So I’ve got this new gig as a freelance columnist with OC Moms for the Orange County Register.
I’m not sure, but I might have mentioned it. Once or twice.
I’m also doing some behind-the-scenes stuff for them, such as editing blog posts, scheduling content, and marveling at the fact that I have access to news stories before you do.
But mainly I spend most of my day convincing myself that rearranging the content so that my articles are in the Breaking News category and displayed on the front page, all day, every day, might not be such a great idea and could create some discourse.
I’ve been successful so far, but I can’t make any promises.
This new gig has definitely lifted my spirits though, since I’ve been down in the dumps about leaving my teaching job, which I loved, when we found out about Andrew’s CF diagnosis last fall. Writing the column has been a dream come true, and I’m thrilled to be part of such an awesome network of writers and contributors.
Last week I had to go into the office for some additional training, and spent the better part of Wednesday morning at the Orange County Register headquarters, a large, looming, pink(!?) building that I’ve driven by countless times as a perplexed Orange County resident.
I was promised a tour of the newsroom, and was fascinated by what I saw:
Grown-ups. (Everywhere).
Hot beverages and sharp scissors in precarious places.
Unsupervised candy
And by what I didn’t see:
Children
Glitter. (Not one little speck)
Lincoln logs
I learned (rather unpleasantly, I might add) that not everyone appreciates a good solid nose wipe (not to brag, but I can spot a rogue boogie from a mile away and can nab that sucker in 2 seconds flat, left-handed, using a one-ply tissue), and that certain people really take offense when you remind them to tuck in their shirts and tie their shoes.
I also had a difficult time finding the potty, and no wonder, since the door isn’t painted lollipop purple and instead of a picture of a cartoon toilet, has the word Restroom written across the top. How confusing is that?
The other thing that struck me as odd was that when it was time for snack and lunch, everyone ate at their desks. In front of their computers. And kept working. No recess. No monkey bars. No freeze tag.
No wonder grown-ups are so grumpy.
I got the distinct impression that, even though every bone in my body knew it was the right thing to do, a game of twister and a finger painting session would be out of the question.
But I’m definitely going to suggest pajama day the next time I go back. And maybe some glitter.
Because even grumpy grown-ups need a sparkly Pajama Day once in a little while.
PJ day would definitely be a great idea at that place. I'd sign that petition for sure.
What's funny about your post is that it's so true though – it resonates with me personally at this very moment. We need more happy, less grumpy in that building. Any ideas would be much appreciated!!
In the meantime, let's do lunch before I go back to being the grumpy eat-at-your-desk worker bee 😉
Great post! I have a friend that works there and I do believe she would jump at the chance to have a PJ and glitter day. I think all grown-ups should spend at least 1 day a year in a Kindergarten classroom to see what they are missing.
You go, Jo! You kindergarten-teacher that place right up! What do you have planned for the upcoming birthday of Dr. Seuss? I'm sure everyone there would want to make one of those cool Cat-in-the-Hat top hats. (-: