Day 49 in the mall

My parents are leaving this morning and Brownie and I will be at the mall today. I let Brownie sleep in and I went to the mall to start the day off. Bad mistake...

Morning:
I have 20 orders to do, and no help. I'm calling Big O to have him drop off Brownie.

Afternoon:
Brownie is here and she is frustrated because of all the people and orders that are coming in. I tell her to breath, shake, and let it go. I think she has a new appreciation for what I do.

It's 6:30 and Shelly is now here. I'm so glad, we have tons of orders to do and we are still getting orders. This has been the second largest sales day since I've been here. It's funny how I can tell approximately how much I make by how my body feels.

I'm doing it Ya'll!
Boss Momma

Day 48 in the mall

No time for kisses or goodbyes, I'm out the door ready for my day at the mall.

Morning:
I've overwhelmed by the sales I'm getting. It's a Tuesday and I'm doing sales like it's a Saturday. Wow, I'm in shock every time the cash register dings.

Afternoon:
Another great day of sales.

Tired and ready for bed.
Boss Momma

Day 47 in the mall

I've gotten some rest from the weekend and I'm ready to start another day. Shelly is working her other job this morning so I will be starting the day off by myself.

Morning:
The day has started off like a Saturday, I'm busy and can't wait until my mom gets here. I've already run out of product that I received on Wednesday and Thursday of last week. I will be placing my last bag order of the season today just so that I can have product for the last few days before Christmas.

Afternoon:
Sales are still going really well. My body is exhausted, but to stop or quit is not an option.

I will Survive!
Boss Momma

Day 46 in the mall

I still haven't recouped from yesterday, but off to the mall we go. The mall now has extended hours so I get home around 11:00 last night and have to be here at 10:00 this morning. This is the life that I've been longing to live. This is what I've been praying for. Kiss the kiddos goodbye and I head out the door with lightening speed.

Morning:

Shelly is already at the mall taking orders when I get there. She is awesome. She has everything lined up and in order by who paid. We get started on another day of pumping out orders.

Up until this time we've not had a return or a request for a return. Everybody loves their product. We had a lady who couldn't decide what she wanted on her tote. Shelly wrote down both things, but didn't tell me which one to do. I just put the name on the bag that was the largest on the paper. When the customer returned she said that's not what she wanted. My mom was not happy. I told her to let Shelly handle it, she's good and she will knows what she's doing. Sure enough Shelly handled it, and my mom was impressed! Shelly has finely made my mom a believer.

Afternoon:
Sales have still been going strong...

The mall closed today at 8:00 so we go home and have some family time together.

It's starting to look a lot like Christmas...
Boss Momma

Day 45 in the mall

Today, I will prepare for the best and the worst of working in retail. This morning is the calm before the storm. I'm looking forward to the eye of the storm which should be hitting around 3:00 ish.

Morning:
This morning I'm so happy to have my parents here and Shelly. We kinda got a routine going last night so today we come in ready. My mom is still trying to fill out Shelly and Shelly knows it. My mom is double checking everything with me and starting to correct her mid sentence. What my mom doesn't know is Shelly is smart and quick on her feet. She is great when it comes to customer service and handling issues. She's detailed and understands the consumer mind set. I leave Shelly alone and let her work her strength. I didn't think I would ever feel comfortable enough with someone to let them just handle something without me. I'm glad I've found that it her, and I'm sure my mom will also see that too.

We have been working for hours without out food or bathroom break. My dad is here so he's has been our runner. I really wish he could pee for us. I mention to him my back was hurting so he ran to Wal*Mart and purchased me a hydrolic chair and a back brace. Awe, don't you just wanna daddy like mine. :)

Afternoon:
We've done so many shirts and bags far, I can't even began to estimate todays sales. It just occured to me that when you pray for something you better be sure you can handle it. We are over flooded with orders and our best seller are the Nana's Angels shirt with the kids on them. The bags are a huge hit as well. I just got an order in yesterday of the bags and another order in the day before yesterday of bags and I'm already needing to put in another order just so I can have product to sell next week.

The mall is closed and all I can do is hobble out to the car. My fingers ache, my back is sooo outta whack, and my feet they just burn. But through all of this you know what I'm thinking...Thank you Lord for anwering our prayers. The times I've wanted to quit and give up I'm so glad I didn't. It has truly been on the prayers of my family and friends that I've walked.

My dad is so cool, he stays at the mall with us all day. He's caught a few movies, visited almost all the stores in the mall but he refuses to go home. Even thought Kelly bought me the van a few days ago, my dad says I shouldn't have to drive back and forth. I love him he is so thoughtful.

My kids are home waiting on me and as soon as I get home are running down the stairs with questions like how much did we make today and how many customers did we have. I tell them how much are total sales were for the day and they just start screaming. My kids are just as excited as we are. With that I go to bed to prepare myself for another long day.

Ain't no stopping us now...
Boss Momma

Day 44 in the mall

I'm up and all I can think about is needing help this morning. I leave out the house before the kids are up. I peek in to make sure all is well and I make my way to the mall.

Morning:
Help!!!!!!! I need help, please!!!!! I call my mom and she said she won't be here until 2:00 or 3:00. Momma are you kidding me. Oh my, what am I gonna do.

Afternoon:
My mom finally gets here, by the time she walks in, I'm backed up with orders, and still waiting on people. I'm so happy to see her. I quickly tell her the cost of everything and start making the orders I had taken earlier.

Shelly has finally made it in and OMG we needed her. We are so busy that I think we really need four people, but we are making due with what we have. We all seem to find our space to work. Shelly is great with sells, so I let her do all the selling. My mom helped with cutting out letters, and I did all the pressing.

It's the end of the night and I can barely walk. This is what I've been asking God for, and what you my friends, have been praying for. As tired, and achy as I feel right now I'm happy and extremely thankful. Another night of hi's and goodnights with the kids.

Living out my dream!
Boss Momma

Day 43 in the mall

Today, is when the madness is supposed to began. Yesterday, was pretty good, so I'm looking forward to today.

Morning:
I've been rockin' ever since the mall opened today. I will call Big O shortly because I need some help. Shelly won't be here until after 6:00 again today and I'm not sure if I can hang on that long by myself.

Afternoon:
I'm overwhelmed...in a good way of course. Shelly is finally here to help. I've so many orders, I just can't keep up.

I was really excited to see Kelly today. She came to drop off more bags and the van again. Yay! It's so funny that I've been getting up at 6:30 getting to the mall at 7:30 ish and now that I have the van I have to be at the mall at 7:30 anyway because the mall will open at 8:00 in the morning for the holiday season.

My kids called not to long ago telling me Diamond our dog is in labor. Doesn't that dog know I don't have time for this. I'm a bit stressed about this, but my kids assured me they will be there watching her making sure she and her babies are okay.

By the way does anybody want a dog?

