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Re: First Update
Originally Posted by perthhomeschool
(Post 10672578)
Everyone sounds so nice and helpful :) I've been gone so long I can't remember if it always was this way :blink: Or maybe it's just your part of the country :D I'll tell you one thing, it's certainly not that way here :(
You sound so much better, getting healthier by the minute it seems :thumbsup: Hoping for the best from Mrs J :fingerscrossed: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by Irish Guinness
(Post 10673236)
Sounds the same as here everyone being so friendly NOT. I found people in the U.K. so friendly,when someone offered help,it took me back as I am not used to it here in Oz :(
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Re: First Update
Well here is Update number, whatever number I'm up to.. :rofl:
I went out early this morning and caught the bus into Oldham. Followed other people off the bus because I had no idea where I was going so figured someone would lead me in the right direction and I could always ask if i got lost.lol. I apparently got off at the right place because I was right where I wanted to be (near the big shopping center) I had a bit of a wander, had my hair cut, checked out the shops, found where the job center is and after about 3 hours I caught the bus back. I'm getting quite good at catching buses.. lol When I got back I caught up with Mrs J, who said she and Mr B had a chat last night and this is what they came up with: I could stay at the B&B in my room, and cater for myself and for £120 per week that would include everything, from electricity, water, Internet, TV. They're also going to either give me a microwave so I can do some hot meals at night, or they're going to do up the back kitchen for me. It must be the kitchen they used before they remodelled and put the new one in! It's apparently right across from my room and I never noticed because the door is always locked. They also said I could use their washer which uses solar power and doesn't cost anything with electricity, although they might need to get it checked because even on the quick cycle it's taking 90 minutes to do a cycle. It does 11kgs worth of stuff so I said that in return I'd do my own laundry and the sheets and the towels and that way get a full load. Just like I would if I were renting a flat! I also mentioned about the power outlets because right now there is just two near the wall which take the TV and the fridge, so if I want to make a brew I've got to carry the kettle over near the bathroom and plug it in there, where there are another two outlets. I mentioned that, because if they do decide to just go ahead and put a microwave in here, I'm either going to need a power board or the microwave is going to go near the door where the wardrobe (hanging space) is. I wanted to bring that to her attention because I didn't want to plug something in and blow a fuse, and I didn't really want to have to unplug the fridge to plug in the microwave, cook something and then unplug the microwave and plug back in the fridge. LOl So once again Mrs J is going to chat to Mr B about what they can do. Seems like the best option is putting the microwave into the old kitchen. It all depends on what they have in there and whether it can be used. While I was having my hair cut I was chatting (as you do) to the hairdresser and she mentioned about a place called Greggs who were always calling out for more staff...so after my hair was done I walked down there and went in. They said it's all done online now, so they gave me the web address. It would be a great place to work because it's a bakery and as you walk in the door all you can smell are delicious pies, sausage rolls and cakes. :rofl::rofl: I could work in Oldham, but from what I saw I couldn't live in Oldham. It's very run down. But then again that was the center of town, so wouldn't be living in the middle of town.. :rofl: As with anywhere else, there are the good parts of town, and the bad parts of town. So for now I'm staying where I am ! Besides, it's such a wonderful feeling to get on the bus and once you get out of Oldham to turn that corner and you hit those quaint little streets and shops and you see those beautiful hills and the sheep :) Feels like coming home!:thumbsup: I also opened a bank account this morning and had no problems whatsoever. I went into Lloyds TSB (I'd actually emailed them from the US before I left and asked about the difficulties I might face opening a bank account with no job). I just handed over my UK passport, told them I was living at a B&B so that address was put in as my home address, but my mailing address was put down as my friends address, so any mail will go to her. I will ask Mrs J though about putting this address down and if they'd have a problem getting any mail for me here? I've never seen a mailman since I've been here, so I don't know whether they come up here or whether there's just a PO box they use. Another question for me to ask!! Now I feel a little more settled on the home front, I can concentrate now on registering for work. The sooner I get a job, the sooner I can stop worrying about running out of money. :thumbsup: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by WhoFan63
