Adventures as an Uber Delivery Driver #2

Tonight, I was sent on a delivery to Chipotle Mexican Grill on Richmond Road to pick up an order. There was a LONG line of customers.

As is protocol for delivery drivers, I walked over to the delivery cabinet to see if my order was there. I had to use the restroom, so I passed by it to go use the restroom while I had the opportunity.

I take the opportunity every chance I get, because sometimes it is a WHILE before I can go again. I hate having to pee, and going into KFC or Church's Chicken. They ALWAYS have the restroom blocked up and a sign that says, "Restrooms CLOSED" due to COVID. I still don't understand why BK and McDs can open theirs and these still remain closed...ANYWAY...

When I came out of the restroom, I noted that the cabinet was empty, the line of customers was still long, and there were FOUR other delivery people ahead of me waiting for their order.

Time is money, but I got some help with my finances today, AND I still had a great day delivering so far, so I decided to be patient rather than release the order.

I texted the customer to explain the situation and assure them that as soon as their order was ready, I would be on my way.

I got a text back saying, "No worries! Thanks!"

I love THOSE kind of customers.

I waited a good 45 minutes before my order was finally ready. I delivered it to Townplace Suites at the Marriott on Cowhorn Creek Loop.

As soon as I got back to my car, I got another ping to go back to Chipotle from ANOTHER customer who was ALSO at the same Hotel.

I decided, "why not...surely they aren't as busy as they were earlier."

When I got there, there was one customer and one driver ahead of me in line. I still had to wait a good 15 minutes, and I still made sure to communicate with the customer about it. I got the same response as the previous customer. So I patiently waited.

When my order was handed to me, finally, the crew member at the restaurant gave me a cup with a lid. "Get something to drink on us" she said, "I'm sorry you had to wait!"

The other crew member beside her concurred. I thought it was a sweet gesture to make up for the time I've lost, but I turned it down, and told them I appreciated their offer, but had something to drink in my car. Thanks, anyway, for the offer!

It was nice to be recognized as a valuable part of their business!

And, the customers I delivered to tipped me well, in spite of the wait!

Adventures as an Uber Driver #1:

Tonight I was sent to Taco Bell on 7th Street to pick up an order to take to some apartment on Arkansas Boulevard, for just $4.00.

Most Uber drivers would have turned down the run since it was going to be so far to drive...not me. I take EVERYTHING I am offered. Never know what the tip is going to look like! -- I have done $80 worth base pay on deliveries this week so far, and made over $70 in tips. That's just 2 half days of work.

The customer ordered two of the new $5.00 boxes that haven't even started selling yet. (Why are they advertising it if they are not selling it?)

There is a long line at the window. It's after 9 PM and the inside is closed, so you have to go through drive-thru.

I get to the intercom and they greet me with "Would you like to try one of our Chalupa boxes?"

"No thank you. I am delivering for Uber and I have an order to pick up from here for (customer's name)."

"Ma'am, on that order, we don't have the boxes she asked for. We can give her the Chalupa boxes instead? We haven't even started selling that yet"

There is a long line, as I said, and I didn't want to hold anyone up. So I said, "Let me get out of line and call her and I'll be back with her answer."

I had already texted the customer to let them know the line was long so it would be a little bit before I was on the way with her food. Now I had to text her again. I did. She said it was okay. So I had to drive around the building to get back in line.

The lane is REAL narrow by the window, so I had to carefully maneuver my new car around the car that was sitting

there. I did. Successfully, but not without the passengers in the car at the window cussing me out while I was doing it. LOL Had I not been a Christian, I would have flipped them off as I was driving by them. Instead, I ignored them, smiling, and went and got back in line.

When I got back to the intercom, I said, "She said it would be okay to give her the Chalupa boxes." I was told to drive on to the second window, which I did. I got to the window and was told, "We don't have any Chalupas. Will you accept Gorditas instead?" I texted the customer right there and said, "They are giving you Gorditas because they don't have any Chalupas left. Is that okay?"

The customer said okay.

I asked the customer if she would like me to include hot sauce, then said, "I will just get you some to be sure".

The guy at the window pretty much THREW the bag at me. I asked for hot sauce. He said, there is some in the bag.

I texted the customer and told her I was on my way with the order.

When I got to the apartment, I sat the food down and her boyfriend opened the door. I told him, "Uber requires I take a photo of the bag for verification that the order is delivered" and I took a quick photo and said, "Now you can pick it up."

We giggled. Then I said, "Just so you know, that Taco Bell had the WORST customer service EVER!" He nodded.

An hour later, I got a ping on my Uber App telling me that the customer tipped me $10.

I'm just saying...Good communication goes a long way in this job!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, World!

About 2000 and some odd years ago, a baby was born on the other side of the world.

This child would grow up to change the world, then die a horrible death by those who despised what he was trying to teach the world.

But, they killed him too late.

Because he existed -- because he was born and placed in a lowly manger on a cold night in a dirty cave used as a barn as nothing special, a baby, just like you and me, he was able to touch the lives of the common people...who FAR outnumber those of privilege! And, at the same time, he gave hope to the privileged and softened even their hearts.

He showed the world how to give, even when you have nothing. He taught them to have faith, even when hope was lost. He loved the unlovable. He befriended the lowliest of society, and he didn't discriminate. He loved God, and He loved US; and He commanded that the world should follow him in doing so.

He was the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE. And, He said that we would go on to perform even greater miracles than he did. He said we would suffer worse than he did. He said we would be blessed for enduring whatever came to us. And, He didn't lie.

I was a lonely child when I was young. I prayed one day, because my pastor told me in a sermon one Sunday that if I talked to Jesus, He would listen. I wondered if He would talk back. I remember telling Him how I was feeling. I remember telling Him how I was treated, and I remember telling Him how lonely I felt, even in a crowd.

I remember when I was through praying, suddenly, I felt a peace come over me. I heard the "still small voice" speak to me. He said two words that changed my life:

"I know."

Christmas can be a time of loneliness, or it can be a time of joy. No matter what you are feeling this Christmas, REJOICE!

For unto us this day, a child was born who would get up and walk out of the grave 33 years later!

Christmas isn't about celebrating His birth. It's about celebrating His LIFE!

And having the faith to understand that HE KNOWS.

And He loves us, anyway!

Looking Forward to 2021

What is 2021 going to be like for me?

I could write a whole slew of resolutions, but I know me. They'd all get thrown out the window after the first month.

So, I've decided that I just want 2021 to be better than 2020. That's all we really want when each new year starts, right?

The things that broke my heart in 2020, I'm going to work to avoid so my heart doesn't get broken again. I'm going to re-assess my attitudes that put me in situations that ended sourly. I know which doors are best left closed. I know which doors to only open when I hear a knock. I know which doors to leave locked. And, I know which doors to fling wide open and enter. And, I plan on doing all that!

I plan on having fun. We only live once. I won't wish I could have...or wish I would have...or be indecisive about any move I make. If there is an event I want to attend, I will do that. Why put off until tomorrow what may not be there then? Tomorrow, I may find out I have cancer and everything will change. So, I am going to live for today. I am going to LIVE.

Sure, COVID-19 has the world on lockdown...but I am NOT. I have sought out opportunities to keep me moving. I have adjusted to the way things are. I have adapted to new ideas and new ways of doing things. I won't let COVID-19 stop ME.

I am going to try out new restaurants. I am going to go to the homeless shelter and look for someone who wants to make a few bucks and have them clean my home. I am going to buy new clothes. I am going to sing Karaoke and go play some slots, go fishing, camp out, and travel. I am going to see my kids. I am going to take pictures and share my adventures. I am going to work to pay my bills and I am going to pay some OFF. Then, I'm going to celebrate!

Life is a gift. CELEBRATE it. EMBRACE it. And, above all, LOVE it and the people who are living it WITH you!

I Stepped Out in Faith, Check Out My New CAR!

God woke me up this morning about 8:30 AM after only about 5 hours of sleep, and I couldn't go back to sleep. Then a bill collector called, wanting to send me money, AND lower my interest rate on a loan I took out!

The blessings are coming!

I was able to sell 5 shares of my stock from gains on the stock market to buy 10 more shares of stock that are fixing to pay dividends, which will be reinvested.

More blessings!