I'm at home now trying to rest my aching back. My parents will be here tomorrow, and I'm happy. I have no idea how I will make it working by myself in the morning. The kids go another night with only a hi and a kiss goodnight. Oh Lia Pooh did bring me the dogs to look at. She also told me two of the dogs didn't make it. I was so sad about that as were they. Awe man, off to bed I go.

Oh my aching back...
Boss Momma

Day 42 in the mall

All I have time to do today is shower and get off to the mall.

Morning:
It's been hectic all morning. I've done so many orders my back now aches. I'm very careful about what I say because this after all is what I've been praying for.

Afternoon:
It's been busy and my help won't be here until after 6:00. If I can handle this I can handle anything...I think.

At home and to bed I must go.

Making it happen...
Boss Momma

Day 41 in the mall

I know this week will be a good week. I'm have my workers lined up and I know we are going to kick butt.

Morning:
It's been busy already this morning. It's not the weekend busy, so I think I can handle this crowd alone.

Afternoon:
I've been steady all day with sales. I try to eat and drink very little so that I won't have to go to the restroom. I don't wanna leave my kiosk for long periods of time. I can tell my body isn't liking this very well, but I've got to keep going.

This has been the best Tuesday so far. I'm so glad I hung in there. It seems to be really paying off.

The kids are up and waiting for me. Lia Pooh is really missing me. She says she doesn't ever get to see mommy anymore. I feel badly and can't wait until January. I think this much harder on the kids than I expected it to be.

Striving to succeed!
Boss Momma

Day 40 in the mall

I get to sleep in this morning. Yay! I get to relax my aching body and spend a little time with the kids. I haven't been to church in so long, I feel like a heathen. Unlike me Bud will find a way to church. Walk, run, or hitch a ride nothing is getting in his way of going to church. The girls well, they wanna be with me.


Morning:
I didn't know how sales would be today so I ask my helper to come in when she got out of church. Well, she ended up not going to church and was able to come in a little earlier than expected. I was happy about that, because when I got to the mall around 11:30 it was packed. The food court had tons of people in it and there were already lines of people. I'm thinking, oh my the mall hasn't even opened yet. I get set up quickly and just as I expected at 12:00 we were slammed.


Afternoon:
I'm pumped and still going strong. We are backed up with orders again and we are working as fast as our hands and bodies will allow. I'm thinking in my head, that I'm so thankful for each customer that has choosen me to purchase from. I pray for each item as I make it, and ask God to bless each person that receives it as a gift. I really do hope they love it, and that it blesses whom ever gets it.

At home now and it's been a really great day! The kids are excited and we get to spend a little more time together. Hooray!

Selling right along...

Boss Momma

Day 39 in the mall

I did some finishing touches to the decorating we did last night and off to the mall I go.

Morning:
The mall is packed and as I'm setting up I'm getting orders. My helper will not be here until 1:30 or so, but I need help NOW. I should have made Brownie come today, but I just can't answer all her questions, she wants to do too much right now and I think we'd both end of mad at each other. Dag, I should have made her come and told her to be quiet and work... I need help!!!!!!!

Afternoon:
My helper gets here around 2:15 and without anytime to waste she gets right to work taking orders. There is about a 4 hour wait on personalizing. I'm tired, but have to keep going. This is what I and so many of my precious friends and family members have prayed for so I take careful consideration not to complain. I will just keep going until I'm done.

A customer came and told me someone is selling bags like mine at their kiosk, she wants me to personalize it and I say, "sure." I'm now making money off of what I sell and what other people are selling, how cool is that! I smile and tell myself what God has for me is for me!

It's 9:00 and I'm have finally completed all my orders. Today has been a record sales day. I've never in my life made this much money in 1 day. Wow, is all I can say. I almost triple the sales I had for Black Friday.

I get home and my feet are burning. I realize that I haven't eaten and Big O gets me some much needed food. I have to order more product tonight! As tired as I am I crawl up the steps to order more product. All the kids had a friend over so there are kids running every where. I'm tired and want to complain, but I just smile and go with the flow. I finally eat and then I hit the sack.

Booming Business!
Boss Momma

Day 38 in the mall

I think today is gonna be a great day! I wake up tired. I couldn't sleep last night, so I get to the mall and take a nap at my kiosk. I sleep for about an hour or so and then my mom calls. I talk to my mom for a while then grab some food and coffee.

Morning:
There are people at the mall and the mall is not even opened yet.

The mall is now open and I have been busy all morning. I don't have time to eat, be tired, pee, or think. I didn't think to call my help in today.

Afternoon:
I finally ran to the bathroom, but still haven't had time to eat. I call Big O and tell him I've been swamped all day and to bring Brownie to the mall when she gets home.

Brownie gets to the mall around 4:30 or so. She tells me she wants to go to a dance at school. I don't have time to process that kind of information. She also tells me that she wants to go to her "friends" game tomorrow. Are you kidding me, I can not work with Brownie, she is drilling off questions of things I just can't answer right now. She has got to know I can only think with one part of my brain at a time. I'm in business mode not momma mode. She finally tells me she'd like to go purchase Christmas gifts so I gladly send her to search the mall for gifts.

I get home and I'm whooped. I pull out the rest of the stuff to setup the Christmas tree and decorate the house. I tell the kids tonight is the night.

I run up stairs to place an order for more bags and it took longer than I expected. Mz. Chocolate was so upset, she looked as if she was crying or about to cry. I jumped off the computer with only a partial order of products ordered. Finally almost 2 weeks after I first promised, the Christmas tree is now up. The kids are smiling and jumping around in pure glee.

Happy Kids = Happy Momma,
Boss Momma

Day 37 in the mall

I'm up again at the crack of dawn...I have packages to ship out for Homeschool Boutique, so I get those off and start getting ready for my day. The mall said last week that I could double my space since they let the other rhinestone lady in so close to me. My dear friend that picks the kids up for bowling every week bought a table over to me, so that's what I will be using.

Morning:
I get there and add my table and try and decorate it as best as I can. I have a ton of new bags to display on it, but just don't know how it will look. Oh well, off I go...

Sales have been great today. People are making up for that missed day of shopping yesterday.

Afternoon:
The set up looks great...at least I think it does. I will post a picture later of my updated setup.

Sales have been coming steadily all day. A lady worker from the other rhinestone kiosk has come over to see what I have. She compliments me on my designs and we talk a bit. She tells me another rhinestone person has popped up in the mall downstairs. I just smile and think to myself, so what. The owner of the rhinestone kiosk that's close to me was upset because it was her friend that decided to open up a kiosk downstairs doing the same thing she's doing. Karma is something ain't it.

I'm thinking that this information should bother me, but it doesn't. What God has for me is for me and no other rhinestone kiosk will get what's for me! God does not get confused with his children he knows them and knows where they are. So, I don't care if 5 more rhinestone kiosk pop up, what God has for me is for me!