(Post 10674220)
Well here is Update number, whatever number I'm up to.. :rofl:
I went out early this morning and caught the bus into Oldham. Followed other people off the bus because I had no idea where I was going so figured someone would lead me in the right direction and I could always ask if i got lost.lol. I apparently got off at the right place because I was right where I wanted to be (near the big shopping center) I had a bit of a wander, had my hair cut, checked out the shops, found where the job center is and after about 3 hours I caught the bus back. I'm getting quite good at catching buses.. lol When I got back I caught up with Mrs J, who said she and Mr B had a chat last night and this is what they came up with: I could stay at the B&B in my room, and cater for myself and for £120 per week that would include everything, from electricity, water, Internet, TV. They're also going to either give me a microwave so I can do some hot meals at night, or they're going to do up the back kitchen for me. It must be the kitchen they used before they remodelled and put the new one in! It's apparently right across from my room and I never noticed because the door is always locked. They also said I could use their washer which uses solar power and doesn't cost anything with electricity, although they might need to get it checked because even on the quick cycle it's taking 90 minutes to do a cycle. It does 11kgs worth of stuff so I said that in return I'd do my own laundry and the sheets and the towels and that way get a full load. Just like I would if I were renting a flat! I also mentioned about the power outlets because right now there is just two near the wall which take the TV and the fridge, so if I want to make a brew I've got to carry the kettle over near the bathroom and plug it in there, where there are another two outlets. I mentioned that, because if they do decide to just go ahead and put a microwave in here, I'm either going to need a power board or the microwave is going to go near the door where the wardrobe (hanging space) is. I wanted to bring that to her attention because I didn't want to plug something in and blow a fuse, and I didn't really want to have to unplug the fridge to plug in the microwave, cook something and then unplug the microwave and plug back in the fridge. LOl So once again Mrs J is going to chat to Mr B about what they can do. Seems like the best option is putting the microwave into the old kitchen. It all depends on what they have in there and whether it can be used. While I was having my hair cut I was chatting (as you do) to the hairdresser and she mentioned about a place called Greggs who were always calling out for more staff...so after my hair was done I walked down there and went in. They said it's all done online now, so they gave me the web address. It would be a great place to work because it's a bakery and as you walk in the door all you can smell are delicious pies, sausage rolls and cakes. :rofl::rofl: I could work in Oldham, but from what I saw I couldn't live in Oldham. It's very run down. But then again that was the center of town, so wouldn't be living in the middle of town.. :rofl: As with anywhere else, there are the good parts of town, and the bad parts of town. So for now I'm staying where I am ! Besides, it's such a wonderful feeling to get on the bus and once you get out of Oldham to turn that corner and you hit those quaint little streets and shops and you see those beautiful hills and the sheep :) Feels like coming home!:thumbsup: I also opened a bank account this morning and had no problems whatsoever. I went into Lloyds TSB (I'd actually emailed them from the US before I left and asked about the difficulties I might face opening a bank account with no job). I just handed over my UK passport, told them I was living at a B&B so that address was put in as my home address, but my mailing address was put down as my friends address, so any mail will go to her. I will ask Mrs J though about putting this address down and if they'd have a problem getting any mail for me here? I've never seen a mailman since I've been here, so I don't know whether they come up here or whether there's just a PO box they use. Another question for me to ask!! Now I feel a little more settled on the home front, I can concentrate now on registering for work. The sooner I get a job, the sooner I can stop worrying about running out of money. :thumbsup: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by WhoFan63
(Post 10674220)
Well here is Update number, whatever number I'm up to.. :rofl:
I went out early this morning and caught the bus into Oldham. Followed other people off the bus because I had no idea where I was going so figured someone would lead me in the right direction and I could always ask if i got lost.lol. I apparently got off at the right place because I was right where I wanted to be (near the big shopping center) I had a bit of a wander, had my hair cut, checked out the shops, found where the job center is and after about 3 hours I caught the bus back. I'm getting quite good at catching buses.. lol When I got back I caught up with Mrs J, who said she and Mr B had a chat last night and this is what they came up with: I could stay at the B&B in my room, and cater for myself and for £120 per week that would include everything, from electricity, water, Internet, TV. They're also going to either give me a microwave so I can do some hot meals at night, or they're going to do up the back kitchen for me. It must be the kitchen they used before they remodelled and put the new one in! It's apparently right across from my room and I never noticed because the door is always locked. They also said I could use their washer which uses solar power and doesn't cost anything with electricity, although they might need to get it checked because even on the quick cycle it's taking 90 minutes to do a cycle. It does 11kgs worth of stuff so I said that in return I'd do my own laundry and the sheets and the towels and that way get a full load. Just like I would if I were renting a flat! I also mentioned about the power outlets because right now there is just two near the wall which take the TV and the fridge, so if I want to make a brew I've got to carry the kettle over near the bathroom and plug it in there, where there are another two outlets. I mentioned that, because if they do decide to just go ahead and put a microwave in here, I'm either going to need a power board or the microwave is going to go near the door where the wardrobe (hanging space) is. I wanted to bring that to her attention because I didn't want to plug something in and blow a fuse, and I didn't really want to have to unplug the fridge to plug in the microwave, cook something and then unplug the microwave and plug back in the fridge. LOl So once again Mrs J is going to chat to Mr B about what they can do. Seems like the best option is putting the microwave into the old kitchen. It all depends on what they have in there and whether it can be used. While I was having my hair cut I was chatting (as you do) to the hairdresser and she mentioned about a place called Greggs who were always calling out for more staff...so after my hair was done I walked down there and went in. They said it's all done online now, so they gave me the web address. It would be a great place to work because it's a bakery and as you walk in the door all you can smell are delicious pies, sausage rolls and cakes. :rofl::rofl: I could work in Oldham, but from what I saw I couldn't live in Oldham. It's very run down. But then again that was the center of town, so wouldn't be living in the middle of town.. :rofl: As with anywhere else, there are the good parts of town, and the bad parts of town. So for now I'm staying where I am ! Besides, it's such a wonderful feeling to get on the bus and once you get out of Oldham to turn that corner and you hit those quaint little streets and shops and you see those beautiful hills and the sheep :) Feels like coming home!:thumbsup: I also opened a bank account this morning and had no problems whatsoever. I went into Lloyds TSB (I'd actually emailed them from the US before I left and asked about the difficulties I might face opening a bank account with no job). I just handed over my UK passport, told them I was living at a B&B so that address was put in as my home address, but my mailing address was put down as my friends address, so any mail will go to her. I will ask Mrs J though about putting this address down and if they'd have a problem getting any mail for me here? I've never seen a mailman since I've been here, so I don't know whether they come up here or whether there's just a PO box they use. Another question for me to ask!! Now I feel a little more settled on the home front, I can concentrate now on registering for work. The sooner I get a job, the sooner I can stop worrying about running out of money. :thumbsup: Not sure if you have checked their website yet: http://www.greggsfamily.co.uk/ Seem to be plenty of different job categories. and 50% off (after a year): http://www.greggsfamily.co.uk/about-us/our-benefits |
Re: First Update
Oooooooh, I LOVE Greggs :) I wonder if you're allowed to eat the merchandise for free if you work there :D
Don't you hate this whole "you have to apply online", shite though? It seems to be the way that everyone hires people these days but I loathe it. Good luck though with it all, it certainly sounds as though you're really beginning to settle in now. . . never been to Oldham but I sort of imagined it wouldn't be the prettiest of towns in the North West somehow. I bet it makes you appreciate your beautiful little village even more when you get home. :thumbsup: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by WhoFan63
(Post 10674220)
Well here is Update number, whatever number I'm up to.. :rofl:
I went out early this morning and caught the bus into Oldham. Followed other people off the bus because I had no idea where I was going so figured someone would lead me in the right direction and I could always ask if i got lost.lol. I apparently got off at the right place because I was right where I wanted to be (near the big shopping center) I had a bit of a wander, had my hair cut, checked out the shops, found where the job center is and after about 3 hours I caught the bus back. I'm getting quite good at catching buses.. lol When I got back I caught up with Mrs J, who said she and Mr B had a chat last night and this is what they came up with: I could stay at the B&B in my room, and cater for myself and for £120 per week that would include everything, from electricity, water, Internet, TV. They're also going to either give me a microwave so I can do some hot meals at night, or they're going to do up the back kitchen for me. It must be the kitchen they used before they remodelled and put the new one in! It's apparently right across from my room and I never noticed because the door is always locked. They also said I could use their washer which uses solar power and doesn't cost anything with electricity, although they might need to get it checked because even on the quick cycle it's taking 90 minutes to do a cycle. It does 11kgs worth of stuff so I said that in return I'd do my own laundry and the sheets and the towels and that way get a full load. Just like I would if I were renting a flat! I also mentioned about the power outlets because right now there is just two near the wall which take the TV and the fridge, so if I want to make a brew I've got to carry the kettle over near the bathroom and plug it in there, where there are another two outlets. I mentioned that, because if they do decide to just go ahead and put a microwave in here, I'm either going to need a power board or the microwave is going to go near the door where the wardrobe (hanging space) is. I wanted to bring that to her attention because I didn't want to plug something in and blow a fuse, and I didn't really want to have to unplug the fridge to plug in the microwave, cook something and then unplug the microwave and plug back in the fridge. LOl So once again Mrs J is going to chat to Mr B about what they can do. Seems like the best option is putting the microwave into the old kitchen. It all depends on what they have in there and whether it can be used. While I was having my hair cut I was chatting (as you do) to the hairdresser and she mentioned about a place called Greggs who were always calling out for more staff...so after my hair was done I walked down there and went in. They said it's all done online now, so they gave me the web address. It would be a great place to work because it's a bakery and as you walk in the door all you can smell are delicious pies, sausage rolls and cakes. :rofl::rofl: I could work in Oldham, but from what I saw I couldn't live in Oldham. It's very run down. But then again that was the center of town, so wouldn't be living in the middle of town.. :rofl: As with anywhere else, there are the good parts of town, and the bad parts of town. So for now I'm staying where I am ! Besides, it's such a wonderful feeling to get on the bus and once you get out of Oldham to turn that corner and you hit those quaint little streets and shops and you see those beautiful hills and the sheep :) Feels like coming home!:thumbsup: I also opened a bank account this morning and had no problems whatsoever. I went into Lloyds TSB (I'd actually emailed them from the US before I left and asked about the difficulties I might face opening a bank account with no job). I just handed over my UK passport, told them I was living at a B&B so that address was put in as my home address, but my mailing address was put down as my friends address, so any mail will go to her. I will ask Mrs J though about putting this address down and if they'd have a problem getting any mail for me here? I've never seen a mailman since I've been here, so I don't know whether they come up here or whether there's just a PO box they use. Another question for me to ask!! Now I feel a little more settled on the home front, I can concentrate now on registering for work. The sooner I get a job, the sooner I can stop worrying about running out of money. :thumbsup: Funny you should mention Gregg's. That's where my Brit friend here (who owns her own little shop) wants to work when she gets back! If you do decide to follow up, let me know if there are any tips I can pass on to her. She'll be going back to Chesterfield. |
Re: First Update
Hi Whofan!
I noticed an advert on TV last night for a programme about Greggs, so it could be worth watching. Their Chelsea buns are my downfall, they are huge! Well,it sounds like for now things are working out, and, yes you have an indomitable spirit,as someone said. Fancy having a secret kitchen! I hope you get the use of it. And who are these people who just "happen to have" a little cottage tucked away? I wish you luck with the job search. Not everyone recruits online, sometimes it's just a poster in a shop window, but I bet your eyes are peeled for them. What kind of work did you do before you moved? Only asking in case anyone on here can suggest where you might try. In the meantime, I hope things keep looking up for you! |
Re: First Update
Oh just love your updates, talk about synchronicity which always works when you put the word out what you want! Greggs looks like a good company to work for! And all those goodies :D
Sounds like you could stay at B&B for a while while job hunting and perhaps you will get some benefit from Job Centre as well to help with the financials. |
Re: First Update
Yes I am enjoying your updates as well. Making me very homesick. Not been back to UK since 2008..
