
Record Is Broken As Original Birkin Sells For €8,582,500 At Auction
Few items are as iconic as the Hermès Birkin handbag, which has become the symbol of ultimate luxury and exclusivity. It has been immortalized in popular culture across various disciplines—films, music, literature—and is loved by celebrities who proudly carry it on their arms for us all to admire. There is even a coveted dupe, the Wirkin, sold at Walmart, which has sparked much debate on the subject.
Until today, the most expensive handbag ever sold at auction is a White Himalaya Niloticus Crocodile Diamond Returnee Kelly 28, which fetched $513,040, but fashion history was made in Paris this afternoon, when the original Birkin prototype, owned by Jane Birkin herself, was sold at auction for €8,582.500 reflecting a growing trend in the sale of second-hand luxury items.
Investing In Collectable Pieces
There has been a rise in the sale of luxury second-hand items in recent times, particularly of rare pieces or those with a rich history. Money Week suggests that investing in luxury goods can yield dividends. According to the Knight Frank index, the strongest-performing luxury asset last year was handbags, which posted a 2.8% return, compared to a loss of 9% for whisky and an 18.3% loss for art. Over five years, the handbag sector is up 34%.
Furthermore, BCG states that wealthy investors are increasingly seeking alternative investments to diversify their portfolios and hedge against inflation. They cite the example of luxury watches, which have generally delivered strong price performance in the market over the past five to ten years, confirming that the sector is growing.
I spoke to Tobias Kormind, co-founder and managing director of 77diamonds. He told me that for the last couple of years he has seen a steady increase in collectable items such as jewelry, art, or uncommon items such as this original Birkin handbag. He added that in an age when micro-trends are rife on social media, and keeping up with them seems to become more and more complicated, these rare and collectable items hold a particular appeal, not only for their investment value, but also for what they represent: something timeless and unchanging, a unique story captured through the object that cannot be replicated in any way.
Kormind also explained that people are more interested in purchasing collectables as investment pieces, giving me the example of rare diamonds and jewelry pieces going on auction, such as Marie Antoinette's infamous jewelry collection, which included a necklace that created a lot of controversy in the lead-up to the French Revolution. 'A unique story that opens a window in time, and just cannot be replicated in any other way,' he says.
British-French actress, singer-songwriter and fashion model Jane Birkin, UK, 25th October 1968 ... More (Photo by Daily Express/)
The Story Of The Original Birkin
The Birkin bag is made by Hermès, the luxury house founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès (1801-1878), who opened a leather workshop in Paris at 56 rue Basse du Rempart. There, he produced leather goods for equestrian attire, including horse harnesses, fittings, and bridles, which he'd sew by hand, using a saddle stitch, with a waxed thread and two needles to provide extra strength. The same stitch is still used when creating a Birkin bag, which takes between 18 and 24 hours to make, and is sewn entirely by hand by a single artisan who has undergone years of training before being entrusted with the job.
As told by Jane Birkin in an interview with CBS, the story of the unique Birkin Bag begins at an airport. She was flying from Paris to London on an Air France flight when, upon check-in, a flight attendant upgraded her to First Class. Once on board, she found herself seated next to a very polite gentleman. As she was getting settled, her agenda fell on the floor, scattering papers everywhere, to which the gentleman beside her suggested she use an agenda with pockets. Birkin replied, 'What can you do? Hermès doesn't make them with pockets.' At this point, the gentleman revealed his identity: he was Jean-Louis Dumas (Executive Chairman of Hermès from 1978 to 2006). Birkin told him how difficult it was to find a leather bag that met all her needs as a young mother, explaining that she required something larger than the Kelly bag (a smaller Hermès handbag) but not as large as a suitcase. Together, they sketched the desired bag on the back of a paper sick-bag, which Jean-Louis Dumas took away with him. A month later, he called Jane Birkin and invited her to review the prototype, which was made of cardboard. Once they had discussed the details, Hermès asked if they could name the bag after her, to which she agreed.
Talking to Kurmind, we discuss the extreme importance of the story behind each piece in connection to its selling value. 'In fact,' he says, 'I would say that it's the story that makes the inherent value of the piece. Without it, it would just be a very luxurious, well-made object; but it's the story that elevates its desirability to incredible levels. Now all that is left to ask is just how high people are willing to pay to own a little piece of history.'