This day ended up being a great day for me. I'm tired and I just wanna hit the sack. I get home and talk to the kids a little. I feel horrible that we haven't done any school work in weeks. Lord, please help me to be able to get caught up and back on track after this adventure.

The tree is still not setup...
Boss Momma

Picture of expanded setup

Day 36 in the mall

Up early again today. It's raining and I'm praying that this does not effect sales. Lia Pooh has been sleeping with us every single night and I don't sleep well with her in the bed. I just feel so bad telling her to go sleep in her own room. I will deal with this issue in January.

Morning:
No morning sales as of yet. I have packages being shipped to the house and with no car I need to find some way to get them. The kids have bowling today so they won't be there to sign for the packages. Hum, how am I gonna do this?

Afternoon:
I had to call ups to see if I could meet the driver. The driver calls back a half an hour later telling me to meet him in Corky's parking lot. I tell him okay. As soon as I hang up I remember I don't have a car. I call a friend and ask her if she can come pick me up from the mall so that I can meet the ups driver. After getting the packages back to the mall, I start displaying my new product.

Sales are really slow today, but I so believe that God will work things out for us, I just know he will. I can really see HIS hand in this adventure and I'm learning how to walk by faith and not by site.

Home and no we still haven't set up that stinking Christmas tree. I already know that right now I'm a bootleg momma. I see I'm gonna have to put this off on Big O.

Bootleg momma of 4,
Boss Momma

Day 35 in the mall

My body now automatically gets up at 6:30 and I can't stand it. I'm usually dragging, but today I popped right up. The kids are still sleep so I go in check on them and get ready for my day.

Morning:
This morning has been pretty good. There are more people in the mall than I expected.

Afternoon:
Sales weren't as good as yesterday, but at least I received payment for working...I remember a few weeks ago I would work all day without a single sale.

I'm home and the kids are excited to see me. We still haven't set the tree up so that's the first thing they want to do. I still don't feel like decorating and setting up that stinking tree. UGH...that tree. I think I may tell the kids setting up trees in your home is a pagan ritual and we need to not do it any more.

Running on a prayer.
Boss Momma

Day 34 in the mall

Up and at 'em at 7:30. I'm still in this constant state of tiredness. I let the kids down last night because I told them I was too tired to set the Christmas tree up. I felt horrible and should have just sat there and let them decorate the tree. Ugh, I'm mad at myself for that one. A few more orders trickle in on the Homeschool Boutique website. I fulfil those orders and off to the mall I go.

Morning:
I get some product cut and put away, now ready to open. Can't believe it's 9:30 and there's people in the mall, more people then normal. I start selling right at 10:00 which is good and lets me believe I'm gonna have a great day today.

Afternoon:
Another steady day with sales. I'm happy with it, sales are climbing as the weeks progress and that means I'm right on track...at least I hope.

It's closing time and I'm ready to jet outta here. I shut down and head home.

When I get home the little girls are in the tub, Brownie is sleep, and Bud is in the kitchen. He had a basketball game that I missed. I've missed all of his games this season working in the mall. :( He tells me he scored 35 points this game, but they still loose. Great job Bud! I look over at Big O and his face is just a gleeming with pride.

I get the girls off to bed and then Big O and I hit the sack. As I'm laying down I remembered the Christmas tree. We still haven't put it up. Yikes...

Christmas Tree O Christmas Tree put thine self up this year!
Boss Momma

Day 33 in the mall

Thank God for Sundays. This really should be a day of rest. Don't have to be at the mall until 12:.00 today...so thank the Lawd on today. I'm still getting use to this southern talk. Being from the midwest we don't use terms like, "on today" can't figure out why people sit the word on on today. That seems outta whack...

I had Big O bring the Christmas tress down for the storage room. We usually set up the day after Thanksgiving, but since I was working all day on Black Friday and they didn't wanna set up without me we decided to do it today. I tell them to prepare everything and when I get home we can set it up then.

Afternoon:
Sales have been steady all day, not fast paced but steady. I'm so happy that at least I'm bringing home money on a daily basis, it makes me feel like I'm working and have something to show for it. People seem to really like the custom shirts, I'm starting to get word of mouth business. Hummm, pretty good I must say.

Closing time and I've had a great day! I'm tired and ready to lay it down. Shoot, I forgot that I told the kids we would set up the tree. Im pooped and don't feel like it. I feel like a horrible, horrible, horrible, momma...but I'm sooo exhausted.

Bah Humbug,
Boss Momma

Day 32 in the mall

It's Saturday and I can't wait until today takes off. I'm a little nervous that my expectations are too high. I have set in my mind that I will not worry about the other kiosk again today. That is really hard for me, but I have to trust God.

Morning:
Are you kidding me? I've been swamped! I've been here since 9:45 and I've been busy since I got here. I'm excited and need my help to come on. I'm starting to panic...

Afternoon:
It's now 7:00 and I have eaten, used the restroom, or sat down. My body is literally aching all over. I don't care, I just wanna work. I've done better today than I did on Black Friday.

It's closing time and I'm doing the running man. If you don't know what the running man is jump over to youtube and look up the running man dance. That's the happy dance. Whew who! I am on cloud nine. Oh, I forgot to mention...our rhinestone "friend" ran out of size large shirts and sent some of her customers over here to purchase plain shirts. Well, we ended up selling them the shirt with the design on them. I was stunned at first, could not believe she told them to come buy plain shirts from me cause I carry the same ones she does and she would discount the design. Well, other rhinestone lady thanks for the customers.

I go to close down my kiosk at 9:00 and I have a line of people now wanting shirts. I don't leave the mall until 10:00, I'm tired my back hurts, but I'm so excited I can hardly stand myself.

I get home and I stay up to talk to the kids. They are really excited...and so is Big O. I call my mom who has been praying for me all day and I share with her my great news. I'm pooped and I engerized about the next few weeks.

Only the beginning...
Boss Momma

Day 31 in the mall

It's Friday baby, and I'm pumped. I had a long week and I'm just ready to see what's gonna happen this weekend. I'm up and at the mall again at 7:00, I'm cool with that cause I have a lot of stuff to do to get ready for a busy weekend. I've made up in my mind that I'm not going to even worry about that other rhinestone kiosk. I'm gonna do, what I'm gonna do!

Morning:
I'm busy, I should've had someone here with me. I can't believe it's this busy on a Friday...don't have a lot of time to type, but I'm excited.

Evening:
It has slowed down a little, I'm still getting orders and they seem to come in waves. Inside I'm feeling a great since of relief...I'm no longer bleeding money. I pray this wave continues, it's a ride I'm excited to take.

The mall has now closed and I'm packing up. I've done better today than I did on any other Friday...except for Black Friday. I'm really excited I can't wait to get home and tell Big O and the kids. It's amazing how I when I am constantly working even though it's tiring I get energized when I get home.

