? I’m good at that but not so much with the words in times of bad news.
Bonnie says:
Oh man, you just don’t see it coming, do you.
Just enjoy the time with Maddie. Something will come along. Whether it is a traditional opportunity that comes along or one you create for yourself.
Bonnies last blog post..The rules
LiteralDan says:
Hopefully you got some severance, then you can move to unemployment pay as needed, and as Mr. Lady said, sign up for Medicaid ASAP. (And then give thanks that we continue to live in a socialist/capitalist democracy, despite what Republicans may delude themselves into thinking.)
Happy birthday to your mom, and my condolences on the abrupt end to this important chapter in your life. I’m guessing that desperate, crying-faced picture of Maddie from the other day pretty well sums up your feelings right now.
But I’m thinking life will wave a pretty sweet rattle in your face pretty soon. In the meantime, focus on things you can control, and enjoy the time off while you have it.
LiteralDans last blog post..The rules of M-, Vol. 1
AMomTwoBoys says:
Dude. I’m way late to the comment party, but I had to be somewhere at the top of the email bandwagon last night, right?!
I REALLY think this is for the best. And I’m not saying that because I think we’ll get to hang out more. Really, I’m not.
I swear.
MWAH.
AMomTwoBoyss last blog post..Enough Said
Maura says:
Wha….?!?!?
Those bastards. I’m sorry, but you know I am a fan of you and have NEVER been a fan of them, so to me they’re bastards. The timing sucks big-time ass. There will be a silver lining at some point, though, I just know it. And in the meantime, you will have that time with Maddie, which is great.
And I’m sorry I didn’t see this until now, but my well wishes are just as fervent as everyone’s above me. I know I can’t do bloody much from up here, but you know that any of us will do what we can to help you find something.
Mauras last blog post..I’m baaaaack!
Headless Mom says:
Holy crap, Heather. I’m so sorry. I will be praying for you. I know it doesn’t necessarily sound like it now, but you’ll be ok. Love you lots!
Headless Moms last blog post..BFL-Try, Try Again
rachel says:
I am sorry for this.
As far as insurance, I’m not sure where your skills are, but at the university where I used to work all full time employees received health insurance with no pre-existing condition clause and no limits on medical expenses.
Enjoy your time with Maddie, even if it wasn’t planned.
rachels last blog post..Giving up on break
dysfunctional mom says:
Wow, I am so sorry to hear this!
I’ve lost 2 jobs in my life in that “not on my terms” situation, and both times it turned out to be a blessing in disguise for various reasons. I hope it’s the same for you! Good luck & enjoy your time with Maddie.
dysfunctional moms last blog post..FFFF ~ Interesting….
Marilyn says:
This sucked the wind out of my sails this evening. I’m so so so sorry to hear this. It’s so damned unfair. You don’t deserve this, that’s for sure.
Here’s hoping that better times are ahead…
Bec says:
I’m sorry Heather, I hope you can find something good soon.
Becs last blog post..On the move
Nicole says:
I’m sorry to hear about your job. I hope you’re able to find something else very quickly. In the meantime, enjoy your time with your precious daughter…she is beautiful!!
Nicoles last blog post..Homework x 3 or 4, someday 5.
Rhea says:
I’m so sorry to hear about your job. That sucks. You’re right that there is never a good time to lose a job, but some times suck worse than others, that’s for sure.
You probably don’t feel quite like hearing this yet, you need time to grieve the job less, but when one door closes, another opens. I swear!
I’m job searching at the moment and it sucks.
Rheas last blog post..Is that Romance I smell…or something else?
sam {temptingmama} says:
Crap Heather. I’m really sorry. That’s so shitty. I wish there was more I could say or do. *hugs*
I’m sure you’ll find something soon, really soon!
sam {temptingmama}s last blog post..Let’s Make Out Like We’re 16 Year Old Virgins
Kristabella says:
You WILL be fine! I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. Trust me, I’ve been laid off 3 times, so I know that is true!
Also, about 6 months after I got laid off from the Niners, I asked my boss why. I was pretty sure why, since I knew I pissed off the CFO, but I needed to know that for a fact. We had a great talk and he told me all sorts of things about how he went to bat for me, etc. So if you want to know why, ASK. I think you are allowed that.
Kristabellas last blog post..Bear Necessities
Jennifer, Playgroups are no place for children says:
WEll obviously I’m behind in blog reading.
I’m so sorry this happened. Good luck to you finding another job pronto.
Jennifer, Playgroups are no place for childrens last blog post..Three