Jane Birkin's Original Birkin. Her initials are embossed on the bag
Seven Differences
The Original Birkin bag is full of character. Jane Birkin used it daily and filled it to the brim. She used to carry keys and charms on it that would create a bell-like sound when she walked. Jane Birkin also placed stickers on her bag in support of humanitarian causes such as Médecins du Monde and UNICEF. In 1994, she donated this bag to the French AIDS charity Association Solidarité Sida for an auction. It was then resold at auction by Poulain Le Fur in May 2000 and has remained in private hands until today, when the legendary accessory headlined the Fashion Icons sale at Sotheby's Paris.
Jane Birkin's Original Birkin had a shoulder strap
As described by Morgane Halimi, Sotheby's Global Head of Handbags and Fashion, the bag is a true unicorn in the world of fashion and accessories. Being the prototype, the original Birkin bag auctioned today differs slightly from the standard Birkin bags available on the market. Firstly, its size is unique: it has the width and height of a Birkin 35 cm but the depth of a 40 cm Birkin. Unlike later models, it features closed metal brackets and a zip made by the Éclair company (before Hermès began a partnership with the Riri company). It features an attached shoulder strap and has her initials, J.B., embossed on the front flap. Like all Birkin bags, this one has studs on the base, but these are smaller than the standard ones used today. The original also displays gilded brass hardware, which in later models was replaced by gold-plated hardware and other finishes. Finally, the bag comes with a set of nail clippers attached to the base of the strap, a reflection of the practical nature and tomboy aesthetic Jane Birkin personified.
Jane Birkin's Original Birkin has a pair of nail clippers attached to the strap
Today's record sale comes as no surprise. The Original Birkin bag is a piece of fashion history. Unique in its finish, this iconic piece was made specifically for Jane Birkin. As Kormind says, it's the one she used, the one that started the trend and therefore the one whose story is one-of-a-kind.
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Onn microSD Express Card (512GB) - $66 @ WalmartThis microSD Express card offers double the built-in storage of the Switch 2 at 512GB for significantly less than the competition. Like the 256GB version, it has read speeds of up to 800 MB/s and write speeds of up to 600 MB/s. Surprisingly, both cards are also water, shock, temperature and magnet proof according to Onn. Update: Date: 2025-07-23T22:25:22+00:00 Title: U.S. stock sweep — Target out, Best Buy and Sam's Club have stock Content: After a quick sweep of US retailers I found that Target no long has Switch 2 consoles available. However, Best Buy still has consoles available and I'm seeing the Mario Kart World bundle available at Sam's Club. You might need to check your zip code for checking. Update: Date: 2025-07-23T21:29:06+00:00 Title: Got a Switch 2? Buy this next... Content: Today was a great day for Switch 2 restocks. If you were able to secure a console, one of the top accessories we recommend buying next is the Switch 2 Pro Controller. Yes, the Joy-Con 2 controllers do the job, but the revamped Switch 2 Pro controller offers a more comfortable design, a smooth/grippy finish, and an impressive 40-hour battery life. While it's a bit on the expensive side, I'd argue it's worth it given how much it can level up your playing experience. The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is practically guaranteed to be the most in-demand Switch 2 accessory, and it packs a suitable upgrade over its predecessor adding a headphone jack, the new "C" button, and customizable back buttons. Additional retailers: Best Buy | GameStop | Walmart Update: Date: 2025-07-23T19:57:18+00:00 Title: Yes, you can still get the Switch 2 at Target and Best Buy Content: When Switch 2 is still available, we don't mind repeating ourselves... especially for anyone who missed a previous update. Right now, Target and Best Buy still have Switch 2 in stock, so now is a perfect chance to get this system. You never know when stock will run out again, so don't miss out! Also, Amazon is still taking invite requests, so be sure to sign up for that. Update: Date: 2025-07-23T18:53:45+00:00 Title: Best Buy & Target restocks still going strong! Content: It's a good day for prospective Switch 2 buyers, as Best Buy and Target still have stock of the highly coveted Nintendo console. And as we've said before, Amazon is also still accepting invites to be notifed when it has stock. Don't miss out! Update: Date: 2025-07-23T16:57:24+00:00 Title: Restock alert! Best Buy & Target still have stock Content: It's turning out to be quite the busy day for Switch 2 restocks. Best Buy and Target still have stock of both the standalone Switch 2 and the Switch 2 Mario Kart World Bundle. Meanwhile, Amazon is still accepting invite requests to purchase the Switch 2. So if you haven't had luck with restocks before, now is the day to secure your console. And if you're still on the fence, check out our Nintendo Switch 2 review where we call it a well-designed hybrid console that offers a fantastic play experience, whether tethered to your television or roaming just about anywhere. Update: Date: 2025-07-23T15:15:49+00:00 Title: Hands-on with Super Mario Party Jamboree for Switch 2... Content: Super Mario Party Jamboree: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV is set to release tomorrow (July 24). The new Jamboree