Mary + Her Mental Health

I got a raise! I got a raise! Oh boy oh boy oh boy....

So my not-workplace has become quite the workplace lately; hence, the fewer the posts at this here blog o’mine. It’s been quite fun to have things to do, and to see how quickly the time passes as you do them. Funny how that works.

Wherever I can, and without doing too much of that nervous-nelly, jump-the-gun, over-anticipating obnoxiousness, (I have a rare gift for it) I’ve been attempting to go beyond the call of duty whenever I’m given something to do. Lots of questions at the beginning, hard work in the middle combined with thinking creatively, and finishing up with plenty of follow-up. But that’s not why I got the raise today.

My bosses, both women, have to be two of the finest people I’ve ever worked for. They’re incredibly astute and do their jobs well, but they don’t rub it in anyone’s face. They’re real and friendly and approachable. They get nothing but praise from the other departments they serve. They regularly say thank you and smile. They’re complimentary and communicative. They’re just outstanding employers, and understand the importance of keeping your subordinates happy. But that’s only part of why I got the raise today.

I got the raise because it was negotiated back in May before I agreed to take the job. The salary they were offering was so small that I knew I wouldn’t be able to cover even all my monthly expenses. However, I had the feeling I needed to take this job, that this was where I needed to be. So…3% increase after three months of employment. That was the deal, and they made good on it today. Yippee. I received a nice comment from the boss as she handed me the congratulatory letter: “I sure wish it was more, Mary. We’re all delighted you’re here.”

I mean, come on. How cool is that? What an incredibly nice thing to say! I really wanted to tell her how I don’t deserve it, especially since up until two weeks ago, she’s been paying me to blog, pick my nose, and drink the college stash of sparkling water all day. But, I really need the money guys.

I told my roommate, Peggy, that it probably only amounts to an additional $14.82 per month, but I need it. I’ll be all right. I’m actually doing better than most, and I’m grateful for it. It’s nice to be openly appreciated, it sometimes goes farther than new shoes or extra spending money. Besides, it’s only a couple of months before my next “negotiated” perk comes due...

Christmas Bonus. Holla.