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Re: First Update
It all sounds really good Mrs Who! Well done you! Look at all that you've done!
Thought you might like this. It's a masterpiece of a quilt: http://stlouisfolkvictorian.blogspot...-known-as.html |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by Cardienscarf
(Post 10674550)
It all sounds really good Mrs Who! Well done you! Look at all that you've done!
Thought you might like this. It's a masterpiece of a quilt: http://stlouisfolkvictorian.blogspot...-known-as.html |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by Cardienscarf
(Post 10674550)
It all sounds really good Mrs Who! Well done you! Look at all that you've done!
Thought you might like this. It's a masterpiece of a quilt: http://stlouisfolkvictorian.blogspot...-known-as.html |
Re: First Update
Fab update. So nice you can stay at the bed and breakfast for a reduced rate. Hopefully you will be able find something a little cheaper but then you would have to pay council tax. greggs. I love the sausage rolls and pies and EVERTHING else they have for sale in there. DELICIOUS. I like you, have been applying for jobs online here in the US. Very frustrating. Quite often there will be some kind of clitch half way through applying and you have to start over. The good thing about over in the UK you don't have to worry about health insurance!! and about your car breaking down either! Glad you managed the buses and trains and you are finding your way around, great stuff... look forward to more updates.. take care xx
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Re: First Update
Originally Posted by WhoFan63
(Post 10674220)
Well here is Update number, whatever number I'm up to.. :rofl:...... I could stay at the B&B in my room, and cater for myself and for £120 per week that would include everything, from electricity, water, Internet, TV. :
Below is a link to a room in a house share.....so not only your own room but the rest of the house facilities for £75 pw (inc bills) http://www.spareroom.co.uk/flatshare...D124968587%26& Might not be of interest to you, but I figured it was better to post up and you not want it...than the other way round! Ty |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by brightonbelle
(Post 10674798)
Been reading your updates, couldn't help myself and looked online for places around the area your in. £120 per week is a lot!
Below is a link to a room in a house share.....so not only your own room but the rest of the house facilities for £75 pw (inc bills) http://www.spareroom.co.uk/flatshare...D124968587%26& Might not be of interest to you, but I figured it was better to post up and you not want it...than the other way round! Ty |
Re: First Update
I was thinking maybe you could go to the letting agency and advise them you are looking for a one bedroom and they might just let you know before advertising it?? Just a thought..
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Re: First Update
Originally Posted by morayeel
(Post 10675742)
I was thinking maybe you could go to the letting agency and advise them you are looking for a one bedroom and they might just let you know before advertising it?? Just a thought..
So I think I'll stick where I am and concentrate on getting a job. Once I can do that I can re-evaluate where I am and find somewhere closer if need be. Have an appointment with the job center on Friday, so we'll see how that goes. :) |
Re: First Update
These updates are so great, thank you so much for taking the time to post. I am filled with admiration for everything you have got done already. I can tell any employer would be lucky to get you!
Keep the updates coming! |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by NiHao
(Post 10675856)
These updates are so great, thank you so much for taking the time to post. I am filled with admiration for everything you have got done already. I can tell any employer would be lucky to get you!
