This week, I began my twelfth month of unemployment after the company I worked for went out of business suddenly. I was a professional employed for over twenty years in my profession. I have also been a weekly hobbyist for the past three years considering it to be some of the happiest times of my life with many wonderful providers some more than thirty times. However, I have been on the sidelines of the hobby for the past few months just trying to keep my house and provide for my family. I miss seeing providers terribly. However, I have been lucky to have consulting work since my unemployment ran out, but I've used all of my savings etc just to pay the bills. Jobs scenarios are looking better for me and I have people trying to create positions for me- I am very grateful for their support. Sorry to be such a downer, just know that there are many of us out there who want to participate in the hobby but cannot because of the current economy. Thanks for reading, I hope to be back soon- but I never imagined that this could last for a year. Miss you all.

I have lost my "real job" over a year ago also and understand the hurt and frustration you are feeling.  I am grateful that I have something to fall back on in this difficult time and definately do appreciate the gentlemen who continue to visit me and who have faith in me and who continue to enjoy my companionship.

I have faith that the economy will take a turn for the better very soon and can see that, in fact, in some ways, it already has.  Continue in your consulting work and try to hold on a little longer and hopefully all will work out the way it is supposed to!!

Wishing you and others some good fortune!

Hugs, Belinda

Eloquently stated. I feel for you. There are only a few people who are not feeling the hurt these days. Many many people have been forced to readjust priorities. Keep the positive outlook. Hope you turn the corner soon and find something that pays you well and that you like.

The same situation is just starting to settle in with myself.  I worked for a fortune 500 company for 10 years and they just decided one day that my services were no longer needed.  I took it personal at first but I know I have to get over it.  I found some good job transition support groups and hopefully I will be gainfully employed sooner rather than later.

I will definitely be cutting back on the hobby until the economy turns around and I become employed again.  Fortunately, I only have myself to support but I can certainly understand what it would be like to support a family as well.

There are indications that the economy will turn around soon. The Dow closed above 10,000 points today so maybe this is a prelude to better times ahead.

It will be a year one week before this coming Christmas. Worked for a Scrooge

lol--Yep-it's been a year.....

I'm there with ya bro.

I'm at 10 months now, but may have found something permanent to pay the bills vs the consulting I've been doing to make some $$$.  

It ain't what I was getting paid before, but I get to keep the house and car so it's a start...

Hang in there and network like crazy, it appears that the good stuff is UTR right now so you need someone "inside" to get the resume to the right person.

On one hand, you tell us your tale of woe about the economy and the fact you can no longer enjoy the company of fine women.  On the other hand, you have 10 reviews since this July.  What gives?