There are some things in life that are unobtainable, like the legendary white stag. Everyone has that one thing they've wanted, and every organization has that one lofty goal that every member seeks.

Today (or, in point of fact, last night,) I have obtained one of those goals.

I am now a full-time employee.

This might not sound like such a grand thing, but getting a full-time hourly position at Wal Mart when you aren't a member of management is tantamount to getting a private jet from your company when you work in the mail room: it just doesn't (usually) happen. In my case, the change is out of necessity rather than any desire of the company to reward me for five months of hard work, but it still makes me feel excellent that it's something that's coming my way.

Okay, so technically I don't become "full time" until the 28th of the month, when I get shifted to a different department of the store. But still, it's already official in the computer, so I'm counting it.

The benefits of this? Where do I begin! Bigger paychecks, for one, as well as access to more options on the company's insurance program, improved 401k options, you name it. I have to keep it quiet at work, since there are people who have been with the store for years on my shift trying to get full time who would be rather angry that I've gotten it instead, but since I very much doubt anyone here either works with me or knows any of my coworkers, I figured it would be okay to share the great news with y'all.

The best part, though? I can finally start doing more than just living hand to mouth if I handle this right, and actually, perhaps, develop *gasp!* an actual SAVINGS.

Cross yer fingers girls!

Melanie E.