TV expansion is a no-brainer if you enjoyed the original game, which was packed with loads of boards and minigames. It includes new features designed to work with the Switch 2. If you already own the original game, you can purchase the upgrade pack to play the Switch 2 Edition. (You'll still have to pay $19 for the upgrade pack). My colleague Anthony Spadafora spent some time playing the game and called it the best reason to get a Switch 2 camera. He says the new Switch 2 Edition of the game and its Jamboree TV expansion add unique additions to the core Mario Party gameplay. For example, you literally put yourself in the game with the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera and even play some minigames using full-body motion controls. You can also play other games using Mouse Mode with the Switch 2 Joy-Cons. Below you'll find retailers selling the game along with were to purchase the Switch 2 camera. Super Mario Party Jamboree is getting a Switch 2 makeover. The new game will feature all new modes, game types, and rules that work with the new console. The game will release on July retailers: Best Buy | Walmart | GameStop This full HD camera features a USB-C port for easy connectivity and is designed to work perfectly with your Nintendo Switch 2. It works across every Switch 2 game for GameChat and is fully integrated in some titles like Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV. The Switch 2 camera also features a privacy shutter and the included stand makes it easy to get the perfect angle. Additional retailers: Best Buy | Walmart | GameStop Update: Date: 2025-07-23T14:15:16+00:00 Title: You can still pre-order Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundles at these retailers Content: Speaking of all things Pokémon, you can still pre-order the upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 bundles at Best Buy, Target and the Nintendo Store right now. Of course, there are Switch 2 consoles available to grab right now at Best Buy and Target, and this Pokémon bundle won't arrive until the game's release date, October 16. However, if this is the game you're looking to grab with your Switch 2, then you can reserve your bundle right now! Update: Date: 2025-07-23T13:26:15+00:00 Title: Pre-order Switch 2 Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle in the UK Content: The Switch 2 Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundles are up for pre-orders in the U.S., but if you're in the U.K., you can also now get a bundle for £429 over at Smyths. Set to be in stock on October 16, when the new Pokémon game will launch, you can now pre-order the bundle to get your hands on the a Switch that comes bundled with the upcoming Pokémon title. For now, this appears to be the only U.K. retailer that has the Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle up for pre-order, so if it suits your fancy, you can reserve yours now. Update: Date: 2025-07-23T12:22:21+00:00 Title: Best Buy and Target Switch 2 stock still going strong! Content: Who would've thought Switch 2 stock would still be up for grabs at Best Buy and Target! Both retailers have the Switch 2-only and Mario Kart World bundles available, and the consoles have been in stock for quite some time now. After a sweep, these are the only U.S. retailers that have Switch 2 consoles in stock right now, and it's good news that they haven't gone out of stock just as they appeared. But there's no telling how long this will last, so if you've been waiting for your chance to grab Nintendo's latest console, now's definitely the time. Update: Date: 2025-07-23T11:20:07+00:00 Title: Switch 2 in stock at Best Buy and Target Content: Here's something to chase away the mid-week blues: both Target and Best Buy have stock of Nintendo Switch 2. You can score either the standalone console for $449 or the Mario Kart World Bundle for $499. It's looking supply of the Switch 2 is finally starting to catch up to the demand as these restocks are sticking around (for now)! Update: Date: 2025-07-23T10:04:43+00:00 Title: Plenty of Switch 2 stock in the UK Content: As has been the running theme pretty much since the Switch 2 dropped, it's currently pretty straightforward to secure a Nintendo Switch 2 in the UK; the console isn't just in stock at a single retailer, but several. So, pick your preferred retailer from the list below, and then place your order as normal. No need to queue or endlessly refresh to get one. Update: Date: 2025-07-23T08:52:12+00:00 Title: Pokemon bundle still up for pre-order Content: Patient players can lock in a Switch 2 order today as the Pokémon Legends Z-A Bundle, which was revealed yesterday (July 22), is still up for pre-order at retailers including Best Buy, Target and Nintendo Store, it costs $499 (the same price as the Mario Kart Bundle), and you get a Switch 2 console and copy of the new Pokemon. But the catch here is that this bundle is launching to coincide with the release of the game, which doesn't hit shelves until October 16, so you'll be facing quite the wait before you have your hands on a Nintendo Switch 2. If you don't want to wait until October to start playing on Switch 2, stick with this blog for the latest restock updates. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T23:55:22+00:00 Title: Last look around for the day Content: Here's the last look around US retailers for the day. Nothing has changed in the last hour, so Best Buy is still your best bet for a more immediate console. Or you can wait for the Pokemon bundles coming in October. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T22:38:13+00:00 Title: Retailer Sweep + Nintendo store has the Pokemon bundle Content: With stock fluctuating through out the day at various stores, I'm taking a quick sweep around the retailers to see what's currently available. Here's what I'm seeing: The Nintendo store is finally showing the Pokemon bundle. It joins the options currently showing at Target and Best Buy. As a reminder, the bundle doesn't actually come out until October. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T21:47:32+00:00 Title: Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundles go live Content: We're finally seeing the Switch 2 Pokemon Legends Z-A bundle that Nintendo announced earlier today go live. Though Nintendo said the bundle would be available via the My Nintendo Store, I'm still not seeing it there as of 6 p.m. ET. But Target and Best Buy both have the bundle available for preorder on their respective storefronts. Though note that Best Buy has it marked as a "high demand product" that's expected to sell out quickly. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T20:57:42+00:00 Title: Still in stock at Target Content: While Target has sold out of the Mario Kart World bundle, you can still get the standalone Switch 2 for $449 on its online storefront. Here in Chicago, you can pick it up in store or have it delivered. We've seen Target sell out before, though, so there's no telling how long stock will last. You'll want to add a Switch 2 to your cart sooner rather than later, or else risk facing that dreaded "out of stock" sign again. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T19:53:29+00:00 Title: Briefly in stock at Walmart Content: You always have to be careful when checking Walmart's online store for Nintendo Switch 2 stock as the site shows listings from 3rd-party sellers too. For instance, I checked just a few minutes ago and the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart Bundle was available at its regular price of $499 from Walmart. Then when I went to refresh the page, the price rose to $593 which means that Walmart ran out of stock and went back to showing 3rd-party listings. The moral of the story, be careful or you could end up overpaying for your Switch 2 if you buy it from Walmart's website. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T18:27:29+00:00 Title: Save on this all-in-one carrying case Content: If you managed to snag a Switch 2 in one of today's restocks, then you're definitely going to need a carrying case for your new console. While there are plenty of cases for the Switch 2 on its own, what if you want to bring the console, dock and all your accessories with you too?Although Nintendo has its own Nintendo Switch 2 All-in-One Carrying Case it's currently sold out and is also hard to find in stores. At $85, this official carrying case is quite expensive too. Fortunately, Hori has its own compact carry all travel bag for the Switch 2 which costs half as much and right now, it's on sale for 13% off at Amazon. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T17:34:57+00:00 Title: Switch 2 in stock at Best Buy Content: Right now, it appears that Best Buy has both the Switch 2 and the Switch 2 Mario Kart Bundle in stock. I checked online and I could go pick up a console in store or have it delivered later this week. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T17:02:18+00:00 Title: Still no Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundles... Content: It's coming up on 1pm here in New York and there's still no signs of that Switch 2 Pokemon Legends Z-A bundle Nintendo announced earlier. The release said the bundle would be available via the My Nintendo Store and select retailers today, but I checked Nintendo and some major retailers like Best Buy and Walmart and there's no new bundles available. That said, it's likely we may see it available for pre-order tomorrow. We'll be hunting for pre-orders on your behalf! Update: Date: 2025-07-22T15:44:57+00:00 Title: Retailer sweep: Some stock right now... Content: Time for a retailer sweep! So it looks like we have some Switch 2 restocks happening at the moment. If you're a Prime member, you can request an invite to buy via Amazon. Meanwhile, Target has the Switch 2 available for $449. Here in New York, you can purchase it in-store or have it delivered. Finally, Antonline has some bundles available from $619. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T14:35:56+00:00 Title: Lights, camera, action... Content: Super Mario Party Jamboree Switch 2 Edition debuts this week and one accessory you'll want for the game is the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera. The official webcam is for anyone who likes being seen when playing games online. Its small size makes it easy to situate almost anywhere, and it delivers a sharp enough image. Though not everyone will want or need this peripheral, it's a neat-looking device that works as advertised. One of Switch 2's new features is GameChat, and to get the most out of this latest addition, you'll need a Nintendo Switch 2 Camera to video chat with your friends online. Additional retailers: Best Buy | GameStop | Walmart Update: Date: 2025-07-22T13:54:42+00:00 Title: New Pokemon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 Bundle announced! Content: Nintendo just announced a brand-new Switch 2 bundle is coming our way! Today, the company revealed that Pokémon fans would be able to get a Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends: Z-A Bundle for $499, which launches