Life In Lumber: Y6, W21

Day 87:  Hot, 80s

Was asked to come in at 4, so did, and was only slightly busy for the 1st hour.  Did the prelim duties, then was slammed until 6. Did my AP4Me and LU, then took a pit stop. Chas sent me to lunch at 7:20; returned items to Aisle 10 and Paint first. After my 30 min lunch, returned and fronted soda. At 8:30, pulled trash and sanitized the coffee bar and registers. Wiped off the top of the Pepsi cooler. Final customer arrived at 9:55. Locked the doors; Loader Joe took the trash and brought in the concrete. After HC Shel cleaned me out, returned items to Electrical and Flooring. Put up my vest, took another pit stop, and clocked out at 10:20.

Outfit:  Black SWICC tee, faded cut off capris, treble clefs

Day 88: Hot, 90s

Arrived; Alice had left at 4. Did the prelim duties and was fairly busy for an hour, then the customers just trickled in. Did my LU and swept the floor. Jacie sent me to break at 8:30. When I returned, finished sweeping the floor, pulled trash, sanitized the registers and coffee bar, and helped Jacie fill the soda coolers. After ASM Charlie brought in the concrete and OSB, I took the trash to the hopper and returned 4 pieces of wood to Aisle 49. Put up my vest and clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Gold tee, faded cut off capris, sapphire hoops

Day 89: Hot, 90s

Was asked to come in at 4, and once I arrived, had very little'down' time. Did manage to get my LU done and my paystub printed out, and the place swept. Didn't get to go to break until 9. After I locked the doors at 10, HC Kay cleaned me out. Brought in 9 carts, then Loader Joe brought in the concrete and took the trash. Clocked out at 10:45.

Outfit:  Spare Parts tee, faded cut off capris, silver chains

Day 90:  Hot, 90s

Arrived at 4, and the 1st hour was busy. At 5, did the prelim duties and my LU. Spot-swept the floor, since my dustmop was AWOL. It rained somewhere between 6-7, but didn't last long. Pulled trash at 8:30, then Halle sent me to lunch at 8:45. When I returned, I spot-swept again and sanitized the coffee bar, listened to the Star Chamber. Locked the doors at 10, and Loader Harlan brought in the concrete and took my trash to the hopper. HC Shel cleaned me out; I put up my vest and took some items to RTM for Adrianne, while she took my item to OSLG. Fronted items in Aisle 10 with Dawson and Halle, then we all clocked out at 10:45.

Outfit:  Dept of having a good time tee, faded cut off capris, copper/larimar ovals 

Day 91:

Life In Lumber: Y6, W20

 Day 84:  Hot, mid 90s

Arrived and joked I'd suffered from heat exhaustion just by walking from my car to the building! Took over for Kim; Alice was at self-checkout. Was busy; got 5 surveys in the 1st hour, and 9 by shift end:) Did the prelim duties; AP4Me; and LU. Discovered someone (corporate, maybe???) wants all dustmops to be at the back of the building. WTH?????  Will confer with ASM SCH on Wed. HC Kay gave me a pit stop break at 9, and when I returned, I sanitized the coffee bar and finished sweeping. Pulled trash; Loader Joe took it to the hopper, then brought in the concrete. I locked the doors at 10. Put up my vest and took returns back to Tools, Lights, Plumbing, Hardware, ISLG, and Aisle 1. Clocked out at 10:30.

In the you-never-know-who's-in-your-line file....had the OWNER of TX Rdhouse give me a $15 voucher. He'd asked me what I like to eat there, and when I told him I'd given up on the steaks, due to never getting mine cooked 'right', he told me to ask for him and he'd cook it for me personally:)

Outfit:  Gray-blue USA tee, dark cut off capris, blue sapphire hoops.

Am off tomorrow, to hang out with the grandkids while S and A got to Holiday World:)

Day 85: Hot, low 90s

Was called in early, due to Scott not feeling well.  Arrived at 2:30 to discover Alice in LG and Kem in a snit; said she wasn't going home until 3. I went back and did the Best Survey, then was paged as I was on the last question, and forgot to mention being upset over no quarterly bonus.  But I did bitch about the health care!

Went down and hopped on #2, then when we got the line busted, and Kem left at 3:15, I went back on #1. D arrived at 4, just as Alice came down and sent me to lunch. D slipped on the spilled sand and fell down; took me to Denny's. Came back an hour later; swept up the sand that Charles was asked to sweep, and couldn't find my dustmop. Talked to Mike and ASM Shan about D's fall. Clocked back in; Alice left; did prelim duties, then was busy until 7.  Spot-swept; pulled trash at 8:30, then had to have Loader Joe watch the register while I took a pit stop and tracked down the trash bags, because we had the wrong ones.  At 9, HC Austin sent me to break. Returned and spot-swept, sanitized the coffee bar; did my LU. Locked the doors; Loader Joe brought in the concrete; HC Austin cleaned me out; returned items to Plumbing, Tools, ISLG, and Hardware. Put up my vest and clocked out at 10:25.

Outfit::  USA Flowers, dark cut off capris, diamond studs

Tomorrow:  Dyeing my hair pink for Imaginarium:)

Day 86: High 70s

Arrived; everyone seemed to like my pink hair. Did the prelim duties; found my dustmop and swept, but then realized my dustPAN was MIA, so swept it out the door. Was strangely low-key today. Did my LU and wrote, and at 8, had to hop to #2, due to being out of $1s. HC Shel sent me to break at 9 (took my broom back) and when I returned, pulled trash, sanitized the coffee bar and counters. When HC Shel cleaned me out, took the trash to receiving and returned an item to Flooring. Put up my vest; ASM Alex helped Loader Harlan bring in the concrete; clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Mama Bear tee, dark cut off capris, lt blue studs

Off to Imaginarium tomorrow!

Life In Lumber: Y6, W19

 Day 79: Hot, 90s

Arrived at 4 to help friend Jackie get a wheelbarrow and weed-whacker, then D's aunt Jane get an appointment for a window consultation. Clocked in and took over for Alice, and was busy for 30 mins before doing the prelim duties. Did my LU and AP4Me. Was busy all the way up until 9, when HC Kay sent me to break, and when I returned, swept what I could, pulled trash, mucked the mats, and santized the coffee bar. Locked the doors at 10. ASM Ian brought in the concrete and took the hopper around.  I returned items to Aisle 10, then put up my vest. Had gotten a credit app earlier, so punched the tree and won a Scrub Mommy. Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Gray Purdue tee, long capris, dark blue studs

Day 80: Rain, 70s

Was asked to come in at 3, due to Alice not feeling well and leaving early. Was slow the 1st 2 hours; did prelim duties and LU. HC Kay sent me to lunch at 5. Came back and it was raining; had a modest amount of customers leaving. At 7, the storm hit; swept, watched the storm, watched Between 2 Brians. and sanitized the registers, counters, coffee bar, and snack machines. Pulled trash at 8:30; mucked the mats. Locked the doors at 10; Loader Con brought in the concrete. HC Austin cleaned me out; returned items to Fashion Bath, Aisle 30, Hardware, and ISLG.  Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Black AK hway tee, long capris, thick gold hoops.

Day 81: Hot, 86

Arrived early and bought my new pop up canopy with my $38 in MyLowesBucks, and $58 on the charge card:)  Took over for Alice, did the prelim duties and my LU, and was busy for an hour. Then swept, mucked the mats. HC Austin sent me to break at 8, and when I returned, pulled trash and sanitized the registers and coffee bar. Had CFH at 9:15....argued with me for 10 mins over the price of his lumber before he finally realized I was telling him he had the wrong item #!  Locked the doors at 10; Kait brought in the concrete; I took the trash to the hopper, then went outside and met Tasha at my car, to give her the old Playboy mags. Went back inside; clocked out at 10:35.

Outfit:   Gray LU tee, long capris, thick silver hoops

Off tomorrow, to take Mom to get her hair done:)

Day 82:  Sunny, high 80s

Arrived and took over for Alice, then did the prelim duties. Was busy until 7, then shuffled and fronted the soda, did my LU, and swept. HC Austin sent me to break at 8:20, just as S, A, and R walked in. Spent my break with them, and cleaned out the coffee carafe. They left; I pulled trash and finished sweeping. Sanitized the coffee bar. Locked the doors at 10, and Loader Con took the trash and brought in the concrete. Returned items to Plumbing, RTM, Paint, Hardware, and Storage after HC Austin cleaned me out.  Clocked out at 10:30.

Off tomorrow for Ram's 1st birthday party:)

Outfit:  Indian Motorcycle Vegas tee, long capris, thin gold hoops

Day 83:  Rare Sun Hot, 94

Arrived and met new cashier Deb. We were slow, so did my LU and helped a customer in Tools. At 4:30, HC Kay called and asked me to send Deb to self-checkout. Was still slow, so wrote until 6pm. and only had a handful of customers.  Did see Mel and Nan:)  At 6, HC Kay sent me to break. Afterward, did the prelim duties, and ASM SCH asked me to get some surveys. Ended up getting 5:)  Pulled trash, and at 7:30 went over and swept the two messiest parts...Aisle 19 and 20.  Just as I got it swept to behind my counter, the rush hit, lol....and didn't get it swept up until after we closed at 8. Loader Harlan brought in the concrete, then took my trash to the hopper. I closed the garage door and returned items to Tools, Paint, Hardware, Batteries, and ISLG. Clocked out at 8:35.

