I believe it was John Lennon who first penned this quote and I think it perfectly outlines the past few months for us. Last July, my husband and I decided to take a leap of faith and move back to Pittsburgh after living in what sometimes seemed like a foreign country.  Finding jobs in this economy is no small task, especially in the fields of teaching and engineering but we were determined to make it work.  To that end, I started writing this blog about the trials and tribulations of our quest to return to the City of Champions.  I… Read the rest

I knew this day was coming but I didn’t know it would bother me so much. I had a professional meeting today and it was uncharacteristically positive and productive.   I was discussing the future and vision of my subject and it was . . . how else to explain it?? Amazing.  Finally, someone else seems to see the big picture and acknowledge my ideas as valid and useful and in the best interests of students.  The idea that I could be a part of the solution and not the problem and discussing the possibilities with someone who my mother-in-law would… Read the rest

July, 2009 – About 4 months ago, my husband asked me to update his resume and cover letter.  After being assured that he was not being laid off (ALLEGEDLY!) I agreed.   NOTE: Remember in The Full Monty when Tom Wilkinson was laid off but he kept getting dressed and leaving for work as if nothing happened so he would not disappoint his wife?  It could happen . . . you never know. Anyhoo, I said, “Sure, I’d be happy to do that.”  After all, it was just the busiest time of year at my job AND 15 years since I… Read the rest