simultaneously with the forthcoming game on October 16, 2025. The bundle includes the console and the full game download for Pokémon Legends: Z-A- Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. A Nintendo press release says pre-orders for the new bundle are available on My Nintendo Store and participating retailers, but I couldn't see the listing when I checked just now. Nintendo of Europe has confirmed the new Switch 2 bundle will also be available in the UK and beyond, but pre-orders don't start until tomorrow (October 23). Update: Date: 2025-07-22T13:31:58+00:00 Title: UK: Save on DK Bananza at Currys Content: Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza are the major Nintendo games available for the Switch 2 at present. If you want to get a console and both titles in the UK, Currys might be one of the best places to go. Right now, the retailer has an offer on that lets you get 15% off the newly-released (and brilliant) DK: Bananza when purchased alongside any Nintendo Switch 2 system or bundle, including the £429 Mario Kart World Bundle. All you need to do is add a Nintendo Switch 2 system and the game to your basket and USE CODE DK15 at checkout, and you can bag your new console and the new platformer together for less. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T13:04:28+00:00 Title: Potential Switch 2 stock at Walmart Content: In a similar situation to Target, I am currently seeing some Switch 2 systems showing as available at select Walmart stores on the retailer's website. It might be more of a longshot, but there's always a chance a Walmart near you has some units in stock, so worth checking nonetheless. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T12:35:20+00:00 Title: Target still has limited Switch 2 stock available Content: Just checked back in at Target, and it looks like they still have some Switch 2 systems available in select stores. Click through now to check whether a nearby Target store is offering pickup or shipping. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T12:05:29+00:00 Title: Request an Amazon invite Content: Don't forget that Amazon is still selling Nintendo Switch 2 systems by invitation. Amazon Prime members can request an invite to buy the Nintendo Switch 2 or Mario Kart World bundle right now. And if you've already requested an invite, make sure to check your email inbox! Update: Date: 2025-07-22T11:36:58+00:00 Title: Nintendo Switch 2 games on sale! Content: Since the Nintendo Switch 2 is still so new, I wasn't expecting to see any Switch 2 game deals appear any time soon. However, you can already save on a couple of digital Switch 2 games over at Nintendo! Notably, No Man's Sky is on sale with an impressive 60% discount. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T11:07:36+00:00 Title: Limited Switch 2 stock available in select Target stores Content: Target recently had a major Switch 2 restock, and it looks like a few units are still hanging around! Check and see if there's a nearby Target store that offers pickup or shipping to you. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T10:43:06+00:00 Title: DK Bananza is the Switch 2's system seller Content: Like pretty much all Switch 2 owners, I've been spending my weekend playing Donkey Kong Bananza, and as TG's reviewer, Anthony Spadafora said, it's "one of the best reasons to get a Switch 2." In fact, I'd go further, it's currently the reason to get one. This platform is a complete blast, and the way you can smash through entire levels never stops being novel. It's also a collector's dream with a staggering amount of knick-knacks to find, and the completionist in me wanted to find literally everything. If you already own a Switch 2, or plan to pick one up soon once the next round of restocks appear, then you need to make sure DK Bananza is one of the first games you play. Yes, Mario Kart World is fun, but Bananza is the true Switch 2 system seller. Donkey Kong Bananza allows DK to smash his way through (and down into) the surrounding terrain. He can punch his way through mountains or head underground in search of collectibles. It's hands-down one of the Switch 2's biggest titles. Additional retailers: Amazon | GameStop| Walmart Update: Date: 2025-07-22T10:14:37+00:00 Title: Switch 2 currently sold out in the US Content: In the story is less positive in the US right now. Currently, the Nintendo Switch 2 is sold out across major retailers. Though you can still request an invite at Amazon, so that is your best bet at present. Still, the most recent restock came from Target and lasted several hours, taking almost a full day to sell out, so hopefully once the console returns we'll again see a longer period of availability rather than a sell out in just a minutes. Update: Date: 2025-07-22T10:02:21+00:00 Title: Plenty of Switch 2 restock in the UK Content: Let's start with a Switch 2 restock update for folks in the U.K. The good news is there's an abundance of available stock at several retailers including Amazon, Currys, Very and GAME. So if you live in the U.K., and want to pick up a Nintendo Switch 2 this week, the only question is which retailer do you prefer to shop at? Make your pick down below! Update: Date: 2025-07-22T09:20:43+00:00 Title: Welcome! Content: Hello! Welcome to Tom's Guide latest Nintendo Switch 2 restock live blog, covering all the latest updates on where to buy the popular hybrid console across major retailers. I'm hoping to see plenty of fresh chances to buy a Switch 2 this week, so let's get straight into hunting for restocks now.