Outfit:  Black lace tee, faded cut off capris, silver crosses

Life In Lumber: Y6, W18

 Day 73: Sunny, low 80s

Arrived and took over for Alice. Was busy instantly, and did manage to get the prelim duties done. Fronted soda and swept.  Had to call HC Kay at 8:30 for a pit stop, then pulled trash, finished sweeping, did my AP4Me and LU. Locked the doors at 10, and final customer left at 10:05. Closed the garage door when ASM Ian was working in Aisle 21 and Loader Joe was on the forklift in Aisle 19.  Took the trash to the hopper after HC Kay cleaned me out, and returned items to Electrical and OSLG. Some guy had brought me 2 tomato plants without any barcodes, and couldn't find them by searching.  Clocked out at 10:30.

Also had a situation where I couldn't get a tadpole off, so sent them out the door with it still attached. Connie from paint came down and asked me about it.....then when I asked ASM SCh at closing what to do if it ever comes up again, ASM Alex said just to cut it off.

Outfit:  Red LU tee, faded capris, gold oval danglies, the last of my earrings:)

Day 74: Hot, 90s

Arrived and was immediately busy; in fact, Alice didn't leave until nearly 5:15. Had a customer who barely spoke English, who said they were with a local contractor, but they weren't authorized on the account, and SM Jeff was right behind them!  Finally, they called one of the owners, who spoke to me, and okay'd it.  SM J moved over to Alice's line. Did the prelim duties and my LU, plus changed my PW! #Banditkitty009. Was fairly busy until 7, then began sweeping.  HC Shel sent me to break at 8:45, and when I returned, pulled trash, sanitized the registers and coffee bar, and wiped down the counters. Locked the doors at 10, and after HC Shel cleaned me out, and Loader Con brought in the concrete and took the trash, closed the garage door and returned items to Electrical, Hardware, Aisle 1, and parked a riding cart.  Also sent another item to RTM, and put up my vest.  Clocked out at 10:45.

Outfit:  Gray 'America' tee, faded capris, Yukon color danglies

Day 75:  Hot, 90s

Arrived and took over for Alice.  Was busy for 2 hours, then was able to finish the prelim duties. Did my LU and checked my schedule. Teased one customer when I went to ring up the second cart....he let loose a string of Spanish, and I thought maybe the 2nd cart was separate?  But no; I said, mock-serious, not to suddenly speak native, 'cause I don't speak it, and wasn't sure what you were telling me! They laughed....then held out his hand for candy.  Even their client did, and we had a good laugh over everything. HC Kay sent me to break at 8:30, and when I returned, finished sweeping, pulled trash, sanitized the coffee bar, and fronted the soda.  Final 2 customers left at 10, and the last one didn't leave the canopy until 10:30! I was called to the front; I called up to say I was helping Loader Con close up. Con took the trash, and after the customer left, brought in the concrete. I closed the garage door and returned items to Aisle 21, then swept Aisle 20 while Con was finishing up. Clocked out at 11:00.

Outfit:  Blue holiday tee, faded capris, thick white hoops, r/w/b 'bow' scrunchie.

Day 76:  Independence Day Hot, 90s, threat of rain

Shift began on a bad note when something landed in my eye the minute I got in the car, and didn't get it out until 3 eyewashes and a lot of tears.  Alice left at 4:30, and was able to get the prelim duties finished by 5. Began sweeping....then the Benadryl I'd popped at 3 took over, and I got verrrrrry sleepy. I was supposed to have gone to break at 6, but by 6:30, it still hadn't arrived, so asked Pro Nel to watch the register while I took a pit stop and got some trash bags.  Returned to discover my break would be at 7. Took a 15 minute power nap.....then all hell broke loose.

Customer A had told me they were leaving their boards in front of the Pro desk. I came back, they were gone, so *assumed* the customer had returned.  No sooner had I taken over than A was back and wanted to know where their boards were. I explained; the hubby got irate and yelled, "This never happens at Niehouse!" I got on the phone to HC Kay, and she didn't know about it. Neither did Loader Jax (no surprise there!) Then saw Loader Con....and he 'fessed up he'd put them away.  Asked him to go apologize, which he did, and then I lowered the price of the boards, which made him even happier (a couple were rather chewed up). Then had 4 customers AT 8PM.....and even had to tell another person we were closed!

Clocked out at 8:30 and came home.  Kids arrived, we went over to GRC and watched the fireworks.

Outfit:  White flag tee, faded capris, r/w/b stars

Day 77: Sunny, high 80s

Arrived and took over for Alice; was busy for half hour, then did the prelim duties. Was busy again until 7, when began sweeping and fronting soda. Marci came in and got her NYC presents:) HC Austin sent me to break at 8, and when I returned, pulled the trash and finished sweeping, then sanitized the coffee bar.  Discovered yesterday WHY we keep running out of Lysol wipes; Pro Nel uses them to clean off the @#$$%^ counters! Locked the doors at 10; ASM Charlie brought in the concrete. HC Austin cleaned me out; I took the trash to the hopper, then returned items to Plumbing, Appliances, and Hardware. Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Black Lab/Flag tee, long capris, red wavy posts

Off tomorrow!

Day 78:  Rare Sun Sunny, 90

Arrived and hopped on #2 to help with line. Fronted soda, checked trash bags and emptied what I could. Marilyn went to break at 4:30, then left at 5. I was swamped for about 45 mins, then could complete the prelim duties, and began sweeping. Parked Loader Charles at the register around 7:15 and took a pit stop, then pulled trash. Locked the doors at 7:55 and told a couple at 7:59 they only had a minute before we closed, so they left. Afterward, ASM CB asked if I'd sweep the front of the store. Swept tools, Plumbing, Electrical, the front end, and Hardware, plus a little of ISLG before he said it was good and let us clock out at 9.

Outfit:  Black blouse, long capris, silver spirals

July Goals

Where did June go?  Just seems like I've only just returned from NYC and Metropolis, and now it's another month.  So how did I do?

 -Lose 5 lbs (start 240) Maintaining....ugh.

-Add words to existing WIPS Check!

-Do well at Arts and Drafts Sold 1, to former coworker:)

-Celebrate Alex's 12th b-day Didn't actually celebrate WITH her; I was at A&D, and bought her Once Upon A Platypus at Superman, which I'd wanted to get her 2 years ago:)  Cute story; I hope she enjoys it!

-Do well at Superman Celebration Was only there for one day (Sat) and sold 8:)

-Do well at GSH signing Sold 1, traded 1.

-Do well at Farmer's Market Sold 5:)

-Do well at Pride Sold 5:)

-Cut carpet out of S's room

-Upload digital copies to Patreon ...

-/Begin short story due at end of month Check!

-Finish short story for BKM Reread it; think it IS finished!

-Finish SE8 of 2.5 Men Check!  Began SE9 6/16

-Convert 2 VHS to DVD ($44) 

-Read more in evenings

-Celebrate Olivia's 2nd birthday Check:)

Health Update:  With the warmer temps, am wearing the compression brace on my right leg again.

Books Read:  7

            Print:  5

        E-book:  2

Karaoke Songs Added:  7

2024 Events:

July 19-21st:  Imaginarium, Louisville, KY Pd 11/2023

July 27th:  Wabash Valley Geekz and Things ($40) Pd 7/12/2024

August 10th:  Collectors, Carnival, and Crafts, Gibson Co Fairgrounds, Princeton, In Pd 6/2024

August 24th:  Geek Con, Evansville Museum, Evansville, In Pd 4/2024

September:  TBD

October:  TBD

November:  Indpls Christmas Gift And Hobby Show

December:  Kringle Market

July Goals:

-Lose 5 pounds (240)

-Finish short story for Holiday antho Check:)  8700 words; now to trim it down to 5-6K

-Celebrate daughter Sara's birthday I had to work, but the family took her to Applebees.  Poor kid had drs appt, so we watched Ram for her.

-Enjoy 4th of July Check:)

-Celebrate Ram's 1st b-day Check:)

-Have fun at Imaginarium Check:)  Sold 4, gifted one.

-Do well at Geekz and Things

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

-Cut carpet out of S's room

-Upload digital copies to Patreon ...

