Life In Lumber, Week #73

 Day 319:

Arrived; rang up customers, did pop count, gathered paperwork and consolidated trash.  At 6pm, a CFH arrived, 1st wanting me to see if someone could bring up a sink.  I called back; they were swamped.  So rang up her range hood.  Then since she couldn't get her app to load, I pulled up mine and searched faucets for her.  She took my phone and scrolled while I rang up the next customer in line, and Hannah arrived.  She told me to go do my cart test and take my break.  CFH wasn't happy to give my phone back, but she did, and told H 'she's YOUR problem now.'  

Aced my cart test, then took my break!  Returned to find H swamped, so hopped on #2, where I ended up staying until nearly 7.  Got back on #1 and crowd died down.  Swept the floors, did the Lowe's U and AP4Me, then began sanitizing and pulled the trash.  Only had maybe 4 customers from 8-9pm and locked the doors after last customer at 9.

Outfit:  Brown sweater, new jeggings, tool mask

Day 320:

Brought 5 doz choc chip cookies in, and the first two hours, rang up customers, did the pop count,  gathered paperwork, consolidated trash, and swept the floor. Went to break at 7:30, and when I returned, had a rush and didn't start closing duties until nearly 8:30.  Had one customer tell me he had 3 12' boards cut into 8', and wanted the 8' price, as well as 3 4' price.  Told him I couldn't do that, but his funds were low, so went ahead and knocked one down to $6 instead of $7.  Sanitized everything, and locked the doors at 9.  

Saw Chris H and told him I wasn't happy with him about the door issue over Thanksgiving; he said he'd realized they weren't his and brought 'em back.  Told him I forgave him!

Outfit:  Brown shirt, white long-sleeved tee, new jeggings, tool mask.

Day 321:

Went in early to retrieve my cookie tote, then did the LU.  Was swamped from 5-6, then did pop count and early closing duties.  By 7, I pulled the trash, and took my break at 7:30.  Came back; rang up 2 customers and then sanitized everything.  Had maybe 10 customers for 40 mins, then at 8:45, three groups of people walked in the door and all were in the checkout lane ten minutes later.  Literally locked the doors behind the final customers.

Was sleeting when I left; nearly fell down as I exited the store!

Outfit:  Maroon plaid, white tank, new jeggings, tool mask

Day 322:  New Year's Eve, 2-6pm

Took in a dozen frosted sugar cookies to Lumber, and they were well received!  Was fairly steady for the 1st hour, with Gigi, and after she left, I did the soda count and collected paperwork and trash.  Then was slammed until 5:50, when I needed a pit stop, and asked loader K to cover for me.  Returned and had maybe ten more in line, and finally locked the doors at 6:15!  Took the trash down, and tucked the soda count in my pocket, as we weren't doing it.  That way, I'll be able to pick it up tomorrow.

Only needed one o/r, for a cull pack.

Outfit:  Black/white nice shirt, black foundation layer shirt, black jeggings, snow boots.  I didn't want another near-mishap like last night! Also wore my Monet mask.

Day 323:  Happy New Year!  2-6pm

Thought I was in for a nice, easy shift, but that only lasted 15 mins.  Was slammed for an hour, then had time to do half the soda count and consolidate the trash before the next wave hit.  Mel sent me to break at 4:30, then was slammed until closing.  The $600 stimulus checks hit, so 'let's go spend it!'  I'm sorry; I have better plans for mine than to spend it at a home-improvement center!  I'm going to get rid of two medical bills and put that monthly $200 back into my budget:)

Outfit:  Blue/white stripe turtleneck, new jeggings, new elephant mask.

                         Happy New Year!!!  

*Here's hoping 2021 is better than 2020, and we can get rid of these damn masks!!!*

2020: A Look Back

 I had some lofty goals for this past year, didn't I?  Let's recap and see what WAS accomplished:

-Cleaning out Mom's house Check!  Had everything moved out by late March/early April
-Getting her moved to Assisted Living Check!  She moved in March 1st, just in time for the state-wide Covid-19 shutdown.
-Watch my 1st born get married Check!  Due to CV, they had to post-pone it until June 27th.
-Write RiKar's Redemption (The Chosen #5) Not yet
-Finish/add words to Heart Song No
-Finish/submit Time Travel Trilogy No
-Finish Paranormal Preacher No
-Write new Bridges story Yes, wrote 2.
-Hand-sell 150 Books (previous record 145 in 2018) No; due to the pandemic, only sold maybe 30?
-Pull titles from KU and learn D2D, plus maybe Audible? Not yet
-Buy Inventory and vertical banner Yes!
-Get Second Chances edited (Ariana??) Yes!  Used Lenore again
-Pay cover artist for Second Chances Check!  Bought pre-made from Dawne'....beautiful!
-Promote SC and have successful launch Lukewarm launch, due to CV pandemic
-Paying down personal debt ($400) Check!

-Paying down credit card debt ($600 Check!  Final payment was early Dec) and medical debt ($3000 Still chipping away....think I'm down to $2K??)
-Set up at:
    -Jan:  StoryCon at Benton Co. Public Library Sold 1; cold and rainy weather kept all but maybe 5 adults and 7 kids away.
   -April:  Kentuckiana Book Fair (1/18:  Skipping this year, due to circumstances??), Dale Library (1/18:  Skipping this one also, due to circumstances??); attend writer's conference in Nashville, In, Weekend With The Authors (also, taking Mom with me to Nashville, IN and possibly KY event)  CANCELLED
   -June:  Corning Irish Festival, PrideFest  CANCELLED
   -July:  InConJunction, Imaginarium, Heroes For Kids, CANCELLED
   -Aug:  Watermelon Fest ONLY fest open; sold 22! ,Royal Readers at Mall of America, State Fair CANCELLED
   -Sept:  Cil-Con CANCELLED, Penned Con Did it online; no sales (that I know of, anyway), Saluki-Con post-poned until Jan?
   -Oct:  Art Walk   CANCELLED
   -Nov:  ICGAHS, Rivet, Art Walk CANCELLED

Even the Olympics in Tokoyo were cancelled, to be played hopefully next year.

2020, Month-by-Month:

Jan:

Mom and I dealt with the cold and snowy weather; I fought with HR for leave approval.  Wendy arrived while I went home to see about my job status.  Since I'd worked the 1st part of Dec, I had 8 additional weeks of approved leave.

Feb:

While I was gone, my sister convinced my mom to move into the facility March 1st. We crunched the numbers and decided on which room Mom could afford, and began packing her belongings.  W gathered up the ones she wanted, and I was furious when she took one of the yearbooks I'd wanted.  She didn't even go to that school!  Why did she want it?  I took pictures of the pages, reasons we both wanted it.  I got the one before, that had a certain celebrity's 8th grade picture in it.  Whoopee.

My BIL arrived, to help with the packing of the heavy stuff.  Rented a storage unit and began moving boxes and furniture. Found my Mother-of-the-Groom dress!

March:

Moved Mom in; sold things to Schoolhouse Auctions and the pawnshop; then the virus hit the Midwest and Mom's facility went on lockdown.  I'd managed to put most of her things away, but her room was still a mess. Fortunately, staff tried to help organize things.  My family arrived and was none to happy to see the items I tagged for myself, but tough toenails.  Celebrated my Teen's 16th birthday at Outback, and for the spouse's birthday, he got a wife who brought a bunch of 'trash' (his words, not mine) home.  State went on lockdown the 25th, so S and I worked feverishly for 2 days to move everything out of the house that we could pack, and into the garage what we couldn't.  Even spent one night at Kristin's house, to avoid a 6 hour round-trip drive.  Came home and organized MY house.  Went to Lowe's and began working again on the 31st.

