When I moved to Michigan 16 years ago for work, I didn't really know anyone living here . What I did know was that it was a great job and I was lucky to be working for a TV Station in a Top 10 market. I joined the Union and started work in June of '94. Not long after starting work the contract between the union and the company was up and we were in a fight for benefits, working conditions and my job.
I didn't even stop to think twice about what I'd do, I stepped right up and joined the action. I've never been one to stand down from any challenge, often thriving in such an environment. There followed a bit of a long, drawn out fight with the company, but we eventually won a fair contract. It hasn't been easy, but I've enjoyed the challenge of being an active Union member ever since. Last year was my third time being part of the union negotiating committee, something I had come to enjoy. However, that all changed last February when I learned of changes and layoffs coming to my workplace. This was knowledge I had to keep to myself, not even able to share with my closest friend who was a co-worker.
My skin on frame building buddies came to my rescue and let me vent and offered advice when we went out at the end of the night for a beer or two. It took me longer than expected, but my qajaq did get skinned and has been out on the water a few times. It even made it to Michigan's Greenland Training Camp last year, where I proudly showed off all my hard work.
The qajaq isn't perfect, it needs some fine tuning, but until then I'm enjoying it. Just last week I took it to a pool session to practice my rolls. It was a nice, relaxing break from the stress of my impending layoff. Hopefully by picking back up where I left off on my blogging will also help. At the very least it will get my creative juices flowing again and I can channel them into learning new skills that will help me land an even better job this summer. Hopefully one that will allow me to continue kayaking!