-Finish SE9 of 2.5 Men

-Convert 2 VHS to DVD ($44) 

-Read more in evenings

June Reading Schedule:

Defending Sophie-Desiree Holt RR!  Really enjoyed this:)

Illegal Use of Hands-Desiree Holt RR!  Had problems putting this one down:)

Protecting Kate-DH RR!  Enjoyed this one:)

Never Gonna Happen-Linda Kage

Save The Date-Mary Kay Andrews

There's A Boy In The Girls' Bathroom-Louis Sachar

Watership Down-Richard Adams

Advika and The Hollywood Wives-Kirthana Ramisetti

Life Lessons-Katie Cawood

An Elephant in the Garden-Michae Morpurgo

The Queen-Andrew Morton

A Journey of Faith-Edward Grinnan

Hearts Don't Lie-Sutton Bishop

Transient Pulse-Laura Juntunen

The Choice-Anne Greene

A Soldier Finds Grace-Katherine St. Clair

Letters In The Attic-Meredith Lindsey

Memories of Moscow-Harold Lipman

Becoming-Michelle Obama

A Royal Duty-Paul Burrell

A Fantastic Ride-Bob Rohrman

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

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

-40

E-book:

Loving The Duke-Jessie Clever Good story!

Mean Girls-Lucy Felthouse Good story:)  Have a hard time believing 3 women would be that cruel though....

Greyson-JM Walker Too much drama

Control Us-JM Walker

Along Came Tess-Sandra Sookoo

Help Me Remember-Corinne Michaels (Want to get)

Karaoke Songs:

7/18

The House of the Rising Sun-Animals Not too bad:)

Shallow-Lady Gaga Did well, even the vocalizing!

River of Time-Judds Nailed it:)

7/25

September-Daughtry

Shallow Parady??? A Star Wars Is Born

Shambala-Three Dog Night

Fever-Peggy Lee

Life In Lumber: Y6, W17

 Day 69: Hot, 90

Arrived to discover my hours this week were cut to 5.5, but clocked in at 3 anyway. Did soda count, but only had Pepsi and Lemonade. Did prelim duties; things picked up at 4:30 when they sent Alice to SCO. Took my lunch at 8.  Did manage to get my AP4Me done. Swept the highlights and fronted the soda. Pulled trash after lunch. ASM Charlie brought in the concrete and took the trash after I locked the doors. HC Shel cleaned me out; returned item to RTM and put up my vest. Clocked out at 10:35, then brought in 3 carts, one flat cart and one H cart.

Outfit:  Blue MLR tee, cut off capris, thick silver hoops

Day 70: Rain, dropping temps 90-77

POURED when I got there. We were busy at first, and Alice pissed me off when she needed a Code 50, and asked me to find him 'b/c I'm off the clock and want to go home!"  Well boo-ho....suck it up, buttercup....I'm sorry they cut my hours back this week!

Rest of shift was slow; at 7:30, after sweeping, I logged onto YT for Between 2 Brians and listened. HC Austin sent me to break at 8:15. When I returned, rang up more customers, listened to rest of the show, then mucked the mats, swept the horseshoe and the concrete dust, sanitized the registers and coffee bar, and wiped down #1s counter. Locked the doors at 10, and after ASM Charlie took the trash and brought in the concrete, and HC Austin cleaned me out, put up my vest and returned an item to Hardware.  Clocked out at 10:35.

Mycah and her cover model arrived for her complimentary gift, and also paid her $50:)

Outfit:  Gray Vincennes Eclipse tee, cut off capris, light blue studs

Day 71: Sprinkles, 80s

Arrived and took over for Alice; did the prelim duties, and assisted Emily with former loader Tim's VSP order. Halle sent me to break at 7, but was shanghied by one of my customers in Fashion Bath.  Gil had dropped off a box of books, so Alice pilfered a Mary Higgens Clark, and I left her 2 more in the break room.  Took the rest to my car. Returned and kept busy with customers and sweeping.  Pulled trash at 8:30, and tuned into the Star Chamber Show at 9. Got busy at 9:30 with 4 customers in a row, then finished sweeping, pulled the rest of the trash, sanitized the coffee bar, and locked the doors at 10.  Loader Joe watched the register while I took a pit stop. He brought in the concrete after HC Kay cleaned me out, and Loader Conrad took the hopper around. Put up my vest and clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Black Eclipse tee, cut off capris, copper/larimar danglies

Off tomorrow!

Day 72:  Hot, 90s

Arrived and was instantly busy. Did get the prelim duties accomplished. HC Austin sent me to break at 6:45, and when I returned, he was still busy....and that's when things went downhill.  Customer A wanted some siding ordered, but it kept wanting to save as an estimate.  Called ASM Chris down, then hopped on 2.  Customer B had a phone sale, so managed to take care of him, plus one more. Went back to #1 and took care of A, then ASM C was trying to change the delivery fee on Customer C. Had to transfer it to me, which pissed off the next customer in line, who left.  Couldn't figure out how to change it, so they ended up going to CS. I realized it was almost 8:30 at this point, so pulled trash....and stabbed my left palm with a jagged piece of board. Began sweeping.  Customer D was "ready" to check out, and had a cart full, so I grabbed another cart in preparation.  D chose to swerve around me and go out the door. Then, Customer E walks rapidly past me with a Craftsman tool, and doesn't stop. I got outside and saw them take off in a silver Jeep, and try to drive around the building. I grabbed the abandoned empty cart and pulled up my camera app on my phone, and snapped their photo as they passed me.  Got a BAD picture of the license plate....then called ASM Chris, who showed me how to find the Theft and RWD forms.  Finally got the Theft one filled, and was nearly finished with the RWD, when I had a customer. Went back....screen was gone!  Had to do it all over again, which meant now it was 9:30 and I only had time to finish sweeping the floor and finish pulling the trash.

Loader Joe brought in the concrete and took the trash while I locked the doors.  HC Austin cleaned me out; I returned items to Tools and Hardware, then put up my vest and helped Izzy with HER theft report! Some a$$hat decided, at 9:50, to help himself to 5 hydrangea plants.  Geez....Thank GOD I'm off this weekend!!!

Outfit:  Yellow Fla tee, faded cut off capris, dark blue studs

Unvarnished Truth Pt 6

 Warning:  This post contains strong language directed at me, my choir, and people living in NYC.

Dec 2023:

I expressed my desire to travel to NYC with my cantata choir, and my spousal unit lost his mind.

"Are you CRAZY?  The f***ing illegals are shoving people into subways, traffic, and stabbing people!  You're going to get mugged!  I think it's a stupid idea, and whoever decided this trip ought to have their heads examined!"

"I'm going."

"I'm not giving you one f***ing DIME!"

"That's fine."

I used my extra income at the end of December to put down a $300 deposit and began praying.

Jan 2024:

I upped my hours to 30+ per week, and barely gave myself any spending $$ at all.  Every last cent was funneled toward my $600/mo payment, and called the travel agency to see if they would allow me to make payments over the phone. Thankfully, they agreed.....and by the end of January, had paid $400.

Feb 2024:

My sister called; she was going to begin helping me with my trip, and began sending me $200/mo.  Which was good, because my hours were cut in February.  I only scraped up an additional $150.  But with W's donation, it was $350.

March:

Hubby walked in as I was making my payment.

"I can't believe you're stupid enough to want to go. Do you not see on the news what's happening over there? Riots....a woman's cell phone was ripped out of her hand....NYC cops are quitting the force....you're going to come home in a body bag. Have you NO consideration for me or the kids?"

"Nothing's going to happen; we'll be in a GROUP!  I have NO intention of getting on the subway or wandering around by myself."

"I still think you're stupid."

I helped out with a fundraiser and earned myself over $50 to add to my total.  Hours picked up, plus we were granted a discretionary bonus.  All of that went toward the trip, plus another $200 from W.

April:

I worked a 2nd fundraisor, plus made a sign for my signings, a thermometer that showed how my travel earnings were going. The fundraiser netted each of us another $50, plus Paster Cheryl's grant was approved, so each of us received $350. I sold nearly 20 books during the eclipse; all of the funds went toward my total.  I received the news my final $1000 was due by May 1st; I didn't get paid until the 3rd.  I called the travel agency, who said yes, I could pay on the 3rd.

I appllied for and was granted a $500 credit card. I called one of my creditors and was granted a slightly less payment, and my earnings would round out the final $500. 

Family was still unsupportive, and even the kids were questioning, esp when I wasn't sure where the final $300 was, and thought about possibly borrowing $150 from each adult child.  My daughter, unfortunately, told her dad about our conversation; I'd been thinking out loud, and had floated the POSSIBILITY of borrowing it.

The spousal unit hit the roof.

"I called K and told him not to loan you one damn penny toward your trip. I'm against it; if you get hurt or killed, I'm going to sue the travel agency, the choir, the state of NY, the city of NY.  I may not have the funds to bring you home; you'll have to rot in the mortuary. There was a damn RIOT in Brooklyn yesterday!"

At this point, anything I said was just going to make him madder, so I shut up and didn't even try to point out the flaws in his logic.  We were never going NEAR Brooklyn; we were staying in Manhattan.

I did, however, have another private chat with my daughter.

"Why did you feel the need to tell Dad our conversation? I thought you supported my trip."

"I did, as long as you were paying for it yourself."

"I never ASKED you for money; I was thinking out loud IN CASE I couldn't come up with the final $2-300."

"Oh. Sorry Mom, I misunderstood."