April:

Worked my a$$ off, 40 hours a week, and was able to not only order inventory, but get medical debt paid off/down, CC paid down, and future Con/festivals paid. Worked LG and up front, as part of my 're-training'.

May:

Was pissed when we had to start wearing a mask at work; tried to claim my asthma as a medical condition, but was told I'd still have to wear it. Was finally moved back to lumber.  Indy 500 was cancelled, so worked Memorial Weekend, and my back hurt so much by Sunday, I asked Mgr T if I could come in at 5 on Mon instead.  Yay!

June:

Had a massage on June 3rd to hopefully relieve back issues.  Began having a personality conflict with one of my co-workers, and started mildly pestering Scott to cut my hours.  An asthma attack forced me to call into work, but was able to work the 2nd half of my shift.  Discovered I need to really wash my masks more often. K and J's wedding went off w/o a hitch, with the exception on a last-minute change of venue and an early exodus at the reception!  I only teared up twice.

July: 

Was scheduled to work 8 days straight, but only made it 7 before exhaustion claimed me.  Called in for entire day for the 1st time since last Nov.  Received permission from Steve to take off 2 weeks for Vegas vacation.

Aug:

Was able to do a face-to-face visit with my Mom!  Spent her birthday with her:)  Watermelon Festival was GREAT!  Sold 22 books and discovered one of my co-workers is a voracious reader!  Left for Vegas vacation and had a GREAT time; saw BC Brown, got to visit 6 new states, and really recharged my batteries. Had to call in for the 2nd time, due to not being back yet.  W was adamant about NOT wearing a mask to school, so decided to home-school him.  Which meant, my hours would definitely need to be cut in Sept!

Sept:  

Worked Labor Day weekend, then my hours were cut from 12:30-close to 4-close. Spouse had emergency kidney stone surgery, meaning I had to call in a 3rd time for the entire day.  I was a lot happier, but W took it to mean he could now sleep until 2pm.  Found out about a 'non-convention' in Ohio, and sold 4 books:)  Attended the online Penned Con and bought 22 books.  Don't think I sold any, though.

Oct:

My two sons had a heart-to-heart, and the decision was made to pull W from school and enroll him in GED classes.  He loved his new schedule, and I continued to work my new shift.  Halloween was a somber event, and we early voted.

Nov:

Were very dismayed by Election Night results, and wondered what the hell was on half the country's minds?  Al we can do is pray for the future of our country, and for our leaders.  Mel, Marci, and I went to Louisville for a film screening, and were alarmed when the director announced on Mon she had the virus.  Marci's SO came down with it, but Mel and I did not.  I did end up coming down with bronchitis, and laid on the couch for four days. Fortunately, I wasn't scheduled to work. I did go spend another weekend with Mom, and had to call in for the 4th time that Saturday, since I couldn't find anyone to take my shift. Did make it for my Sunday shift.  My weekday hours were cut to 5-close, which was still enough to pay my bills.  Thanksgiving came and went; I just wanted to sit on the couch and watch the Gilmore Girls marathon, but my spouse demanded I cook the turkey.  As soon as the food was cooked, I plopped my butt on the couch.

Dec:

Bought presents, and was just not in the Christmas spirit. Kids decorated the house; I worked and watched GG and SVU in my spare time, until it was time I needed to bake cookies.  Spent my birthday doing laundry, then we ended up at Outback for dinner.  Went to see Mom the next day, and ate at Red Lobster with Rita, Cookie and Brian M.  Christmas was quiet; after presents were opened, S, P, and A went to P's house and I curled up on the couch to continue watching SVU.  K, J, and S arrived on Sat, and stayed three hours. Continued my SVU viewing.  Sunday, finished watching all episodes recorded Nov-Dec 20th!  Hope to stay on top of new episodes recording Tues 12/29 and Thurs 12/31.

Life In Lumber, Week #72

 Day 315:

Shift was off to a good start!  I was even early, and relieved bearded Matt.  Rang up customers, did pop count, collected paperwork and consolidated trash.  Met new lumber associate D. Went to break at 7:15; returned and all hell broke loose.  Customer A had 3 carts totaling $1550, including 2 cans of discounted paint.  Left them for later, as I knew I'd need an o/r.  Halfway through, I spotted Scott, so called him over for the o/r.  Customer paid and went on his way. Customer B had four countertops which could not be found.  Had to call Devin (who was our HC-in-traning) down for help AND for an o/r.  Customer paid and went on their way. Customer C had 2 carts, and wanted to pay by check.  Well, she's unfamiliar with our banking system, and had her deposit slips in her checkbook.  Tried to pay with temp check, but we don't take those.  Ended up invoicing her items and she'll pick them up tomorrow.

Missed seeing the Christmas Star, but three FB friends had pics!!!

Outfit:  Red santa shirt with fancy sleeves; faded jeggings, SW mask.

Day 316:

Arrived early and did my AP4Me; then began shift.  Things went very well tonight; only needed one o/r; had everything accomplished by 7 with the exception of sanitizing.  Jillian relieved me for break at 7:40, and she filled the bags for me.  Sanitized everything and final customer left at 8:50.

Were given new shirts, hats (I declined), masks, and D rings:)

Outfit:  Snowflake shirt, faded jeggings, SW/tool masks.

Day 317: 

Was asked to come in early, since Bearded Matt had called in.  I was in the middle of making cookies, but turned everything over to W and made it by 3:15.  Shift went well; only had two complicated orders, and two customers left product in the bags.  Oops....Matt T relieved me at 6 for lunch, and when I returned, he took the pop count to the front.  Was slow; I had everything swept and sanitized by 8:30.

Missed out on the Great $2 Ice Scraper Rush...maybe they'll get more in??

Took more cookies in; they were all gone by 9:15.

Outfit:  Santa pyramid shirt, faded jeggings, tool mask.

Day 318:  X-mas Eve, 2-6:30

Had taken cookies in around 11, and the 1st layer was nearly gone by the time I hit the break room!  When I arrived at 2, discovered that only the evening shift's schedule had been adjusted; I'd be working with my least favorite cashier for an hour.  It wasn't that bad; we got along for 20-30 mins, then ran out of conversational topics, which was good, since we had a bit of a rush at 2:40!  One minute, we're twiddling our thumbs and eating Wally's pig-in-a-blankets, and the next there's five people in each line!

After G left, things slowed down and did the pop count, and gathered paperwork and consolidated trash.  Matt relieved me at 4 for my break, and when I returned, we didn't have hardly anyone.  Began the closing duties and joking about maybe getting to go home early.  But at 5, the floodgates opened, and we were swamped from 5:30 til 6.  Mgr T had to repeat the 'we are closed' announcement TWICE after 6pm!  Clocked out around 6:20.

Needed two o/r:  One for discounted tile, the other for discounted paint.  Plus, ran out of 5s and 1s.

Outfit:  While X-mas sweater, faded jeggings, tool mask.

                  

                               Merry Christmas!!!

Amazing Race 2020, Ep 6-9

 Ep 6:  Berlin, Germany

Tiny Disco??

GBLTQ having issues driving the car.

NFL has to do it 2xs....

Hung/Chee:  1st time!

Detour:

Beer Yoga:  Beard, NFL, Hung/Chee

Singing:  GBLTQ, Sibs, PHD, Blondes.

1st:  NFL

Last:  Blondes.

Non-Elimination leg!

Ep 7:  Kazazstan

Speed Bump: Blondes get beards!

Roadblock:  

Spy:  PHD, Hung/Chee, Blondes

Knockout:  Beards, NFL, GBLTQ, Sibs

PHD:  20 minutes yield

Final:

GBLTQ-1st

PHD:  Eliminated

Ep 8:  "Mega Leg" India Pt 1

Pollution Check

Food app:  Blondes, Hung/Chee

Number Trap:  Rest

GBLTQ in lead

Roadblock: Beard, NFL, GBLTQ, Hung/Chee.

Blondes:  20 minute yield

Ep 9:  "Mega Leg" India Pt 2

Detour:

This (Matching bracelets):  Beard, NFL, GBLTQ

That (Making dentures):  Sibs, Hung/Chee, Blondes

Blondes:  20 minute yield

#1:  Beards

Eliminated:  Blondes

Life In Lumber, Week #71

 Day 311:

Arrived; was steady for 45 minutes.  Gathered paperwork, consolidated trash, and located a broom/dustpan.  Brea came down and did the pop count, plus she helped me with that stupid LU power equipment test. Went to break at 6:40, and afterward, I gathered the trash and did my AP4Me.  Began closing duties at 8, and locked the doors at 9.  Clocked out around 9:20.

Outfit:  Thick white sweater, dark jeggings, HP mask

Day 312:

Arrived and hopped on #2, since Jillian was having an issue with a customer's purchase.  Rang up 3 customers, then was able to hop back on #1.  Was busy for 30 mins, then collected paperwork, consolidated trash, and swept the floor.  Had another 'rush' around 6, and it was nearly 7:30 before I realized I'd not had my break yet.  J relieved me, and when I returned, began the closing duties.  We had zero customers after 8:45.

Loader K had a semi-meltdown with a turtle; he was frustrated b/c he was not only covering Lumber, but Tools and Plumbing, and customers were being demanding.  Took his frustration out on a screaming turtle; ended up breaking it.  K 1, turtle 0.

Outfit:  Bless This Mess sweatshirt, dark jeggings, HP mask.

Day 313: 

Arrived; things were steady for an hour.  Did pop count; gathered paperwork and trash.  Alexa relieved me at 6:45 for break, and when I returned, swept the floor and rang up the occasional customer.  Had one customer bring up a special order shower; had to call Brandon W to help locate the item #.  Sanitized everything, then got a call from Jamie and spoke to her for a half an hour while I locked the doors and took the trash to the hopper.  Clocked out at 9:20.

Had one customer explain the benefits of wearing a mask over one's nose.  As if I cared....*eye roll*

Discussed my Fri issue with Aggie; she thinks there will be enough people to cover me.  I *might* PM Tasha to see if there's anything she can do.....I'm willing to come in and work 12-6?!?!?

Outfit:  Teal green leafy tee, dark jeggings, HP mask; boots.

Day 314:

Brought in cookies (oatmeal-raisin, M&M, chocolate chip) and everyone raved about 'em.  Kerrie even wants to PAY me to make a dozen for her.  Phwah....I'll do it for free.  Shift was slow.  Went to break at 6:20; had everything done by 8:30.  Clocked out at 9:30.

Began shift in HP mask, then inhaled something which set off the asthma, and switched to the Monet mask.  Just realized I think I left the inhaler in my vest pocket.  Oops....

Outfit:  Red santa shirt, dark jeggings, HP/Monet mask.

Life In Lumber, Week #70

 Day 306:

Went in early, to get a few presents with my 20% discount. Clocked in, did the LU, then headed down to lumber, where Kyle and Olivia teased me about being late.  Was fairly steady until 6:30, but did get the pop count finished.  Matthew relieved me at 6:45, and not only finished putting away the soda, but swept up.  Had time to do the AP4Me, then was steady until 8:30, when I sanitized everything.  Clocked out around 9:15.

Outfit:  Red hooded sweater, new jeggings, HP mask

Day 307:

Arrived; did my LU. Relieved Jillian, who had already done the pop count.  Was slightly busy until 6, when I began sweeping.  Matt relieved me at 6:55; after I returned, discovered that HC MK, and Cashiers Olivia and Cameron had been fired, due to absences.  Was busy until 8, when began sanitizing everything.  Had one customer pay me $500 in $20 bills, with the final $100 in a mix of $20s, $10s, and ones.  Wanted to yell, 'Have you never heard of a credit card?' *gnashes teeth*

HC C came down to clean me out at 8:59; I locked the doors and gave Kyle the trash.  C and I headed up front, then noticed two men in the center aisle.  I informed them we were closing; they needed a piece of foam insulation, so showed 'em where it was, then trailed them back to the front.  Dropped off nails at Hardware, then went on my merry way to the break room.  Clocked out around 9:15.

Outfit:  Blue palm tree sweatshirt, new jeggings, HP mask, blue knitted sleeveless gloves (it was cold!)

Day 308:

Shift began with a tough LU; only scored 1/5, ugh.  Was so late, Jill paged me as I was coming out of the bathroom.  Turns out she's been diagnosed with breast cancer, so will add her to prayer list.  No idea when she'll return to work; depends on her surgery and treatment.  Did the pop count, only to be told we weren't doing it.  Swept the floor and rang up customers until Matt relieved me at 6:50.  After break, I pulled trash and worked on my Christmas to-do list, then began sanitizing everything at 8:15.  Clocked out at 9:15.

Amanda G showed up with my PZ prize:)

Outfit:  Gray quarter-sleeved sweatshirt, new jeggings, Monet mask.  Temp was warmer.

Day 309:

Arrived early and bought some GCs for family members, plus the touchless sanitizer thingy for next year's shows, should this madness continue.  Had another tough LU; only got 1/3.  Shift was fairly steady; was able to get floor swept and everything ready for the 8pm sanitizing by 6:50.  Came back from break and watched the new cleaning lady 'sanitize' the counters in about 2 minutes.  At 8:30, I cleaned 'em more thoroughly!

HC A came down and cleaned me out at 9, then I helped Kyle bring in the carts before tossing my trash into the hopper and putting up my vest.  Clocked out around 9:20.

Outfit:  Snowflake shirt, new jeggings, Monet mask.  Temp was 65 degrees today!

Day 310:

Logged into LU with ten minutes to spare, and was stumped with a 6-question quiz that I could not pass, even though I tried 3 times!  Finally gave up when I realized it was already 5 and I needed to get my butt down to Lumber.  Took over for Brenda and for the next 45 minutes, was swarmed.  Needed 3 o/r immediately, plus was renting out an insulation machine.  Finally things settled down; I did the pop count and noted which snack items were low.  Swept the floor and consolidated the trash.

Took my break at 6:30, then was alternately steady and slow until 8.  Sanitized everything and took my time, then locked the doors at 9.  Aggie cleaned me out; took the trash down, returned a pipe fitting, and hung up my vest.  Clocked out at 9:15.

Outfit:  Colts jersey, black long-sleeved tee, new jeggings, HP mask.

Life In Lumber, Week #69

 Day 303:

Arrived; discovered they were putting on a new roof right over our area.  Very hard to hear.  Was hectic the first hour, then slowed.  Took break at 6:50.  Nearly had all the closing duties finished when at 8:30, received phone call; D is bleeding somewhere and needs me to come home.  So clocked out at 8:40 and went home.

(Turned out to be a minor scratch, and the bleeding had stopped by the time I arrived home.)

Also did my Lowes U and AP4Me.

Outfit:  Red blouse, white vest, faded jeggings, dress boots (bad idea; my toes were making themselves known by 6!), Monet mask

Day 304:

Arrived; things were already slowed down.  Was doing closing duties by 6:30.  At 8:45, Scott came down and informed me of a huge mistake....I'd let a customer get his doors from behind the counter.....only.....they weren't his.  Was afraid he was going to fire me, but he didn't.  Just expressed his disappointment in me.

Did my LU after clocking in.

Took back the returns from yesterday and clocked out around 9:20.

Outfit:  Blue Whitehorse sweatshirt, faded jeggings, Monet mask.

Day 305:

Arrived; hopped on #2 to help get the line down, then Jillian needed help finding the rebar code, so we swapped registers.  Was steady for an hour, then swept the floor.  Had an issue finding a customer's LAR account, so had to call for a Code 3, since the guy was on both cell phones, trying to find the correct info.

Bearded Matt relieved me at 6:50 for my break, and when I returned, began the closing duties.  Was fairly steady until 8:30, and had to call HC A down for help with a pick ticket.  Also rented two insulation machines.

A came down to clean me out, just as a final customer approached.  She finished cleaning out the register, then rang him up, since he was paying by card.

Had to wait for Kyle to return with the hopper, but was told he was helping unload a truck, and to go on.  Clocked out at 9:20.

Outfit:  Blue Colts jersey, black long-sleeved shirt, faded jeggings, HP mask.

December Goals

 Is it just me, or did November seem to drag?

-Lose 5 lbs (starting 245) Lost 2:)

-Enjoy Letters To Daniel premier Check!

-Buy another scale Nope

-Work enough hours to pay bills Check!

-Work on RiKar's story for NaNo or Heart Song Nope

-Finish cleaning bedroom Sent clothes to basement, but otherwise, nope.

-Organize basement Nope

-Do well at Posey Co. Craft Fair Was sick; didn't go

-Get through Nov 20th without too much drama Check!

-Rent Mom another storage unit (Check!) and transfer everything Check!

-Find her a lift chair Check!  Should arrive late Jan/early Feb:)

Health Update: Contracted bronchitis the 2nd week of Nov; doing better, though voice still cuts in and out.

Books Read: 6

            Print: 4

        E-Book: 2

             DNF: 2

Karaoke Songs Added:  2, due to being sick and Thanksgiving.

Updated Book 'Tour':

-Evansville Women's Conference (Oct 29th) $125 ($100 reg, $25 lunch) Pd 7/31 Postponed until Jan 21, 2021

December Goals:

-Lose 5 lbs (starting 243)

-Earn enough to pay the bills

-Buy another scale

-Finish cleaning bedroom

-Organize basement

-Decorate house for Christmas Daughter put up tree and outside lights 12/2; Morty in place 12/11

-Bake cookies

   -6 doz O/R; 6 doz Choc Chip; 6 doz M/M 12/17

   -3 doz M/M; 3 doz Choc chip 12/23

-Hang pictures

-Have a good birthday Check!

-Finish Watching Gilmore Girls and SVU

Budget:

        14-20: 12 (due to WWG and Dad's year)
        21-27: 20 (due to T-Day and working weekend)
        Dec 4th projected income: 33 hours+180 (winning together bonus)=$499+$43 (left over)=$542  
$50 to church; pay St. V ($140 Check!) pay BSU card ($100 Check!); pay credit card ($88.56 PAID OFF! Check!); pay Maurice's ($50 Check!)=$119 banked-$20 gas-$30 lunch=$69 banked

        Nov 28-Dec 4:  28

                        5-11: 20

        Dec 18th projected income: 48 hours=$517

$52 to church; pay hearing aids ($120 Check!); pay GSH medical ($160 Check!)=$185-$100 (BSU Check!)=$85+$97 left over-pay St. V ($50 Check!)=$132 banked

         12-18: 16 (due to TSO show)
         19-25:  18 (due to X-mas)
          Dec 31st projected income:  34 hours=$452

$45 to church; pay St. V ($140 Check!); pay BSU card ($50 Check!); pay Maurices ($60 Check!); pay St. V ($50 Check!)+$78 banked=$185-$100 savings Check!=$85 banked+$.35 (amazon royalty)

December Reading Schedule:

Print:

The S*X Tape-Helen Scott/Serena Akeroyd Finally finished this horrible book.  

The Perfect Wife-A.L. Long DNF

Next To Never-ALL DNF

Next To Always-ALL DNF

Next To Forever-ALL DNF

The Bed Wife-Suzanne Lynne Good!  Didn't like all the flashbacks, but still a good story.

Hoosier Noir-J. Travis Grundon, et al Really enjoyed all these stories!

The Blood Stone-Jason Nugent DNF...not my preferred reading style, but to support a friend

The Mad King's Trials-BT Martinson DNF; made it all the way to Ch 6.  Not my preferred genre.

The Partner-John Grisham Enjoyed this reread!

Key of Light-Nora Roberts Enjoyed this reread!

E-book:

Corsets and Quartets-Mercy DeSimone Finally finished!  Made it to maybe 1/4th through, then skimmed until she went to the conference.  Read those chapters (VERY interesting!), then skimmed rest.  Felt there was a lot of 'fluff' which could have been left out, and trimmed this VERY long book (over 400 pages!) in half.

Spectral Vibrations-MD DNF

Railed-MD DNF

For The Love of Skating-Madeline Fay DNF

Chasing Time-Katie May DNF

Written On His Heart-Cathy Jackson Will read this later; all the 1st person books are beginning to wear on me.

Karaoke Songs:

12/3

Call Me-Blondie Did well!

Runaround Sue-Dion Surprisingly good!  Even had audience participation, and was in my vocal range!

Call Me Maybe-Carly Rae Jepson Beginning was a little rough, but by the 2nd verse was good!

12/10

Take It Away-Paul McCartney Bleh....too low

Runaway-Del Shannon Bleh....also too low

Back In My Arms Again-Supremes Redeemed myself with this one!  Nailed it!

Voices Carry-Til Tuesday Nailed it:)

Jackson-Johnny/June Cash Did well, for the 1st time singing it with another patron...

White Rabbit-Jefferson Airplane Nailed it and was cheered!

12/17

I Remember You-Skid Row Did well!

Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer-Gene Autry Sang this with Elaine....did well!  Didn't shoot video though.

I Will Be-Leona Lewis Nailed it!

F'n Perfect (clean vers)-Pink Nailed it, pissing off everyone else who'd put in for it....claimed Birthday Girl rights, ha ha!!!

Life In Lumber, Week #68

 Day 299:  Day Before Thanksgiving

Arrived; Matt was happy to see me.  Met the new lumber associate/loader James.  Was fairly busy until 6, then did the pop count and consolidated the trash and swept.  Matt relieved me at 6:40 for break; when I returned I gathered the trash and was fairly busy until 8:15.  Did the closing duties and checked out 3 customers.  Mel showed me how to print the journal for the end of my shift this weekend, since we're having a gift card contest.  Think it's mainly for the front end; there aren't any GCs plastered all over the lumber registers.  Winner of each day gets at $15 Grub Hub GC; highest sales at the end of Sun earns a $25 Papa John's GC.

Outfit:  Red turtleneck, faded jeggings, HP mask

Day 300:  Black Friday

Arrived at 12:30 and hopped on #2, then was steady all the way til 4, when it was my turn for lunch.  Discovered Jimmy Johns was catered in, so enjoyed a ham and cheese and relaxed and read for an hour.  Was steady again until 7, then slowed way down.  Was able to get closing duties finished and clocked out at 9:15.

