Unions only work when union leadership is actually working for the betterment of the entire unit, rather than personal clout. I was in a union that ran well, protected employees, and had a great working relationship with management. Issues were handled efficiently and effectively with the contract in place. Then union leadership changed because a retiree rallied to become president, and the effective president stopped trying so hard because of it. So leadership changed and that union went downhill. Current leadership handles issues so poorly, nothing gets resolved and raises are not going to be as high as they could have been negotiated too. The current leadership values the provided lunches at the negotiation meetings over discussion of the actual topics, and working together to come to an agreement for everyone.

Another union I was a part of prior to that was for a big box wholesale store. I was sexually harassed in front of customers by another union member. The meetings were facilitated by management and the union. Management had my side on the issue, but the union advocated for the harasser due to years of service and seniority. They couldn’t even guarantee I wouldn’t work with him again. I eventually left that job, for multiple reasons, but a big one was that experience really broke me. I never felt comfortable working around that person and knowing that my voice would always be lesser compared to anyone who had just worked there longer.

Gold Base 9.7km 😵‍💫

Before it got super expensive, I LOVED pilates. The machines were fun to use, the classes were upbeat, and the movements changed every two to five minutes. It kept my brain and body active for the whole session. I wasn’t getting distracted during classes, and the different classes offered were similar but also changed up to keep me engaged.

It was also easier on my joints (I have rheumatoid arthritis) than running and cycling, and I have a hard time swimming so that wasn’t an option.

Once I get back to a point where I can afford it again, I will definitely be going back.

Me sitting over here like 🙋🏼‍♀️I had all my shots and still haven’t had COVID

Let’s see if that changes though with upcoming travel an a tolerance break. 😬😷

1. Get some food and beverages you enjoy.
2. Take a bath and use a bath bomb. (It doesn’t matter who you are, baths are awesome)
3. Drink bevvies in the tub. Bonus: walk around your place naked because it just feels good

Let’s not forget that the premium is usually taken from your paycheck, and can range from $15-$750/pay cycle depending on the insurance plan. In my case, I’m paying $450/month as the premium, plus $90/visit. The healthcare system doesn’t have an office near my home, so I travel an hour and a half to see the doctor, and it’s 45 minutes to the nearest hospital.