Keep the updates coming! I've had a remarkable day today, even though it's been cold, wet and overcast. Bumped into Mrs J today and she mentioned organising an account for the past week (hard to believe I've been here a week already, it feels like I've been here always). That way they can keep their books up to date, which was fine with me too, because in no way was I being pushed for money. So you can imagine my lovely surprise when she handed me an account for the past 7 days and it was at the discounted rate we'd talked about the other day. I had imagined being charged the B&B rate, especially as I was staying here and having the full bed and breakfast experience. I thought that after our chat the new rate would start as of today which is the beginning of a new week. But they'd charged me the new rate from day one. I couldn't let them do that for the whole week, especially as I'd been having breakfast every day apart from 2, so I paid her extra to cover the meals for those 5 days. Apart from that I'm staring at the computer screen wondering where to start first when it comes to jobs. All the sites I look at seemingly want you to fill out their own online application forms which are pages long..lol. But I've got an appointment at the job center on Friday, so hopefully I'll get an advisor who's really interested in helping me and can point me in the right direction. I still can't get over the fact that everyone is so lovely. Strangers saying good morning as you go for a walk, when you walk down narrow lanes and a car comes the driver acknowledges you and waves when you step to one side to let him/her through. Being waved at by the landlady of the pub as you walk past..lol, and best of all is being remembered by the owners of the little post office/store. You get to see the same faces every day and I've been for a walk where the same guys have asked if I've recovered from being drenched a few days ago.. :rofl: I guess I've got an unforgettable face..:rofl::rofl: I went for a walk this afternoon because my head was swimming after spending all morning on the Internet, so I popped into the shop and bought myself a meat and potato pie to munch on, on the way home. Can you gather I've made myself well and truly at home??? :thumbsup: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by WhoFan63
(Post 10675772)
....... appointment with the job center on Friday, so we'll see how that goes. :)
https://yourcounciljobs.co.uk/jobdet...Authority_id=4 Ty |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by brightonbelle
(Post 10676261)
Don't know what your looking for....or how you feel about kids...but if you fancy popping into the local primary...they're advertising! my best friend started as temp in her local primary.....seven years later and now a higher level teaching assistant earning more than a new teacher and on full time salary.
https://yourcounciljobs.co.uk/jobdet...Authority_id=4 Ty Thanks for that! :) I've never given much thought to being in a school..lol. I don't think I have much patience for the little dears.:rofl: But it's given me somewhere else to check and that's with the local council. :thumbsup: The school would have been ideal though as it's literally a 5 minute walk away. |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by WhoFan63
(Post 10676162)
Thanks so much for the kind words :) Make sure you pass on that to any employers out there...:rofl::rofl:
I've had a remarkable day today, even though it's been cold, wet and overcast. Bumped into Mrs J today and she mentioned organising an account for the past week (hard to believe I've been here a week already, it feels like I've been here always). That way they can keep their books up to date, which was fine with me too, because in no way was I being pushed for money. So you can imagine my lovely surprise when she handed me an account for the past 7 days and it was at the discounted rate we'd talked about the other day. I had imagined being charged the B&B rate, especially as I was staying here and having the full bed and breakfast experience. I thought that after our chat the new rate would start as of today which is the beginning of a new week. But they'd charged me the new rate from day one. I couldn't let them do that for the whole week, especially as I'd been having breakfast every day apart from 2, so I paid her extra to cover the meals for those 5 days. Apart from that I'm staring at the computer screen wondering where to start first when it comes to jobs. All the sites I look at seemingly want you to fill out their own online application forms which are pages long..lol. But I've got an appointment at the job center on Friday, so hopefully I'll get an advisor who's really interested in helping me and can point me in the right direction. I still can't get over the fact that everyone is so lovely. Strangers saying good morning as you go for a walk, when you walk down narrow lanes and a car comes the driver acknowledges you and waves when you step to one side to let him/her through. Being waved at by the landlady of the pub as you walk past..lol, and best of all is being remembered by the owners of the little post office/store. You get to see the same faces every day and I've been for a walk where the same guys have asked if I've recovered from being drenched a few days ago.. :rofl: I guess I've got an unforgettable face..:rofl::rofl: I went for a walk this afternoon because my head was swimming after spending all morning on the Internet, so I popped into the shop and bought myself a meat and potato pie to munch on, on the way home. Can you gather I've made myself well and truly at home??? :thumbsup: |
Re: First Update
I think the job center will be very helpful. They were when I went back. Helped me find my National Insurance number and gave me websites to look for jobs and I joined a "work club" which helped with resume (cv) and even provided postage stamps and envelopes if needed. Nothing like that here in the US. Here you are pretty much on your own. Just reminder of how terrible it can be here. I went to a clinic Monday for a doc appt. I am out of a job right now. I have been searching, anyway the doctor ranted about Obama and how she did not want to spend a penny of her paycheck on lazy people for their medical etc etc etc She assumes everyone who isn't working is lazy!! So even though I am classified as on the poverty level I still had to cough up $70. $20 for the visit and $50 for the blood work. My meds are generic so only $4.00 each but if you get homesick, remember the medical, the heat, the transport, the guns etc etc etc....