When I arrived, Cam asked me why I was there so early.  Replied, "It's Black Friday and my child has no school."

Received disturbing phone call:  CS asked if I'd shorted anyone $100 in change; a customer had complained.  Said no; the most I'd given back as change had been $82!

Outfit:  Red Santa shirt, faded jeggings, Monet/HP mask (had to switch at lunch)

Day 301:  Small Business Saturday

Walked into a zoo!  Hopped on #3 for an hour, then moved to #2.  Was steady all the way til 4, and even got pop count done.  Went to lunch at 4:30 at Subway, and was steady until 7:30.  Had zero customers until 8:45, then had three in a row.  Was able to get closing duties done, even though my back was killing me.  Clocked out at 9:20.

Outfit:  Sugar cookie tee, faded jeggings, blue hooded Cabela's sweatshirt, Monet mask

Day 302:

Back was still sore.  Went in at 11:30 and things were steady until 3:30.  Got pop count done, and hung out with Jill.  Went to lunch at McAllisters. 

Slowed waaay down upon return, and had all closing duties finished by 7:30.

Outfit:  Brown gauze shirt. faded jeggings, blue hooded Cabela's sweatshirt, HP mask

Life In Lumber, Week #67

 Day 295:

I came down with bronchitis last week; all I did Thurs-Sun was lay on the couch and drink soup!  My voice was sliding into the bass range, so when I showed up for work, I wasn't sure if they'd let me stay, but they did.  Even though I was appalled at the sound of my voice the one and only time I had to page someone!  YIKES!

Still, I was able to do my job, even though I nearly made a major boo-boo in front of Mgr T....customer brought 5 of the poly-pro boards, and I pulled out my book.

"Are you seriously going to use a cheat code in front of me?"

"At least I'm honest?"  I grinned and put it away.  She found the item #; I'd found the same on earlier.

Things calmed down around 6, and Mel brought me the soda.  I filled it, then spent an hour sweeping the floor in between customers.  Matt relieved me at 7:15, and when I returned, I pulled the trash and began cleaning.

Aggie cleaned me out on the dot of 9, and we all clocked out fifteen minutes later.

Scott brought in a couple of carts and greeted me, then spun around when I answered him.

"You sound horrible!"

"It's my kids' favorite time of the year:  When Mom loses her voice."

He laughed!

Outfit:  White/gold stripe tee; faded jeggings; Monet mask

Day 296:

Feeling somewhat better; I was upset when my Washington group didn't meet on Tues.  But went in tonight; got all 5 questions correct on the Lowes U, and was moderately steady until 6:30.  Matt had already done the pop count, and an hour later, one of the girls came down and stocked it:)  We were kinda dead from 6:30-7:15, when Brenda relieved me for my break.  I only needed two o/r; Jess did one and Aggie the other, when two guys brought down siding that was damaged.  I rang them up, then took my break.

Afterward, had maybe 3 customers.  Did my closing duties and deep cleaned everything....floor, plexiglass, and counters.  Five minutes before closing, Customer brought down two carts worth of stuff, and it took twenty minutes to ring everything up.  Brenden came down to fix some of the prices, then he paid and left.  

Outfit:  Black/gray tee, black vest, faded jeggings, SW mask

Day 297:

Tonight went well:)  Matt was with me until 8, which meant he could take care of customers while I swept the entire area and did the soda count.  He took his break 1st, and when he returned, Hannah was there to collect the soda count.  We were fairly dead from 5:45-7, so I called HC A and asked if she wanted me to go to break.  Answer, yes, so I took mine until 7:20.  Came back; pulled trash and checked out one of my favorite Hispanic customers.....first they had a wall mount at 50% off; the sticker read $23.98, but rang up $19.19.  Called A, and asked if I was to take another 50% off that; she said yes, so they got it for under $10!  He paid the $450, then realized he had the hat on his head.  Paid the $6 for it, then came back in and asked about the damaged OSB and drywall outside.  Marked the OSB down to $14, and the drywall down to $7, so he paid another $30 and they left.  Matt was laughing at all the antics!

M left at 8, and I began sanitizing everything.  Only had a handful of customers, and we closed up on time.  Mgr T cleaned me out; I waited for Cam to return with the hopper before closing the door and heading to the break room.

Outfit:  Gray tee with leopard print stripe; faded jeggings; HP mask.

Day 298: Long Day!

Went to Lafayette to be with Mom on the 1st anniversary of Dad's passing, and we had an enjoyable hour together.  Didn't get over to the Medical supply place in time to order her chair, then discovered they weren't open on Sat!  Called in for Sat, and while I waited for the family to arrive, began dragging everything out of the storage unit and putting it into piles.  Took 4 trips and 3 hours to move everything into the larger unit.  Sara and Co decided to spend the night, so went to Olive Garden, then spent rest of the evening in the pool.  Alex stayed with me so S and P could have some 'adult' time.  Got up at 6 today and drove to Vincennes.  

Jill and I worked together until she left at 6.  She'd found this baby goat stuffed animal that danced and sang, and we played with it all afternoon, trying to get someone to buy it.  No one did, but I shot some video of it.  Day went fairly well.  Ate lunch at McAllister's from 3:30-4:30, and when I returned, had to have 2 overrides ('overdraft', I called the 2nd one, lol!).  Had zero customers from 6:30-7:59, then just as I was locking the doors, a gentleman approached and said he only needed an air filter.  I waved him in, and finished checking him out at 8:05.  Mel came down to clean me out and we all left around 8:15.  My back was bothering me, so I sat on one of the stools for 30 mins before sanitizing everything down.

Outfit:  White IN sweatshirt, red plaid leggings, Monet mask.

Amazing Race 2020

 I hadn't planned to blog about this season, but after watching fifteen minutes of the 2nd episode, I just had to.

Early on, a few teams really annoyed me:

-Nathan and Cody

-The Cajun sisters

-The Olympians.

The Cajun sisters were particularly annoying, esp with V went to play the drum and asked, "How does my hair look?"

I'm sorry; I've been watching AR for at least ten years and this is the first time any contestant has been concerned about how they look on camera during a challenge!

Several teams had issues where they didn't read the entire clue, and thankfully, Nate and Cody finished last.

In episode 2, thankfully the Olympians were the next ones to be eliminated.

Ep 3:

A new alliance was formed:

-Team GLBTQ (James and Will-I find these two annoying)

-Team Beard (Riley and Maddison-I like these two, who are also pro volleyball players)

-Team Married (Hung and Chee-they're so cute together!)

-Team NFL (De and James-I really like these two!)

-Team Siblings (Aparna and Eswar-I also like them)

Another alliance was formed in Ep 2 between Team Blonde (Kaylynn and Haley) and Team Dating (Alana and Leo) when Dating told Blondies they needed to hook up the horn, which royally pissed off GBLTQ.

Once again, several teams did NOT READ THE CLUE before hopping on the boat!

Team Family (Jerry and Frank) 

Team Cajun (Victoria and Michelle) I watched in disbelief as these two forgot to grab the clue, and wandered around for 30 mins!  *eye roll*

At the double U-turn, GBLTQ u-turned Dating, but the Blondes repaid their loyalty by U-turning Family, who didn't recover, and were eliminated/

GBLTQ won-ugh.

Ep 4:

With their alliance in full swing, GBLTQ printed maps for everyone in their alliance.

Snort.....Cajun thinks Paraguay is in Africa?  These two need a geography lesson.....

Blonde and GBLTQ-had to switch taxis, due to drivers not knowing where to go.