Today on the agenda: Try to trade my car in. Then, go get my insurance adjusted for my new vehicle. Then, go to the DPS office to get my "vehicle-for-hire" permit. (Praying I am able to do all this!)

I paid my first payment toward my past due medical bills today -- the first in a long time. I am HAPPY to be able to do that!

I prayed that the blessings would keep coming in!

God has blessed me SO MUCH today!

I prayed all the way to Car Mart that God would lead me to the right car for me.

I got to Car Mart, with all my paperwork in tact. They sat down with me and got everything started, then sent me out to test drive the first car.

It was a black Ford, can't remember the year and model. Not important. I drove it.

You know how you have that gut feeling that something just isn't right? I didn't like how it changed gears. I went back and told them it just didn't feel right. It's not me.

So they took me to the second car. It was a beautiful Sentra. Real small, too. I'm sure it was economical, BUT...

When she tried to start it, it wouldn't. I asked her, "I'm not going to have alternator problems with this one am I?" LOL She assured me that they just left the key on because they start all the cars every day and this one just had the key left on. She went and got the charger.

When the guy who came out with the charger hooked it up, the horn started honking. Wouldn't stop. I said, "Ya'll don't SERIOUSLY think I am going to want this car at THIS point, do you?" LOL

So the last car she had in my price range, she took me to this one. OMG. My heart stopped beating just looking at it. I couldn't WAIT to drive it! This was the ONE!

I then signed all the paperwork and went to get my insurance.

I prayed that they wouldn't ask me to pay anything more than what I had left in my checking account. Not much at all. I ended up walking out of the insurance office with my paperwork for the Car Mart, only having to switch everything over. Yes, it is going to go up on my next payment, but not by much, and I didn't even have to pay anything today! I am covered!

I had to include 6 references in my paperwork. I have never felt more blessed. All of the references that were called (that I know of) asked the Car Mart Rep, "Why are you still talking to me? If I were YOU, I'd get off this phone right now and go sell that girl a car!" I had GLOWING references.

When I got back, I signed some more paperwork, and after being there since noon, it was nearly 5:00 PM., I drove it off the lot to go show it to mom and Benny!

Then I went to the Pitt Grill to show it off to my landlord, who just happened to be one of my references that they called, and to the other ex-coworkers at the Pitt.

Then I came home. I told the guys, "YES! I have HEAT, AIR, RADIO...and LOOK at all this ROOM! I may NEVER come home from work now!

I feel SOOOO BLESSED!

EXCEPT...my car payments are twice what I wanted to pay for it. So now, I have to afford it.

Now I gotta upload the paperwork into my quckbooks...It's a good deduction! The amount of the deduction is exactly equal to the amount I've made since I left the Pitt Grill.

This morning I prayed that the blessings would keep flowing -- and BOY DID THEY!

TALK ABOUT STEPPING OUT IN FAITH!

Joyful Day

It's been a semi-busy day today. I learned something:

I need to get my notebook and start writing down all my trips (addresses and mileage) as I go. The apps don't give enough information (although, they do provide the exact mileage) but in order to get the deduction on my taxes, I need to put the information in my quickbooks. My phone isn't picking up trips like it is supposed to. So, that will be part of my daily routine now when I get back home -- to manually put the trips into the computer.

My last order was interesting:

I delivered from Popeyes. When I got there, the order wasn't ready, and they were cleaning, getting ready to close or go home, doing side-work. I was patient as they prepared my order.

Then, the lady said, "We don't have raspberry pies for the order?"

I asked her if she could substitute the pies. She said she had cinnamin apple. So I called the customer.

As I was talking to the customer about the dilemma, she said, "Oh, btw, we'll have to cook the pies, it will take six more minutes." I asked the customer if that was okay. He said sure, if I didn't mind. I told him no problem (we were slow and it was my last order anyway). I waited out in the truck, intending to go back in in a few moments. The lady brought the order to me.

I messaged the customer and told him I was on my way.

When I got to the address, I took a picture. Then I messaged the customer to tell him I was there. As I was leaving, he called me and explained to me that I was at the wrong house, that it was not my fault, that the address was wrong in the computer.

I said, "Well how am I supposed to get it to you if the address is wrong? LOL"

His girlfriend walked over to the house (they were behind it) and got the order.

Seriously, people, please put the right address in the app! Thank you!

Oh, I did get a $10 tip for my patience!

Today is the last day I get to use my mom's truck, I will be returning it to her tomorrow. Then on Monday, I will be going back to the Car Mart with my car to see about trading it in, and I may have a new vehicle to drive after that!

A bill collector called me this morning and woke me up. For the first time in what seems like forever, I was actually looking forward to the call.

I was able to pay all my tithes this morning. That, too was a relief! The longer I hold onto money, the greater chance I have of spending it. I guess God knew that! He told me right where He wanted it. It's all in His hands now.

I am looking forward to seeing where my next tithe is going to go and how much I'll save to give before He tells me where to send it.

It's really funny. I had no idea how much I made this last month. The Car Mart people made a copy of my bank transactions and highlighted all of my earnings and added it up. They told me how much I had made, and it was exactly 10 times the amount in my tithe account. It's working out well! And, I feel HONORED to be able to give again!

I guess this is what the Bible means about "joyful giving".

I am looking forward to EVERYTHING now. 2021 is going to be a GREAT year for me, financially!

Rising to the Top

Good Friday Evening, World!

I just got home. It was a good day out for delivery, although it still could have been busier and I would have been happier.

I shopped around for a car earlier today, and I think I may have one to drive on Monday...I hope.

This will open up better opportunities for me to make money in the gig economy. I will be able to do rideshare, and even if I don't, it will be a whole lot more comfortable with heat, air, and radio in my car. I'll be able to stay out working longer.

My estimated taxes have lowered by about $200, since I started recording mileage. Quickbooks is a lifesaver!

In October, I said that my 52nd year would be a year of transformation for me.

I dyed my hair. I changed employment status from working a minimum wage job as a cook employed by a local diner, to being self-employed, making at LEAST twice as much doing deliveries and, hopefully, rideshare soon.

I am fixing to get a new car. And, my health insurance isn't out of the running until December 31st, so I have until then to pay the first payment to start it. (I'll have INSURANCE again!).

Today I made platinum status with UBEReats. So if I need to, now I am afforded up to four roadside assistance incidents for FREE should I need it, as well as a whole bunch of other discounts and opportunities!

My life is already getting better. I feel more FREE and INDEPENDENT -- less dependent on having to ask for help when I am short on money and have an emergency.

My E-trade account has doubled in investments and value since October.

I have a few more bills, but they are worth having for what it's giving me!

I'm moving on up in the world, and I sure wish I could take all of ya'll with me!

No more climbing. I am RIGHT where I want to be career-wise. Now, all I have to do is strive to be BETTER.

Have a blessed night!

Wild Night with Ubereats, WAITr and Postmates

Good Wednesday night (or is it Thursday morning yet?) World!

Today started out kind of REAL slow. I almost got frustrated.

Yeah, me...frustrated.

BUT, come about 4:30, WAITr went wild! Had me running til about 10:30, and as soon as their orders stopped coming in, UBER went WILD...I ran til about midnight.

I wanted to keep running, too...but my power bank for my phone was out of juice, and my gas tank was close to empty...so I figured I'd call it a night.

Didn't do too bad. Made about $80. (Counting my 2 Postmates orders I did) Pretty good for a slow Tuesday.

Sure wish it was warmer outside though.

I only do deliveries; however, when I get a new car, I might think about doing rideshare.

I take Jesus everywhere I go, though. I never have a profitable day without Him!

Ya'll have a blessed night!

Nasty Day Turned Out Okay...

Good Tuesday Evening, World!

I ended up staying home due to the weather being nastier than was anticipated. Not entirely true...I did go out today and TRY, but after one delivery it became obvious the weather wasn't getting any better, so I came home.

I'll try again tomorrow.

But, the day was not wasted.

I updated my Quickbooks (work) and then I thought about all the time I sit waiting for a delivery and decided to sign up for more delivery opportunities.

I am now, officially, not only a WAITr, UBEReats, and Postmates driver, but also a Point Pickup and a Roadie driver. And, I'm waiting on my application to process through SPARK delivery as well. We'll see how they work out.

AND, I am waiting on Grubhub, Doordash, and Instacart to notify me when they need more drivers.

Have a blessed night!

Ending My Relationship with AVON

I will be ending any and all affiliation I have with Avon.

It isn't that I have a hatred for homosexuals. I have homosexual friends. I love everyone equally.

HOWEVER, as God Himself has put it, "Love the sinner, not the sin". To love someone in spite of their sin is one thing. To love someone's sin is quite another.

We all have sinned. None of us are perfect. None of us are any better than anyone else in that regard.

I have sinned. I have committed fornication and adultery on numerous occasions in my past. I have been divorced twice. I have had two different children from two different men, neither of whom became my husband at any point. I have had domestic partnerships that didn't last. So, I am as bad as any other person who has ever sinned.

BUT, I have repented. I am working to turn AWAY from my sin, not to embrace it or have pride in it. I still stumble and fall at times, but I, in NO WAY, condone or urge anyone else to follow me into that sin.

And, Avon has embraced the homosexual pride platform, after - not too long ago - embracing the majesty of a satanic display on it's cover. The first time, I forgave it. This time, I cannot, because Avon has not learned its lesson. So, it is up to people who believe as I do to teach that lesson, and to turn our backs on the monstrosity of it.

I will also be selling my AVON stocks. I want NOTHING from AVON in the future.

I will be giving away all of the products I have on-hand for Christmas. It should bring joy to someone who needs it. After that, I am done. The year 2021, I will be AVON FREE completely.

Becoming the Taxman

Hello, World!

I am planning on updating more on this blog, rather than on Facebook.

I have been really busy lately! So busy, I haven't had time to surf the internet much. I am now self-employed as a delivery driver for Uber, WAITr, and Lyft.

This past week was the first full week that I worked, and I clocked nearly 30 hours. I brought home almost $500. That is more than twice the amount I was making as a cook working a 40 hour week at The Pitt Grill.

I've been putting money back into my e-trade account in order to pay my taxes. Yesterday, I downloaded Quickbooks. I spent the whole day configuring it and labeling my transactions. I linked it to all of my bank accounts, and prepared it to record my mileage for tax-deductions.

It was a lot of work, but a WHOLE lot easier than I thought it was going to be! If you are self-employed, Quickbooks is the way to go!

I owe Big Brother over $600 for the quarter. That's a lot less than I thought it would be! (Which means, I get to keep most of the money I have invested in stocks at E-trade!

Well, it's the start of a new week, and I only take off work when it rains. I know, I know, I'd make more money if I worked in the rain; but, right now, my car is not in shape to be driving in the cold rain. I have no de-fog, heat or air in my car. I am bundling up just to sit in my car all day and drive!

I see a new car in my future, though!

Have a blessed day!

Hmmmm.,..Something to Ponder here....

I Will Fear No More

I had night terrors until I was eight years old. I credit the fact that I got saved for them ending. When I got saved, something happened in my dreams. Instead of running from the monsters, I suddenly had the willpower to face them IN MY DREAMS...and they just .... disappeared.

Now, when I am afraid, IN REAL LIFE, I face my fears the same way.

It has made my life a whole lot more productive, and climbing the mountains of my life a whole lot easier.

It has also helped me to identify "triggers" that cause me to relapse into old, unproductive and destructive, ways. When I reach a "trigger point" now, I take into consideration the consequences of further action should I continue down the path I am on. I then decide whether it is a fear to be conquered, or a trap to avoid. and find a way to detour the "pothole" on my journey.

When I encounter "potholes" my life changes, though. Things I find important, in that moment, I am forced to put aside and devalue in order to maintain my strength for the journey I need to continue on.

Potholes could be anything: a decision that could lead to a rough future, a potential for obsession over something (or someone) not worth the heartache, a potential relationship that is destructive, a potential change in job status, or other potential situations that could cause delay in where God wants me to be in my life.

My life is better for the night terrors I used to have. Today, I have no terror. I am fearless. I am brave. And, even though I may seem crass and uncouthe -- even arrogant -- because of it at times, my outlook on my future is brighter for it!

Splish Splash

Hello, World!

Normally, I would say that I got nothing done today. It was a lazy day...

It sure felt like it. EXCEPT...

My cousin came over and checked my kitchen sink for me. He thinks he can fix it. I'm looking forward to having it working again so I can properly wash dishes and the floors won't get wet all the time.

I also mentioned my toilet while he was here. Showed him how I had to flush it without using the handle. He left and came back with some tools and parts and fixed it for me. (He's an ANGEL!)

And, I am SO grateful!

I also mentioned the tub faucet, but that was out of his territory. So, I turned to YouTUBE. I got enough of an idea of what to look at, so I proceeded on my own to see if I could help myself.

I turned the water off at the source, under the sink. I turned on the faucet to see if it was completely off. Then, I ran my hand down the pipe below to see if there were any leaks. I shook the pipe. Then turned it back on.

Water was coming out a little better. It looked like progress, so I tried it again. Twice. Each time progress. The last time it was ON! Praise the Lord!

Yes. I took a bath. I enjoyed the fruits of my labor. I was so PROUD of myself! I have a BATH TUB again!

There is something about taking a nice hot bath that makes you FEEL cleaner. And more relaxed.

I spent the rest of the day doing nothing much. Drinking a lot of tea. Eating chips and vienna wieners. And a BBQ sandwich from the Dollar Store.

I even contemplated giving the dogs a bath, too. Decided against it, as it is too cold outside right now.

Here I am! BLESSED!

Hope YOU are too!

One Step Away

Sometimes you just have to realize that it's time to lean back, accept reality and embrace the present. To focus on what might be in light of what has been seems redundant and a waste of time. It is then that you become one step away from where you are supposed to be.

What might be will never be, what has been is gone. What is REAL is the present. Plan from the present one baby step at a time instead of 10 giant steps that may trip before you get there. You will find that disappointment is far less likely to happen, and when it does, it's easier to recover.

I will not spend my life wanting, hoping, working for something that is unobtainable. I see, right now, what I can have, and I am reaching only for that. When I get it, I will reach for the next thing. Each step I take will lead me right where I'm supposed to be.

In one year I plan to look back and see the giant step I've taken to get there, rather than look forward to the miles ahead of me.

And, I will feel victorious, once again!

Happy Thanksgiving

This year has been especially hard for many of us here in the United States. From a pandemic brought on by Chinese carelessness, to the loss of loved ones around the globe, loss of businesses, loss of income, riots in the streets, uncertainty about the future and an obvious stolen election (which tops it all, because this is NOT the America we want to love!), 2020 has forever gained the title of "The year of no Toilet Paper".

But still, we have so much to be thankful for!

And no closure, no attempt to deny God His rightful place in all this, no amount of hatred against those who want nothing more than to love the traditions set forth by the founding fathers will stop our resolve to put aside our differences and be able to come together as family and friends, and fellow countrymen and women to say we are Thankful.

Here in my own home things have been rough this year. From dealing with pandemic rules, to debates with my housemates (who are on the opposite side of the political spectrum with their support), to rising food costs, meaning less food in the household (where one depends on a fixed Social Security income, another is unable to work and does not have the education or know-how to use technology in order to help himself get the necessary papers filed to have his own Social Security benefits started, and only one works in the household, but is barely able to pay the bills at this point), to dealing with job loss and finding suitable income just in time not to go under (Thank God Almighty!), we still have a LOT to be thankful for.

So, I spent the last of my money that was in the bank today -- determined that we were going to celebrate Thanksgiving somehow.

I bought some rotissouri chicken, some Welch's Sparkling Rose Soda, a big can of baked beans and a tub of potato salad, a loaf of bread, some cream for coffee and sugar for tea, and a couple of packages of Reese's Cups for dessert. It was all I could afford -- but it filled all three of us up.

We were thankful. We still have our health amidst the pandemic. We still talk to each other and show support where necessary in order to get through each day. We may argue political viewpoints, even yell at each other at times before stomping to our rooms, but at the end of the day we make sure we are all fed, warm and safe from the evil of the world outside the door to our home, no matter how much it may be falling apart. We have a God who is bigger than all of our fears, who will provide as our needs arise. And, here in America, there is still opportunity for growth (for the time being), so finding work has not proven too big of a challenge for me.

We have a LOT to be thankful for.

So, I was determined to have Thanksgiving. And, the guys REALLY appreciated it. I saw their depressed spirits visibly take form and rise with-in them as they smiled, and we ate, drank and were thankful together for this day and each other.