May:

My credit card arrived; I maxxed it out on the 1st.  Two days later, I took the final $200 from my savings (my sister's donation) and $300 from my paycheck and made the final payment.  I also pushed back my bill payment to the 31st, when I'd next get paid, so I would have another $300 to spend in NYC. I also made a $200 payment on my credit card two weeks later, so I'd have extra funds available.

Things were looking up.  Then Monday May 20th happened. The spousal unit was paying bills.....and forgot about our vehicle registration due.  He only had $170 left; we needed $230.

I stupidly opened my mouth and told him I had the funds, if he paid half of his ($75) and I'd pay the rest and mine ($60).

"Why don't you pay the whole thing and I'll give you $100?"

So I did....and my $500 'fun money' went down to $290, because I needed to save $80 for my checked baggage ($40 each way).

Friday May 24th, I packed my bags and departed for Lafayette. My mom gave me $50 cash, which I used $40 to pay for the gas for my friend to take me to the airport. I also had $5.50 in quarters, in case I needed it.

Thurs May 30th:

I arrive home from a fantastic trip; I'm bubbling over with happiness, and I get greeted with 'Oh, you're home."

"See?  I survived."

"Yeah, but now I won't get your life insurance $$.  I was looking forward to being out of debt."

"I'm sorry; most men would be HAPPY their wives are alive, not murdered in NYC." (insert sarcasm) I continued to upack my car, with zero help from him.

I then 'dragged' him to OC for 90s Disney Trivia. We had a good time, some good food, and I wore my 'Ask Me About My Debut at Carnegie Hall' tee.  We sucked at the final 3 questions, but still had a good time, and I got to see several friends.

Oh, and got snarky when I arrived home, and took a selfie of me sitting in front of my house, ala 'I made it home safely'.

He saw it and commented about my selfishness and how 'it's always about you.'

Geez.  Grow up already.

Friday May 31st:

I was still off work, so we ran errands, I paid bills.  Didn't have enough to pay my phone bill ($45), but it wasn't due to be loaded until Monday.  I didn't sweat it.  Went to work on Sat, then had the concert on Sunday.  I asked the spousal unit if he was coming.

'Dave and Tammy are supposed to arrive, and HELL NO I'm not going! 

D and T arrived, and T thought about going with me, but D wasn't feeling well, so she stayed home, which turned out to be a good thing, since D ended up in the hospital the next day, with an infection in his G-tube.

The concert was good, and I returned home to a still grumpy spouse.

Mon June 3rd

I needed to reload my phone, and asked D, who was paying his 1st of the month bills, if he would do it. Thankfully, he agreed without too much grumbling.  That is, until later in the week, when we were talking about plans for granddaughter Alex's 12th birthday. I needed to pay $25 in order to set up Friday at our Brewery for the 1st Friday Art Walk, plus $125 for Superman Celebration on Sat.

"So you're not going to dinner with us Friday? Your own granddaughter's birthday? Shows what you think of her."

"I already spoke to her, and told her I'd give her her present when I get back."

"What are you doing Friday?  Waste of time." (Maybe, but I still sold 1 book)

"How much is it going to cost you to go down to Metropolis?"

"100" (I fudged a little)

"You've got that much $$ squirreled back?  Then pay me back the $45."

I gaped at him.

"I'm serious. Everyone thinks Dad has all this money. You went off to NYC with no consideration for anyone's feelings except your own. You're not making any money from your books; it's a waste of time and money. You should stay home and work your damn job.  You are NOT a celebrity;get over yourself."

Again, at this point, he was so worked up, there was no point in trying to argue with him.  

Wednesday, I walked out the door to go to a community meeting; he scoffed.

"Figures. Just as I started washing windows, you have somewhere else to be. Just like everyone else in this damn family....the work starts and everyone has somewhere else to be."

I walked out.

Thursday, I had to take my mom to an appointment, and didn't get home until around 1pm Friday.  I loaded up the car and went downtown at 4.  When I got home later, he told me about their meal at Tx Rdhouse and asked what time I was leaving in the morning.  

"Going to attempt to be on the road no later than 7am."

"I still say it's a waste of time."

Saturday morning, I got up at 6 and left the house by 7. Sold 8 books, spent $20 in gas, $15 for food before heading home, and spent $20 on a gift for Alex.  Was home around 10pm/

No word about paying him back for my phone bill; no more griping about NYC.

My two weeks of Hell seem to be over....until I went to karaoke the following Thursday.

Normally, when I leave, I tell him I'll be home around 10:30. Thursday, I said 'later', which set him off about my karaoke habit, and he accused me of going out 'whoring'.  I've heard it so much, I just roll my eyes and leave. I've sung karaoke nearly every week now for over 10 years, and I only go to sing. I don't even drink!  I'll have the occasional rum and coke if I have the extra funds, and will take a shot of tequila if my KJ buys me one (he likes me:). I used to have one or two lesbians who would claim to be my partner if I got hit on.  Hell lately, I can't even tell anymore when a guy's hitting me!  But anyway, I got home around 12:30 to a dark house. Normally he goes to bed at 1am, but the night I'm out late, he's in bed around midnight, then complains I woke him up.  *eye roll*

The past few days have been okay, though I expect another snide comment when granddaughter Olivia's birthday party is announced, and it looks as if I may be going to St. Louis with the daughter after all, since my Bonus Child isn't able to go, after all.

I've been married 33 years to this man; I'm normally able to let whatever he says go in one ear and out the other, but this constant harrassment since December has gotten to me so much, I had to vent it here.  He's 70 years old this year; I'm 58.  

Life In Lumber: Y6, W16

 Day 65: Hot, high 90s

Arrived and took over for Kem; was BUSY for 20 mins! Demanding customers; loaders Con going in and out on forklift; pro customers leaving with multiple carts. By 3:20, they'd all cleared out. Did prelim duties, and at 4:15, asked Pro Nell if she'd watch the register while I rinsed out the coffee carafe. Afterward, found Kate at the register, who said she was there to cover my lunch! So I went to lunch:) Returned an hour later and fronted soda, brought in carts, and began sweeping. We never were as busy as we had been at 3, so I managed to get everything done, including AP4Me and LU, by 9.  D came in around 7:30 and chatted with me, and at 9:30, one of my customers, whom I'd not seen in a while, told me I'd helped him out a while back, and to keep the $13 change.  Locked the doors at 10; Loader Joey brought in the concrete. After HC Kay cleaned me out, I took the trash to the hopper, returned items to Tools and Aisle 48 (dowel rod), and put up my vest. Clocked out at 10:35.  Rain began when I arrived at 6th and Busseron; picked up the moment I stepped out of the van.

Outfit:  Blue LU tee, long capris, small flower diamonds

Day 66: Mid 80s, humid

Arrived and took over for Kem. Was slightly busy for an hour, then things tapered off. Took my break at 4:45 before A left at 5. Did the prelim duties; fronted soda. Swept the area, and HC Kay sent me to lunch at 6. Returned an hour later and finished sweeping, then did my LU. Mucked the mats and sanitized the coffee bar. Loader Joe brought in the concrete and took the hopper around; I closed the door. When HC Kay cleaned me out, I put up my vest and returned items to Hardware and Gift Cards. Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Dark gray IN tee, long capris, diamond studs

Off the next two days; going up to Lafayette to take Mom to an appointment.

Day 67:  90s, humid

Took over for Kem; spent first hour ringing up customers. Alice took her break; fronted soda. Chas came down at 4:30 to send me to lunch; I told her to come back at 5. Theresa sent me to lunch at 5:30, and when I returned, she was still busy!  Was busy all the way until 9, when I could finally do the closing duties.  Pulled trash, filled bags, fronted soda again, and swept the high traffic areas.  Whomever was 'me' Thursday hadn't emptied the outside trash; had to have Loader Joey do it, then discovered we only had one trash bag left. Used it for outside. After Loader Joe brought in the concrete and took the trash, I locked the doors. HC Austin cleaned me out; I returned items to Tools and Hardware, put up my vest, and went to Receiving for more trash bags.  Filled my larger one and put the roll in the cabinet. Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  White Valspar tee, cut off capris, thick gold hoops

Day 68:  Rare Sun 90s, humid

I was extremely tired after my busy Saturday, so I was happy to see not many vehicles in the Lumber area when I pulled into the lot. However, when I arrived in Lumber, Marilyn's line was 5 deep. Hopped on #2 and helped purge it, then sent M to break. Was constantly busy. Took my break at 4:30. She left at 5, and things slowed a little; was able to get the prelim duties done and a little sweeping. Final customer left at 8. Locked the doors; ASM Charlie brought in the concrete and took the trash. Returned items to Tools, Plumbing, RTM, Seasonal, Aisle 1, ISLG, and Hardware.  Clocked out at 8:45.

Outfit:  Blessed G'ma tee, cut off capris, silver and sapphire hoops.

Unvarnished Truth Pt 5

 Wednesday May 29, 2024

I finally learned how to deal with Nan's time issue.  

Natalie wanted us downstairs by 8:45am, in order to check out and catch our charter bus.

I told Nan it was 8:30.  