Business Insider
8 hours ago
- Business Insider
I was laid off and can't find a job. My savings are nearly gone and my self-confidence is low, but I believe I'll find one.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Michelle Keller, a 58-year-old in Georgia who was laid off from her voice engineer job in April. The following has been edited for length and clarity. I had my dream job as a voice engineer for 15 years. My work-life balance was good, and the job was mostly remote, which allowed me to take in my father, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, four years ago. I would've stayed in the job forever. My plan was to work for about 10 more years to pay down our mortgage. Then, at 68, it'd be easy to live off of Social Security and savings. I was laid off on a Wednesday at the end of April in a massive corporate layoff, and I haven't found a new job yet. My layoff was a complete shock I worked for this company for 20 years, and we went through a number of acquisitions. There were plenty of layoffs, but I'd never been affected by one. I definitely had a false sense of security. I went to Walmart the day I got laid off to get a laptop. The panic for me to get another job and get us back into our harmonious daily cadence set in quickly. I've applied to a few dozen jobs. I'm a very confident person, but my self-confidence is very low due to the job search. I placed the lump sum I received in severance in the savings account I share with my husband. On the days I would've normally been paid, I transferred my typical paycheck amount to our checking account so I could continue to pay our bills as usual. My husband works part-time, and my father gets Social Security checks. I don't want to lose our dream property My husband's and my savings will dry up sometime within a month. I have to start working because I can't lose the dream property we bought three years ago. We had always wanted to own a piece of land with family members on the property. Our property is very wooded and has a large barn and a small guest house, where a couple who are our family friends live. We have 10 hens, one rooster, a dog, and a cat. My son, daughter, husband, father, and I live in the main home. Five days after I got laid off, our 26-year-old daughter called to say she was miserable in Kentucky due to the challenges of launching a business and would be moving home. Our son, 28, has always lived with us. I joke with my husband about how we're never going to be empty nesters. My dream is to have the whole family living on our property. That's my legacy; when I'm gone, they'll have it. Before we sell this house, we'd probably see what else we could sell, such as vehicles. We haven't charged our kids rent, but we'll be asking them to contribute. I might have to take out 401(k) retirement money early with government penalties, which is sickening. Taking care of things Since being laid off, there have only been a couple of days early on when I really didn't want to get out of bed. I make the bed every morning. Once you've done your first job, you're ready to get more accomplished. I let the chickens out and feed them, and wait for the beautiful eggs that they lay for us. I've always had responsibilities, whether it was caring for the kids or my dad. My caregiving responsibilities for my father aren't challenging overall. I just make sure that he takes his medications, drinks plenty of liquids, is provided with meals and snacks, and I drive him to some appointments. My husband and son have played a huge role in my father's well-being since he's lived with us. He has experienced several dementia-related setbacks since April, which now require more time and attention. It only adds to the chaos of it all. I can't stand not working I'm working harder than I've worked in years, trying to network and apply for jobs. I've gotten auto-replies saying that they've received my application. Occasionally, I get a response saying the position has been filled. Before this, I hadn't had to do a job interview in decades. Back in the day, you met people in person for it. I recently had an interview over video call. I'm applying to different positions in telecommunications. As a voice engineer, I created call routing menus that customers would call and worked with internal teams on telecom issues. Uploading recordings like, "Please hold for the next available representative" was commonplace for me. I've had to expand my search The challenge now is taking my specific role and utilizing the base of my knowledge for another role. I'm trying to stay away from the engineering aspect because I want to use my skills that separate me from engineers. I may end up as a customer service agent, since I know all the tools. I've expanded my job search from fully remote to hybrid. I'm not entertaining part-time jobs, but once panic sets in, who knows? I'd like to get a salary that's closer to what I was used to, so I can go back to my "normal." I don't know why it's taking so long, but I'm trying to be patient. I believe my soft skills will certainly find me a position.