It was a welcomed atmosphere, and well worth the cost.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. May yours be at least as blessed as ours!

Thank You Lord, For Your Blessings On Me!

Thanksgiving is coming soon. This year, I fore-went the usual "post something you are thankful for each day until Thanksgiving" tradition.

But, today, I'd like to Thank Jesus for, once again, helping me find a way when there didn't seem a way.

Thank You, Jesus, for my new position financially.

Thank You, Jesus, for old friends, new friends, the opportunity to make friends, and all the other people you put into my life to pray for!

Thank You, Jesus, for my family, who holds me up and gives me a compass when I can't seem to get it together.

Thank You, Jesus, for my health -- mentally and physically.

Most of all, Jesus, Thank YOU for my salvation and my hope!

Without YOU I am NOTHING! Without YOU I am weak. Without YOU I have nothing to look forward to, no hope, no reason to exist.

When I am at my lowest, I find myself on my knees, praising YOU -- because I am still alive. I still get to wake up tomorrow. Therefore, I know, there is a REASON I am still here, and that YOU won't let me drown, and it gives me the strength to keep climbing -- no matter how steep the climb.

So, today is about YOU, dear sweet Jesus!

THANK YOU!

Bright Future

I think I've found my niche'.

I recently applied to be an Uber Driver. I didn't think it would amount to anything more than just "pocket money"; but, the more I look into it and study it, the more potential I see in actually making a good living at it!

I can travel anywhere in my state to work. It will be the thing that helps me accomplish my dreams! I will be able to visit every town in Texas, see the homeless shelters, visit the churches, make new friends, and even sell my Avon while I am at it! And, all the while, I will be getting paid!

The best thing about it is that I can sleep late, work late, work as little or as much as I want, take time off to spend with family and friends (I can now accept all those invitations to gatherings I've been seeing!

I can get involved. I can embrace. I can feel GOOD doing it!

And, I can pay off my debts.

I can GIVE!

THAT, more than anything, is what I will like about it!

I am SO looking forward to this!

If this works out, then getting fired from my job at the Pitt Grill was the BEST thing that ever happened to me!

Every Step of the Way

Me and Donald Trump have SO MUCH IN COMMON!

I can't count the number of times I've been told something was impossible.

"Your life is over."
"President of what?"
"You probably aren't hire-able anywhere"
"You don't have the skills"
"You need to find a good man to take care of you or you won't survive".
"You will never amount to anything"
"You are nothing but red-neck trash"
"You are so ungrateful"
"You don't have what it takes"
"You are ALWAYS going to be alone"
"Nobody likes you."
"You stink"
"You are too slow"
"You aren't smart enough"
"You have a bad reputation"
"That will NEVER happen"
"You are ugly."
"You are too rude."
"You are too uncouth"
"You are too greedy."
"You are too selfish."

If I had listened to all that, I would have never done half the things I've done in my life. I would have never had half of the experiences I've had, and I would have NO HOPE right now.

I will NOT lay down and give up. I will fight until the day I die.

And, I WILL survive until God sees fit to stop me.

But...dang...sometimes I get SO tired of working to prove everyone WRONG!

So many times I've heard it...

"You never listen to anyone!" (Thank GOD!)

and then,

"How did YOU ever get where you are?"

I'll tell you how:

I believed in God when I couldn't believe in myself.
I fought every step of the way to get here.

I am not rich. I may be homeless in a month or two -- again. I am getting old. I am not strong. I don't have lots of talent. I am not famous.

But, I am ME. And, I am alive. I am not hungry. I am not cold. I am not sickly. I am not a weakling. I wake up every morning to fight through another day...to say I did SOMETHING productive, no matter how small.

To start over, if I need to.

Success is not how much money you make or what you own or how well you are known. Success is the ability to survive and still love with all you have, even in the face of hate and resistance.

When God Has Another Plan...

Hello, World!

Yes, the election has me depressed -- I'm sure like so many others who feel disenfranchised. But, I'm still praying. God is in control, no matter who wins...and I don't always have to like God's plan. I just need to accept that there is a good reason for it!

I lost my beloved Pitt Grill job on the day after my birthday. If I was looking for a reason to transform myself, well, one jumped in my lap. LOL. I sure didn't think I'd be looking for a new job so soon.

I love selling Avon, but sales are slow and it isn't enough for me to do it as a sole source of income. So, I had to apply for SNAP benefits and Unemployment. I think I was supposed to request payment yesterday, but failed to. I have to wait until tomorrow before I can do so.

I also think I may have one more small paycheck coming on Monday.

Me, being the resourceful enterpriser that I am, though, I started looking for other ways to make a little money on the side.

I signed up to drive for Uber. I wanted to deliver for Uber Eats, but they don't have anything going on in my neck of the woods. I am currently waiting on my background check to go through (the last step toward acceptance into the program). I also applied for a delivery job with another company -- WAITr. I was accepted today, and will try to start experimenting with the app tomorrow.

After I clean out my car. LOL

Hopefully my background check will have gone through by then, too.

I am also looking for other opportunities to make money, both on and off-line. Stay tuned for updates about that!

In my personal life, I've decided that life is what it is. No sense trying to force your way through anything, because everything works on God's time table. So, now I'm just drifting ... and smelling the roses as I go.

Have a blessed day!

Social Awakening

This country is full of idiots. It is OFFICIAL. I really thought we were better than this.

It's okay. My focus is now in concrete for the next 4 years.

Small business is ruined now. Economy is ruined. Freedom is gone. Oppression is eminent. Jobs will decline. Poverty will grow.

Enjoy your communist take-over of America.

YOU let it happen.

For those of you who voted Democrat because you thought you were going to get another stimulus check for doing so...

Good luck with that. I HIGHLY doubt you will ever see it. You would have been better off voting for Trump. At least he would have TRIED to get you one.

Now all the rioting will stop, but the persecution will grow. People will be attacked simply for who they are and what they believe and the government will not help you.

Oh...when you all get tired of the status quo that is eminent, remember:

FREEDOM IS NOT FREE.

Daniel 8:25
“And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand.”

Moving on...

I am in the process of "transforming" myself into something better. I got a new hair cut, started wearing a little make-up, smiling more, engaging in more conversation, going out more, and a myriad of other things that make me different than I was two weeks ago.

I am in no way doing this because I am trying to find someone to be a companion to. I am, however, opening myself up more to finding friends. If I should ever find myself involved in a relationship, it is going to be with someone who I am best friends with, first.

And, I am not trying to be something I am not. I am -- more -- trying to become what I should already be. I was talking to a friend today who is trying to encourage me to go out and find someone. I have another friend who is trying to play matchmaker with me.

I am not interested. I really like my life.

A customer asked me tonight if I was aiming to catch a man with my new "do". I told him, "not at all." He told me if I didn't watch it, I would do it anyway. (He's happily married, so it was a "safe" conversation).

If there's one thing I've learned it's that suffering from heartbreak and suffering from loneliness are two different things.

If I go and get someone else because I'm suffering from heartbreak that's revenge. If I go and get someone because I'm suffering from loneliness that's desperation.

I'm not doing either. Either way it's not fair to the person I'm doing it with.

If I am seeking a relationship it's going to be one that is genuine and real. I don't want to give someone left-overs of who I am . I want to give someone special everything I am.

At least this way, I can honestly say that the man who passes me up has passed up something real.

And, if I never find what it is I am looking for I'll be just as happy. I am all I need to be for me. And, God is everything else.

Sometimes I Cry

Sometimes I mess up in my life. When I do, I find out that I have a choice to make - once it is all said and done.

I can wallow in my hurt, refuse to admit I had done wrong; grab hold of anything that defends my actions and keep trying to beat my head against a brick wall.

Or, I can focus on something else that is just as destructive to my state of being, try to do the same thing in a new setting and hope for different results. Go insane...

OR, I can give it to God. Turn back to where I know I should be and go from there. I can let HIM change the situation, remove me from the valley, become who I should be in spite of the pain -- until the pain is completely gone.

But, still, there are tears of regret and longing.

It is these times I find myself on my knees trying to make sense of it all; until I realize that I don't have to.

If God brought me to it, He will walk me through it. I realize, at this point, that the reason I am in the state of mind that I am in is because I should have not tried to take the lead. I should not have ventured off the path He set me on. I should not have tried to grab hold to what God had already put behind me.

