Hmmm... what now?

Its been almost 2 weeks since I was laid off, and its starting to sink in how difficult it might be to find work around here (or anywhere). It seems that all the architecture firms in Denver (and likely across the country) are either also in the midst of layoffs, or so anxious about the lack of work that they are in hiring freeze mode. I'm still sending resumes to firms in the area and exhausting my connections, but am also working on plans b, c, d, and e... It doesn't seem to matter much what kind of resume or references you're coming to the table with or even who you know. Of course, if I had prison design experience, I'd have a job next week.

So everyday we're running through the same questions... Will I work in some alternate industry? Will Jenna start looking for work in her former industry? Will we have to sell our house and move again? Will we just sit it out and eat up our savings? Should I freelance and/or start my own side business until firms start hiring again? Lots of options, and I would say we're fairly fuzzy on the what direction is best.

Yet for some reason we're both pretty relaxed and un-stressed about the situation. I don't know if we're in denial, if its all the prayers from our friends, or the knowledge that we have a good amount in reserve in our savings account (though intended for a basement finish), or a combination of all. I'm nervous about finding a job, but no particularly about whether or not we'll be okay. I guess having done our 8-9 month stint of financial stress a couple of years ago while waiting for our house to sell in CA, we have learned to trust a little more that things will turn out in the end. The biggest question is 'when is that end?'... and a close second is 'how do we get there?'... neither of which ever gets answered for you in advance.

Of course, having a smiling toddler who is just excited to have you home all day definitely helps the psyche. Laina couldn't be happier, plus I have to say the last few days have been ideal days to not be working (60s and 70s all week so far).