8 Days A Week

8 days until I fly out!
So much has happened since I last posted.  I would've created smaller postings, but I wasn't thrilled with title options.  Is it bad that I walk around thinking of songs to title my posts?

First, I officially ended my tenure at Michaels.  I started working at my local arts and crafts store in college and continued for a year after I graduated.  It was quite an experience.  While every retail job has its ups and downs, I really sought to make every moment an "up."  If handed a task, I made sure I did it well.  On the floor, I knew the locations of every item in the store and could help out with nearly every single project.  Customers frequently looked for me to answer their questions...or to show me pictures of their latest iteas.  I had regulars for nearly every single department.  Whether it was opening or closing, I made sure to do my job completely and efficiently.
When it came to register, I was one of the fastest and most accurate.  I maintained my smile as I was harangued for coupon policies that I don't set.  I kept my registers clean and tidy and all my paperwork in order.
I've had many jobs during my two years.  Primarily, I was a "stock boy."  However, I also handled weekly inventory processes for a number of aisles, set planograms, and dozens of salesfloor responsibilities.  At register, I was a cashier, a techie when the registers "froze," and on a number of occasions the "head cashier" with closing responsibilities.  I took sales at the custom framing counter and assembled many pieces.  I also did receiving, a job reserved for office specialists.  I also did birthday parties and special events and demos.  For a several month span, I was the Department Manager of Arts and Crafts--a key holding position in the store.
More than anything, I will miss my co-workers.  I was very lucky to work with a wonderful collection of men and women who always supported me, laughed at my pitiful jokes, and ate my cupcakes when I brought them.  When I return, it will be to visit them and find out how their lives have progressed...and maybe I'll also buy some yarn.

On Wednesday, the New York area HUC/Israel-bound students and S.O.s (significant others) met up to play get to know you.  What a fun bunch of people!  I'm so excited to be sitting in class with these amazing minds.  I wish I had a more eloquent way of saying that I was among the great minds of the future of Reform Judaism...and how moving this was!  At one point, I decided to sit back and take it in while everyone enjoyed delicious salads and pastas.  These 10 or so people were just a portion of my family for the next year.  These are the ones with whom I'll be in Jerusalem to begin my journey as a Jewish leader.  So thrilling.  I can't wait to meet the rest of the gang!

With my first week of unemployment, I work on packing, cleaning my room, knitting a storm, playing with friends, and seeing a few movies.  This week will seem slow in comparison to the hustle and bustle of retail heck, but I'm trying my hardest to keep it going.  I'll just have to remember: this is my last week in the USA before I leave for Israel.  That means one last week before my life as a Cantorial Student begins.  This means ones last week before I have to actually grow up.  Just kidding.  Growing up?  Haha.

"8 Days a Week" is that amazing Beatles song.  If you really want more information, place your palm on your forehead.