We went to the Social Security office today to get the Munchkin's number so I could sign us up for my new benefits. So as of tonight, we both have:

Medical,
Dental (free of charge to me),
Vision (free of charge to me), and
Legal coverage.

In addition, I signed up for:

Retirement (403(b)) -- I chose a moderately risky portfolio with good long-term yields (60% domestic stocks; 10% non-domestic stocks; 25% bonds; 5% short-term investments)
Supplemental disability

I also get the following free of charge:

UC mandatory retirement program (pension)
Short-term disability
Basic life
TIP (program that pulls premiums out pre-tax)

That really took a weight off.

I love my new job. I love my family. I love that my new job doesn't take me away from my family TOO much. (I was even able to get in a date with stonebender before it started, and we're gonna do lunch in Berkeley once a week when we can.)

But lately, I really love ME. It was really, really hard to choose to take this job. I know I'm overextended already. I know I'm a busy, tired introvert, with a family to take care of. But the more I thought about it, the more I *really wanted it*, and I'm so glad I didn't balk. I think I'm doing what's best for me.

I walk through the UC Berkeley campus every day with this huge grin on my face. I love being there. I love the people I work with. I even love the job, which most people would find terribly tedious. It's just perfect for me, though, and I'm SO glad they offered it to me.

And now, after how many years? I am a real, career employee there, with health insurance, a pension, a cubicle, keys, and the whole shebang.

I deserve this. I totally rock.


This is me at work. Goofy, I know, but the joy is genuine.