I set my alarm for 7am; she got up and made coffee; I got up and dressed, packing my last-minute stuff as I went.  She finished packing; I made sure we'd gotten everything out of the bathroom, the closet, and any drawers she used, and put our used towels in the bathtub. Double-checked we had all chargers, and we headed downstairs shortly before 8:30.

I had gone down to the desk the night before, because my Kindle would NOT connect to the wifi.  Manager said they were having issues with it, and they had computers downstairs in the business area, but a fee was charged, since it was owned by a private company.  I sighed, mentally rolled my eyes, and said a prayer that someone had a hot spot they'd let me use.  Unfortunately, no one answered my plea, so I changed the prayer to 'let my account NOT be overdrawn!', since there were a couple of receipts I didn't get.

When we got to the lobby and saw Jon, and asked if HE had a hotspot I could use, he said yes.  I grabbed my Kindle and fired it up, and was able to connect.  I was slightly overdrawn, but was able to transfer $30 into my checking, so I knew I had at least $20 on both cards.  Natalie appeared and got in line to check us out; we deposited our cards in the checkout slot.

The bus had gotten trapped in traffic, so it was closer to 9am when we were able to cross the street and board.

Our 1st stop was Battery Park, and we were warned not to take any water bottles with us; just our money and ID. As we waited to go through Security for the ferry to the Statue of Liberty, Nan and I ended up being next to John M. There was a guy playing 'Happy Birthday' and 'My Darling Clementine' on what looked like a homemade cello, and when we got closer, John revealed his birthday AND Joyce's were coming up.  So I started singing HBD to both of them; Nan and the rest of our group joined in as well:) Then we began imitating Huckleberry Hound and singing Clementine. I think we entertained everyone around us, and it made the wait go faster:)

Going through Security was like at the airport. Had to put everything from pockets into a bin and send it through the X-ray machine.  I laughed, because as I passed through w/o any issues, Joyce was getting patted down.  I realized I'd forgotten to take off my belt; her string grommets had set the machine off!

When it was our turn to board the ferry, a bunch of us went up top. There were several people wearing foam 'crowns'....I was interested in getting one.  We arrived at Lady Liberty and had 90 mins.  Nan and I decided to eat 1st, and go through the gift shop, since we'd missed our opportunity at the 911 museum.  I found a keychain with my name on it, but it was $12, and I'd just spent $10 on pizza. So I settled for the $7 black crystal pen with the statue pendant.  Then we walked around the statue, taking pictures.  When we got all the way around, Nan needed to use the facilities again, and I realized we weren't going to have time to go through the museum.  She couldn't find the gift shop, so we hustled to our meeting area, and were on time.  We boarded the ferry to Ellis Island, but stayed on the lower deck.

At Ellis, we had another 90 mins. Nan found the facilities while I went to the gift shop.  Looked up the names of family members (Geis, Katzenberger, Schneider, and McIntire), and completely forgot to look for Grauel!  Bought a $7 Christmas ornament, then went to find Nan.  She was sitting down with some of the group, having a soda.  She and I went back to the gift shop where she tried to find her family's name, but to no avail. Then we went into the museum and did a quick loop; I was snapping pics of the history to look at later, and I really wanted to find the statue of the little girl who had been the 1st one to arrive (according to Nat, it was on the 2nd or 3rd floor), When we didn't find it on the 3rd floor, we scoured the 2nd, and time was beginning to run out. We found our way back to the bottom, and took a brief pit stop, then decided just to go on. We DID find a statue of a little girl while we were looking for the exit, as well as early 1900s medical equipment. By the time we found the exit, and took a picture of the baggage cart, my phone was beginning to blow up! Texted back we were trying to find our way out, and were RIGHT on time.  Got back in line to board the ferry to New Jersey.

It was at this point I told John we needed to sing some NJ song, and asked if he knew any Bon Jovi songs.  Began singing Livin' On A Prayer, but J said he only knew Hall and Oates and Captain and Tennille.  We started singing Shop Around, and again, we entertained our fellow soon-to-be passengers!

Once we boarded, we were near the concession stand, and I noticed the foam hats were only $4, so bought one with my change (saleslady was actually HAPPY I had all those quarters, ha ha!). We arrived in New Jersey and boarded the bus, which took us to the airport. Had a few issues with finding the terminal (I really didn't understand the problem??), but Chris, our driver kept circling until he was able to get there (I think it maybe had to do with the height of the bus???).  Made it safely through Security, though my bucket was once again kicked out....discovered the problem was my Kindle...I was supposed to have taken it out of my backpack (*eye roll*). Jonathan wanted to sit with Nat, so he and I swapped seats, and I ended up sitting with Joyce. (Nan texted she'd found her car, and would see us later!)

Joyce gave me a HUGE compliment.  She pulled out Defending Destiny and revealed she was on Ch 2.....and by the time we arrived in Indy, she was nearly finished!  Said she was really enjoying it AND my writing style; everything FlOWED.

I received a text as soon as we landed; Angie and Co was already here:)  I texted we'd landed and would be there soon.

Kim's luggage was missing, but more began falling onto the conveyor, and hers was one of them.  I texted Angie and asked where she was parked; turned out she was right outside the door we were in front of!  Hugged everyone goodbye, and told Joyce I wouldn't be at practice the next day; I wanted to go to 90s Disney Trivia at Old Chicago.  She looked disappointed and asked me to please reconsider.

Tomorrow:  Argument with Family, Disney Trivia, and Final Performance

Life In Lumber: Y6, W15

 Day 60:  Sunny, low 70s

Arrived and took over for Kem.  Was surprisingly busy for 2 hours, then did the prelim duties. HC Kayla had indicated I was to take my lunch at 5, but when things slowed down, I called; we were short-staffed.  I said Pro Nel was still there; she wasn't leaving until 9. Kay said to take my lunch now.  I looked up; Nel was gone.  Paged her, and asked her to return to Pro, so she could cover my lunch. I returned an hour later and Loader Harlan informed me she wasn't happy about being confined to #1!  Oh well.....Swept the area thoroughly, did my AP4Me and LU, pulled trash at 9, sanitized the registers and counters, mucked the mats, and fronted the soda.  Turned out Will had done a no call/no show now 3 times.  Too bad; he seemed fairly decent last week.  Tonight was HC Britt's final day; as we waited for ASM Alex, she played 'so long, farewell' from Sound of Music over the intercom....then Izzy played the Rent Theme, cracking Britt up!  I brought in the final wheelchair scooter, and clocked out at 10:30, after returneing items to Tools and ISLG.

Outfit:  Dept of Having a Good Time tee, dark jeggings, thin gold hoops.

Day 61: Warm, high 70s

Arrived and discovered Kem had left at 11. Had Dawson stay while I emptied the coffee, then sent him on his way. Things were surprisingly slow; I went to break at 4:20 and Alice left when I returned. Did my LU and began sweeping; had most of my closing duties finished by 7, when HC Kay sent me to lunch. Returned and finished the closing duties and pulled trash. Had a customer with 2 large carts, but his card declined. Had CS on the phone; they suggested running it through Genesis. So we (me and T from flooring) saved it and sent him down to CS. Think I had maybe 4 customers after that. Locked the doors at 10; Loader Joe brought in the concrete. HC Kay cleaned me out; I took the trash down. Put up my vest and clocked out at 10:35.

Outfit:  Blue/white striped tee, faded cut off capris, double hearts

Off tomorrow!

Day 62:  Hot, low 90s

Arrived and took over for Kem. Was busy all evening. Took my 1st break at 4:30, and when I returned, Alice left. Did prelim duties, and had begun sweeping when HC Shel sent me to lunch at 6:10. Returned an hour later and was busy until 9:30.

Saw BWG!  Also, Scott asked me to get 10 surveys and he'd give me a $25 TX Rdhouse GC.  I KNOW I got one; Ben did it at the counter. But did I convince 9 others to do so?  I don't know. Did do my LU and got the floor swept; Loader Harlan had to leave, b/c he fell down the stairs at his house, yet came in anyway. So Jean for OSLG was  with me all night. Locked the doors at 10; J brought in the concrete and took the hopper around. Someone installed new plastic trips over the far lumber door....we can see through them again!  After HC Shel cleaned me out, returned items to Plumbing and Tools, then put up my vest and clocked out at 10:35.

Outfit:  Blue flowered blouse, faded cut off capris, antique silver and pearl danglies.

Off tomorrow for the author signing at GSH!

Day 63:  Rare Sat Hot, mid-90s

Arrived at 3 and took over for Marilyn, then found my dustpan, walked HC Kay to the cash office, and returned items to Tools and ISLG.  Emptied the coffee bar trash.  Rang up a customer or two.  Took my break at 4:40.

Then Robin left at 5.

I think every self-righteous, entitled customer came in. Loader Charles (sporting a walking boot on his left leg-he'd stepped into a hole at McA's and sprained it badly), was in hot demand to load 30 cement blocks, 8 bags of concrete, and a huge amount of plywood and drywall. As I was ringing up this customer, a woman tells him they need help in Insulation.  He says he'll get to her ASAP....after he finishes loading Customer #1.

