Part of the deal with Reach Veterans Services was that I seek gainful employment, so that I would become independent again. I had been making food deliveries with Postmates and Door Dash since I hit the road, but now I needed something steadier. I was referred to the local veterans employment specialist and he gave me some ideas. Then someone told me to apply at Meijer (a regional mega grocery store like Walmart) or I got an email about it—I do not know. There was an opening for a greeter, I applied online, and was called in for an interview. I was offered the job at $11.15 an hour for a 25-hour week through the coming Holiday season. After that, who knows? I accepted.

I continued to do Door Dash to make extra money to pay my bills and living expenses. I do not see well at night to drive, but I kept pushing myself later and later well after dark because that is when it is busy.

In the meanwhile, Gunny continued his push to get me into an apartment. This required that I get letter from a medical professional attesting that I needed my two poodles for emotional support so that I could have them in my apartment. The nurse practitioner was unable to justify it from a physical standpoint, but the psychologist was sympathetic and understanding and gave me my letter.  Frankly, I think it is the dogs who need emotional support, but that is only my opinion.

I started my job and moved into my own apartment on November 15, 2019. I was more than ready to have my own place again. The rent was reasonable, and the apartment, though spare, was adequate for my needs. My bills and credit card debt were crushing though, so I sought out a debt relief program.

(more later)