Rachel Wins!!!! #Survivor47

 I watched SE 47, not really feeling the need to blog about it.  Yeah, Andy had a meltdown after his team lost the 1st challenge, and somehow managed to NOT get the ax, and after the merge, there was Kyle, dominating the first few Individual Immunity challenges, until Gabe won, then he was voted out.  Plus there was the whole trying to get Sol voted out....the rivalry between Genevieve and Rachel....but still, not enough to make me feel the need to blog about it.

Until tonight.

Rachel and Sam had been going head to head over the last few challenges, with Sam leading the charge to vote her out. But Rachel came back with blocking his vote, then pulling out an immunity idol to save herself.

Final Challenge:  Sam and Rachel led Teeny and Sue the entire time, until the others eventually caught up. Sam was in the lead going into the puzzle, but Rachel (who was a WHIZ at those puzzles!) caught up and overtook him. She decided to make Teeny and Sam build fire to fight for the 3rd spot, and gave Sue a free pass.

Fire-Making Challenge:  Boy was this one a whopper!  First of all, back at camp, Rachel coached Teeny, who got the hang of it, and successfully built 2 fires. Sam, who admitted he'd not even TRIED all season, was stuck.  Defeated, he pulled out the letter from his dad....and found the determination to go off and try it again.  He finally got the hang of it, and walked into the tribal council area, ready for battle.

Teeny jumped out to the early start, while Sam struggled to even get a spark. Teeny's flame begins licking the rope as Sam finally got a tiny flame going.  Then the wind interfered, and blew Teeny's flame all around the rope, and even away, just as Sam's one flame managed to climb high and lick the rope.  The wind helped Sam; hurt Teeny. Sam's rope burned all the way through, sending Teeny to the jury.

Jury Questions:  From the questions they were all asking, I KNEW Sue didn't have a prayer of a chance; they were all directed at Sam and Rachel, and I honestly thought Sam had the votes, or even maybe a tight race. Maybe even one person would write Sue's name down, and they would have the first ever tie?  I know, wishful thinking. The jury voted 8-1 (Kyle voted for Sam) for Rachel.

I had hoped they'd do a 'fan favorite' vote, because I think Teeny would have won it, but they didn't and even did the after show still on the island, no audience members.

Whew....what a ride for that final show!  It was truly epic.

Looking forward to #48; there's a person on the autism spectrum; a CEO who looks like a tarot card medium; and a guy who attributes his muscles to chocolate milk. This should be interesting!

Life In Lumber: Y6, W42

 Day 164: Warmer, high 50s

Rained all morning. Arrived and took over for Kem, and was slightly busy until 5. Did the prelim duties, my AP4Me, and LU. Was slightly busy until 6:30. Had Loader Con watch the register while I took a pit stop. Swept, then Adrianne sent me to break at 8. Returned and pulled trash, sanitized the coffee bar, and had two final customers. Locked the doors; Loader Con took the trash and brought in the concrete. HC Kay cleaned me out; returned an item to Hardware. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Mama Needs Silent Night tee, black l/s tee, faded jeggings, stockings, ears headband

Day 165: Chilly, high 40s

Arrived to discover a contractor had brought in cookies (choc chip with nuts, PB, and sugar). Was fairly steady until 5, then did my LU. Swept, mucked the mats. Had a 'rush' at 5:30, then things died down again. Sanitized the coffee bar, the registers, and the counters.  Had two very complicated orders to ring up, Holly's cull pack and another customer's plywood. Finally got it all straight! Final two customers left at closing; locked the doors while Loader Con brought in the concrete and took the trash. HC Cam cleaned me out; returned items to Plumbing, Tools, Paint, Hardware, and OSLG. Clocked out at 9:30 and joined the SU at Denny's, since I hadn't gotten my break and was getting hangry.

Outfit:  Maroon Sarcasm tee, white turtleneck, dark jeggings, Antler headband, red/green danglies

Off tomorrow for dress rehearsal for Christmas Cantata (to be performed at Our Lady of Hope in Washington) and Thurs for my birthday and the TSO Concert!  Whoot!!

Day 166: Cold, windy, 30s

Kim J was thrilled with her Secret Santa gifts:)  Was busy until 5:30, when HC Austin sent me to lunch. Was steady until 8, when I began sweeping and pulled the trash. Things went well until 8:40 when a customer asked to pay his estimate....and things went downhill.  He needed to take off the insulation, but the quote wouldn't let me modify it. Printed it out, then redid it.....ran it through VSP, and oh wait....those aren't the right prices.  Again, it wouldn't let us modify them, so cancelled it out and rang him up for what he had.  Also began my shift by doing a HUGE return for one of the pros.  Loader Joe didn't show up, so they stayed there the entjre time, until Jax was persuaded to put them away.  HC Austin cleaned me out; OSLG Chris brought in the concrete; I returned items to Tools, Aisle 1 and Seasonal.  Brent had brough me the trim and silicone, so took it up front and had Dawson ring it up while I put up my vest.  Came back; paid....but what happened to the cart?  Turned out DS Kari put it away!  Then since Brittany Nav had brought me 8 savory scones, I needed help taking it all to my car.  Amy was my 'Code 50', ha ha, even though we were ribbing Dawson about doing it, since he wasn't paying attention to my cart!  Clocked out at 9:30.

Kari was my Secret Santa, and received a $25 AZ GC:)

Outfit:  Snowflake shirt; black l/s tee, dark jeggings, green jingle bells, ears headband

Day 167:  Rare Sat Chilly, high 30s

Arrived armed with cookies and straw covers for anyone who wants them. Was with Sabrina for 30 mins, and we were both steady, then she left and the crowd died. Did the prelim duties and my LU, rang up customers. Dawson sent me to break at 7:30 and when I returned, pulled trash and swept. Locked the doors at 8:50, since no one was in my area. When HC Austin cleaned me out, I took the trash to the hopper, then returned items to Hardware and Seasonal. Helped Amy put away car cleaning supplies, then went back to Lumber and watched the door while Nick brought in the concrete. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Red Santa shirt with the bell sleeves; black l/s tee, dark jeggings, Snowmen jingle bells, antler headband

Day 168:  Rare Sun Chilly, high 30s

Arrived and gave Marilyn and HC Kay their straw covers.  Took over for Marilyn and did my LU; things were slow until 4:30 when the rush arrived. Customer had discounted wire, but no item #, and I guessed at the 50% discount, then needed an override, which never came. I hopped on Pro Jer's register and rang up 3 customers, then the 1st one said to forget it; he'd stick with the other wire. Cancelled the Code 99 and rang them up...JUST as Kait arrived.  Then had to call her back, due to another customer getting his fireplace and discovering it was broken!  Ended up sending him to CS to get it swapped out.  Rush ended at 5, and things slowed again., Theresa arrived at 6:45 and sent me to my break. Returned and was steady; pulled trash at 6:30, then began sweeping at 7. Had to sanitize the coffee bar, due to sugar being all over it. One of my final customers was Frank H, who was Steve S's roommate in the mid-90s, and we had a nice chat. Final customer left at closing; I locked the doors; Loader Con brought in the concrete. Kait cleaned me out, and after putting up my vest, returened items to Appliances and Hardware. Clocked out at 8:30.

Outfit:  Pyramid Santa shirt, black l/s tee, black jeggings, Santa hat bells, ears headband

Off the next 3 days!  Merry Christmas:)

Life In Lumber: Y6, W41

 Day 159:  Cool, 50s

Arrived with 2 doz Choc Chip, 18 Oatmeal-Raisin, and 5 PB M&M. Took two of each down to Lumber and took over for Kem. Was steady until 6:30, when I did my LU, AP4Me, and my Aisle blocker training. Fronted soda.  Dawson sent me to lunch at 7:30, and when I returned, I swept, sanitized the coffee bar, and pulled trash.  When HC Kait cleaned me out, I took the trash to the hopper, then put up my vest. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Green Naughty List tee, black l/s tee, new dark jeggings, stockings.

Day 160: Cold, 30s

Arrived and took over for Kem; was busy for 2 hours, then did the prelim duties and my LU. Mucked the mats. Kait sent me to lunch at 6 and when I returned, was steady until 8 when I swept the floor, sanitized the coffee bar and Pepsi cooler, and pulled trash. Final customer was 8:15 until another one arrived just before closing.  HC Cam cleaned me out; I locked the doors; Loader Con brought in the concrete and I took my trash to the hopper. Put up my vest and clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Red Mama Claus tee, black l/s tee, faded jeggings, green jingle bells

Day 161: Cold, 30s

Arrived and took over for Marilyn, and was fairly steady for 2 hours. Did my AP4Me and the prelim duties. Dawson sent me to break at 7, and when I returned, swept and pulled trash. Final customer left at closing. HC Austin cleaned me out; Loader Joe brought in the concrete and took the trash. Returned items to Plumbing, Lights, Paint, and Hardware, then put up my vest. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit: Green Naughty, Nice, I Tried tee, black l/s tee, faded jeggings, Santa Hat.

Was supposed to go to Lafayette tomorrow, but snow and 20 degree temps convinced Mom to reschedule.

Day 162: Cold, 30s

Fairly decent night:)  Took over for Robin, who said she would check her schedule and see if she could take my 20th and 2nd, and only had one 'rush'....at the very time I was trying to help a lady with a credit card app.  She was clearly getting frustrated, and the customers kept coming. Finally when the 'rush' was over, I pulled it up on Pro Jeremy's register and got her approved. Rya sent me to break at 7 and when I returned, pulled trash, swept, and sanitized the coffee bar. Loader Joe took the trash and brought in the concrete. HC Austin cleaned me out; returned items to Flooring, Paint, Hardware, and Seasonal. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Black Merry and Bright tee, black l/s tee, faded jeggings, Merry and Bright.

Off tomorrow, for steak dinner at Kyle's!

Day 163:  Rare Sun Warmer, 50s

Walked into a busy shift. Helped Robin for half an hour, and when my line was finished, I looked up and she was already gone.  Tried TWICE to pay for the GC, and it wouldn't work, then LU app logged me out, and can/t get back in. Tried to look up the card; needs a different phone #.  So had to call D to come do it, and he wasn't happy about it.  Kim sent me to break at 4:45, and when I returned, was still freakin' busy!  Finally I caught a break and Brent brought down a headband for me.  It has ears:)  I wanted the bells one, but it had a skinny metal band, while the other was padded.  Pulled trash at 7, and when HC Austin cleaned me out, took back an item to Aisle 19. Clocked out at 8:20.

Outfit:  Red Santa shirt with straight sleeves, black l/s tee, faded jeggings, green bells, ears headband

Priorities

Hello all!  Today is our meeting/event/(insert whatever you want).  Unfortunately, I will not be there.  See you next time!

One member of a group I'm a part of is really starting to irritate me.

Don't get me wrong; I completely understand things come up; illness happens.

But EVERY TIME???????

Esp when this person is the ORGANIZER???

*shakes head*

When I became a published author, I decided the only way I was ever going to be successful was to do what I can to get my books in people's hands.  Even getting pregnant didn't slow me down (much, ha ha!)

Case in Point:  Baby #3 was born the following March; I think I skipped most of the festivals I'd done the previous year, but for one, I set up his pack-n-play under my canopy and took him with me, and had my spouse help out.  Fortunately, he wasn't working that weekend and my two older kids helped out also.

Even though I had to cut back on some of the self-promotion after that, I still made an effort to do at least 2-3 shows a year. Joined my 1st writers group in 2005 or 6.  When we moved, yeah, the writing took a back seat, but as soon as I could the following summer, I found places to promote my work, esp since Book #2 was getting ready to release.  And by then, I had better internet, and learned the art of networking with other authors, which in turn led me to writing a new genre and attracting a publisher's eye.  

Networking led me to other opportunities:  Author Fairs, Conventions,and in one case, being a vendor at my beloved Indpls Christmas Gift and Hobby Show.  For YEARS while we were in Indpls, I'd wanted to attend it, but money was always tight, and my spouse had no desire to go (Home Show, yes, but Christmas?  Forget it..).

I guess what I'm trying to say is, I don't understand some people's priorities. When I left our local hospital vendor fair on Thurs, the organizer of that event, who is related to the person I'm talking about, informed me of 3 birthday parties today.  Okay, enjoy.  It never crossed my mind that my colleague would go to the parties instead of the event we have today, because THIS PERSON ORGANIZED THE EVENT!!!

When you are planning an event, don't you look at the date and say, 'oh, so-and-so's birthday is that day...let's pick another day.'  Or maybe the birthdays fall during the week and the parents decided today would be good.  I get it; my son and I are celebrating together on the 14th this month (his is the 8th, mine's the 19th).   I also seriously considered not performing in our Christmas Cantata when I discovered it would fall on K's birthday, but he's 33 and hey, he could come see his mama perform, and we'll celebrate afterward!  I signed up.

And we dealt with it by making other plans.

I missed a dear friend's funeral because I'd committed to a book signing.  I had managed to see him before he passed, and since he was pretty much my #1 supporter back then, I had no regrets.

I did have to cancel one event after my dad passed away, but that was because I was now my mother's caregiver, and there was no way I was hauling her 3 hours south.  Even as I was planning 2020, I consulted with Mom (before she made the decision to move into assisted living), and arranged for handicapped accessible hotel rooms, and made sure I would possibly have extra help with her.  

Covid ended up resulting in me cancelling a lot of those plans, plus Mom chose to move to an assisted-living facility, meaning I could return home and resume my Evening Job.)

But I digress.  When I was organizing my book tour, I only had to actively back out on one, and that was due to transportation issues.  I've never made it back to that venue, and the person who ended up royally pissed off at me eventually got over it.

But again, this happens consistently EVERY MONTH.

I guess our priorities are different.

December Goals

Why did October drag and November flew by?  It's already Dec 2nd and I'm nowhere near ready for Christmas!

 -Lose 5 lbs (start: 243)

-Do well at ICGAHS Sold 45!  Tied with 2021 as best show sales:)

-Buy BP machine

-Finish Heart Song Not quite, but getting closer!

-Add words to new fairy story Check....

-Finish watching 2.5 Men Check!  11/16!

-Buy tix to Beautiful Noise (May) Mom is refusing to go, so this might be tabled...used the earmarked funds to pay for Peoria and Saluki Con.

-Pay for Peoria and Saluki Con Check:)

Books Read:  1

            Print:  1

        E-book:  0

             DNF: 0

Karaoke Songs Added:  2

2024 Events:

December 4-5th:  GSH Vendor Fair Sold 7:)

December 7th:  KCPL Author Fair, 10-2pm

2025 Events:

Feb 15-16th:  Saluki Con, CArbondale, Il

March 22nd:  SI Con, Benton, Il

July 20-22nd:  Imaginarium, Louisville, Ky (Pd 9/12)

Sept 27th:  Book Nook Book Fair, Peoria, Il ($75)

2026 Events:

April 11th:  Dreaming Dirty In Michigan Pd $60; still owe $120

December Goals:

-Lose 5 lbs

-Buy BP machine

-Finish Heart Song

-Do well at GSH Vendor Fair Sold 7:)  5 Wed, 2 Thurs

-Do well at KCPL Author Fair

-Buy Beautiful Noise tix??

-Have fun at TSO Concert

-Have enjoyable Christmas

-Make another payment to Dreaming in Michigan

-Start chipping away at med bills

-Enjoy Thanksgiving Check:)

-Fix MBA

-Cut carpet out of S's room

-Upload digital copies to Patreon ...

-Convert 2 VHS to DVD ($44) 

-Read more in evenings

November Reading Schedule:

Memories of Moscow-Harold Lipman 12/2:  Am on Ch 40

Becoming-Michelle Obama RR!  I remembered much about 2009-16 and have to admire her tenacity and ambition. Still doesn't change the way I feel about his presidency, though I have to admit I was wrong about a few things.

A Royal Duty-Paul Burrell

Redemption of the Duke-Gayle Callen

Wildwood Creek-Lisa Wingate

Stitched With Love-Cathy Marie Hake, et al

A Wild Yearning-Penelope Williamson

The Husband List-Janet Evanovich

Delusion In Death-JD Robb

New York To Dallas-JD Robb

Special Circumstances-Sheldon Siegel

Split Second-Catherine Coulter

Romancing Miss Bronte-Juliet Gael

Live Wire-Lora Leigh

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn-Betty Smith

Shores-Tiare H Johnston

Older But Wilder-Elfie Leland Wilder

Killers of the Flower Moon-David Graham

Burr-Gore Vidal

Sex and Vanity-Kevin Kwan

The Neopolitan Sisters-Margo Candela

I Am Sheffrou-Cami Michaels

Letters To Matthew-Amy Leigh McCorkle

Get Jiro-Anthony Bourdain

All Hail The Queen of the Freaks-T Harriman

The Vermin Sleep-James M Watjen

Mom Jeans and Other Mistakes- Alexa Martin

Ms Demeanor-Elinor Lipton

Before We Were Wicked-Eric Jerome Dickey

Spare-Prince Harry

Down the Rabbit Hole of Narcissism-Natalie Mosely Klenotic

Loving Out Loud-Michael DeCamp

When My Heart Speaks-Steven Petty

Women of the Bible Speak-Shannon Bream

The Choice-Anne Greene (misplaced??)

Louise Penney book

A Quiet Strength-Janette Oke

Valley of the Shaman-Arlen Andrews

Joyful Poems For Children-James Whitcomb Riley

I Heard God Laugh-Matthew Kelly

Life Is Messy-Matthew Kelly

Franklin and Eleanor

-44

E-book:

Royal-Emily Silver

Closer Home-Kerry Anne King

Pine Grove Sampler-Jean Joachim

Meet Me In Fantasyland-Mary Martinez

Secret Identity-Ava Cuvey, et al

The Scottish Play-Phoebe Alexander

Fisher Of Men-Phoebe Alexander

Switched-Cassie Mills

Help Me Remember-Corinne Michaels (Want to get-$6)

Life In Lumber: Y6, W40

 Day 157: Snow, 20s

Began snowing as I arrived; took over for Kem and was steady for an hour. Did the prelim duties, and the place really slowed down. Swept, fronted soda, and pulled trash at 7:30.  Loader Con watched the register while I took a pit stop and emptied the coffee carafe. Final customer was around 8:15. At 9, ASM Ian brought in the concrete while Loader Con took the hopper. Kait cleaned me out (HC Kay had called in), then returned items to Tools, Millwork, Plumbing, Flooring, Appliances, and Seasonal. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Green floral tee, black vest, dark jeggings, blue f/l gloves.

Day 158: Cold, 20s

Boring shift.  Found out ASM Alex is in hospital with heart issues. We were short-staffed, so once again, I did not get my lunch. Loader Con watched the register while I took a pit stop.  Was proud of Loader Jax; he answered a Code 50, in which the customer needed 10 bags of 50 lb concrete, and he didn't whine about it!

Outfit:  Maroon 'It's the most wonderful time....allegedly" tee, white turtle, new dark jeggings

Off the next 5 days, due to the GSH Vendor fair Wed-Thurs; baking Fri; Author Fair Sat; Cantata performance Sun.

Life In Lumber: Y6; W39

 Day 154: Cool, mid 50s

Arrived and took over for Ivee. Did the prelim duties, then had a 30 min 'rush'. Fronted soda, did my AP4Me and LU. Began sweeping at 6; mucked the mats. HC Kay sent me to break at 7:15 and when I returned, pulled trash and sanitized the coffee bar and registers. Locked the doors at 8:55; Loader Charles brought in the concrete and took my trash to the hopper. Returned items to Plumbing, Tools, and Closets. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Lavander sweater, black vest, faded jeggings, thin gold hoops

My eval says:  "Meets expectations; demonstrates solid performance while receiving some support and direction from others; Contributes toward a culture of winning through the core behavior and values; Consistently demonstrates core behaviors by fostering a sense of urgency toward CS; Remaining focused on results even in the face of obstacles; takes initiative to fix problems; sharing POV openly (*eye roll*  REALLY?); Making an effort to develop and apply new knowledge and skills."

"(I) Have done very well independently working the lumber dept in the evenings. She is very friendly and does well at completing her nightly duties and critical thinking (*eye roll*). She meets expectations, but could improve on LTR (likely to recommend-wait, WHAT?) and credit scores going into the new year."  (yeah, cause nearly everyone in my dept already HAS a Pro account or the MLR CC!  Some of my regulars either don't want at CC or don't qualify for one.)

Off tomorrow for choir practice, then off Wed for T-day prep, and off T-day:)

Day 155:  Black Fri, Cold, 30s

Arrived at 3 to find a full house:)  Brought 2 doz cookies in of choc chip and oatmeal-raisin, and 6 choc chips were confiscated before I even got to the training room!  Discovered Mgmt had ordered pizza, so had one slice of cheese and 1 sausage before clocking in. Halle and I were busy until 5, then H went to break. Wasn't slammed; just steady. I went to break at 5:40 and ate 4 slices of sausage. Spilled the sweet tea, so had to clean it up before clocking back in. Halle did the soda count while I handled the customers, then she left at 8. Swept, pulled trash, had Marilyn clean out the coffee pots. M stayed down from 8:30 on; she handled the customers while I finished sweeping and sanitizing the coffee bar. Loader Joe brought in the concrete; Loader Con took the trash. Clocked out at 9:20.

Outfit:  Santa shirt with the bell sleeves; black l/s tee, dark jeggings, Santa hat bells, antler headband

Day 156:  Rare Sun Cold, 30s

Arrived and hopped on #2 to help with the line, then began bringing in the carts off the sidewalk. Marilyn took a break; was fairly steady. Kait returned, and she and I brought in the carts. At 4:30, I took a pit stop and ended up helping someone in Plumbing. Kait took her break at 5, and when she returned, I took my 15. Mgmt had brought in Jimmy John's, so ate the equivelent of one sandwich. Returned and did soda count. Kait left at 6; I did the prelim duties and discovered someone had made coffee. HC Austin cleaned it out for me after bringing me the cart of soda. Pulled trash at 6:30; put away the soda; had a 'rush' at 7:30. Final customer left at 8. Locked the doors; pushed the carts to their respective aisles; Loader Con brought in the cull cart and the concrete, and took the hopper. HC Austin cleaned me out; returned items to Plumbing, Tools, and Aisle 10. Put up my vest and clocked out at 8:20.

Outfit:  Hot Cocoa sweatshirt, white turtleneck, dark jeggings, snowflakes.

Life In Lumber: Y6, W38

 Day 151: High 60s

Arrived and took over for Kem. Began the prelim duties, but was busy. Around 5:30, ASM Shannon swapped me with Kim, and told me to go zone the sidestacks in Aisle 1 and around the back. At first I thought I'd done something wrong, or it was because I didn't have a voice, but it turned out Corporate was there and wanted everything zoned.  Turned out I was the only cashier who knew how to do it. Zoned until nearly 8, then started to do my AP4Me in the training room, then was called back to Lumber. Finished my AP4Me and my LU, then pulled trash, sanitized the coffee bar, and fronted the soda again. Had to ring up two large orders (both had 3 carts!) at closing. Locked the doors; ASM Ian brought in the concrete; I took the trash to the hopper and after HC Kay cleaned me out, returned items to Plumbing, Electrical, Tools, and Lights. Put up my vest and clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Black V-neck tunic, new dark jeggings, blue sapphire hoops

Day 152: Cooler, low 60s

Arrived and took over for Kem, and the first two customers, it was 'pick on Molly' time, ha ha, due to my voice still being squeaky. The rush ended and was able to do the prelim duties and my LU. Was steady through 6pm, when I swept the area and mucked the mats. Marilyn sent me to lunch at 7:30. When I returned, pulled trash, sanitized the registers, and zoned the screw displays. After locking the doors, took the trash to the hopper, the coffee down to clean out the pot and returned items to Fashion Bath and Tools. Put up my vest. and clocked out at 9:30/

Outfit:  Gray V-neck tee, faded jeggings, blue sapphire hoops

Off tomorrow to go to Lafayette, and Thurs for choir practice.

Day 153: Rare Sun

Arrived and took over for Marilyn, and was instantly busy. Kaity took a break, and when she returned, we were both busy. Kait left at 4; Ivree returned for an hour, then went up front.  I did get a chance to do the prelim duties and my LU. Things slowed down around 6:30, so I swept the area. Pulled trash at 7 and realized I'd not been given my break.  Oops....had Loader Charles watch the register while I took a quick pit stop. Sanitized the coffee bar and counters. Locked the doors at 8; Loader Charles took the trash and brought in the concrete. HC Morgan cleaned me out. Returned items to Tools and Hardware, and put up my vest. Clocked out at 8:30.

Outfit:  Blue Colts jersey, black l/s tee, faded jeggings, small gold textured hoops

Life In Lumber: Y6, W37

 Day 147:  Cooler, windy, 50s

Arrived and took over for Kem, then was busy for an hour. Helped Pro Kath with a large order, then observed ASM Chris B on #2.  At one point, Pro K was on another register and I hopped on #3 to help with the line until the customer at #1 was able to complete his purchase:) Was busy until 6, when Katie came down to send me to break. Returned and was moderately busy, then did the prelim duties and swept the area. Pulled trash at 8, and had another 'rush', then sanitized the coffee bar, mucked #1's mat, and locked the doors at 9. Loader Con brought in the concrete and took the trash. HC Austin cleaned me out; I put up my vest and clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Red turtleneck, new faded jeggings (found hole beside pocket), silver diamond danglies

Day 148: Rain, 50s

Arrived at 2:30, due to Kem having an appointment at 3:15. Was fairly steady for a while, then things dropped off. Printed off my paycheck stub and did my LU. Marilyn sent me to break at 4, and when I returned, took back a few things to Plumbing. M left at 5, so did the prelim duties. Dawson sent me to lunch at 6 and when I returned, swept the entire area, mucked the mats, sanitized the coffee bar, registers, and the top of the coolers. Final customer left at 8:30. Loader Joe brought in the concrete at 9; I locked the doors; he took the trash. After HC Austin cleaned me out, returned an item to Aisle 10 and put up my vest. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Brown gauze, black vest, new dark jeggings, sea horses

Day 149: Cool, 50s

Arrived and was instantly busy.  Had taken ASM Alex his cookies (see last month), then discovered SM Jeff had been fired for either the way the store was performing or too many HR reports?  I also heard that either ASM Alex or Scott Ch were being tapped to take over.  Did get the prelim duties accomplished, then had another rush. Kohl arrived to send me to lunch, and when I returned, had another rush. Pulled trash and began sweeping,but was constantly busy.  Did get my LU done. Loader Vince took the trash; Loader Joe brought in the concrete.  Clocked out at 9:30 after taking items back to Plumbing and Tools.

D wrecked out our bathroom floor!  Brent came over, got the plumbing items; I had Loader Joe log in so I could pay for it.  Bathroom will be completely finished next week:)

Voice began getting gravely.  Ugh.

Outfit:  White tunic, yellow plaid vest, new dark jeggings, blue sapphire hoops

Day 150:  Rare Sat Cool, 50s

Arrived and took over for Robin. Was busy at first, then was able to do my LU and the prelim duties, then was busy until 6:30, when Kait sent me to break. Returned and was busy until 8, when the crowd died down. Swept the area, sanitized the coffee bar and the counters, pulled trash. Think I had maybe 4 customers that last hour. Loader Charles took the trash and brought in the concrete; I locked the doors. HC Austin cleaned me out, then I put up my vest and clocked out at 9:30. Bought a faucet, pink tape measure, and 2 tees.

Outfit:  Purdue sweatshirt, new dark jeggings, small gold hoops

Off tomorrow!  Hoping my voice returns....

November Goals

 It's November already???  How did I do in Oct?

-Lose 5 pounds (243)

-Clean out storage

-Do well at First Friday Art Walk Sold 3:)

-Get clean bill of health Oct 8th Check:)  Note To Self:  Don't skip thyroid meds until after next blood draw early Dec

-Have an enjoyable MHS Reunion Check!

-Do well at Pumpkin Stroll/Pop Up Creative Market Sold 1 and ran out of candy and prizes within the 1st hour.

-Add words to Heart Song Check!  Have reached Ch. 8!

-Watch SE 10 of 2.5 Men Check!  Now on SE11 10/26:  Now on SE12!

-Watch SE 1 of Love Boat Still watching...

-Watch BB26 Check!  Chelsie won; Makensy 2nd!

-Watch L&O: SVU Watched 1st 4 episodes

-Order 10 more Mandela Effect I THINK I did this???

-Work enough hours to continue paying off CC and med bills Working on it...

Books Read:  11

            Print:  6

        E-book:  5

             DNF: 2

Karaoke Songs Added:  5

2024 Events:

November 1:  First Friday Art Walk Cold; zero sales

November 6-9th:  Indpls Christmas Gift And Hobby Show Sold 43, bartered 2!  Total:  45!

                             Wed:  5

                            Thurs:  10

                             Fri:  10

                             Sat:  4

December 4-5th:  GSH Vendor Fair

December 6th:  Kris Kringle Market (weather permitting)

December 7th:  KCPL Author Fair, 10-2pm

2025 Events:

Feb 15-16th:  Saluki Con, Il

July 20-22nd:  Imaginarium, Louisville, Ky (Pd 9/12)

Sept 27th:  Book Nook Book Fair, Peoria, Il ($75)

2026 Events:

April 11th:  Dreaming Dirty In Michigan Pd $60; still owe $120

November Goals:

-Lose 5 lbs (start: 243)

-Do well at ICGAHS Sold 45!  Tied with 2021 as best show sales:)

-Buy BP machine

-Finish Heart Song

-Add words to new fairy story

-Finish watching 2.5 Men Check!  11/16!

-Buy tix to Beautiful Noise (May)

-Pay for Peoria and Saluki Con Check and Check!

-Make another payment to Dreaming in Michigan

-Start chipping away at med bills

-Enjoy Thanksgiving Check:)

-Fix MBA In Progress....

-Cut carpet out of S's room

-Upload digital copies to Patreon ...

-Convert 2 VHS to DVD ($44) 

-Read more in evenings

November Reading Schedule:

Memories of Moscow-Harold Lipman

A Fantastic Ride-Bob Rohrman DRR!  Esp for any Lafayette native, or who knew Bob

Becoming-Michelle Obama

A Royal Duty-Paul Burrell

Redemption of the Duke-Gayle Callen

Wildwood Creek-Lisa Wingate

Stitched With Love-Cathy Marie Hake, et al

A Wild Yearning-Penelope Williamson

The Husband List-Janet Evanovich

Delusion In Death-JD Robb

New York To Dallas-JD Robb

Special Circumstances-Sheldon Siegel

Split Second-Catherine Coulter

Romancing Miss Bronte-Juliet Gael

Live Wire-Lora Leigh

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn-Betty Smith

Shores-Tiare H Johnston

Older But Wilder-Elfie Leland Wilder

Killers of the Flower Moon-David Graham

Burr-Gore Vidal

Sex and Vanity-Kevin Kwan

The Neopolitan Sisters-Margo Candela

I Am Sheffrou-Cami Michaels

Letters To Matthew-Amy Leigh McCorkle

Get Jiro-Anthony Bourdain

All Hail The Queen of the Freaks-T Harriman

The Vermin Sleep-James M Watjen

Mom Jeans and Other Mistakes- Alexa Martin

Ms Demeanor-Elinor Lipton

Before We Were Wicked-Eric Jerome Dickey

Spare-Prince Harry

Down the Rabbit Hole of Narcissism-Natalie Mosely Klenotic

Loving Out Loud-Michael DeCamp

When My Heart Speaks-Steven Petty

Women of the Bible Speak-Shannon Bream

The Choice-Anne Greene (misplaced??)

Louise Penney book

A Quiet Strength-Janette Oke

Valley of the Shaman-Arlen Andrews

Joyful Poems For Children-James Whitcomb Riley

I Heard God Laugh-Matthew Kelly

Life Is Messy-Matthew Kelly

Franklin and Eleanor

-44

E-book:

Royal-Emily Silver

Closer Home-Kerry Anne King

Pine Grove Sampler-Jean Joachim

Meet Me In Fantasyland-Mary Martinez

Secret Identity-Ava Cuvey, et al

The Scottish Play-Phoebe Alexander

Fisher Of Men-Phoebe Alexander

Help Me Remember-Corinne Michaels (Want to get)

Karaoke Songs:

11/7:  Out of town

11/14

The Longest Time-Billy Joel Ugh...too low

Shout-Tears For Fears Slightly better, but again, too low

I'm Trying-Rachael Bawn DNH

Remember Me This Way-Jordan Hill Nailed it:)

Show Me The Way-Styx Did well:)

Lonely Night-Captain and Tenille Nailed it:)

B got new gig in E'ville, so will have to find a new place....:(

Life In Lumber: Y6, W35 and 36

Day 142: Warm, 80s

After being off Mon and Tues, I arrived and took over for Kem, and was instantly busy. Fairly steady, but was able to get the prelim duties accomplished. Had a 'rush' at 5:30, then did my LU and my one AP4Me vid. Checked and printed out my Nov schedule, then began sweeping. HC Austin sent me to break at 7:30 and when I returned, was on #2, due to #1 being full. Made a rookie mistake; IL customer had a merch card, but I kept entering his O as 'zero', and it kept getting rejected. Sent him to CS; Austin called me 3 times to find out what I'd entered....and the 3rd time it dawned on us what the issue was!  Apologized up and down to the customer, who was good-natured about it. Mucked the mats, pulled the trash, sanitized the registers and coffee bar, locked the doors at 9:55. Kait took the trash to the hopper; Mgr Alex brought in the concrete. Put up my vest and clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Halloween shirt, black jeggings, Halloween hearts, Spider headband.

Day 143:  Halloween Rain, mid 60s

Went in at 1 to see the managers in their kilts, lol!  Returned at 3 and SM Jeff corralled me, to do my yearly eval. Basically, I'm doing a good job:) Clocked in and helped Kem with a complicated order, then took over. Did the prelim duties. HC Austin sent me to lunch at 5:30, and when I returned, swept the place and did my LU. Robin sent me to break at 8 (she was dressed as Rosie the Riveter), then pulled trash, sanitized the coffee bar, and fronted the soda.  Locked the doors at 9:45; Loader Con took the trash to the hopper and brought in the concrete; HC Austin cleaned me out. Put up my vest and clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit: "Statue of Liberty" costume:  Green Dr's shirt, black LJ tee; black jeggings, foam crown, black flashlight, "Boo" earrings.

Off tomorrow for either First Friday Art Walk or trip to Jane Wells' viewing in Shelbyville.  Also helping Sara take belongings to her new apt in E'ville, so timing depends on the 1st trip.

Day 144:  Rare Sat Mid 60s

Was late, due to helping S move. Took the kids to laundromat and did all her laundry, then rehomed Smokey to HC Kay's house.  Praying she's a good fit. Took over for Debbie, and had an hour long 'rush. Kate sent me to break at 6:30. Returned and did my LU, and began the closing duties. Swept, pulled trash at 7:30, fronted the soda, locked the doors at 9. Just as HC Austin was cleaning me out, final customer appeared. Checked them out on Pro Jer's register, then waited until they loaded their vehicles. ASM Charlie brought in the concrete; Loader Jax took my trash to the hopper. Returned an item to Tools, then put up my vest. Clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Red/black Hot Cocoa tee, faded jeggings, large zircons

Day 145:  Rare Sun Mid 70s

Was late again, b/c we went down to E'ville to deliver Alex's mattress and to help bring home the couch and dining room table. Realized, with the time change, we were leaving at 2pm. and I needed to be at work by 3!  Made it by 3:30, and took over so Marilyn could have a break. Was steady until 6, when I did the prelim duties and ran out of $$ on Reg 1. Was on 2 the rest of the night. Did get the floor swept and the mats mucked. HC Kay sent me to break at 6:30. When I returned, I did my LU and fronted soda. Pulled trash, locked the doors at 8. Loader Vince brought in the concrete. I took the trash to the hopper and returned items to Paint, Lights, and Flooring.  Clocked out at 8:30.

Outfit:  Blue Colts Jersey, faded jeggings, Yukon Colors

Day 146:  Mon Before Vacation Mid 70s

Arrived and took over for Kem, and things died down, so did my LU and AP4Me, Was steady from 5-6:30, with complicated customers, needing a forklift driver until Loader Con came back from lunch, and needing an override! Finally the madness ended and I was able to start my prelim duties, and did the soda count. HC Kay sent me to lunch at 7 and when I returned, began sweeping. Pulled trash at 8, and put away the soda. Had 3 final customers at closing, then locked the doors. ASM Ian took the trash to the hopper; Loader Con brought in the concrete. Returned items to Tools, Plumbing, Lights, Paint, and Hardware. Put up my vest and clocked out at 9:30.

Outfit:  Blue USA tee, dark jeggings, chunky silver hoops

OFFICIALLY ON VACATION UNTIL THE 11TH!!!!!!

Life In Lumber: Y6, W34

 Day 139:  Warmer, high 70s

Arrived; did the prelim duties and fronted the soda. Was slammed until 8, when I could finally do the soda count, my LU, and my AP4Me. Mucked the mats and pulled the trash, then HC Kay sent me to lunch at 8:20. Returned items to Plumbing. Returned and swept the area, plus rang up the final 3 customers. Locked the doors at 10; Loader Joe brought in the concrete and Loader Con took the trash. HC Kay cleaned me out; returned items to Ladders, Electrical, and Aisle 10. Put up my vest and clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit: Gray LU Plank tee, new dark jeggings, large gold hoops

Day 140: Warmer, high 70s

Arrived and took over for Kem; did the prelim duties. Was fairly busy until 5:30, then things slowed down. HC Austin sent me to lunch at 6:30 and when I returned, rang up two complicated orders. Swept the entire area, sanitized the coffee bar, pulled trash. Locked the doors at 9:45 when the parking lot was empty. HC Joe took the trash to the hopper and brought in the concrete; HC Austin cleaned me out; put up my vest and clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Gray USA flower tee, new dark jeggings, large zirconians

Off to Lafayette tomorrow, then choir practice Thurs, and Downtown Halloween Bash on Friday!

Day 141:  Rare Sun Cool, mid 60s

Arrived and took over for Marilyn (actually had to get on Pro Jer's register to help with the line), and Robin and I were fairly steady until she left at 4. I was steady until 6-ish, when I was able to start sweeping.  I'd already done the prelim duties and discovered the coffee hadn't been enptied on Fri. Fronted soda, checked my email, filled out my Benefits survey, and did my LU. HC Kay sent me to break at 7 and when I returned, pulled trash, swept the rest of the area, and sanitized the coffee bar, registers, and the top of the Pepsi cooler. Locked the doors at 7:45 after last customer left, but left one door open. Closed and locked it at 8. Loader Vince took the trash to the hopper and brought in the concrete while HC Kay cleaned me out. Put up my vest and clocked out at 8:20.  Got lots of compliments on my haircut! (Cut 3" off).

Outfit:  Blue Manning jersey, new dark jeggings, large zirconians

Life In Lumber: Y6, W33

 Day 136: Chilly, low 60s

Arrived and took over for Ivree.  Was fairly steady until 7, then was able to do the prelim duties.  Had to seriously bite my tongue when a man wearing an "H-W" political tee came through; I said something snarky to the next customer after the man was out of earshot, but can't remember what I said!  Had another customer hand me his $405 one bill at a time, so my sense of humor kicked in, and handed back his change, one bill at a time (he's a regular, ha ha!)! HC Kay sent me to break at 7:30, and when I returned, pulled trash, then helped Trevor ring up a customer with 5 carts! Swept the area, and helped a Pro customer save $$ by running his order through VSP, which he didn't know he was eligible for.  I said, "This is when you say 'thank you Molly'.....he grinned and did so. When I locked the doors later, I discovered he'd left his grout behind. Pulled it inside and stuck a note on it....just as HC Kay called me and asked about it.  After Loader Joe took my trash and brought in the concrete, and HC Kay cleaned me out, I returned items to Tools and Flooring, then put up my vest and took the cart full of grout up front, stashing it in the Fulfillment area.  Clocked out at 10:30.

We're also playing Front End Bingo, but it has to be cover all.  *blows raspberry* I've already got one across, but don't think I'll EVER get the Cover All. I did complete all 3 crosswords, with HC Kay's help.  Think I get a Starbucks coffee, but since I don't like it cold, I'll snag a candy bar.

We also received a small lunch box with a soup or coffee mug, charging bank, keychain, and socks.

Outfit:  Bless This Mess sweatshirt, new faded jeggings, large zirconians

Day 137: Chilly, high 50s

Arrived and took over for Marilyn. Was busy for two hours, then did the prelim duties, my LU, and requested my Nov and Dec dates off. Did the soda count, and had it finished by 8. HC Kay sent me to lunch and when I returned, pulled trash, sanitized the coffee bar and registers, and put the soda away. After Loader Con took the trash and brought in the concrete, I locked the doors. HC Kay cleaned me out, and I returned items to Aisle 10, Tools, and Hardware. Put up my vest and clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Whitehorse sweatshirt, new faded jeggings, large zirconians.

I owe Alex a batch of cookies for Mon, for getting snippy with him when he took too long to answer my override page....he was with a customer.

Day 138:  Chilly, high 50s

Arrived and went to Receiving for large and small trash bags, then clocked in and took over for Debi. Did the prelim duties, then was slammed from 5-5:30, with a similar issue as last night, needing an o/r and no one coming!  Finally SM Jeff showed up, and fortunately, it was the last customer of the 'rush'. Mucked the mats, did my LU, and swept. HC Kay sent me to lunch at 8:15, and when I returend, pulled trash, sanitized the registers and coffee bar and wiped down the counters. Loader Vince took the trash and brought in the concrete. Locked the doors. HC Kay cleaned me out; returned items to ISLG and clocked out at 10:25.

Outfit:  Maroon blouse, white vest, new faded jeggings, antique silver and pearl danglies

Off the next 4 days for the MHS reunion!

BB26: Week 12 and Finale

 HOH Comp: Chelsie gets 4 answers correct, Rubina 2, and Cam 1.

Chelsie wins!  Nominates Mack and Cam

POV:

Rubina is eliminated 1st, followed by Chelsie.  Mack wins!!!!

Eviction:  

Mack evicts Rubina.

Julie, not a fan of those shoes with that outfit.  Just sayin'.....

HOH Comp #1:  Endurance Comp

Mack falls first, followed by Cam, ten mins later:)  Chelsie wins Pt 1:)

Pt 2:  Cam vs Mack

Mack wins!!!!!

Jury Roundtable:  Taylor...ugh.

Pt 3:  Mack vs Chelsie

Mack wins!!!!!!  Takes Chelsie to the end with her:)  Bye-bye Cam!

Jury Interrogation/Vote:

The winner of BB2024 is........

                         Chelsie!!!!!   7-0

America's Favorite:  

                         Tucker!!!!!

And....Jankie was rebooted?!?!?!?

Life In Lumber: Y6, W32

 Day 130: Cool, low 70s

Arrived; paid D's cc bill, then took over for Kem. Was fairly steady until 6:30, then began the prelim duties. HC Kay sent me to lunch at 7; returned and started the closing duties. Final customer left at 9:15. Was able to give Brianna her free book, and sold a sample chapter book to Gil. Closed and locked the doors at 10, then ASM Alex brought in the concrete; HC Kay cleaned me out. Took the trash to the hopper and returned items to Plumbing, Appliances, and Hardware. Clocked out at 10:25.

Also managed to do my AP4Me and LU, AND reinstate my crappy medical insurance.

Outfit:  Black Dog USA tee; new faded jeggings, diamond flower studs

Off tomorrow for drs appt!

Day 131:  Warm, mid 70s

Arrived and took over for Kem. Was busy until 6:30, then was able to do the prelim duties. Jared sent me to lunch at 6:45; returned and checked out a few customers, then did my LU, my ADA and Credit Card training. Final customer was at 8:30; pulled trash and swept; mucked the mats; sanitized the registers and coffee bar. Locked the doors at 10; Loader Joe brought in the concrete and took the trash; HC Austin cleaned me out. Returned items to Fashion Bath, RTM, and Hardware. Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Gray USA tee; new faded jeggings; dangly r/w/b stars, and the 'I Voted' sticker.

Day 132: Warmer, low 80s

Due to laundry, was slightly late to work (clocked in at 3:01). Was busy until 7; spent the majority telling people the difference between the MLRCC and the MYRLOYALTY program.....I seriously want to bash someone over the head for calling both the CC and the Loyalty program THE SAME NAME!  "But I've got MLR..." (holds up the CC).  "Yes, but do you have the LOYALTY program, where you earn points and get $$ back?"  "Oh, I don't want to mess with that."  "Then you don't qualify for the special sales this week."  "Well that's stupid."

I agree.  By the time HC Shel sent me to lunch, I was sooooooo over people not 'getting' it, I wanted a drink!

Things calmed down after lunch, and was able to get the closing duties and my LU done. Locked the doors at 10; Loader Con brought in the concrete and took my trash; HC Shel cleaned me out; I returned items to Plumbing, Electrical, Tools, Lights, and ISLG. Clocked out at 10:30.

Saw Tasha, former front end ASM.

Outfit:  Gray Purdue tee, new faded jeggings, black danglies

Day 133: Warm, 81

Arrived to find things definitely slower. Was steady until 5, then things dropped off. Did my LU and prelim duties, then HC Shel sent me to lunch at 5:30. Returned and swept the area, and generally goofed off between customers, lol. HC Austin sent me to my 2nd break at 8:30, and at 9, pulled trash. Locked the doors at 10; Loader Joe brought in the concrete and took the trash. HC Austin cleaned me out; put up my vest and clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Black blouse, Halloween denim shirt, new faded jeggings, Halloween Hearts

Day 134:   Rare Sat Low 80s

Arrived to discover I was 30 mins early; did my LU and ate a slice of Brent's banana bread. Took over for Dawson; first customer paid with $100 and cleaned Reg #1 of $1s, 5s, and 10s.  Hopped over to #2 until nearly 7:30, when HC Austin could bring the $$!  Things were slow. Did the prelim duties; HC Austin sent me to break at 8:10; returned and pulled trash, sanitized the coffee bar, and swept a little. Final customer left at 9:30, then we had some hilarity.

Former HC Shelby arrived to say hi; her b/f Nick and ASM Alex walk in. Nick flipped up her shirt; Shel's not wearing a bra and yelps. Alex and I burst into laughter! Finally, everyone calmed down. Locked the doors at 10; Loader Jeff brought in the concrete and took the trash; HC Austin cleaned me out. Returned items to Plumbing, Tools, Paint, Clothing, Flooring, and Fashion Bath. Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Orange Halloween shirt, new faded jeggings, skeletons

Day 135:  Rare Sun Mid-70s

Arrived and took over for Marilyn, and had an issue with a delivery order. Saved it, in order to get through the line, and called HC Kay down to help. Then things died down for 90 mins....then picked up again and stayed steady until close.  I was able to get the closing duties finished, and had to shoo my last customer out of the store when we closed, and told another pair we were already closed. After HC Austin cleaned me out, I locked all the doors, took my trash to the hopper, and returned items to Plumbing, Tools, and Paint. Clocked out at 8:30.

Outfit:  Blue Colts Jersey, new faded jeggings, silver chains

BB26: Week 11

 HOH: Constructing a tiny key card

Mackensy wins!!!!!

Puts up Kimo and Rubina.

POV:  BB Comics!!

Kimo:  30:27

Mack:  13:51 WINNER! Smart move, finding the differences 1st, then the order.

Mack decides to NOT use it on Rubina and put up Cam, even though she's furious at him for not doing anything all season.

Jury House:  Quinn, TK, Leah, and Angela

Leah (chubby-chaser) confesses to have a crush on Quinn!

Eviction:

Kimo is evicted 2-0

Life In Lumber: Y6, W31

 Day 129: Sunny, 70s

Arrived and took over for Marilyn.  Was busy for an hour, then did the prelim duties, my AP4Me, and LU. Printed off my October schedule and the sneak peeks of Mandela Effect. Swept, then HC Kay sent me to break. Returned and pulled trash. Final customers left at 9:30. Sanitized the counters and the coffee bar. After HC Kay cleaned me out at 10, locked the doors. Loader Con brought in the concrete and took the trash. Returned items to Electrical and tools, then put up my vest. Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Red LU tee, new faded jeggings, small gold hoops.

Only worked one day this week, due to cutting hours, and the fact I'm taking off Friday to work the First Friday Art Walk.  Was supposed to be involved in a vendor fair this weekend, but the organizer never got back to me.  Which is fine; I found out I can tour the Toyota Plant and see where my child works:)

October Goals

I wasn't very productive last month, but I DID finish one book and have added words to another:)

-Lose 5 pounds (238) Crap....gained 5.

-Clean out storage Nope

-Take pics for tax hearing Check:)

-Finish writing Mandala Effect Check:)

-Add words to Heart Song Check!

-Have an enjoyable class reunion Check!

-Watch SE 10 of 2.5 Men Almost; have reached Ep 17.

-Watch SE 1 of Love Boat Think I've made it to Ep 9?

-Watch BB26 Only 2 weeks and Final 5 left!

-Order copies of Whispers (6), Beach (5), River (5), Holidays (20), and Mixed Bag (5) $164 Check!

-Work enough hours to continue paying off CC and med bills Got a raise!  Whoot!

-Fix MBA Still waiting....

-Cut carpet out of S's room Not yet....

-Upload digital copies to Patreon Nope

-Convert 2 VHS to DVD ($44) Nope

-Read more in evenings Check!

Books Read:  7

            Print:  5

        E-book:  2

             DNF: 0

Karaoke Songs Added:  10

2024 Events:

October 4th:  First Friday Art Walk, 5-9 Main St Cold, no sales

October 19-20th:  MHS 40th Reunion

October 25th:  Halloween Stroll, Creative Market Pop Up Shop, 5-8pm Sold 1; ran out of candy and prizes within the 1st hour.

November 1:  First Friday Art Walk

November 6-9th:  Indpls Christmas Gift And Hobby Show

December 4-5th:  GSH Vendor Fair

December 6th:  First Friday Art Walk (weather permitting)

December 7th:  KCPL Author Fair

2025 Events:

July 20-22nd:  Imaginarium, Louisville, Ky (Pd 9/12)

Sept 27th:  Book Nook Book Fair, Peoria, Il ($75)

2026 Events:

April 11th:  Dreaming Dirty In Michigan Pd $60; still owe $120

October Goals:

-Lose 5 pounds (243)

-Clean out storage

-Do well at First Friday Art Walk Sold 3:)

-Get clean bill of health Oct 8th Check:)  Note To Self:  Don't skip thyroid meds until after next blood draw early Dec

-Have an enjoyable MHS Reunion Check!

-Do well at Pumpkin Stroll/Pop Up Creative Market Sold 1 and ran out of candy and prizes within the 1st hour.

-Add words to Heart Song

-Watch SE 10 of 2.5 Men Check!  Now on SE11 10/26:  Now on SE12!

-Watch SE 1 of Love Boat

-Watch BB26 Check!  Chelsie won; Makensy 2nd!

-Watch L&O: SVU 

-Order 10 more Mandela Effect

-Work enough hours to continue paying off CC and med bills

-Fix MBA

-Cut carpet out of S's room

-Upload digital copies to Patreon ...

-Convert 2 VHS to DVD ($44) 

-Read more in evenings

September Reading Schedule

The Queen-Andrew Morton DRR!  Wonderful bio of Elizabeth II.

Hearts Don't Lie-Sutton Bishop DRR!!!  Really loved this 2nd chance story!  Cried at the end.

Transient Pulse-Laura Juntunen DNF.  After the 6th chapter, I realized it wasn't holding my attention.

One More Time-Effie Leland Wilder RR!  Funny and cute:)

Legacy-James Michener DRR!  A GREAT look at the history of the US Constitution.  Wish he'd gone into more detail about the Iran/Contra affair....I was in college and could have cared less.

From Here To The Great Unknown-Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough DRR! Very well written and a peek inside Elvis' world and LM's.  Warning:  Tear-jerker.

Letters In The Attic-Meredith Lindsey DRR!  Very enjoyable story!

A Soldier Finds Grace-Katherine St. Clair DNF

Memories of Moscow-Harold Lipman

A Fantastic Ride-Bob Rohrman

Becoming-Michelle Obama

A Royal Duty-Paul Burrell

Redemption of the Duke-Gayle Callen

Wildwood Creek-Lisa Wingate

Stitched With Love-Cathy Marie Hake, et al

A Wild Yearning-Penelope Williamson

The Husband List-Janet Evanovich

Delusion In Death-JD Robb

New York To Dallas-JD Robb

Special Circumstances-Sheldon Siegel

Split Second-Catherine Coulter

Romancing Miss Bronte-Juliet Gael

Live Wire-Lora Leigh

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn-Betty Smith

Shores-Tiare H Johnston

Older But Wilder-Elfie Leland Wilder

Killers of the Flower Moon-David Graham

Burr-Gore Vidal

Sex and Vanity-Kevin Kwan

The Neopolitan Sisters-Margo Candela

I Am Sheffrou-Cami Michaels

Letters To Matthew-Amy Leigh McCorkle

Get Jiro-Anthony Bourdain

All Hail The Queen of the Freaks-T Harriman

The Vermin Sleep-James M Watjen

Mom Jeans and Other Mistakes- Alexa Martin

The Choice-Anne Greene (misplaced??)

Louise Penney book

A Quiet Strength-Janette Oke

Valley of the Shaman-Arlen Andrews

Joyful Poems For Children-James Whitcomb Riley

I Heard God Laugh-Matthew Kelly

Life Is Messy-Matthew Kelly

Franklin and Eleanor

-44

E-book:

Because You're Mine-Claire Contreas Good story; slightly too long

Christmas Bargain-Spice Cute story:)

Lynxed-Brynn Paulin Good story, though I question the 1st Nation tribe name.....

Loving Layla-Brynn Paulin Good story:)

Come Undone-Jessica Hawkins Good story

Royal-Emily Silver

Closer Home-Kerry Anne King

Pine Grove Sampler-Jean Joachim

Meet Me In Fantasyland-Mary Martinez

Secret Identity-Ava Cuvey, et al

The Scottish Play-Phoebe Alexander

Fisher Of Men-Phoebe Alexander

Help Me Remember-Corinne Michaels (Want to get)

Karaoke Songs:

10/3 Brower's B-Day

Head Over Heels-The Go-Gos Not too bad

Borderline-Madonna Good:)

Desert Moon-Dennis DeYoung Forgot to put it on written list

The Warrior-Scandal Always fun to sing:)

Let's Hear It For The Boy-Deniece Williams B appreciated it:)

Stop Draggin' My Heart Around-Petty/Nicks Sang this with Kenny D, and though he dropped his part a bit, we had fun with it:)

Close My Eyes-Ozzy/Lita B and Janie sang it, so he and I did Bring Me To Life and nailed it:)

Holding Out For A Hero-Bonnie Tyler Nailed this one!

10/10

The Long Run-The Eagles Good:)

Shop Around-Captain and Tenille Nailed it, including the attitude, lol:)

Should Have Known Better-Richard Marx Not too bad:)

Could Have Been-Tiffany Did well!  Only blew one line at end.

Desert Moon-Dennis DeYoung Nailed it:)

10/17:  Out of town

10/24: VBC private event

10/31:  Brower out of town