Where ever He leads, I should follow. At least this way, I am safe from the potholes of life as He walks me around them.

I still need to heal from the consequences of my latest stupidity. But, I am allowing God to strengthen me for the journey ahead.

I am still alive. That is something. That means that God isn't through with me yet.

Thank God!

This song is totally me!

Overcomer

This post was originally written on October 19, 2015. Five years ago. Still true today for me, so I thought I'd share.

Broken? No. I never considered myself broken. I shook my fist a lot at a world that was unfair and deceptive. But, something in me just kept saying that life is what you make it. And, it's gotta start somewhere. The buck stops here. And, so forth.

I made the Bible my guidebook, even when I wasn't following Jesus the way I should have been. I trusted that there was a God and that He knew better than I did...or even my parents did. I determined to have faith, even when I didn't believe.

I saw things with the eyes of someone of scrutiny. I kept my back to the wall, and never went into a crowded place without knowing where the door was. And, I watched. I treaded the waters lightly.

Every now and then I would jump in head first, determined to sink or swim. Sometimes I thought I would drown...other times, I found a rock to stand on. All the time, I overcame the current.

At first, I was angry. My anger started turning to bitterness. Then, I realized that the sunrise on every new day was majestic -- and that beauty was in the eye of the beholder. I had a choice to make.

Life is what it is. Sometimes you sink, sometimes you swim. But, sometimes, if you just float, you can take the time to enjoy the scenery, breathe easier, smell the fresh air.

I chose to be grateful in spite of not having all I want. I chose to accept what I was given, rather than covet what would never be mine. I chose to love, in spite of the pain; to laugh, in spite of the tears. to get up and move forward, rather than to lay there and move nowhere; to earn, rather than to demand; to show love, rather than indifference; to forgive, rather than to expect, and to experience, rather than to fear.

I look in the mirror today and I don't see a survivor, The fact that I am still there in the mirror looking back at myself tells me that the struggle was worth it, and I am an OVERCOMER.

Ten Things I've Learned in My 51st Year of Life 2020

Every year I post the ten top things I learned sometime during my birth month. My birthday is October 30. I will be 52 years old. (Yes, I am not ashamed to post it, because everyone who knows me knows I'm real). This year is no different.

Here goes:

10. God is in control of everything. I already knew this, but this year I felt it BIG TIME...I did a lot of arguing and begging this year with God.

9. Letting go is the most unselfish thing you can do.

8. True friendships don't thrive on Facebook. True friendship can only be cultivated face to face.

7. When you make a wrong turn and the road leads you to an impasse, it's best to go back where you started in order to figure out where you went wrong, and go a different direction.

6. Your boundaries are what builds respect from others.

5. Boundaries are not to protect you from others, but to protect you from yourself.

4. The fire of true love never completely dies. It might fade into the background over time, but is easily rekindled under the right circumstances.

3. Sometimes the truth isn't enough.

2. You can't worry about what other people will feel about your decision to be happy. If they truly love you, then they will support your decision, even if it takes you away from them. Making everyone else happy doesn't do anything for your own self respect and ends in wishful thinking.

1. God is stronger than I am.

Not My Way

Today, I stood up. I dusted myself off. I determined that no matter the pain, I was not going to settle for playing second fiddle to what I deserve.

I may not get what I want by doing this, but at least I know where I stand. And, if I can't have what I want, then it only means that God has other plans for me -- even if they are not the plans I want Him to have for me. I know God knows what's best for me. I know that His ways are not my ways, and His thoughts are not my thoughts, and I am an imperfect woman who serves a perfect God.

I also know that His plans are to prosper me and not harm me, to give me hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11). Even if it isn't what I want right now.

I know that He counts my tears. He covers my shame. And, best of all, He fights my battles for me.

I also know that He answers prayers.

So, I stood up and stepped forward, putting one foot in front of the other and determined not to look back. I only want what is in front of me from now on.

I want what is with-in my reach.

And, just like what I left behind me, I want it RIGHT.

If what I come to from here on out does not fit my definition of what is right for me, I will put one foot in front of the other and keep moving on.

Maybe some day "right" will finally run catch up with me, or I will find it on my way. Until then, I will keep climbing.

Someone once told me that I always rise to the top no matter what I do. I am not just a bubble in the soda...No. I am the whipped cream on top. And, I aim to stay that way.

No one is going to drag my spirit down anymore.

I choose to be grateful, loveable, joyful, peaceful, and yes, still hopeful.

Looking for a Relationship with Me Rule #1: Hello Beautiful

This guy private messaged me: "Hello, Beautiful!"

How do I respond?

I ignore him.

Why?

When a guy says, "Hello, Beautiful" I know he is after something other than my personality, because he doesn't even know me.

Tip:

Get to know me. Go on facebook and check out my timeline. Start a conversation about something I posted in one of my groups. And be sincere about it. Don't just ask a question to get a response. Not happening. You have to peak MY interest.

"Hello Beautiful" is way over-used and just hits me wrong in the beginning. Too familiar.

After you get to know me well, THEN I'll be flattered if you still call me "Beautiful".

Control

An old friend of mine contacted me last night on private message. I was just about to go to bed.

It was a nice conversation, for a change. It was all words, granted, but it sure made me feel better.

There was nothing out of the way. No insinuations or promises to be broken. Just light conversation that was much needed probably for both of us.

And, a reminder of who I was.

I think I needed that more than anything. It's amazing how a simple, enjoyable conversation with someone can be so refreshing -- and how it can rejuvenate your spirit and remind you of where you are supposed to be.

I woke up this morning, still feeling numb, but I got up and moved around. I got in my car and took the trip to the bank with Pandora blairing Christian music in my headphones.

It was as if every song that came on was meant for me to hear.

It was God talking to me, telling me what I needed to hear.

And I prayed.

I prayed for forgiveness, and I prayed that God would make my reactions as they should be, and that He would revive my "want to". I told Him, honestly, "I don't know how to feel right, right now. I can't control my emotions. I know what is right to do, Lord, so I'm determined to do that, and I give the outcome to You."

The first song that played on Pandora today was "Control" by Tenth Avenue.

It was as if God heard me. It was God telling me He knew how I felt. He understood where I am. And, He loved me, anyway. Here were my instructions.

I know me. I know I am going to mess up again, eventually. But, I also know that He does too. And, He loves me, anyway.

Me and Jesus

Hello, World.

I got off work an hour ago and came home and realized that I needed to wash clothes. I don't have anything to wear that is clean tomorrow, and I have to work tomorrow.

I was going to go out and sell my Avon, but instead, I'm just going to sit home and relax -- and wash and put away my clothes.

I have decided to focus on my business when I am not at work. No more itching to go out with someone or hanging out with friends. Most people I hang around when I do go out are drama magnets, and I prefer the quiet solitude of just me and God.

And, every guy who has asked me out in the past two years either ONLY wants one thing from me that I can't give anymore without a commitment, or there is something else wrong with him. I'm just not into drunks, drug addicts, financially needy men, swingers, clingers, atheists, agnostics, entitled personalities or Democrats.

That kind've thins out the dating pool too much for me.

I'm just better off staying single and married to Jesus.

I refuse to be used. I don't have that kind of need. And, if I do, I'm not going to take it out in trade with some egotistical, over-confident, or emotionally (or otherwise) unavailable man.

And, my heart cannot take another beating.

So, I'm going to focus on me and God from now on. Maybe someday God will send the miracle I have been praying for. But, I hate to say it, time is no friend to me. And, I am to the point that I believe God doesn't want me to be anything but HIS.

Please save your "Just give it time" and "Don't give up he's out there" speeches. I don't want to hear it and I don't want to argue about it. I am HONESTLY NOT INTERESTED anymore, and it would DEFINITELY take a miracle at this point to get my attention.

I guess I'm just too old -- mentally at least.

So, I look forward to being happy again. There is nothing on earth that can make me more unhappy than wanting something I can't have, and finally losing hope. So now, I just won't hope again. I'm not strong enough to handle the negative consequences anymore.

This is not a pity party, so don't get the wrong idea. This is simply a decision. A FIRM decision.

I wish you all a very blessed day! MINE IS!

Tough: If You are Going through Hell, Just Keep on Going!

I was raised that unless I was too sick to get out of bed and walk to the bathroom on my own, I was going to go to school.