I'm home and I tell the kids and Big O about the day I've had, the kids are cheering and letting me know that I've done a good job. I go to bed feeling excited and even more energized.

Energized and ready to sale!
Boss Momma

Day 30 in the mall

This morning I'm refusing to get up early to be at the mall at 7:00. I told Big O to come and get me later on during the day. I think he was a little upset, but he knew I was serious. I was able to get the rest of my Homeschool Boutique shipping done, and spend some time with the kids.

Morning:
Big O came to get me about 10:10 and I got to the mall around 10:20. I was late but I didn't care. Morning sales have been slow, but steady. I'm so grateful for each one and know that it is a blessing when someone chooses to spend their money with you.

Afternoon:
Sales have picked up this afternoon and Im happy about that. It's ben a long day, but it's paid off. I finally get the rest of my rhinestone shipment in and have one more to go. I have a few shipments of bags that I should be getting in next week.

I decided to stay in the mall, with Big O's blessing. I can't imagine what's going on in his head. He is about the bottom line and as of yet we have not made a profit, we have been just breaking even. Kelly said it wouldn't be until the second or third week of December that we would began to see a profit and Im so looking forward to that.

Today is over we did okay for a Thursday. Better than any other Thursday before, so that's a good sign. The lady in the kiosk across from me takes me home everynight so I wait for her to shut down and off we go.

the kids are up waiting and although I'm tired I spend some time with them. They are wanting to come to the mall with me to spend the day tomorrow, but I don't think that will not be able to happen. It's a long day for me, for them I know it will be even longer.

Here to stay!
Boss Momma

Day 29 in the mall

I'm tired and although my mind is screaming go back to sleep my body is up. Lord, please don't let me start getting use to being up at 6:30 in the morning. I have a few more orders to get shipped out for Homeschool Boutique so I work on those and catch a bit of CNN. I love CNN I can watch world news all day long. Mz. Chocolate gets is up and we talk for a little bit. I'm learning more and more to treasure these little moments. They seem like the only ones I get these days.

Morning:
Morning sales are slow, but it's giving me time to pray and prepare my heart and mind. I think I will go in again and talk to the mall manager. I don't know what to expect this time. I do want to tell him how not right it was to allow someone doing the same thing as I am to come in so close to me.

Afternoon:
A few more sales has trickled in and I've had a chance to talk to the mall manager again. He says there can't be a reduction in rent, but did offer me one of two choices. The first one is allow him to rent the space out to someone else. The second is he would allow me to get an addition spot basically doubling my space. He says he does really fee bad, and that he could get double the rent that I paid for this spot but he suggested that I never quit. He told me to think about it and let him know.

After an okay day with sales I head home. I kiss and hug the kids talk to them a little. I send them to bed and Big O and I have a chance to talk. We disagree on how things should go, and I'm not sure if I should continue or quit. After a lively discussion I'm drained and I hit the sack praying all the way to sleep.

Confused...
Boss Momma

Day 28 in the mall

It's Tuesday and I took a sleeping pill last night. I feel well rested and a little better about my present situation. I'm up at 6:30 again and have to ship out more orders from Homeschool Boutique. It's really getting hard keeping up with both. I went in to kiss and check on the kids before I left even though they were still sleep. Lia Pooh now sleeps in our bed every night. She says that's the only way she can spend time with me. :( My heart just melted.

Morning:
I've done a lot better today with sales. Yesterday I had none, so far I've been doing quite well for a Tuesday. I prayed last night until the sleeping pills took over. I feel like God is wanting to teach me total dependence on Him, and how to know that I'm more than a conqueror. You know when you read the Bible some things seem easy to understand and get. But when forced to live it out those principles isn't at all as easy at at it seems, matter of fact it doesn't seem all that doable. The only thing that's keeping me, is that fact that I have a lot of history with God and he has been more than a Savior to me he has been my friend, my strong tower, my shelter from the storms, my source of joy, and a great provider! In the comfortable times of life I forget about how much I NEED God.

Afternoon:
Sales have picked up. I still need to make my rent payment, rhinestone lady payment, and purchase more product. I've been able to do two of those three things. I have more days this week and pray that all will be taken care of by week's end. It's closing time and I'm tired. I am now looking forward to the next few weeks when sales should be picking up consistanly.

At home with the kids and we spend a little time talking, after hugs and kisses I put them to bed and then I head off to dream about my dream.

In God I trust!
Boss Momma



As promised here is a pictures of my updated setup.

Day 27 in the mall

I'm without a car again and have to get up at 6:30. I leave the house without saying a word to the kids, I don't like this at all. I feel like I should at least say good morning and have a good day. Oh well, it is what it is. I'm out the door and at the mall by 7:00.

Morning:
I talked to the mall manager this morning, and he said that he would talk to the other lady about taking some of that stuff down, but she is going to stay. He said they were supposed to be in another spot but because of wiring issues had to go in the food court less than 25 feet away from me. UGHHHH! All morning I've been mad, sad, with an overwhelming feeling of defeat. I wanna cry, this ain't right, it ain't fair. I wanna quit! Let them have the stinking mall, I wanna go home and get some sleep and be a momma again.

My feelings get worst and worst as the day progresses. No sales as of yet and it's making me upset. I have to pay rent and Sallie the rhinestone lady and purchase more product by tomorrow...I just can't do this. I'm stressed and I quit!

Afternoon:
Still no sales today and I'm feeling horrible. There are security, resturant people, and my neighbors all coming to let me know I have competition and what I need to do to beat them. I don't need them reminding me ever time I turn around I know they are here. I keep peeking at them to see how they are doing and every stinking time I see a customer over there I get mad. Huh, God I give up...I'm slapping the floor three times (like wrestlers do to signal surrender)...I've been taken down and I don't think I can get up.

I'm home and I had no sales today. I'm so emotionally worn I go straight to be with only a hi and good night to my kids.

Feeling Defeated!
Boss Momma

Day 26 in the mall

My parents left this morning and I'm sad. I really loved them being here. I feel so bad, I did not prepare for them at all. Hardly any cooking or cleaning, but they graciously stayed in our dirty room without complaint. After I seen my parents off I went back to sleep. I slept until 11:30, I have to be at the mall at 12:00, but it was a much needed rest.

Today is very slow! I've made only 1 sale so far today. Those darn people with the rhinestones, they have people at their kiosk buying...those are supposed to be my customers! ERRRR with a super mad face. ;( I'm so mad, I wanna throw all of their shirts on the floor, and stump on them. I know, I know it ain't right to be thinking like this, but I don't know what else to think or do. I can't wait until tomorrow I will be talking to mall manangement. UGH, I thought I like competition, I change my mind I don't and yes, I wanna cheat! Don't know how, but I do.