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Re: First Update
It's so lovely to read all your updates and moreso because you're obviously very happy in your little village :)
Keep on writing please, all of it is making me more and more anxious to get back there :) |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by ElizabethK
(Post 10677204)
It's so lovely to read all your updates and moreso because you're obviously very happy in your little village :)
Keep on writing please, all of it is making me more and more anxious to get back there :) I can dream, can't I??:thumbsup: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by windsong
(Post 10677669)
Me, too!! So much so, in fact, I keep saying to myself maybe I can do it in within the year!!!
I can dream, can't I??:thumbsup: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by windsong
(Post 10677669)
Me, too!! So much so, in fact, I keep saying to myself maybe I can do it in within the year!!!
I can dream, can't I??:thumbsup: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by ElizabethK
(Post 10677204)
It's so lovely to read all your updates and moreso because you're obviously very happy in your little village :)
Keep on writing please, all of it is making me more and more anxious to get back there :) I'm sure that once you get back you'll see what I mean about having a great sense of peace! It's like no other feeling! Even though I've not got a job yet, I'm not stressed about it like I would be in the US, because everyone here is so helpful. |
Re: First Update
Well today I registered with a GP, so now that has the NHS number all sorted out. I should get that within a couple of weeks they said. :) Tomorrow when I go to the job centre they'll help with my NI number, so that will be another thing to cross off my TO DO list. I've opened a bank account and I'm just waiting for some paperwork to arrive so I can transfer my Australian drivers license over to a UK one.
It was so funny at the GP this morning. I filled out all the paperwork and they said I'll get a call about doing a health assessment (standard for new patients). I went in to see the nurse practitioner (just because I wanted to have something checked out while i was there) and when I left I went back to reception and asked if there was a charge. She smiled at me and said ' You're British..so there's no charge'. :thumbsup: Try doing THAT in the US..lol. I'm looking out my window right now and the fog has come down over the hills and I'm waiting for the kettle to boil so I can make a cup of Yorkshire Tea :D I have a packet of Jaffa Cakes ready too! :rofl: I can't print out my CV so I've loaded it onto a memory stick for tomorrow just in case they are able to access it. I've gone through it all and amended the spelling because it's so 'American' :rofl::rofl: I'm looking forward to going to the job centre tomorrow because I know that once I meet my advisor they're going to be able to help me out and point me in the right direction. :) So that's my update for today. lol |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by morayeel
(Post 10677075)
I think the job center will be very helpful. They were when I went back. Helped me find my National Insurance number and gave me websites to look for jobs and I joined a "work club" which helped with resume (cv) and even provided postage stamps and envelopes if needed. Nothing like that here in the US. Here you are pretty much on your own. Just reminder of how terrible it can be here. I went to a clinic Monday for a doc appt. I am out of a job right now. I have been searching, anyway the doctor ranted about Obama and how she did not want to spend a penny of her paycheck on lazy people for their medical etc etc etc She assumes everyone who isn't working is lazy!! So even though I am classified as on the poverty level I still had to cough up $70. $20 for the visit and $50 for the blood work. My meds are generic so only $4.00 each but if you get homesick, remember the medical, the heat, the transport, the guns etc etc etc....
