Although I was absolutely loving working on the ranch, helping Josh with his projects, our bank account was not loving it 😊 I had been searching for a company that would allow me to work 100% remote. With Josh’s health issues, and living on a ranch 30 minutes from town, I could not afford to be gone for 10-11 hours a day between work and commute. Working from home was the best option for our family.

I wanted to get my FPC (Fundamental Payroll Certification) as I felt that would not only make me more marketable in the job search, but would allow me to grow as a payroll professional. I love payroll and know that will be my career until I retire. I joined the APA (American Payroll Association), signed up for an online class, registered for the test, and hit the books!

One of the first jobs I applied for was for a home healthcare company out of Connecticut. They needed someone to process their payroll and the position was 100% remote. I had two interviews with them before they finally offered me the position. I was happy to accept! The company is small now but growing rapidly. I am very excited to be part of this company and hope to stay with them for a very long time.

My FPC exam was scheduled for October 9 first thing in the morning. I was as prepared as I could be. I had passed my online class with no problem, I scored well on the final practice test. I knew that if I didn’t pass, I couldn’t take the test again until March and I DID NOT want to go through the stress of studying and testing again. It was now or never! The morning of my exam came and I locked myself in our room to take the exam. I had three hours to finish. It took me almost the entire time. As I clicked submit, I said a prayer to God, and closed my eyes. My palms were sweating, my heart was racing. Finally, the result popped up on the screen “CONGRATULATIONS, YOU PASSED!”

I could not believe my eyes! All of my hard work had paid off! I could not wait to share the news with Josh, my Mom and everyone else who supported me during my study journey. I learned a lot during my studies, but I was so thankful to not have to go through that stress again!