Detour:

NFL-Watermelon Stack

GBLTQ-Bottle Dance

Married:  WS, then switched to dance

Dating:  Dance

Beard:  WS

Cajun:  Dance

Sibs:  Dance

Blonde:  Dance

GBLTQ won; Blondes final, but non-elimination leg!

Ep 5:  Paris, France

GBLTQ.....problems driving stick; turned out was trying to begin in 3rd.

Cajun:  Lost, which ultimately led to them being eliminated (thank god!)

Blondes overcame their speed bump, and it was thanks to the wandering Cajuns they didn't come in last.

-

Life In Lumber, Week #66

 Day 294:  Short Week!

Wed:

I called Aggie on Mon, but she said she didn't need me.  Tasha messaged me later, asking if I could work Tues.  Couldn't; had already told Mom I'd go get her and take her to her dr's appt, but was available Wed and Fri.  She took me up on the offer.

Clocked in and felt myself going downhill all evening.  We weren't too busy; just steady all night.  Still, was able to get my Lowes U and the AP4Me done, along with the closing duties.

Popped cough drops all night, and when I got home, stopped at JC for two cans of French Onion soup.

November Goals: A Bittersweet Month

Where Did October Go?  LOL....

-Lose 5 lbs (starting:)

-Work enough hours to pay bills Check!

-Finish new Bridge Story and type it up Check!

-Add words to Time-Travel, RiKar, and/or Heart Song Began a new one instead

-Purge bedroom of unwanted items Still getting there...

-Take remaining scrap to Dumes Not yet

-Organize Basement Not yet

-Do well at Kokomo Con Sold 6!!!

-Do well at CCC Sold 5:)

Books Read:  9

            Print:  7

        E-book:  2

Updated Book 'Tour':

-Evansville Women's Conference (Oct 29th) $125 ($100 reg, $25 lunch) Pd 7/31 Postponed until Jan 21, 2021

-Rivet Craft Fair (Nov 14th) $45 PD 9/8 Cancelled 10/31

-Posey Co. Craft Fair (Nov 14th) $50 Pd 11/6

-Terre Haute X-mas Craft Fair (Dec 5th) $40 Pd 11/10 CANCELLED

November Goals:

-Lose 5 lbs (starting 245) Lost 2:)

-Enjoy Letters To Daniel premier Check!

-Buy another scale

-Work enough hours to pay bills Check!

-Work on RiKar's story for NaNo or Heart Song Nope

-Finish cleaning bedroom

-Organize basement

-Do well at Posey Co. Craft Fair Was sick; didn't go

-Get through Nov 20th without too much drama Check!

-Rent Mom another storage unit (Check!) and transfer everything Check!

-Find her a lift chair Check!  Should arrive late Jan/early Feb:)

Budget:

 Oct 17-23: 16 (due to Mom's anniversary)
        24-30: 28
        Nov 6th projected income: 44 hours= $477+$40 CCC sales=$517
$52 to church; pay St. V ($140 Check!); pay credit card ($150 Check!); pay BSU card ($100 Check!)=$75-$50 (Posey Co CF Check!)=$25+$25 left over=$50. Pay remaining CC balance with BSU card ($165.15 Won't let me....have to use bank card)

Bonus 11/13:  $150 

$15 to church; pay Marcus ($5.94 FINAL Check!); pay credit card ($83 Check!)=$94   Need to begin saving what I can. 

       31-Nov 6: 20
         7-13: 4
       Nov 20th projected income:  24 hours=$257+$109 (left over)+$21 (check in mail)=$387

$28 to church; pay hearing aids ($120 Check!); pay GSH medical ($160 Check!)=$79-$58 (promo by accident!)=$21 banked

November Reading Schedule:

Print:

Carolina Wolf-Sela Carsen RR!  Why have I waited so long to read Sela's books???

Letters From Jayson-Amy Hale Enjoyed this one! RR

Shadows of Jane-AH DNF....lost interest around Ch. 11

Gumshoe-Laura Hawks Enjoyed this!

Egyptian Destiny-LH Admittedly, I skimmed much of this after Ch 10...

Sea of Flames-Wendy Knight OMG...DRR!  Loved, loved, loved this book, and want the next one!!

E-book:

Lads and Lattes-AJ Macey Good story....slightly long...

Call of the Siren-Jarika James Interesting....

Karaoke Songs:

11/5

Take a Chance On Me-Abba Good!

Run To You-Bryan Adams Slightly low, but okay

American Pie-Don McLean Ugh.  Too low, and I did the entire 1st verse in the wrong key.

11/12-Sick

11/19-Still sick

11/26:  Thanksgiving-No Karaoke

Life In Lumber, Week #65

 Day 289:

Arrived; Matt was on #2, so I hopped on #1 and rang up a customer.  M came over and told me the touch pad on the CC machine was acting up, and sure enough, my 2nd customer had a hard time getting the thing to print out her receipt.  After maybe 5 mins, it finally cooperated, and I moved to #2 for the rest of the night.  

Had to call for 2 overrides...discounted carpet and the 50% off AMS tool belts.

Went on break at 6:30 and did my Lowes U and started the AP4Me, but D arrived with my lunchable.  Ate it at the register.  Bagged trash and did my closing duties.  Didn't have any customers from 8pm to close, except for one at the last minute.

Outfit:  Blue thermal top, darker jeggings, SW mask

Day 290:  Election Day

Shift went well:)  Things were hectic at the start; #1 was still acting up, so was on #2 all night.  Was able to get the pop count done before 6, then discovered I was out of dollar bills.  Called Mel down....turnes out they were under the cash box!  Went to break at 6:25, and when I returned, rang up maybe 10 customers for the next 90 mins.  Thoroughly swept the floor, then put away the soda.  Sanitized the plexiglass and just realized I only wiped down the Pro and #1 counters.  Oops....oh well, I'll do them 1st tomorrow!

Drove Matthew home, due to his ride being a no-show.  Gassed up the van for $2.09 at Hucks on 6th st.

Outfit:  Red/black plaid cotton shirt, black long-sleeved tee, dark jeggings, SW mask.

Election Results:

Day 291: Quiet Shift

Arrived to find Reg #1 working, and was fairly steady the first 2 hours.  Brea did my pop count, then brought the cart down at 7 when she relieved me for break.  After break, I gathered the trash and began cleaning everything.  My dustmop was back, so ran it over the floor, then went back and deep-cleaned under the Pro mats.  Sanitized all the counters.....and #1's pin pad rebelled.  After the 2nd customer, I logged into Charlie's register and rang up one more customer.

Outfit:  Blue sparkle tee, darker jeggings, SW mask.

Day 292: Drama....

Arrived; Brea told me #1 was still finnicky, but I didn't have any issues with it (didn't clean the pad, either, ha ha!).  Was steady for an hour, then swept the floor, did the pop count, and consolidated the trash.  Went to break at 6:35, then when I returned, helped Casey ring up Larry West, then gathered the trash, rang up a few customers, and sanitized everything. 

While I was sanitizing, a couple came down with shingles, and he asked about where he could find a manager.  I knew Scott and Tasha were up front, so while I rang her up, he walked up front.  Then I offered to call, and Scott said he'd be down in a few minutes.  He apparently got held up, for 15 mins went by and he didn't show.  They told me the issue (he felt disrespected by S at the Return desk), then got tired of waiting and said he was going to go home and call Corporate.  Just as they drove away, I saw Scott approach.  Told him what they had told me.  Then Tasha came down and said she had just arrived to speak to him up front when he'd left the area.  Later, Zach told me that all S had said was, 'A thank you would be nice...'  Apparently he took it the wrong way???  Anyway, he had no issues with me, or C my loader....just management and S tonight.