He's not even done when she returns, telling me, "we've been waiting for 10 minutes; where is he?"

"He's still helping the customer; he will get to you next. Please be patient; he's the only one in this dept."

I finally called a Code 3 to Insulation.....and never saw her again.

Customer #2 arrives and needs 6 long boards, plus concrete, 30 rolls of insulation (NOT the ones from before!), and the insulation machine. C and ASM Charlie load them.

Customer #3 needs plywood AND a board cut. ASM C cuts the board; Charles loads the plywood.

By now, it is after 6; Charles' ankle is throbbing.  I tell him to go sit down for a few; ASM C goes to lunch.  I'm still stacked up with customers, but get the occasional break to go retrieve carts from the sidewalk or to grab a drink of water.

Then Customer #4 tries to turn his cart full of drywall around the snack area....and DUMPS the sucker sidestack. Suckers go EVERYWHERE!  So now I"m trying to ring up customers, pick up the candy so no one trips/steps on them, AND reload the stack!  Thankfully Nick from Tools jumped in and got them all put back together.  We never did figure out how to hang it back up.

Customer 5 arrives and tells me, "Your lumber guys are A$$HOLES! These two (shows me a pic of ASMS C and SCH) stood back there for 10 mins, never offered to help..I dropped a board on my hand."   I did manage to get her into a better mood, and she left with a smile on her face.

By 7, customers were still in line, but beginning to dwindle, and the purchases were beginning to be fewer. Kate arrived at 8 to send me to lunch.  I HAPPILY disappeared for an hour.

When I returned, Kate said she'd only had maybe 3 customers the entire time.  I told her she should have relieved me at 7, lmao!  I spent the last hour sweeping, sanitizing the coffee bar, pulling the trash, and refilling the bags.  I didn't even have time to front the soda, muck out the mats, or even wipe down the registers and counters.

Found out I did NOT get 10 surveys Thursday night, but I did end up with at least 2.  ASM Scott said we'd try again at some point.  Also, someone had brought in several desserts; I ate 2 red velvet mini-cupcakes and took the rest of the Rice Krispies down to Lumber after lunch.  Oh, and K and J brought the girls over to see me; O had her hair in a 'Cindy Lou Hoo' ponytail; B's hair is still too short.  I held B while we chatted, and even rang up a customer. She wiped her cheek every time I kissed her, lol!  K said he's going up on Thurs; I said I'd still be there, so we'll take G'ma Sally to lunch.  Then I'll leave, and he can have her to himself the rest of the day:)

Locked the doors at 10; ASM C brought in the concrete; HC Kay cleaned me out; I took the trash to the hopper. Put up my vest and returned items to Paint and Hardware. Clocked out at 10:30.

Outfit:  Rob Strong tee, faded capris, silver crosses

Day 64:  Rare Sun Father's Day Mid 90s

Arrived at 3 and helped Marilyn  prepare for a VSP sale....but they did it back in flooring. We traded off customers for an hour, then things slowed down. I did the soda count, then filled it. When she left at 5, I was busy for a while, and did the prelim duties and brought in carts from the sidewalk. Chasity sent me to break at 6:15 and when I returned, pulled trash and mucked out the mats. Spot swept, since my dustmop was MIA. Locked the doors at 8; ASM SCh brought in the concrete. 

Saw previous loader Juan:)

Returned items to Aisle 10 and put up my vest. Took a cane to Lost and Found. Helped CS with returns to Aisle 5 and Millwork, then clocked out at 8:45.

Outfit:  Brown blouse, long capris, neutral danglies

Unvarnished Truth, Pt 4

 Tuesday, May 28, 2024

I had been looking forward to seeing my friend J when she arrived back in town (we've not seen each other since 2016 or 17, though we frequently chat on FB), and had looked forward to our breakfast at the Carnegie Diner.  But when plans changed, due to rain, I sent her a text, letting her know.  She canceled immediately, since she was "turning a lot of people upside down to make that date with you..." and " can't keep people waiting to hear...." I took her tone to be a little testy, and responded with the fact I was upset with the plan change also. I'd PM'd her as soon as I found out on the 26th, so it's not like it was last minute or late at night on the 27th, but it couldn't be helped, and our subsequent conversation was more friendly.

So Monday night, Nan and I discussed Tuesday plans, and decided we'd rather walk up 5th Ave, instead of going to The Edge. I texted Joyce and Natalie our decision, and we went to bed.

Tuesday morning, we slept in and showered, then armed with our Google Maps, headed over 1st to La Maison du Chocolate, taking pictures of interesting buildings and signs. I had Nan take one of me in front of Simon and Schuster, and I wished I'd had a copy of one of my books with me! Went to Rockefeller Center and took pics, then found La Maisson. Bought 4 macrons, 2 chocolate, 2 caramel, and a 3rd chocolate to eat right away:) When the saleslady discovered it was my 1st time in NYC, she threw in some samples for me:) Then we headed back out.

Found Saks.....the Lego store....the Nintendo store....Victoria's Secret...and Trump Tower. Nan located the B&N, but time was running short, and we needed to start heading back to the hotel. She went over to the pizza place; I opted for another hot dog. Then we headed upstairs to change for the dress rehearsal and concert. We needed to be downstairs by 2:30, and in line by the stage door at 2:45.

Nan decided to rinse off in the shower (it WAS warm outside!), and I quickly changed into my black dress shirt, black dress slacks, thin black socks, and my china flats. I tucked my makeup, extra shirt, ID, phone charger, music folder, and reading material in my backpack, and was ready by 2:20. Nan was out of the shower and getting dressed. Phone began blowing up at 2:25; I assured them we were on our way. In fact, we hit the elevators when Nan discovered she did NOT have her folder. I held the elevator while she ran back to get it. We were downstairs by 2:30, and Carnegie was 2 blocks away. The problem is, we didn't know where the stage door was located! If it was on the far side of the building, we were screwed. She trotted across the street as I checked the time....we had 3 minutes to find it. Fortunately, the stage door and line was to our right.....and the earlier rehearsal had run LATE, so we didn't even ENTER the hall until closer to 3! Joyce had texted me, asking if we'd made it; I replied we were in line.

We entered the hall, and they had us in 2 groups: Rows 1-3 and 4-6. Those of us who were seated or had mobility issues were to go in the massive elevator. So up maybe 10 of us went, and my 1st glimpse of being on stage was, "WOW...this is so cool!" I took a selfie of myself with my back to the empty theater, then grabbed Amy and sang the opening lines of Styx's 'Best of Times'. We took our seats, and waited for the rest of the group to join us. When Pepper walked out, we ran through the entire cantata, and I was able to snap a few more pics of him. Afterward, we rehearsed how to leave the stage, and were released for the next 90 minutes. Nan and I walked around the block and posed with our poster, then found a market and bought drinks. Also found the Russian Tea Room ($150 per PERSON for high tea!)

Walked back and took pics with our group in front of the poster, then I went inside and put on my glittery silver eyeshadow and Candy Cane lipstick. Put my phone on the charger, since we weren't allowed to have it onstage. When it was time, the ten of us to ride the elevator did so.....and discovered it was slightly too early, so we went up.....and came down. We joked it was the 'practice tour'. Then it was really the time, and we took our places before the rest joined us. The place was full, at least the main floor and the 1st balcony:) Pepper walked out......and we began!

Afterward, the soloists and directors bowed, then we exited and were taken to the main floor, where we could watch the 2nd act. I knew the gift shop was open during intermission, so I grabbed my credit card out of my music folder and purchased the white notebook with 'practice, practice, practice' on it, and ran into Amy's boyfriend, then showed him where we were sitting.

The 2nd concert was nice, and I enjoyed both soloists. Afterward, we met up with our group at the prearranged meeting area and walked to the Empire Steakhouse. Our table was at the back, and soon we were enjoying the BEST meal (quantity-wise!) of the entire trip:) Buffet-style, with eggplant parmesan, salmon, noodles, mashed potatoes, broccoli, and rolls. For dessert, chocolate mousse cake. Cheryl didn't want hers, so I ate it.....then Mike didn't want his, so again I ate it. A 3rd person offered me theirs, but I'd hit the wall. However, Nan took it home, and I ate it for breakfast the next day:)

Mike proposed to Amy before dessert, so we were all in a celebratory mood!

I knew I wanted a glass of wine, and had seen the 'glass: $18.95' price, but what I hadn't realized was, that only pertained to that particular page! So when I asked our server for a sweet red, he recommended 'Old Prisoner', and brought me a glass, and the bill.

Thank god, I'd looked at the bill first. $45! I got his attention and told him I couldn't afford it, and to send it back. A few mins later, it landed beside me again, and he said that Kim had bought it for me. I thanked her profusely, and discovered it wasn't sweet; it was semi-dry. But not so dry I couldn't drink it.

Two of our members also had a rather heated debate over the picture on the wall. It was a scene out of Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, with Margot Robbie, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Brad Pitt. A didn't think it was Margot, even when I pulled it up on Wikipedia, to back up J's opinion.