I was raised that if I didn't eat all my supper, I'd get it for breakfast.

I was raised that if I whined about anything, I'd get something from my mom to cry about.

I was raised that if I fell down and scraped my knees, rather than being coddled and babied, I was told to get up, dust myself off and keep going.

I was raised that if I didn't work, I didn't eat.

I was raised that if I made my bed, I slept in it.

I was raised that if I wanted something, I had to earn it.

I was raised that if I lost the race, there was no trophy to take home. The only recognition I was afforded was that I didn't stop until I crossed the finish line. If I stopped before then, I was labeled a "quitter" -- whether I won or lost.

I was raised to not have excuses. There is a solution to every problem. Where there is a will there is a way. (Some people wonder where I got my "stubbornness" from).

I was raised not to fight -- but if attacked, and I didn't fight back, I was busted again when I got home. And, if I got into a fight with family, I was forced to fight them until we couldn't fight anymore in the front yard. (Okay, that didn't happen, but it was threatened at one point...LOL)

I was raised that if I was working, and I was tired, not to complain until I was finished with my work. Tiredness was no excuse not to do what needed to be done.

And I was raised without praise for doing my chores. Why be thanked for what I should already be doing in the first place?

I was raised that the ONLY time I went to a doctor was if there was something I could not fix on my own -- like a broken bone, a concussion, or an illness that was getting worse no matter what I was doing, not better.

And a scar was just a permanent trophy of my toughness -- not my beauty, which went hand in hand with "never judge a book by its cover" and "beauty is only skin deep"

I was taught to face my fears and that if I am going through hell, to keep on going.

I have had people tell me I am the strongest person they know.

Well, this is why.

FYI: Toughness isn't something you are born with. It is something you learn.

To hear some people talk, all of the above could be considered child abuse. In my opinion, raising children who refuse to take personal responsibility who are weak-minded and full of complaints and thinking they are entitled is the worse abuse you could put on a child. The American Spirit only thrives in toughness.

Home School Champion

If I was still home schooling, I would have made it mandatory for my children to watch every minute of the Republican National Convention of 2020 AFTER watching the DNC 2020. Then, we would have discussed what we had heard and what their opinions were and why. We would discuss their concerns. I would see through their eyes, then I would give them mine as a result.

I recall when I stood before the Austin Commissioner's Court after Commissioner Karen Sunlightner remarked on television when my children were watching one day that "Homeschoolers are nothing more than trailer trash that don't even own property."

We lived in a beautiful 3 bedroom home with a big back yard that we were buying at the time. My husband worked for one of the biggest law firms in the country.

5 minutes later, I was standing before her demanding that she apologize to my children who were watching her -- while they were still at home, watching their mother defend them AND their education!

I told her that day, "Miss Sunlightner, I am raising my children to be LEADERS, not FOLLOWERS. THAT is why I home school!"

My 5 year old son met me at the door when I drove back into our driveway after. The look in his eyes as he ran and hugged me, I will NEVER EVER FORGET!

"THAT'S MY MOMMA!" they seemed to say!

If I had any question in my mind as to whether or not I did the right thing that day in front of my children, it was answered right then and there.

Below is a rendition of what homeschooling is like for COVID 19 parents. The difference between doing it because you want to and because you have to is right there. I would do it again in a heartbeat. I wouldn't trade the quality time with my kids for the world.

I was a REAL Home School Champion!

Pocket Full of Sunshine

Hello, World!

It's been a bit since I updated this blog, hasn't it?

Well, I returned to work at the Pitt Grill, where I am now working the day shift -- and helping to train all of the other shifts to do their job correctly. The manager left, then one assistant manager quit, then the other quit, and I just happened to be the strongest cook they had so I got promoted to day shift -- which I LOVE, by the way!

Today my boss showed me a little bit about how to count the drawers down, which, I haven't done because I am not a waitress - I'm a cook.

I splashed oil from flipping an egg into my face today. My boss just look at me when I hollered out in pain. I told him he should give me a raise for not cussing. LOL I'm just glad I had my glasses on so none of it got in my eyes.

I was afraid I would have a bubble come up on my face, but other than a little discoloration, it didn't happen. I can still feel where it burned me, but it's going to be okay.

Three days ago my computer crashed. I had to sell some of my mutual funds to ensure that I could pay my lot rent on my mobile home so I could buy a new computer -- which seemed impossible. I went to four different stores and none of them had any computers with-in my budget available. Both Walmarts were completely sold out even.

Today after work, I went back to the local Walmart and was happy to see that they actually had some computers available! I bought a Hewlett Packard Laptop.

After setting it up at home, I was finally able to place my Avon order and catch up on some work I have not been able to do online. Still got some catching up to do, but I'm done for the day.

My "imaginary friend" (I call him imaginary because I never get to see him) brought me a burn barrel to burn some yard trash in. I've been making real good use of that on an almost daily basis. Best thing I've acquired in a while, besides my computer!

And, I'm back to buying stocks again. I figure I need to start saving money for things like paying off medical bills and getting my plumbing at home fixed.

I'm in a really good place right now.

I hope I stay there.

Have a blessed day!

Why did God tell Hosea to Marry a Prostitute?

I read the book of Hosea, and I have thought and thought about it: WHY in the WORLD would God want Hosea to marry a prostitute? According to the story he had nothing but bad with her.

I can understand that God wanted to teach Hosea to love like God. But for what purpose? What did all this accomplish for anyone but Hosea?

Then, I started thinking about all the things out there that people did saying that they felt they were "led by God", but it didn't turn out so well. And, I remember my pastor at the 1st Bikers Church in Texarkana preaching that we should always be SURE we are being led by God before we act, that God would never lead us to do anything that went against His Will...and you can find His Will in the Bible.

I wonder what scriptures led Hosea to marry a prostitute? (Which also made me wonder if, in fact, maybe all those people who went wayward, thinking they were led by God, may have really been led by God!)

FINALLY, it dawned on me that it wasn't the fact that he married a prostitute that was the lesson -- and aside from learning how to love like God, the assignment wasn't the prostitute AT ALL!

No.

The assignment Hosea was given by God was to TELL THE STORY.

ChaCHING!

ALL of us have gone and done some pretty wayward things and wondered how God could use our experience to teach a lesson.

The answer is this:

WE ALL HAVE A STORY TO TELL. And it is our story that leads others toward the right paths.

Patience

God knows my heart. I've prayed until my tears can fill up a bucket.

I know God never ignores prayer. There are three answers God can give to any prayer: "Yes". "No." And, "Not right now."

I keep praying that His "No" is just a "Not right now." I also pray for a door to finally shut -- either the door in front of me, or the door behind me.

If the door behind me shuts, I have finally received what I have been praying so fervently for. I can move ahead with new life, and new energy...and new dreams.

I want for that door to shut so much!

If the door in front of me shuts, then I know there is no point in praying more for what I am hoping for. The decision has been made. It's final.

I want for that door to shut just as much!

I also know that God can open closed doors when He wants to. He has proven that to me time and again...but to know that the door in front of me is locked and sealed shut is to accept that I need to move on completely, without looking back at the struggle that got me there. To accept the futility of knocking any more. If it should open again in the future, then I will again be on my knees praying again. But, I want peace in my heart about the prayer for right now.

I just would rather have the pain of finality than the pain of the waiting for an answer.

God, however, expects patience.

I am reminded constantly that I am not God.

Success

After watching this video, I have come to realize that if I died today, I would die having no regrets, even though I feel I have failed in everything I have done most of my life.

I am reminded that my blessing is that I am able to try.

I am reminded that the worst regret in life is to know you had the opportunity to try, and failed to do so.

Even if you try and fail, where ever you end up is ALWAYS better than what you left behind, even if you have nothing to show for it physically or financially.

Every situation in life is training for the mountain that you haven't arrived at yet. When you finally arrive at that mountain, you should never not try to get to the other side. No matter how you have to accomplish it -- because just accomplishing it makes you stronger, better, and more able to master the next one.

I have done so much in my life. I look back on my life and see that, even though I have nothing to show for it, I have seen and done things that not many people I know have done. I have accomplished quite a bit more than most can say they have.

I have succeeded in becoming who I am.

The true definition of success is not in accomplishing, but trying.

