Deborah Petit:  

A bit of an update: I landed a job after the tax season as a habilitation specialist working with the developmentally disabled (DD). It is an entry-level position, one that provides all-important hands-on experience with this very special community. I am overqualified in so far as my education goes (in Ohio -- not, however, by Missouri's standards), but I am underqualified in terms of direct experience (anywhere in the USA). Most career-building jobs serving the DD community require a minimum of a year of direct contact -- this is because not everyone is suited to dealing with the interpersonal needs of the DD population. My next major career goal is to become a QDDP, formerly known as a QMRP. The Q stands for Quality (of care -- and case management). ---Previously posted info follows--- Just a quick update: I have yet to locate a full-time, year-round job, but I am at least working seasonally (and full-time, thanks to my availability) as a tax preparer. This is something I have long wanted to pursue, but other obligations got in the way. Now that I have the hands-on experience, I intend to stick with this in the years to come as a means to supplement income, especially once I reach retirement age. ---Previously posted info follows--- Whew! I am still catching my breath. I am just back home in Columbus after a marvelous, if too short, trip to Portland, Oregon, and (my favorite place on this Earth) the San Francisco Bay Area. But I have to say that Portland definitely...Expand for more