Afterward, we found Pepper and had our pictures taken with him. Again, I thanked him for the wonderful opportunity he'd provided. We walked to Times Square again and saw some YouTube dancers, then returned to the hotel. I pre-packed, set my alarm for 7am, and went to bed.

Tomorrow....Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and heading home!

Unvarnished Truth Pt 3

 Monday May 27, 2024

Natalie decided to push our trip to The Edge to Tuesday, since the forecast called for rain.  We had an early morning practice, then were turned loose.  Since Broadway is normally closed on Mondays, since it was Memorial Day, leftover tickets were half price, and active military or veterans could go to the front of the line around 1.  John M decided to go for our group, and the general concensus was for him to get whatever was available:  Blue Man Group, Chicago, Illinoise, or Six.  I was privately hoping he'd get Chicago or Six, but as it turned out, only Illinoise was available.

Cheryl, Kathy, Karen W, Nan, and I decided to venture out into the rain for lunch.  First we tried Shake Shack, but there was no room to sit.  So we went down the next block and ended up at Roxy Deli ($25 for a BACON CHEESEBURGER!).  Enjoyed taking a few pics of the caricatures, and it turned out we were probably sitting at the same table my mom had sat at 20+ years earlier:)  After lunch, the rain let up, so Nan and I went next door to the Big Apple Gifts.  When the manager overheard me telling myself who I was buying what for, he gave me another magnet as a gift for ME!  Then we went over to Carnegie and found our poster, plus the gift shop, and I splurged on a T-shirt for myself that said, "Ask Me About My Debut at Carnegie Hall" Also got some sticky notes, a keychain, and a treble clef pencil, as well as a notebook.

Dinner that night was at the Grisly Pear, and I was NOT impressed.  The only thing I could eat was the chips and the cheese quesadillas.  The mac-n-cheese was too spicy; my tastebuds found something spicy in the salad; I took one bite of the beef quesadilla and my mouth lit up.  Thankfully, the server brought me some sour cream, which helped the burn in my mouth.

Then it was off to see Illinois. It tells the story of several people around a campfire, telling stories of their pasts. It was hypped as 'the best new show', but frankly, after 3 songs, I was bored.  The best part was a tap dancer and watching the percussion section.  I took a nap, and woke up to applaud.  I thought that at Intermission, I might stay in the lobby.  But thankfully, my silent torture ended at 8:30.  I'd bought a magnet ($10) at the merch table....and now wanted to give it back.  But I still have it.

Went back to the hotel and fell into bed again.  Nan and I decided to opt out of going to The Edge, and walk up 5th Ave the next day.

Unvarnished Truth Pt 2

 Sunday May 26, 2024:

Today went a little better.  I'd received a text the night before, saying a group was going to Central Park, and if anyone wanted to join in, be downstairs by 8:30.

Honestly, after the stress of Saturday, I needed a relaxing morning before our rehearsal at 2pm.  I didn't set my alarm; slept soundly until 9:30, then climbed in the shower.  By 11, my hair was dry; my QT (Quiet Time devotions) was finished for the day; I was feeling less stressed.  Best of all, if Nan was ticked off at me, for abandoning her at the restaurant, she didn't let on!

We went downstairs and investigated the bagel shop across the street.  Upon entering and looking at the delicious pastries, we observed one of the workers behind the counter telling a woman sitting at a table to leave, because she didn't have an order in.  She tried to explain she was waiting for her sister, but he was having none of it, and told her to leave.  Nan and I made a loop around, gawking at the price of everything, and left.  I had a delicious hot dog from the street vendor, then we took pictures of the HOPE sculpture and the Big Man on the opposite corner before deciding that's all the exploring we wanted to do for the moment and returned to the hotel. We finished unpacking, and at 1:45, took our music and went downstairs to find our rehearsal room, receive our badges from Joyce, and our seats.  I knew I was in the front row, and ended up being in the 2nd chair, next to lovely Bette from Honolulu, HI and Kathleen from up near Chicago. Practice went well; our group wore our SWICC tees and gave Pepper one during the break.  The Hawaii group passed out macadamia snacks:)

Afterward, we went upstairs to get ready for the dinner cruise.  It was supposed to be semi-formal, and slightly chilly, so I wore my black leggings under my long black skirt, my sleeveless maroon top, and black cardigan.  Natalie ordered two Lyft drivers (Natalie and Armand), and we drove to Chelsea Piers, where we boarded the boat. There was one guest we dubbed The Boobs, since she was wearing a gorgeous slinky silver evening gown with her boobs pushed up to THERE, and the bodice barely covered them!  The woman behind her had on an asymetrical dress, and I wondered how she kept the top up!  Wish I'd gotten both their pictures.....Anyway, once we were seated at our tables (I was with Nan, Natalie, Jonathan, Anne, Aaron, and Amy), I discovered as I was looking one way, THE BOOBS walked around the entire dining room before finding their table at the back.  Whaaat?

I'd love to tell you dinner was delicious and we danced and took pictures......but I'd be lying.

We ordered drinks, and Jonathan had a Long Island.  Thankfully, I wanted a White Russian, but with dessert.  The 1st course took so long to arrive, J got tipsy. We were begging Bryan, our server, to bring him rolls, crackers....ANYTHING to absorb the alcohol in his system!  He kept telling Natalie, "I wat some beans with peanut butter...what are those called?"

"PEANUT BUTTER M&MS!"  (I will never again call them that, lol!  Well, okay....give me a few months?)

FINALLY our appetizers arrived.  I'd ordered the sausage-stuffed ravioli, and it was delicious!  I was also finally (sort of!) getting my sea legs (not really!) and taking pics of the NJ shoreline.  I did get adventurous and went out on the bow of the boat when we were near the Statue of Liberty.

Main course arrived MUCH later; I'd ordered the chicken breast with potatoes and zucchini.  Talk about a tiny chicken breast....two tiny potatoes.....one thin zucchini.  Nan had to Gnocci, and here's where things got a little dicey.  I see nothing wrong with people sharing food off their plates; my sister and I did it all the time; I always did it with b/friends and my spouse.....but Nan freaked out when I asked if I could try her gnocci, then speared a piece of squash instead....then pulled out my fork and speared the gnocci.  She picked up that tiny piece of squash that ONLY MY FORK had touched, and put it on my plate.  WTH?????

Earlier, when discussing dessert, I mentioned wanting both the chocolate mousse cake AND the cheesecake, and asked if we could split the two, but she refused; she only wanted the chocolate cake. Natalie was also going back and forth, so she got the cheesecake and I got the chocolate, and offered to let each other taste it.  No problem....both were YUMMY!!!  More on this later.

At one point, we actually got a little closer to the Statue of Liberty, when she was all lit up.  Nan and I happened to be in bow again, and another member of our group, John M joined us.  The boat's music played Ray Charles' God Bless America....and John and I started singing it just like Ray.  Nan looked over at us as if 'WTH are you doing?" We laughed and told her you HAVE to sing it like he does!  That's when I knew John and I were going to get along well; we have the same sense of humor!

Back to dessert.  It arrives.....as we're DOCKING! We'd gone upstairs to the top deck as we were passing the Brooklyn Bridge, then gone back downstairs and found the dance floor, but apparently the female vocalist hadn't shown up.  So there was no dancing, but that's all right; I was having so much fun taking pictures!  So dessert arrives; I told Bryan to bring me my White Russian. Nat and I each try a bite of each other's dessert, then I think I even finished off Nan's.  Downed my White Russian ($19!) in the 10-15 mins it took to dock, and I'm surprised I wasn't more tipsy myself!  

We had to wait for our Lyft drivers to arrive, and then drove back to the hotel.  Fell into bed again, since we had to be downstairs on Mon before 8:30 for another rehearsal.

Tomorrow:  It Rains, and Another Very Relaxing Day!

Unvarnished Truth, Pt 1

 I discovered something on my recent whirlwind trip to NYC, something I had completely forgotten.

I turn into a royal bitch when I'm stressed.  Not the yelling and screaming kind; the sarcastic, passive-aggressive kind.  I don't like myself when I'm this way, but it happens.  Thankfully, not very often.

It usually occurs when I'm not in control of the situation.  And that is the very foundation of what happened Saturday May 25th.

Friday May 24th:

Plans were set.  I TOLD the person picking me up to please be there at 5:30am, as it would take well over an hour to get to the airport from my mom's facility, where I'd spent the night. Mom and I had gotten our hair cut, been to B&N (I bought the wrong book, but that's okay; I can return it next month and get the correct one), and each bought new shoes and sunglasses. Went to dinner at Olive Garden and discovered my new SWICC (Southwestern Indiana Cantata Choir) windbreaker is in fact, waterproof!

I took a Tylenol PM around 10pm, so I would SLEEP. Mom has a bad habit of staying up late, and I knew I wanted to get up at 4:30.  I actually woke up at 3, in order to use the facilities, and found Mom sound asleep in her chair, with the TV on. When I woke up with my alarm 90 mins later, it was off.  I dressed; Mom woke up; we headed down to the doors.  I'd received a text from A saying they were on the way.  Good!

