I cannot wait until I turn 51. I know most people don’t want to get older, but I have been counting down to my retirement since I started working at 14. Only twenty more years to go, and I’ll finally be able to do exactly what I want to do every day. No alarm clock, no boss, just me. And my husband of course. I must give him credit, since it’s only because of him that I will be able to retire at that age. Don’t worry babe, I’ll take up knitting and sell handmade blankets to all the other old folks in our community. Side income right there. I’ll be your sugar momma.
There is only two ways that I’d stop working any time soon: we win the lottery (highly unlikely), or I lose my job (more likely, but keeping my fingers crossed it’s unlikely). I suppose if I had a baby I could get a few months off as well, but does that really count? Let’s see…screaming baby vs. screaming coworkers? Hmmmm…its a toss up.
While we remain lucky to still have our jobs, we recently had a friend that lost one. Although I still can’t figure out why people say “I lost my job,” since it’s not really lost. It stays exactly where it is, it just typically gets a new inhabitant. I wish jobs were as loyal as Lucy. Lucy would never let someone else take over my job. She is one loyal fat cat.
In order to send a little cheer to our dear friend, we put together this Survival Kit for the Unemployed. Nothing says “Cheer Up” like a box filled with candy and hand-picked gifts. And if that doesn’t cheer you up, then the mini bottle of alcohol better.
Survival Tools
Candy: Lemons/Lemonheads, Root Beer Candy / Root Beer, 100 Grand Candy, Laffy Taffy, Crybabies, Lifesavers, Licorice Bites, Pack of Gum, Peanuts
Brain Busters: Crossword Puzzle, Thesaurus, Notepad, Games, Thank You Cards, Puzzles, Bible
Miscellaneous: Cookie Mix, Alcohol, Champagne (not pictured), Tissues, Packing Tape, Air Freshener
Put everything together in a basket for your friend, and then say a prayer of thanks that you still have your job. While you’re at it, you might as well add an extra bottle of booze. They may need some serious cheer. Besides, you don’t need it. You have a job. Or is that exactly why you do need it?
Print the individual tool tags here.
After you’ve printed your tags, and put your box together, I give you permission to have a drink. You deserve it.
Bobbie Beckman says
Other old folks….at 51? You must think I am ancient…lol
shauna841505@yahoo.com says
Haha you are ancient. And I put that joke in there specifically for you. 😉
Megan says
What a great little care package. And those gift tags are so cute!
shauna841505@yahoo.com says
Thank you!!! I tried to do my best. You are my graphic design inspiration.
Mattie says
I’M SO HAPPY I FOUND YOUR BLOG. Kristine from South of Plum told me to check out your blog & it is fabulous. I love your writing, your humor, and your project! So adorable! I’m with you on the screaming kid – no thanks, I’d rather keep working! haha
Can’t wait to continue to follow you!!
~Mattie
http://www.mattiesmakings.com
shauna841505@yahoo.com says
Ohhhh hello!!!! I loveeeeeeee Kristine, that was so sweet of her to mention my blog to you! I will totally be blog-stalking you now!
Laura McDaniel says
How sweet is that! But now you’ll have to make one for ME… LOL. I’m trying not to think of it as a LOSS either, my boyfriend congratulated me when they ‘let me go’ (like I had any choice in the matter) – hee hee. But I’m spending the time working on my ‘next chapter’ – so send your friend my GOOD WISHES and she/he is lucky to have a great friend like you!
shauna841505@yahoo.com says
Ohhhhhh I would totally send one to you too! You deserve a special box! 🙂
Kathy and Kevin Bligh says
Very thoughtful Shauna! What else is new???
shauna841505@yahoo.com says
Thank you!!
Michelle says
I think you should also make a basket called “Survival Kit for the Employed!” Because well, some of us have not so great jobs, bosses, and co-workers! 🙂 Fill it with coffee, aspirin, pizza, ear plugs, beer, and a noose.
shauna841505@yahoo.com says
This is actually a really great idea. I knew there was a reason I liked you so much. 😉