Rule # 6 in Direct Selling: Be Consistent

I worked at a restaurant one time with an older lady who was well beyond retirement age. I was no spring chicken, but still had quite a few years left in me. Most of my co-workers were very young people just starting their journey in life on their own. Energy was rampant with them.

One of the complaints I heard often was that the older lady was "so slow." Younger people tend to not have the patience that I had learned in my experienced years already. Yet, before she finished her shift every day, the older lady had all of her work done. Always.

She was also dependable and on time every day.

We knew that we could always count on her because she was "consistent". And, consistency is FAR MORE IMPORTANT than speed.

In direct sales, this rule is no different. Your customers want to buy from someone who can be depended on to deliver. They want someone they can trust -- and that takes consistency.

So, whenever you are having a bad day and a regular customer calls you to make an order, you should ALWAYS present yourself with the same energy that won them over to you in the first place.

This builds trust and nurtures the relationships you grow to have over time with your customers.

Keeping Busy

I have been REAL busy lately, especially since I started back work at The Pitt Grill.

I like the hours there, but it's taking some getting used to, since I am still used to being awake at night hours.

I created a page so I could sell my Avon on Facebook, and I invested in some Facebook ads to see how it would do. It's safe to say that the ads have paid for themselves. I am planning on investing in more soon.

I've done some news gathering from press releases which I have posted at The Ponder News group, as well as a few newslinks, and updated my The Ponder News blog on blogspot as well.

I've done some advertising on traffic exchanges -- and some surfing to gain credits there...

My Avon sales are not slowing down, but they are not picking up much, either since I started working back at The Pitt Grill -- but at least my paycheck is steady right now. And, my bills are getting paid.

You know what they say, "it takes money to make money". Nothing can be further from the truth.

And, I've updated my website at The Ponder: Come Grow with Me! with some affiliate links I thought visitors might enjoy. I've added more pages to the website for easy navigation.

All this in just the last few days...

Oh, and I've made good use of my new burn barrel that my "imaginary friend" brought me. (I call him that because I never see him in person).

I've also visited with my mom and step-dad. I had some empty 5-gallon buckets to donate to them for use. They fish a lot and do a lot of charity work.

Well, guess I'm going to go and try not to do anything for a little bit and relax.

Have a blessed day!

About Internet Relationships

The internet is a cowardly way of having a friendship. I want friendship with substance. I want to be able to look in someone's eyes when I'm talking to them. I want to be able to hug them if they need it physically and not just with an emoji. I want to see a genuine smile.

And if I accidentally hurt someone, I want to know it right then by the look on their face. I want to immediately respond. I want courageous honesty.

There is nothing more honest than face-to-face. And there is nothing more fulfilling then actually spending time with someone you care about.

if someone doesn't want to spend time with you off the internet, all it means is that they don't value you.

There is nothing more hurtful than realizing that you put more value into someone then they put into you.

You cannot build great memories over the internet.

Rule #5 in Direct Selling: Display Your Authenticity by Wearing a Uniform

People love authentic.

It is hard, in these evil times, to know whether someone is safe and authentic. In direct selling, this poses a problem.

People today are wary of strangers who knock at their door. You don't know if the person knocking is a bill collector, a homeless person asking for hand-outs, or someone casing your home for a possible robbery.

As an Avon sales person, I have experienced very suspicious people; even when I tell them I sell Avon.

So, I have remedied the situation. I made T-Shirts that display that I am an Avon Lady. I carry products and sales tools where they can be seen visibly. When they come to the door I say, "Hi! I'm Shonda. I sell Avon. Do you need an Avon Lady? I have Skin-so-Soft today!" (I have a basket of Avon brochures and SSS in one hand, and I hold up a bottle of the Skin-So-Soft in the other). There is no doubt that I am who I say I am. The look of "suspicion" is virtually non-existent.

I display confidence in myself, friendliness toward the customer, and loyalty to my product.

I have noticed that more people are willing to buy from you when they know you are serious about your business.

Nothing says serious like having a uniform on!

Heat, Shrimp, Advertising and Avon

Hello, World!

I am up, showered and ready to go out and sell some Avon and meet some new friends! I have already delivered all of my orders for the last campaign (except one...can't seem to get her to answer her phone...but I will!)

Yesterday, I took a break from the heat to work in the hot house and do some much needed cleaning. I took advantage of the opportunity to have some of my customers drop by and pick up their Avon,

I also created a page on Facebook for Shonda Ponder Enterprises, in which to post some ads and distribute my information better through Facebook. If it works out, I may be doing more in the future where it counts.

I have totally revamped my website for entrepreneur stuff. It's what I need and all I have time for now.

And, I played a little bit of Fallout NV. Got to do something enjoyable at times or it isn't a balanced life. Besides, shooting bad guys relieves stress.

I have until the 14th to pay my internet bill. Then, my next bill after that is due on the 24th, 26th, 30th, and then the cycle starts over on the 1st.

Praying I can do this.

Oh, and yesterday I was gifted with some fresh shrimp to eat. We cooked and ate that last night...Thanks, Jody!

Looking forward to seeing what today brings me!

Have a blessed day!

(And don't forget to visit my Avon Store!)

I Am YOUR Friend, Even When You Aren't Mine

If I am your friend, I will ALWAYS be your friend, even when you are not mine.

I might go away when I feel I am not wanted.

I might tell you things you don't want to hear, because it is the truth.

I might even tell you when you stink, or if that dress is ugly, or when I think you are messing up...

But I will NEVER stop being your friend.

I may not agree with something you are doing, but I don't stop being your friend. I just sit back and wait for you to finish what you are doing (and yeah, I like saying, "I told you so")

I believe in real love. I believe in TOUGH love. And I believe in lasting love.

If you ever find yourself in need of someone to talk to, someone to hug you, or just hang with and be quiet and enjoy the air...

I'm that kind friend.

ALWAYS.

My Independence Day

Today is my Independence day. Today, I am letting go of everything that drags me down. I am letting go of everything that makes me unhappy.I am celebrating my life and determined to live a life.

I refuse to mourn over those who don't want me in their lives. I welcome those who do.I refuse to be sad over declined invitations and unfinished business. Instead, I will invite those who won't turn me down.

I am cleaning out the crowded areas of my life where I have placed importance where it ought not be. instead, I am focusing on things that are good and profitable for me.

It's a new day, it's the first day of the rest of my life. And, today is my Independence day.

Happy Fourth of July! Have a safe weekend!

... Oh, and have a nice life!

Rule #4 in Direct Selling: Always Keep Staple Products On-Hand

I love selling Avon. The name alone sells itself.

Most people associate Avon with make-up, though. I can't count the number of times I've asked someone, "Do you need an Avon Lady?" who answered back with, "I don't wear that make-up. Sorry."

Avon is about so much more than make-up. Make-up is really only about 20% of what Avon sells. Heck, we even sell laundry detergent and dish washing liquid now!

But, the ONE THING that most people associate with Avon is their Skin-So-Soft Bath Oil. That stuff sells like hotcakes!

So, whenever I go out canvassing, I have made it a habit to carry the Bath Oil with me every where I go. I've asked people, "Do you need an Avon Lady?" And then I add, "I have Skin-So-Soft!"

The answer I get is sometimes, "No, thank you....WAIT A MINUTE, you have Skin-So-Soft? How much is it?"

I can't seem to keep it in stock.

And, I've gained a lot of great customers that way as well! "Here, take a book, too! If you run out, my number is on the back and you can order more!"

Check out the catalog, then click HERE to order anything online!

Unfinished Business

This is for someone in particular who needs to hear it:

It's okay to grieve for unfinished business. But, don't EVER think that it is in your fate to ever see the finish of any business that walked away from you knowing how you felt.

Sometimes unfinished business is actually finished -- no matter how your heart feels or for how long.

It is better to just write it off as loss. Not for yourself, but for the one that walked away.

Go, live, be and do. You will never forget, but you can't dwell on the pain. Channel it. Become who you were meant to be. Let it do what it is supposed to do and make you stronger for it...and then don't EVER allow the business to get in front of you again.

To do so is to lose more of who you thought you were, who you grew to be -- and who you thought they were.

And, sometimes the memories are just sweeter without realizing that you were wrong in your perception.

In the end, you will be right where you are. The business you wished you could finish will still walk away knowing how you feel. Nothing is changed, accept now there is fresh pain.

Just remember, real life is not a fairy tale. Not all endings are happy ones. Not all business is meant to be "finished" to your approval.

