I've Sold Myself. Again.

So, I've had to swallow my pride, suck it up and realize that it was about time for a second job. Actually, I've known for a while that I needed a second job (part-time, of course) due to funds (or lack thereof.)

Anyone that knows me, knows I've been in the restaurant business since I was 15. That's almost 9 years now. And anyone that has been in the restaurant business, knows that it's one of those industries that is impossible to get out of. The money is instant and usually pretty good, especially if it's meant as a supplemental income.

When I graduated last year I thought I'd be done with working 2 jobs and won't have to work in another restaurant again. Wrong. Last June I realized my single income wasn't quite paying the bills (well, realization=creditors reminding me of this great fact.) I decided to get a job working at a bar- it sounded much more exciting than working in a restaurant, and the money was better too. The excitement only lasted until some creapo decided he wanted to stalk me and harass me. The cops took care of him.

Plus, near the end of the bar gig, I got a raise at work. Along with the raise came a promise to my boss that I would quit the second job and focus more at the office. When I made that promise, Jonathan was still making decent money at Outback, and I got a good enough raise to pay my bills.

That didn't last long. This amazing recession that we're in- well, that cut Jonathan's income into about a 1/3 of what he was used to making. Slowly, I started paying more of the bills, groceries, extra-curricular activities, etc. It's since been made more than evident to me that my income cannot support a family of 2 + a dog. It just can't. Especially around the holidays.

The credit cards are maxed out, plus some... I'm back to having to choose which bills will get paid on time; I'm playing catch-up with my bank account (where a good part of my paycheck is dedicated to bringing my bank account back up to a positive amount.) Anywho- this is when I decided I'm going back to the restaurant business. Sorry boss! The bills just gotta get paid...

If I've learned anything from Jonathan's experience, people just aren't tipping the way they are supposed to be right now. Plus, there is a huge decline of customers at restaurants. I found a great new restaurant that needs hostesses. It's in an upscale mall here in Austin and it pays well (for a hostess position, and especially for it to be supplemental.) I chose a hostess position because I get that reliable, steady paycheck every week, and I don't have to put up with tips. Nor do I have near as many responsibilities!

I got hired today, and on Monday Jonathan is going to go apply as a server. I'm excited about this opportunity. It won't interfere with my day job, as it's from 6pm-10ish, just a few days a week. This paycheck is dedicated to paying down those credit cards every month... Meaning by May or June, I'll be credit card debt free (which is my New Year's Resolution!) I'll be starting when I get back from Phoenix next week.

Anyway, once again I've sold my soul to the restaurant business. It's just too hard to walk away from. This time, though, it is a means to an end.

Oh- and in 48 hours I will offifically be on vacation! Yay for me :)