As I'm sitting here I'm thinking God I really need your help. My mind is going to places that I know is not healthy. God please please help me think positive.

Today is over and only 1 dag on sale. I have a mad face on and feel like this is another lesson from God. God haven't I learned all the lessons I need to learn. I'm sick of learning, I need a break!!!!!!!!

At home and I have some time to spend with the kids. Brownie wants me to do her hair and I hesitantly agree. It's been what seems like months since I've talked to Brownie. She's been going out more with her "friend" and I still haven't had time to process that. Right now that's just too much for my mind, will have to start processing that after the New Year. We all hang out in the kitchen talking and laughing while I did Brownie's hair. It's a much needed mental break. I forgot in such a small amount of time, how much fun it is hanging out with my kids. They really are the best!

Finally done with Brownie's hair and off to bed we all go.

Love being a momma,
Boss Momma

Day 25 in the mall

It's Saturday and although I did sleep, I don't feel well rested. I still feel sore from the day before. I can't believe I was up from 4:30 am until 10:30 pm yesterday. You know there is a thin line between crazy and entrepreneurism and I'm am walking that line. I'm so glad that both my mom and Shelly was there to help.

Morning:
Morning sales are consistant and it's at a slower pace then yesterday. I want more more more, but I'm so tired I don't think I can handle more more more. My mom has been a great help today. I don't have to tell her much she just kinda jumps in and helps everywhere. I'm trying hard to make sure she is not worn out, but the mere fact that she's here all day is draining.

Afternoon:
Sales are still coming in, Lord knows we need it. Today is my second highest in sales so far, yesterday being the highest.

Everytime I have a dead spot, I think about the lady that just opened her kiosk yesterday. I'm still upset about that. She has this huge flea market looking stuff all around her kiosk...I guess normal people would call it grid wall, but it looks a hot mess. I think I'm going to go and talk to management first thing Monday morning. They told me nothing other than my table. So if nothing else to have her take down the montrosity of stuff.

It's closing time and I'm so ready to go! We've done well this weekend and I'm looking forward to next weekend. I hope the kids are in bed or settled down, because I don't think I could even talk to them tonight. I feel like a stinky horrible momma. I'm tired and my body is shutting down on me. Lord please give me strength...

Mad, Happy and Exhausted...
Boss Momma

Day 24 at the mall

This is too early for any human being to be getting up. My mom is up with me, so it makes it a bit easier. She is a trooper I don't know many people I'd get up this early for.

We get to the mall around 5:00 and guess what I see when I walk in...A darn kiosk selling rhinestones tshirts. That place must of set up last night. I am furious, I'm mad and in complete shock. Oh my...I take a deep breath and head to my kiosk with a quiet sinking feeling. We started off great. There's not as many people as I thought it would be. I'm thinking people would be waiting in line to rip the doors down...Not!

It's halfway through the day and I feel like I've been hit by a truck. I'm exhausted and haven't had anything to eat, I'm trying pushing myself to make it through the rest of the day. Whew!

It's almost the end of the day. I keep thinking about the other rhinestone t-shirt place. My first emotions were shock, now I'm in the "I'M GOING TO KICK THEIR BUTTS" mood! I'm going to get everything thing they've got but better. I'm forcing myself to think like Bill Gates would think. He would just buy them out, but I can't. :( I'm going to just have to beat them at their own game...I think.

The day is finally over and I've done great as far as sells go. I'm so tired I can't even feel excited. It's 10:00 and I have to get up and do this all over again. How in the world am I going to make it for the rest of the year. Ugh....

Kids are happy to see me, but all I can say is hi and goodnight. No spending time together tonight. Off to bed I go...without sleeping pills.

Black Friday high...
Boss Momma

Day 23 at the mall

It's Thanksgiving and I'm Thankful! I finally have a day off and I plan to enjoy it!

It's 11:30 and I've just got home from the store. Big O bought a smoked turkey so all I had to get were the sides. It was strange being in the grocery store, I hadn't been shopping in over a month now. Yes, the kids have been eating. I'm dreading this cooking thing, but oh well. Off I go.

This is surely not the traditional Thanksgiving we usually have. My mom did decide to pitch in and help with dinner. With her and the girls help and after some talking and dancing breaks dinner is done. We were all so relaxed that we didn't even wanna eat. After a little come on and eat yells we gathered to eat.

Brownie's "Friend" came over to meet the family. Poppie (my dad) promised to behave himself. After formal greetings we a few more guest show up we decided to play some games. Apples to Apples was a fun game that allowed up all to play. After an hour or so of play Big O won. After that Lia Pooh wanted to continue the tradition of hide and go seek in the dark. So we cut off all the lights and I was picked as the first seeker. With 9 people playing hide go seek it should be easy to catch at least one of these rascals. I counted to 40 with some play on the numbers and off to find my victims, I mean my hiders. What do you know Brownie's "Friend" (whom I think was too scared to run around our house) was caught by me and was the next seeker. I played a few more games and then I had to get to bed my big day was quickly approaching.

Thankful...
Boss Momma

Day 22 in the mall

I'm so glad it's Wednesday. My parents are coming and I get a break tomorrow. The first break I've gotten in almost a month. This 72 hour work week is catching up with me and I'm constantly exhausted.

Morning:
The sales this morning was better than expected for a Wednesday. There are a lot of people here...now that I think about it, school is out and there are a lot of people off work. My parents called they are here and on their way to the mall with the kids. Yippe! I'm so excited, can't wait to see them.

Evening:
Sales have slacked off this evening, but I don't care cause my parents are here and I get to spend some time chatting with them. They seem to be so proud of me, and I'm just as proud that they are proud...does that make sense?

Closing time and that means I have to get started cooking. Did I mention that I strongly dislike cooking. I think it's a waste of good time. My mom is not a cooker either, and she already let me know that I'm on my own with cooking. Ugh...I really am not looking forward to this.

I'm home and the I've decided I'm not going to the grocery store tonight. I will wait until the morning. The kids are disappointed, the little girls wanna help cook, and Brownie just wants to eat. Bud, well all he wants to do is play. They don't seem understand that I'm tired, exhausted, and excited all at the same time and I just don't want to leave the house at all.

Our normal nightly routine is different tonight. We all talk about what's been going on and my parents catch up on some quality time with the kids. Ahhh, life is good! Looking forward to having one day of being just momma and dropping that boss title.

It's Momma Time!
Boss Momma

Day 21 in the mall

I'm up again shipping out packages for Homeschool Boutique. I was excited when I checked my email because I got enough orders over night to get the rest of my product. I'm not gonna say I can't believe it because I can believe it. It's just amazing to see God work right before your eyes. I'm just speechless and truly thankful. Thank you God!!!!!!! Okay, off to order product!

I've placed my orders and although pretty much last minute I should get them in by tomorrow. Sallie, the rhinestone lady called my rhinestones that I was expecting today won't be here until Monday. Errrr with a mad face.... I NEED THOSE STONES!

