Smile

I got a much needed raise.  $100 dollars a day more. As a contractor for a local energy company, I was their only women in the field. They’ve had one other, but she couldn’t cut it and drug up. Not to blow my own horn (but I’m going to anyway).. My production at negotiating and buying easements, acquisition, permitting federal, state and county entities, settling damages has exceeded any other agent, they’ve had in the field. (This is with the exception of my husband, who is one of the best in the industry and trained me).

My very small company now has 3 women in the field. I realize I’ve sung this song before, but I’ve been doing the job of any man they’ve had and then some. Yet, because I’ve been grateful for the work, never complained that I was THE lowest paid in the field. Just did my job and glad to have it. I can honestly say being in my 40’s, ok ok, being 43 I’ve never felt more comfortable in my own skin, then right now.

Granted, I may not be the shiniest penny in the ol’ coin bag…

but I can keep up with the fellas.
I can negotiate with any land owner or their attorneys.
I can run courthouse records with a fine toothed comb.
I can take an ass eating.
I can run a shovel, swing a hammer and operate a skid steer.
I can run a 10k, change the oil in my truck, am certified in CPR and the yard boy for 5 acres.
I’ve milked cows, slopped hogs and bucked hay.
I can down shots of tequila or shots of the captain. I’ve been know to have the mouth of a sailor, but I’m also a damn good first mate on a 38 foot kris kraft.
With the help of a little war paint I can clean up pretty good too.
God knows I’m a veteran patient in the medical field who’s got no problem conversing intelligently with neuro surgeons.
I’m loyal, but don’t screw me over.
When I’m cut, I bleed. But I can stitch myself up too.
I cry, but have a great belly laugh.
I also am painfully aware that the good lord doesn’t care how busy I am. When he wants my attention, he’s gonna get it.
I’m one strong, bad ass bitch.
I earned that raise. Hell ya I did.

 Smile