So, I may have stolen this picture from the internet, but we aren’t allowed to use our cell phones on the property so cut me some slack, ok?

Today was my first day of  “work.” The first two days aren’t really work, but an intense, almost cult-ish session about how great the company you work for is. I have to admit, I really do think the company is pretty great.

I am officially a Hostess at Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante, one of the three restaurants at the Four Seasons Resort in Wailea. So, I never had a host job. So what? I would sometimes schedule myself as a host to save money two jobs ago. That’s good enough, right? I hope so. Thankfully the training is intense and thorough. I can get used to the perfectly clean and pressed uniform, tailored to fit me, always ready upon my arrival. I can get used to the free food and the FIVE free nights at any Four Seasons anywhere in the world. I can also get used to the fact that they encourage you to move to a different position if you feel that one is better for you.  I can get used to the 100% paid medical coverage, half off spa visits, oh, and did I mention that YOUR BIRTHDAY IS A HOLIDAY? So, you have to take off a day in your birth-month as a special paid treat for you. You have to. It’s mandatory. When’s the last time you heard of a company that tells you you have to take your birthday off?

So, aside from all of that, I am happiest about my change in scenery. My last Chicago office was the smallest office I have ever worked in. It was approximately 5’X6′ with 6′ ceilings, no temperature control, no windows, dim lighting, with knots of wires and constant chaos. I don’t blame the restaurant, all restaurant offices seem to be the same. Those brave souls that work in them know that that’s the environment they are getting into. That’s why when I was offered the same type of job here on Maui at a restaurant for what I was making in Chicago, I turned it down. You know what? I moved for a reason. I don’t want to create the same life here. I don’t want the high stress, cramped and disorganized environment way-of-life anymore. For me, it’s no way to live. I am ready for non-stop ocean views, less stress, and life and work balance. It’s what I always wanted. I think I am on my way.