Also discovered the schedule's out for the week of T-day; I'm off the 20th, but have to work the 21st and 22nd!  WTH....I'll be gone that weekend!  Have to decide if I'm going to try to switch with someone (I'm off the 23rd-24th), or just call in those days.

Outfit:  Black/white striped tee, darker jeggings, HP mask

Day 293: Busy Day!

Arrived to discover #1 was acting up, so spent entire shift on #2. Was busy for 90 mins, then consolidated the trash, swept the floor, did the soda count, and gathered the paperwork.  Matt relieved me at 6:40, and when I returned, I was busy for the remainder of the shift.  Didn't get a chance to sanitize anything.  Jacob took the trash down around 8:30.

Outfit:  Blue Colts jersey, faded jeggings, HP mask

BB All Stars Week #12: Finale!

Enzo: If he can win the HOH, he has a good argument for winning:

            -Won when he needed to

            -Friends with everyone

            -Never on the block

Cody:  Comp Beast (7 wins)

            -Never on block

            -Won when he needed it (final 4 veto)

Nicole:  Only former winner to make it to finale

            -Good social strategy

            -Won when she needed it

            -Survived triple eviction night, even though nominated twice.

Keesha, Kaysar, Jenelle, Bayleigh, and Red Nicole Debate Final Three:

Bay, pull up your damn shirt!  You don't need to advertise the girls.

Jen, are you even wearing makeup at first?

Okay, so there's good arguments for everyone.

 HOH Pt. 1: Scary-Go-Round

    -Oooh, Cody's feet fell off, but he recovered!

    -Enzo falls!

    -Ooooh Cody....recovery #2!

    -#3 gets Cody!

Nicole wins!!!!

HOH Pt 2:  Camera Hogs

Enzo:  Reads #3 wrong

Cody:  Flies through

E:  37:38

C:  4:49

Cody Wins #2!!

Enzo goes on a rant, he's so mad at himself.

Jury Debate:

Oh DaVonne.....pull on your big girl panties and put aside your personal feelings!!!

WTH is Dani wearing?

Ty, do you own any pants that aren't ripped?

WTH is up with Kevin's scarf?  It doesn't match his outfit!

Pt 3:  Cody vs Nicole 'Vinyl Exam'

Cody:  8/8

Nicole:  Missed 1st one....7/8

Cody Wins HOH!!!!

Dude.....distressed pants for finale, really?

****Spoiler Alert****

I saw a teaser on FB this morning about the winner, so I already know who C takes to the end.

Cody Evicts Nicole and Takes Enzo!!

Nic is very emotional about her exit.

Jury's Reaction:  

"If they're smart, they'll evict Nicole"

Vote:  Cody wins, 9-0!!

America's Favorite Houseguest:  Tyler or DaVonne?

DaVonne!!!

Life In Lumber, Week #64

 Day 286:  Short Week!

Arrived; Marci had already started the pop count, so double-checked it and noted the Monster cooler stats.  Due to the weather (overcast with a hint of rain), things were slightly slow, but I did manage to get all my paperwork finished and the floor swept before Brea relieved me for my break.  Afterward, I pulled the trash and wrote a little before starting the closing duties.

Had a running joke with Cam about putting a few customers' items on his tab, ha ha!

Discovered we're dressing up in costume tomorrow.  I'm unsure if I want to go as Aging Cheetah Girl or Pirate, or go shopping for another costume.

Outfit:  Yellow/maroon plaid shirt, red tank, darker jeggings, Star Wars mask.

Day 287:  I Dress As....

'Deaf Leappard/Aging Cheetah Girl'!

Was called 'cute' and 'adorable':)

Shift went well.  Was fairly steady until 6:30, then Matthew relieved me for my break.  Had already finished the pop count, so after I returned, gathered the trash and continued ringing up people.  Had a 'rush' around 7:30.  Customer A was picking up 78 bags of insulation, so I filled out the insulation form and rang him up while K was looking for a spotter.  Customer B needed some drywall, and the concrete tool was missing a pole.  Invoiced the rest of his order while Casey helped him, and rang up C, D, and E.  Then Jess helped him get his drywall; Casey determined the pole was MIA, so was finally able to ring him up.

Mel brought me the soda and some bad news:  Mgr T doesn't want me to write while on the job anymore.  "Brea's not supposed to have her Suduko, either."

Okay...if she's up front and doing it, that's one thing.  But to my knowledge, I've never neglected a customer OR my closing duties due to being engrossed. (I do admit to having to be told there's a customer, but that was LAST year!)

I was pissed.  1) I don't write every shift, esp when I'm busy, but our slow time is coming!  What happens when the work's done, there aren't any customers, and I'm bored?

I'll find a way around it.  I'll use a smaller pad, write on the back of the schedule, use register tape....any time I get a brainstorm.

Put the soda away, and did my closing duties.  Didn't write anymore, but I fumed.

Clocked out around 9:20.

Outfit:  Black leggings, Leopard print sweater, cheetah ears and tail.  SW mask.

Day 288: Friday!

Dressed in my new Halloween shirt, and wore the headband with the straw hat.  Everyone thought it was cute, but Scott said it made my head look big!  Shut up, Scott....

Arrived; bought a bottle of Drano, and clocked in at 5:02.  Oops!  Finally arrived in Lumber at 5:10, and Gracie went on her break.  We were busy all night, but was able to get the pop count done and paperwork gathered before Matthew arrived at 6:55 to give me my break.

Told him the cart behind the counter belonged to Customer A, who would return with his wallet, or send his wife.

Customer B ordered several pallets of insulation, but we only had half the order.

Customer C arrived with his internet order of insulation PLUS the insulation blower reserved.  Customer B wasn't happy when he learned the machine he needed wasn't available.  He asked if he could go to another store, and I said yes.

I started off to the break room, and was flagged down by Customers D, in the pipe aisle, wanting to know if the coupling was the correct one.  Fortunately, Brandon arrived and was able to answer their questions.

After my break, I saw them again in by Windows, and they flagged me down again to ask a question.  I wasn't able to scan the code, but I did spy the price tag.  They weren't satisfied, so I found Bryce, who was busy with another customer, and repeated D's question.  Bryce answered, so I relayed the info.  They thanked me and went on.

When I finally arrived back at Lumber (a full 10 minutes late!), Customer A's wife had arrived.  I helped Matthew ring it all up, so everyone was happy.

Bagged the trash, continued sweeping, and then was hit with a wave of customers.  At 8pm, Customer E had a bunch of discounted stuff, so had to call HC Mel down for overrides.  Managed to sanitize everything in half the time, since my final customer left at 9:02.  I locked the doors behind them, then did my Lowe's U questions.

Oh, at 8pm, Customer D returned a cabinet they had bought.  Loader Jacob refused to push it down to cabinets, so after M cleaned out my register, I pushed it back.

Outfit:  Orange/black Halloween shirt, black v-neck tunic, black jeggings, SW mask.

Life In Lumber, Week #63

 Day 280:  

Was supposed to be off, but my writers meeting in Washington was cancelled.  Mel had texted me about working, so when I received it while at a light in Terre Haute, I called her, and told her if they needed me, I could come in.  So arrived home around 3:30; unloaded the car and left for work at 4:30.

1)  Had to explain to Kronos why I was clocking in.

2) I was NOT on the daily schedule, just the flow chart.

3) Still no glass cleaner, even after I requested some.