Things are a bit hectic but I'm more excited than ever now. I just know God is going to work this out for His good, and my gain. I've learned more in the last 25 days than I've learned in the last three years. I'm happy about the growth, but it's really been uncomfortable, but that is totally my gain...anything else is just icing on the cake.

The kids got a lot of work done yesterday, but it's still a ton of stuff to do. I leave them with another list and out the door I go.

Our morning sales have been slow, but it has helped me get a lot of needed stuff done and ready for this weekend. I'm sooo sooo excited and it seems to be bubbling inside of me. I've had a lot of great feedback and the anticipation of this weekend is eating inside of me. I can barely sleep, eat or think about anything else.

I get my bags and every thing displayed just how I want it (really cute will post pictures later) and it seems to be working because I've gotten more sales of bags than I've ever had.

Today has turned out to be a really great day. Sales are really picking up.

The kids are waiting in my room and as soon as I walk in Lia Pooh says how many customers did we have today? How much money did you make? When are we gonna get paid? Do you have a lot of cash or a lot of credit cards? I answer all her questions and we spend the rest of the evening talking about BLACK FRIDAY. I just can't wait.

Black Friday here we come...
Boss Momma

Day 20 in the mall

I'm tired and I didn't wanna get up this morning. I got home around 3:00 am this morning and then couldn't sleep. I was able to get some Bible reading time in, but fell asleep around 3:45. I'm up at 8:00 cause I gotta get orders shipped out. Since I haven't been working on Homeschool Boutique everyday, I forget about it until I get orders. I'm gonna have to find a way to work both of these businesses.

Morning:
This morning has flown by. I've had quite a few sales and it's causing me to look forward to this weekend. I'm excited about the growth I see week over week. Kelly was right and all I have to do is just stand in there.

Afternoon:
Now, I've been calculating what I need for this weekend and I really need about $500.00 more dollars to get all the product I need. I don't have it, but Lord I need it and I'm trusting you. Oh, and Lord I need it no later than tomorrow morning...

The kids are at home and I have to do Mz. Chocolate's hair. So, I start on my hour or so long venture, knowing if I braid it now I won't have to do it later. The kids and I get some talk time, school time, and chill time in while I'm braiding. I'm soo tired from last night I can't stand it. After braiding her hair, the girls hop in the tub and I fall asleep.

I wake up to noise and notice that it's an hour and a half later and the girls are still in the tub...Oh goodness. I get the girls out the tub and in the bed. Okay, now I can go back to sleep.

Waiting on Him...
Boss Momma

Day 19 in the mall

This morning I have to pick up the older kids from a youth retreat. They've been asking for the last month if they could go and it wasn't until Friday, the day of the retreat that we agreed to let them go. It's been so much going on that I just had no idea how they would get there and we did not have the extra money.

Well, our relentless youth pastors arranged for pick up of the kids, and the money part was well, taken care of. My kids were really excited and was packed and ready within 1/2 hour.

Morning:
The morning went really slow, but it's Sunday and I expect that. I finally received my bag order and I'm excited.

Afternoon:
We ended up doing pretty well today. I have to work tonight and I'm not happy with that. I could kick myself in the butt for scheduling myself to work. I'm pooped and I wanna go to sleep.

I'm finally home and the kids are wanting to eat. Big O and I go grab some food for us to eat and we start back the trend of us all chatting in our room on our bed. I forget I have work in a few hours so I rush Big O and the kids out so I can get an hour or so of sleep. Don't know what the heck I was thinking...

Getting my hustle on.
Boss Momma

Day 18 in the mall

Today, is gonna be a great day! I can just feel it.

Morning:
Shelly is here and I've already trained her. We've been kicking butt today. I like having two people here, while I do shirts she can greet customers and take orders. It feels like I just doubled myself if that makes any sense.

Afternoon:
Today has been the best day so far. I'm looking forward to the season progressing. I've had a great day, but I'm a bit worn out. I'm excited about what the future will hold.

Anxiously Awaiting...
Boss Momma

Day 17 in the mall

It's Friday! Up again at the crack of dawn. I've decided not to complain anymore about the time I have to get up. Big O says that's a waste of a complaint. He tells me to save that complaint on something worth complaining about. As much as I wanna complain about not complaining, I agree with him.

Morning:
I get a call from Kelly around 8:00 this morning, and she just had me tickled. She is telling me about a bozo that is at a local show with her selling the same thing she's selling for about $4.50 cheaper. She is in an up roar. I can so sympathize with her because of the issue I had with the guy taking pictures. (I will tell you what happened with that later) I told you we were crazy, so we are thinking about diabolical ways to stop this bozo. All of which are either illegal, or not representing Christ...She decides to do what she does best and write, write letters to all involved and to some whoes not.

I've had a few sales today and as usual time is passing slowly by.

Afternoon:
It's been a steady day as far as sales are concerned. I'm looking around and as people are passing my kiosk and guess who I see coming toward me...KELLY and her hubby who I will call Big Mack. I was so happy to see them. I haven't seen her in some weeks now, and I was just thrilled to see her. They came toting kids, a box full of stuff that I requested for her to bring on her next trip here and car keys. Yes, Boss Momma said car keys. She drove an hour away to bring me their second car. I squeeze her close and hold it for a second. I reach and give Big Mack a hug too. Kiss and greet the kids, I'm in friend heaven.

Just in time I'm thinking, I have an order I have to do. I've been calling Big O asking when will you be here I have a shipment I have to have. He doesn't know when he can be here...Ugh. After Kelly and Big Mack leaves, I get the keys and rush out of the mall to go get this package. On my way back I have two missed calls from Kelly and a text. Her text says, she's at my booth taking orders. I'm cracking up because I thought she came back saw that I wasn't there and was messing with me. I called her back and was surprised to find out she really was taking orders. I rush back to fulfill the orders and say my goodbyes again.

About the guy who was wanting to open a kiosk next to me selling rhinestones. Well, I talk to the mall manager and he says it's not going to happen. He is not going to allow that guy to set up that close to me. He did give him other options of places he could be in the mall. The mall manager said as of yet het hasn't received a signed contract for him or his business. Whooo Hooo!

I'm excited, I have a car I can drive! I feel like a bird, who has been granted permission to fly.

More sales, and the day is finally over. I closed today with less orders than I did last Friday, but I'm okay with that. I understand people are just not into Christmas right now. I know I'm not.

The mall is close and I don't have to find a way home. I was so excited I stopped at the grocery store. I haven't been to the store in over a month. Big O has been picking up stuff here and there as we need it.

I'm tired so I talk a little to the kids and Big O and hit the sack.

On the Road again,
Boss Momma

Day 16 at the mall

Getting up at 6:15 everyday is really hard getting use to, but it does provide me with a way to work. Before I leave I kiss my sleeping kids head. I tell Bud I'm leaving and to have a good day.