At 5:40, I was starting to pace.  Where were they? I knew we were only 15 mins from her house.  I saw headlights, kissed Mom....and by the time I got out the doors, the car did a loop around the parking lot and left.  I hurriedly got on the phone.

"I'm here....you just passed me!  Come back!"  

Turned out they hadn't noticed my suitcase on the sidewalk after all.  They came back; I kissed my mom again and loaded my suitcase and backpack into the car, and we drove off.  Doug's GPS said it would only take an hour to get there via 52/65/465, so I tried to sit back, breathe, and calm down.

Things were going well until we hit the Whitestown/Brownsburg exit.  D flips on his turn signal and pulls onto the exit ramp!

"What are you doing?"

"I need to use the bathroom."

Seriously?  I'm running 15 mins late and you have to pee? Didn't you go before you LEFT?  Figuratively grinding my teeth, I climbed out of the car and we ALL emptied our bladders.

6:43 am:  We merge onto 465 and my phone begins blowing up with the group text, as people began arriving and finding everyone else. I send text saying I'm 20 mins away.

7am:  I sent a text, saying I am now 13 mins away, and 1 mile from I-70,

7:15: I finally arrive, and the group is happy to see me!  I profusely apologize for my tardiness, and COMPLETELY forget to empty my water bottle!  I remembered as we started through Security, but it was too late, so I said a brief prayer.

1st issue: I go to check my bag and had to weigh it first.  22 pounds.  Whew!  Then after I get to the payment screen, the damn reader won't accept my credit card.  Had to have the checking agent do it manually, but I finally get my suitcase checked. Anxiety goes up a little, due to the fact I'm the last one through check in.

2nd issue:  I didn't put my feet on the yellow footprints in the X-ray machine.  Oops...it's been 20 years since I last flew.  I comply and exit.  

3rd issue:  I was wearing my compression brace, so they had to pat me down, sit me down, take off the brace, pat IT down, then pat down my compression stocking!  I put my brace back on and look for the bucket with my belongings.  It's on the other side of the machine.

4th issue:  After X-raying my backpack, the agent holds up my water bottle and askes what's in it.  I tell him just water, and he wants me to dump it out.  So I go back out the security area and find Starbucks, to empty it, and go back in.  Turns out I have to go BACK through the X-ray machine!  This time, I do everything right in the machine.....except for not taking off my brace.  Agent barks at me, "Ma'am, are you able to take off your brace?"

"Yes, but they already-"

"I SAID MA'AM, ARE YOU ABLE TO TAKE OFF YOUR BRACE?"

"Yes."

"THEN PLEASE TAKE IT OFF!"

I bit my tongue as the phrase, who the hell pissed in YOUR Cheerios this morning ran through my brain, and took it off and handed it to her.  Assumed the position, then exited the machine.  She pats my leg down AGAIN, then sends me on my way.

By now, I'm so stressed out, I'm nearly in tears, and almost forget to get my phone, shoes, and belt from the bucket!  I'm also LIVID with that TSA agent who told me I did NOT have to go through that again!

Karen W helps me calm down, and we find our gate. Miraculously, we still have about 30 or so minutes before they start boarding. I go in the bathroom and cry, then pull myself together.  THEN discover we can FILL OUT WATER BOTTLES!!!  WTH???  So we can have water on the plane, AFTER ALL???

Makes ZERO sense! I'm also looking forward to seeing my friend and fellow author Jean J while I'm in NYC, so I buy her an Indiana-themed keychain. 

Takeoff was non-eventful; my ears didn't give me any trouble. I read, looked out the window, and enjoyed the pretzel package.

My ears complained a little bit on the landing, but only about a level 2 discomfort.  All I had to do was press my fingers to in front of my right ear, and the crackling stopped.  Easy-peasy.

5th issue:  My friend and roommate was driving to New Jersey, and was nowhere to be seen as we boarded the tour bus.  Turned out her GPS kept taking her to the wrong parking lot.  After waiting 30 mins, we had no choice but to leave without her.  Since I was the one responsible for her even being on the trip, my anxiety ratched up another notch, since I felt it was my fault we were in this situation to begin with. (I know I wasn't, but at this point, the guilt kept pilin' on.....)

I enjoyed seeing the sights, and we arrived at The Occulus for lunch. I tagged along with Aaron and Amy and ordered pizza.  We arrived at the 911 museum and discovered my friend Nan was now in a taxi, trying to find us.  The driver would NOT let her out.....Director Joyce went off to find where they were and to help her find us. Meanwhile, the guy at 911 wouldn't let us un until ALL of us were there, and we were in danger of losing our spot.  See previous paragraph....cue the guilt!

Joyce and Nan finally arrive, with Nan pushing a-I kid you not-a wire CART with her stuff! (Who does that?) We get in 911 and are told to take her stuff to coat check, located on the bottom floor.  Everyone else heads to the beginning of the museum; I decide to stick with Nan, and we end up doing the museum backwards, but that's okay, because we see 75% of it before it's time to meet up.

SIDEBAR:  I was surprised at how emotional I got. When we found the victim's names, I found Todd Beamer's.  The only video I wanted to watch was of the plane crash.  What really hit home was the hijackers flipped the plane UPSIDE down before it crashed.  I can't even fathom.....

What I still can't fathom, to this day, about that horrible event, is how do you choose between burning to death or jumping out a tall building to your death?  As someone who won't even go off the HIGH DIVE at the pool....shudder.

Anyway, I was watching the clock and made sure we had enough time to go through the main exhibit AND still get her cart from coat check.  What I hadn't counted on was a line.

6th issue:  We had 5 mins to rejoin the group, and there are several people in front of us. Thankfully, they were all together, and the lady remembered us, so got through it fairly quickly. We got back in the elevator and headed back upstairs.  

Can't find anyone.

I frantically text, 'Are we at the wrong exit?'

"We're outside."

Big sigh of relief....I look out the window and see everyone. (Did I mention I get tunnel vision and go blind when I'm stressed out???)  We join 'em, look at the waterfalls, take pictures.  We go to Rockefeller Center, take more pics, then head back to the bus.  Nan loads her stuff in the bottom, and we head to the hotel.

By now, it is going on 6pm, and we have to meet downstairs at 6:30 in order to walk to Gayle's Broadway Rose for dinner.  Nan and I find our room; we hurriedly pull out our clothing for dinner and the Broadway show.  At 6:20, Nan climbs in the shower.

My anxiety spikes.  We have to be downstairs in 10 mins, and you decide to SHOWER?  Why not just wash your pits?

7th issue.  I'm dressed and ready; my roommate's in the freaking shower. Maybe she'll just wash her body and get out; after all, that's what I did Friday.  Took my 5 mins.

Nope; she calls to me for help getting her shampoo open.  Turns out she has GLASS JARS (again, WTH??) and her hair is halfway down her back.  I'm nearly hyperventalating at this point as I beg her to please hurry up!

My phone starts to blow up with everyone downstairs, and where are we?  Nan is out of the shower, but now has to dry off, comb her damn hair, and get dressed.  I lie and say we're heading down.  At 6:40, we're in the elevator. Natalie, our tour guide is waiting, and hustles us off to the restaurant.  

8th issue:  We get there to discover one of our members, Pastor Cheryl, tripped over a pedestrian's cart and smacked her head.  Thankfully, her sister's a nurse, and tends to her wounds. We arrive at out table, and there's a tiny salad and a glass of water.  We place our order (I get chicken caesar salad), and it arrives at 7:30.  We now have 15 mins to scarf down our meal and walk to where A Beautiful Noise is.  I decide at that point that I'm going to get up and follow the group, even if Nan is still eating.  I'm THAT stressed!

SIDEBAR:  The singing was amazing!  I did feel sorry for the one who chose to come by our table....she sang a song from the musical Six, about Henry VIII's wives, but we were gobbling up our food in order to make it to the show on time, and didn't really get to appreciate her.

A Beautiful Noise was wonderful!!!!!

9th issue:  Because we'd arrived so late, I didn't have time to go through the merch line, and I forgot about it at Intermission, because it meant having to go back down the stairs (we were in the balcony)/ Also, my poor left knee (the sore one) was jammed into the seat in front of me, not matter how I tried to readjust my body. Also, I sobbed through the 2nd half, and had NO tissues. When it was all over, we decided we were too tired for a drink at Sardi's, so headed back.  I did get a picture of it.

On the walk back, we went through Times Square, before going back to our hotel. Nan and I unpacked and fell into bed.  I got a text which said a group was going to Central Park in the morning, and if we wanted to go, to be downstairs by 8:30. I opted to sleep in and take MY shower.

I dropped so many F-bombs that day, expressing my anger at Nan's decisions, questioning my own loyalty to her, and even my sanity for coming on the trip!  But we survived the 1st day, and hopefully things would slow down for Sunday, as the only thing planned was practice in the afternoon, and a dinner cruise.

Stay tuned for Pt 2 tomorrow!