4) No one had done the pop count, and thankfully Olivia came down for it right after I did it.

5) Had an eye-roll moment when a customer asked about using his boss's account.....but then used his credit card???  Not sure if he forgot or what the hell happened....

6) Had another customer tell he was going to 'ruin' my day, because he had two carts full of plumbing items.  1) It was all organized; 2) the guy knew exactly how much of everything he had; and 3) I joked he was keeping me from trash detail!  No problem!

I did get the floor swept, the trash taken care of, and the register areas sanitized.  Just didn't have time to fully wipe down the counter and didn't have any cleaner for the plexiglass.  Clocked out at 9:15.

Was able to do both the AP4Me and Lowe's U

Outfit:  Blue/white fleece shirt, darker jeggings, Star Wars mask

Day 281:

Arrived and relieved Jill, then was busy for an hour.  Was able to get pop count done, and was sent to break at 6:15.  When I returned, I put away the soda (we now have Green Monsters!!  Whoot!) and things slowed down.  Had a few customers here and there, and since Aggie had sent down glass cleaner, was able to clean all the plexiglass, and wipe down the counters.  I'm going to have to get bleach water; containers are running low.  

Checked my email, and discovered Mgr Brandon 'rejected' my clock-in for yesterday???  Also did my Lowe's U.

At closing, I locked the doors and took the trash down, then put up my vest.

Outfit:  White/black plaid, blue tank, darker jeggings, Star Wars mask

Day 282:

Arrived early and filled the bleach water containers.  Clocked in and did the LU, then returned to Lumber and spent an enjoyable 90 minutes, ringing up customers and re-checking Jill's pop count, before logging the Monster Count.  Brea relieved me at 6:30, and discovered Josh and another associate in dino costume!  After break, I did the closing duties, and rang up a very complicated order at closing.  Still, we managed to get everyone rung up and out by 9.  

Accidentally tossed my mask into the hopper, but was able to retrieve it!  I'll have to wash it first.

Outfit:  Indian Motorcycle shirt, jegging capris, Monet mask

Day 283:

Crazy weather today.  At 4pm, I was still in a short-sleeved tee and capris, but it began raining and the temp dropped FAST!  Ended up going to work in jeggings and taking a sweatshirt.

Things went well; Jill had already done part of the pop count, so all I had to do was check it and finish it, as well as run off more copies of the charts.  Checked out an insulation machine, then checked one back in.  Matt came down to get the pop count and apparently smacked Kyle with the clipboard.  Later when he brought me the soda, he pushed me into the counter with the cart, so we had some good-natured ribbing going on.

Was sent to break at 7:05. and when I came back, did the closing duties.  Got caught moving a cart to the insulation aisle...."please don't go that far from the register..."

HC MK cleaned out my register; I took the trash down, then put up my vest.  I work the weekend for Marci, so getting 16 more hours:)

Outfit:  Fuzzy Socks tee, darker jeggings, HP mask

Day 284:

Arrived to find out Jill had called in; myself was on alert, since D wasn't feeling good.  Things were non-stop all the way to 7:30!  Brea came down to help out before she was sent back up front.  Then Mel came down and gave me my break, as I was looking for gutter elbows that refused to ring up, as well as the downspout and the gutter itself.  Went to the bathroom, then returned.  Sara and Panda arrived and bought me a Reesees PB, which I finally finished around 4.  Managed to get the pop count finished, then was sent to lunch at 4:30.

After lunch, it slowed a little, but was still steady and full of customers with either missing barcodes, or codes which wouldn't ring up.  Also had one customer tell me (after I'd rung everything up) their ceiling tile was wrong and the doors were wrong.  Took off the wrong items, then invoiced it, so we could find it easier after they got the correct items.   Then Brenda relieved me at 6:30 for my 2nd break, and things finally slowed down at 7:30!  I was able to get some of the closing duties accomplished in between customers (swept, sanitized the registers, washed the outside of all the plexiglass).  Cam took the trash at 9, and we got out of there at 9:15.

Outfit:  IU sweatshirt, darker jeggings, HP mask

Day 285:

Kronos wasn't working, so we had a sign-in sheet.  Thankfully, today was a LOT slower!  I arrived; Jill went to break. Marci gave me my bag of goodies she'd bought from Kentucky:) At 1:50, Mel came down and asked if I'd had a break.  I hadn't, so I told her I'd just make a fast pit stop.  When I came back, Brea told me to take my break; I told her I'd just taken it!  She hopped on #2, since Jill was at lunch.  When J returned, I went to McAllister's for an hour.  Returned; logged my lunch time, then did the pop count.  Only had to have one override; a woman had discounted carpet.

Jill left at 6, and Brea hung out with me until 7.  She had the most surveys done, so Mgr T came down and took her picture, then gave us both new tote bags.  Sanitized the registers and some of the plexiglass, then locked the doors at 9.  Logan took my trash and Cam did the safety thingies, and I closed the door behind them.  HC C cleaned out my register; I took 3 things to Electrical and put my vest up.  Scott let me out after showing me where the Jimmy Johns and candy were located.

Outfit:  Mama Bear sweatshirt; darker jeggings; HP mask

BB All Stars, Week #11

 HOH Comp:  Chess

Cody-out

Christmas-out

Enzo wins!!

He and Cody were 'supposed' to block Christmas and take her out 1st, but Enzo let Cody do all the dirty work.

Noms:  Nicole and Christmas

POV:

1st of all, A Luxury Competition!  Clash of the Comics!

All four had to 'draft' the BB comics to their team.

Christmas:  Mrs. Claws, Regulater, Bandanimal, King Kaysar

Enzo:  Meow-Meow, Abra-Curl, David/Goliath, Bayleigh??

Cody:  Cali-Fury, Podmaster, Dirk Starmaster, Birthday??

Nicole:  Blonde Bombshell, Memphist, Cereal Killer, Day Dreamer

#1:  Birthday vs Podmaster:  Podmaster wins! 

#2:  Dirk vs Mrs. C:  Mrs. C wins!

#3:  Bay vs D/G:  D/G wins!

#4:  Mem vs Cereal:  Mem wins!

#5:  Day vs BB:  Day wins!

#6:  Regulater vs Meow:  Meow wins!

#7:  Cali vs Band:  Cali wins!

#8:  King Kaysar vs Abra:  Abra wins!

#9:  Podmaster vs Mrs. C:  Podmaster wins!  Christmas:  Eliminated.

#10: Abra vs Day:  Day wins!

#11: Cali vs D/G:  Cali wins!

#12:  Meow vs Mem:  Mem wins!  Enzo:  Eliminated

#13: Podmaster vs Mem:  Mem wins!

#16:  Cali vs Day:  Day wins!  Cody:  Eliminated

#17:  Day vs Mem:  Memphist wins!  Nicole wins $10K!!!

POV Comp:  Hamster Wheel!  3 strikes, you're out.

#1:  Christmas X

#2:  Enzo X

#3: Enzo XX

#4:  Enzo XXX

#5:  Christmas XX

#6: Nicole X

#7: Christmas XXX

#8: Cody X

#9: Nicole XX

#10:  Nicole XXX

Cody wins POV and Noms obviously stay the same:)

Eviction Episode:

Memphis joins jury!

-Shut up, Dani....you don't know everything.

-Get over yourself Da'Vonne, and this 'own your truth' stuff.  I'm sick of it.

Ooooh Kevin!  You finally found your backbone!!  Good for you!!!

Evicted:  Christmas!!

Aaaawwwww.....the final 3 get love from home!!!