Morning:
My morning sales are slow, but I do have some. I've had a lot of time to do some deep thinking. I'm not sad at all, but why do I keep crying. I've come to the conclusion that my crying represents loss of control over things. Sorta like a toddler throwing a tantrum because he/she can't have it's way. I think it's been so much going on that I need to remember to slow down enjoy each of these stages of business I go through.

I really am happy about all this! By my emotions you wouldn't be able to tell, but I am living my dream.

Afternoon:
A few more sales completed and it's about closing time. I receive a call from another dear friend, she calls often to check on things, I appreciate it. She is one of those friends that can see more in you than you see in yourself. She's in the process of starting her own business and I encourage her. I pray for her that she won't give up, because it gets hard and lonely sometimes. But to me the since of accomplishment is soooo worth it.

Finally home and the kids are all hyped up. They are all over the place. Our usual routine has now been dampered by kids who have been eating junk food and harsh playing. I have no idea how to get them settled down. Hum, Bath tub... I get them into the bath get a little talking time in and off to bed we go.

Dream in Motion,
Boss Momma

Day 15 at the mall

Today starts off much better than yesterday. Big O decides no more of that not having a ride to work in the morning. He's gonna take me to work. The only thing is, he leaves at 7:00 in the morning the mall doesn't open until 10:00. Grudgingly I get ready and go. At the mall at 7:15, I'm one of the only people here, but I'm here!

I had my first three sells within the first 1 1/2 of opening. I'm grateful! I have tons of stuff to do to get ready for holiday weekend, so I plan on cutting out all my letters, working on some way to get all my shirts to fit in this small space.

After a few hours of cutting and putting away product, I start rolling up tshirts and stacking them under the table. I laid some plastic down and order them by size. Wow, I'm able to put more than 50 of each size under there.

Afternoon:
I had a gentleman come over and ask some questions about how business was going. After a little converstion I went to sit down and he began snapping pictures. I tell him I'm uncomfortable with that. He tells me he's going to send them to his wife. He finally tells me he's wanting to open up a kiosk near mine selling you guessed it rhinestone t-shirts. ERRRRR! Not with a smiling face.... He only wants to be in here on the weekend, he says he doesn't have time to fool with the Monday- Thursday crowd. I prayed and this is how it went. Lord, I wish he and his family all the best! I pray you bless his business and all that his hand touches...but if they get a spot next to me I pray that people skip their kiosk and come to mine, I pray that I have favor with you and your people, I pray that they don't make a dime while next to me, and I ask all these things in YOUR NAME JESUS! AMEN.

I've sold 4 more shirts and the day is just about over. I began cleaning up my area, and this tired chick is headed for home.

The kids are on a bowling league and I have a precious friend who has volunteered to pick them up every Wenesday and drop them off. That was a huge blessing for me! The kids are in my room again tonight and the first thing they tell me about is their bowling. Mz. Chocolate bowled a 101. Wow, she has finally made it over the 100 mark...and that's without bumpers. Lia Pooh, that's another story... she just likes to have fun. Bud, is pretty good. He's been averaging about 180.

No school work tonight I'm too tired. Off to bed we go. I'm looking forward to tomorrow.

Satan I can not be shaken!
Boss Momma

Day 14 in the mall

I'm up again at the crack of dawn, did I ever mention that I'm not a morning person, at all.

Morning:
My first thing to do this morning is to ship out packages from my Homeschool Boutique and Ebay websites. Homeschool Boutique is a trendy online apparel store I own and Ebay is a lot of different stuff I sell.

All done with that now I'm off again to put in my 11 hours of work. Only problem is my ride hasn't shown up yet. Yikes, I'm calling every other person I can think of, no one is answering. I'm thinking they see it's my number and know I need a ride and just don't wanna take me. (I'm sure this is just me) Tears just start welding up in my eyes. I'm supposed to be at the mall at 10:00 it's now 10:03. I get all my things together and start walking to the mall. It so cold I can't do it. Now tears are coming by the boat load. I hate being so emotional. I usually never am...I don't know what my problem is. After making a few more calls I find one person who hesitantly comes and drop me off.

I arrived at 10:28 and prayed the mall hadn't issued a fine. Whew, no fine... Cleaned my face and got ready to start my day at the mall.

Afternoon:
No shirt sells today, but it's Tuesday and that's expected. Shelly came by today (the lady I hired to work with me) we talked and talked and talked. You know how sometimes you just know people are supposed to be in your life at certain times? This is one of those times you just know. Call it a gut feeling, I'm not sure...she is meant to be here! She is a faith builder which I need and I'm a dreamer something that she needs.

Home and the kids are in my room waiting. We do our nightly dicussions, do what little bit of school work we can and off to bed we all go.

In God I trust,
Boss Momma

Day 13 at the mall

I'm up again at the crack of dawn while the kids are still sleep I get some cleaning done, make breakfast and out the house I go. I don't know why it seems easier to leave while their sleep, but it does. I'm sure for them on the other hand they wake up and no momma is there. UGH...

I hitched a ride to the mall from a friend. As bad as this is, I know we will get through it. I just have this reoccuring thought...Why do I have a kiosk in the mall and ain't got no money???? Who does this, either I have strong faith, or I'm just crazy. Hopefully I will be able to answer that question in about 7 weeks.

I was thinking about this whole ordeal, and you know I just came up with this bright idea at the end of September and at that time had no clue what I was going to sell. I knew it would be in the t-shirt field because that's what I do, in a short amount of time I was able to come up with the entire concept. I called the mall to get pricing it was too expensive, so I ask about smaller spaces and the lady was able to give me a smaller space for less then half of the first quoted price. I then filled out my application, got an insurance policy and I submitted it. Upon approval I signed a lease....all without a dime.

I am a risk-taker and I don't mind loosing, but it's not gonna be because I didn't try my hardest or do my best. You remember the parable of the Talents in the Bible? Well, it's my favorite and I want to share it with you:

The parable tells of a master who was leaving his home to travel, and before going gave his three servants different amounts of money. On returning from his travels, the master asked his servants for an account of the money given to them. The first servant reported that he was given five talents, and he had made five talents more. The master praised the servant as being good and faithful, gave him more responsibility because of his faithfulness, and invited the servant to be joyful together with him.

The second servant said that he had received two talents, and he had made two talents more. The master praised this servant in the same way as being good and faithful, giving him more responsibility and inviting the servant to be joyful together with him.

The last servant who had received one talent reported that knowing his master was a hard man, he buried his talent in the ground for safekeeping, and therefore returned the original amount to his master. The master called him a wicked and lazy servant, saying that he should have placed the money in the bank to generate interest. The master commanded that the one talent be taken away from that servant, and given to the servant with ten talents, because everyone that has much will be given more, and whoever that has a little, even the little that he has will be taken away.

