Webster defines reinvention like this:

Main Entry: re·in·vent

Pronunciation: \ˌrē-ən-ˈvent\

Function: transitive verb

Date: 1686

1 : to make as if for the first time something already invented the wheel>
2 : to remake or redo completely
3 : to bring into use again

— re·in·ven·tion \-ˈven(t)-shən\ noun

She Said:

This is our household's "word of the year" for 2009. Like many other families, we were faced with a tough year financially this year. After giving birth in May, it was quite the challenge to find work. In our area of approximately 300,000 people, over 23,000 people are unemployed. Fortunately for us, we survived this year, and we are certainly looking forward to a new year with new hope.

And a little reinvention.

After studying algebra and science for 6 days straight, I took the Nursing Entrance Exam, and 2 other required tests, and PASSED!! I am a candidate for the Practical Nursing program at PJC. I am most excited. They fill the classes on a "first completed, first seated" basis, and I am crossing my fingers and toes that I was able to get everything in on time and can start class in June. My ultimate goal is to become a RN. I am going to take classes this spring to fill the pre-req's for that program so that I can start as soon as I finish the practical nursing.

Funny how things can change in the course of a year. One year ago, I was not thinking of going into nursing. Six months of looking for work and being frustrated is guiding me down this path.

He Said:

I couldn't have picked a better word for the year. I am extremely proud of Maria for passing her exams. Frankly they were difficult, very difficult.

And yes, our finances this year were a roller coaster ride worthy of 6 flags. I fought with my own work in that at the beginning of 2009 I had more than I could handle and considered hiring more help. Then as the economy faded, so did the work.

On the upside we were blessed with a healthy baby boy, and we saw the photography business slowly pick up some steam. But on the note of reinvention, I am once again getting my CDL license. I dropped it many years ago because I didn't drive truck any longer, and now have to take the driving portion of the test again to get the license back. I am doing it to supplement our income and help a friend in need of a driver.

I really had never planned on driving again. But if I had any advice for someone looking for work I would have to say be as diverse as you possibly can.