Zero White Guilt

First of all, I love all of my black friends. And my red, yellow, brown and white ones. I hold NO discrimination in my heart.

What I am about to say may offend you, but I really don't care.

I never owned a slave. My grandparents never owned a slave. I never whipped a black person with a whip. I never hung one. I never treated anyone of a different color with anything but due respect as an equal.

Having said that, it will be a COLD DAY IN HELL before you will ever catch ME kneeling and asking for forgiveness for being white. I don't apologize for something someone else does. And I am dang sure not going to apologize for something that happened over 150 years ago when I wasn't even around.

So, if you ARE offended, I suggest you go look at your racist self in the mirror and do some soul searching. Because I AM OFFENDED if YOU expect ME to kneel for anyone but the God I serve.

God created me white. Jesus came to save us from sin, not skin.

BTW...if you want to get technical, I like probably 90% of all Americans today am a mutt. My grandpa was full blood Apache. I have german, irish, english, spanish and dutch in me. Oh, and yeah, a black slave about 10 generations back named Constance. So, get over the racist accusations.

If you want me to show solidarity, then how about showing solidarity by standing with me with your hand over your heart facing the American flag and saying the pledge of allegiance and meaning it. Because, you do not live in an African nation that is controlled by Muslims who still own slaves.

Rule # 3 in Direct Selling; Give yourself a weekly paycheck based on performance

It's all about making money, right? But, you only make money if you sell something.

Every week I keep a log of the hours I work. I keep another log of the sales I make. And, I keep a log of the products I buy to sell.

For now, because I am just starting, I give myself a set amount each week in pay. I get minimum wage - minus the taxes. For me, here in Texas, that is no more than $240.70 for a 40 hour week. However, that is ONLY if I am able to sell at least $882 worth of products each week.

This means I actually have to work at it.

Last week I worked a total of 12 hours selling Avon, including the time I spent doing inventory pricing and answering the telephone, making phone calls and updating my logs -- and watching educational videos at Avon U.

Since I only sold $239.98 worth of products, and minimum wage for me last week came up to $74.91 with taxes taken out and put aside, I am still short on what I need to pay myself this week (my profit is only $71.99, so it was too close to get discouraged about it!). Which means next week, I really need to try harder to make those sales!

As time goes by, though, and I am able to keep regular customers coming back and do more call-backs on established customers, that sales percentage will grow...and so will my pay. I am confident of that, just looking at these numbers!

And, minimum wage based on the hours that I worked is not a bad start!

Direct selling is not a get rich quick scheme. It is an honest living for an honest day's work. The only difference is that you get out of it exactly what you put into it. So, find what you enjoy to do and do it! Being happy isn't about the money, it's about enjoying life doing what you love to do!

I love Avon because it is easy to sell, it's flexible, and I see the fruits of my efforts -- and best of all, I get to KEEP my profits!

Click HERE to buy Avon

Rule #2 in Direct Selling: Accommodate the Customer

The second rule to direct selling is to always accommodate the customer. If the customer wants you to sit with them for an hour to talk, do so. This is how you build rapport. This is how you get to know your customer's needs and desires. This is how you can make suggestions that they will be grateful for and buy.

I am thankful that the quarantine measures are easing. However, there is still need to accommodate.

For instance, yesterday, I knocked on doors at a senior living apartment complex. The first customer was sitting outside on her porch. She said, "You are an answer to prayer!" I sat with her nearly an hour as she browsed through my catalog, looked at the products in my basket I was carrying, and talking about her needs and her situation. By the time I left her, she had bought over $50 worth of products, half of it from the basket of products I had on-hand already. I am so glad I stayed and took the time to accommodate her!

The other day at Wal-mart, an elderly lady was putting groceries in her car. I asked her if she needed an Avon Lady. She said, "No, I need help getting this water into my car!" She was about a head shorter than me and very frail-looking and thin. I said, "Yes, ma'am! Let me help you with that!" She was grateful, and bought some Skin-so-Soft from me.

At another door at the senior living apartment complex I was at yesterday, a man answered the door. I introduced myself and offered to sell him some of the men's cologne in my basket. He asked me to come in. "I don't need the Avon, but my wife wants to see what you have!" I said, "Sure!" Then he handed me a disposable mask to wear and asked if I wouldn't mind putting it on first. Of course, I accommodated him! And, I sold another $10 worth of Avon while I was there. She asked if I had anything for arthritis in her feet. OF COURSE I did!

If you aren't willing to accommodate (and sometimes that means to serve) your customers, you aren't going to get very far in direct sales. Direct selling allows you to have versatility in how you serve your customers.

1st Rule of Success in Direct Selling: Don't stay home.

1st Rule of Success in Direct Selling:

Go where the customers are.

Don't stay home and hope the customers gravitate toward you. They will, but not as quick as you need them to.

You have to get out of the house, your car, or where ever you are stuck at and actually engage.

If you do not engage, you cannot communicate.

If you cannot communicate, you cannot advertise your wares.

If you do not advertise, you cannot close a sale.

If you cannot close a sale, you cannot make money.

If you cannot make money, you cannot pay your bills.

And if you cannot pay your bills, you cannot run a business.

And so the circle turns.

The more I study this guy, the more I like him. He's crude, obnoxious and ambitious. Aside from that, he is one of the greatest opportunists alive. Like me. Like I want to be. There is so much I can learn from him...while chewing the meat and spitting out the bones...

Time to go to work!

Hello, World!

My Avon shipment finally came in! Yay!

Today I will be walking the parking lots of nearby stores handing out brochures and flyers all day, and collecting phone numbers.

I will have my Skin-so-Soft products with me for anyone who wishes to buy some, as well as any other products I have on-hand.

I will start at the Wal-Mart in New Boston. I may move to other places as the day wears on, but we'll see how well I do.

I now have a face mask to wear so I can enter places that refuse service to anyone who doesn't have one.

If you are interested in Skin-So-Soft, call me! I have LOTS to sell, and if you are in the New Boston Area, I will be able to deliver immediately!

Ya'll have a blessed day!

Full Force at Avon Now

Hello, World.

Sunday morning I quit my job at the Pitt Grill. I have decided to go full force selling Avon. I figure if I am going to work so hard that my body is sore all over every night, for minimum wage pay, I should be working for myself -- and at least have the chance to move up in pay.

If I help build up someone's business with my customer service -- it should be MINE.

If I am miserable doing things the same way every day, I should have the power to change it.

So, I took my power back.

Currently, I have about $600 worth of Avon to sell on-hand. I have another $200 coming today, Monday. I have a set schedule and I've even made uniforms to work in -- T-shirts that tell the world that "I sell Skin-So-Soft! Ask me about Avon!"

I plan to take a road trip soon and sell Avon. I want to visit every homeless shelter in the State of Texas. I want to see every city in the State of Texas. I want to live.

Avon has gone completely digital now. There are no more mail-in orders or paper order forms. If you sign up to be an Avon Independent Sales Representative, you HAVE to have access to a computer -- or a phone that has access to the internet. You have to have a bank account in your name. And you have to have a social security number. All orders are made OVER THE INTERNET.

I am thankful I have a head start.

Of course, If you just want to order some Avon, you can still do so through me personally, if you live with-in my area of delivery.

But, I am transitioning to mainly bucket sales. Most of my customers who buy from me like to see the product before they buy it, so it is much easier for me to sell products that way. And, the brochures are too expensive to invest in, so I only have a limited number to give away per campaign.

Giving out my website address is easier and cheaper. Anyone can see the updated brochure ALL THE TIME if they just go to the website I provide on the back of my brochure, or my business card. And, if you want to be an Avon Lady, too, you can sign up right at my website, as well!

I have lots of Skin-So-Soft and hand lotions to sell -- as well as perfumes and shower gels, foot lotions and many other products. I'm making a list of all the things I need to order as I go, so feel free to tell me what you are looking for!

And finally, in this day and age, with COVID-19 and a bunch of rioting going on, it is so much safer to stay home and have products you need delivered directly to you. Avon has always had competitive prices for their products, too!

Visit my store by going to http://www.youravon.com/shondaponder or check out the brochure below!

We have LOTS of great products for men now, AND LOTS of GREAT NEW PRODUCTS!

Avon is SO MUCH MORE than JUST make-up!

Have a blessed day!