I've not been homesick for the US for those exact reasons.:rofl: I love being able to just get on a bus and if I wanted to I could go anywhere. There's nothing on the news about guns and gun violence, if I want to go to the Dr I can and not have to pay an arm and a leg just for a 5 minute consultation. Don't get me wrong...the UK has it's good and bad parts too, just like anywhere else in the world...there's crime here too, there's poverty, the economy isn't the greatest. But as others have said and something I will agree with wholeheartedly... I'd rather be broke but happy in the UK than broke and miserable in the US. |
Re: First Update
Excellent news on the B&B and the job search. Well done for making things happen. I'm sure I'd just want to stroll along eating chocolate and pies and sausage rolls and crisps watching the lambs skipping about in the fields.
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Re: First Update
Whofan, it seems such a novelty to go to the doctor without having to get your purse out, doesn't it? Another thing to note is if you have to have meds "for life", like thyroid medication or if you need cancer drugs you can get a prescription exemption card which waives all charges and works for all your medication.
Hoping, of course this doesn't apply to you but if it does its worth knowing about! |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by WhoFan63
(Post 10677829)
I'm very happy in my little village. :) I always get a big thrill out of going into Oldham and catching the bus back...following the little winding roads and turning the corner to see all the green hills. It's like stepping into a postcard :D :thumbsup:
I'm sure that once you get back you'll see what I mean about having a great sense of peace! It's like no other feeling! Even though I've not got a job yet, I'm not stressed about it like I would be in the US, because everyone here is so helpful. Good luck with the job hunting :fingerscrossed: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by MissBetty
(Post 10678283)
I'm really enjoying your updates and I can just picture that bus ride lol! I liked what you said about having that feeling of peace, that's what I'm most looking forward to. I've been in the ANZAC day parade here today and even though it was great I was sweating all day and two people fainted in the heat during the ceremony so I was kept busy! I've just got in from a call out, it's 0200 hrs and I feel really stressed so just reading your posts to calm me down so I can try and get back to sleep!
Good luck with the job hunting :fingerscrossed: One of these days ill take my video camera, go on the top deck and record the journey on the bus lol. Once I figure out how to post it on BE lol |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by Cardienscarf
(Post 10677984)
Excellent news on the B&B and the job search. Well done for making things happen. I'm sure I'd just want to stroll along eating chocolate and pies and sausage rolls and crisps watching the lambs skipping about in the fields.
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Re: First Update
That's so funny you should mention perhaps taking a video because as I was reading your earlier post I was just thinking to myself "I wish WhoFan63 would post a video"
I hope you do and its probably easiest to load it onto youtube and then post a link here I think you need to start a blog too so you have a record of your daily adventures! |
Re: First Update
I LOVED poundland. Such great prices. I applied there when I was there but never heard back from them. I am sure the job center will give you some leads on employment.
Another reminder, I just stood in a pile of red ants and got bitten several times! I also walked my dogs, had to drive to a place where I could walk them without neighborhood dogs chasing me and nearly got bitten by a copperhead snake! Walking in the woods is out until October now, too many snakes.:thumbdown: |
Re: First Update
Originally Posted by WhoFan63
(Post 10678494)
Aww bless. I'm better than a sleeping pill :). I just came back from a walk and from watching the lambs jumping about. It's so much fun when they jump on all fours :). So sorry to hear about your Anzac Day. It Gould t still be hot there should it?? Take a cool shower and head to bed :)
One of these days ill take my video camera, go on the top deck and record the journey on the bus lol. Once I figure out how to post it on BE lol |
Re: First Update
Hi just read your thread and thought this might help, it has loads of info on jobs for the council and even volunteer work (to help get a reference etc while your finding work) www.yourcounciljobs.co.uk/oldham
If your in any of the Delph,Diggle or Saddleworth villages then know wonder your happy, its a lovely area, there is a great pub in Denshaw (with a great farmers shop attached) honestly the food is really "home made" the views are lovely (although the should upgrade their outside area to cash in on the views) and a lovely tea shop which sells Cup Cakes etc in Saddleworth is a place well worth the visit. Good luck |
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