I pray that each of you reading this will be encouraged to use your gifts and talents. Began where you are!

With all of that said I've only sold 2 shirts today. It's okay, because I'm learning that this is a faith walk for me. I've never been on a faith walk before, but God wanted me to see this side of his grace. I'm learning that you don't always have to see where your foot will land before you pick it up, you just have to trust that when you put it down He's got a place for it to land.

Walking by Faith,
Boss Momma

Day 12 in the mall

Morning:
It's been slow this morning. No where like it was yesterday. Today, I'm kinda enjoying watching people as they walk by. I'm starting to get use to this mall life. I'm not sure if that's good or not.

Afternoon:
I have a few orders that I've done, and I'm happy. Randi J and the girls are here. I'm happy to see them. I send the girls to get me a 3 berry smoothie with whipped cream from Dairy Queen and Randi and I talk about what's been going on. I fill her in on all the details and she smiles and says gurl it's gonna come. I love Randi J for some reason I feel so comfortable with her. She is a real tell it like it is in a sweet way type of chick. She is a walking testiment of God's favor, grace, and love. Everytime I see her I just know that God can, whatever it is, He can. Randi J thanks girl your visits and calls keep going.

I'm so thankful that this is a short day. I'm tired really tired. I'm working 72 a week and I'm starting to feel it.

Evening:
Awe, finally home give the kids and Big O kisses and hugs and yes this bootleg momma hits the sack a 7:00 pm.

Tired,
Boss Momma

Day 11 at the mall

Morning:
There are a lot of people here. In the back of my mind I hope some are here to purchase from me. I hear that today should be better than last week, and each weekend to come will be better than before. I'm so looking forward to it.

So far I've sold 6 shirts, looks like today is a lot better than last Saturday. Kelly, I have to say you're right. After shooting her a quick text message, I have a visitor. Let me give you a little background on this vistor before I tell you who she is. I have a friend who sent me a text message last Sunday or Monday. It was a very encouraging text and at the end she said if I was looking to hire someone her sister had been laid off and is need of a job, she has a degree in marketing. Hummmm, you all know I'm broke right. Scared and broke, I agree to to meet with the sister who I will call Shelly.

Shelly and I get to talking and boy do we hit it off. I tell her that I'm in business for myself because I think spending time with family is important. ( Don't say a work I know I'm gone all day, it's only for a short period of time) So I tell her that family is first, friendship is second, and business comes next. It is important to me, a lesson well taught by Kelly, to keep good relationships. I love Shelly's sister and after meeting Shelly, I can tell I was going to love her just as much. I don't want business to come between us. Family is also important and comes before any of this. Business is my passion and I also wanted her to know that too. After talking for an hour we agreed that she would start Monday the 23rd of November. I'm officially Boss Momma!

Afternoon:
I had 7 more sales by the end of the night and I'm tired. I've been on my feet most of the day and my feet are screaming. I'm going home and hit the sack.

Boss Momma for real!

Day 10 at the mall

I woke up early this morning. I wanted to get some schooling, breakfast, and a little cleaning in before I took off to the mall. I'm still carless and begging/ borrowing cars from people we know. This morning I don't even wanna call another person. I know many of you may say just rent a car...well renting a car only works if you have the money to do so. All the money I'm making right now has to go back into the business to purchase more product.

Morning:
This morning I had about 4 orders and that's great. A 400% turn around from last Friday. When it comes to business you have to have patience, something I'm lacking. This is teaching me patience, faith, and how to smile while learning it all. So many times I wanted to cry and give up, but had to put that all behind me and smile once a customer walked up. Boy does God know how to teach us stuff.

Afternoon:
A few more sales this afternoon, I'm so thankful for each and everyone of them. I find myself thanking people more than I should probably. Talk to Kelly again, and she told me this weekend should be better than last weekend. So far she is right.

Home finally. I love coming home. I wonder if the kids will ever stop running to see me when I come in? I hope not because that is a great feeling. I give them all a smile and somehow they seem to just know that today was a better day. Off to do our now nightly routine.

Big O was gone when I came in so when he got home he just smiled and ask how my day was, I replied fine and yours. He looked at me and said Babe I'm sooo proud of you and whether you loose money, break even, or make money I will still be just as proud. I'm not sure if he knew that those words were like medicine to my worried mind. It made me wanna work harder, longer, and do what it takes to make this work. His words give me strength, and when I seem to loose all mine, he graciously gives me his.

Strength to continue,
Boss Momma

Day 9 at the mall

This morning seemed to rush by. The kids were just getting up as I left so I just said my goodbyes and left. Rushing out like that makes me fell like a horrible mom- can't even cook breakfast for the kiddos. I talk to my mom this morning and it was refreshing. I'm a grown up and I still look and want my parents approval. I want to please them and make them happy. Her words of encouragement warms my soul.

I've been blessed by the amount of calls, voice mails, emails, texts, and FB comments I've received. I hear and read them all, hanging on to every word. I thought this was a journey that I would take on my own, I didn't realize you all would take it with me. I feel honored to have your prayers, blessings, love and support with me. I stand here in the mall representing not just my dream but hopefully yours too. I hope from my story you can gain courage to start fulfilling your dreams.

Afternoon:
Did you notice something different today? I haven't posted my times...you know why? Because I've been busy. Yeah baby. This has been my most profitable day. Yes, I'm all smiles and really excited.

Okay, what is it with guys in the mall? There is a guy right now as I'm typing telling me he likes thick women. I'm not thick I told him I just have big bones. :) There is a huge difference you know. Anywho, almost an hour left to go.

Blessed By You,
Boss Momma

Day 8 in the mall

Morning:
I'm here! Running a little late today. There was no school today so Brownie and Big O were at home when I left. I miss my time with her. She is growing up and finds hanging with her friends more exciting than hanging with her family.

Since there is no school today there is a lot more mall action today. A guy just stopped by to ask if I would put, The World's Greatest Lover on the front of his shirt and Sexy Chocolate on the back. I looked into his eyes to see if he's serious or joking, his eyes give me back an unrecognizable look. I don't wanna go there, and as much as I wanna say HE** No, I tell him yeah I'd put it on there, here's the price. He's says he's off to get a shirt he'll be back. UGH.

Well, it's 1:40 PM and sexy chocolate hasn't shown back up. There are lots of people here, but no sells as of yet. I get a lot of lookers that say, that's a really cute idea or that would make a great gift. Errr... but with a smile. :)

3:22 pm and still no sells today. I had to eat lunch so I'm in the red. I found this quote that seems to fit me. "Ambition is an uncomfortable companion many times. He creates a discontent with present surroundings and achievements; he is never satisfied but always pressing forward to better things in the future. Restless, energetic, purposeful, it is ambition that makes of the creature a real man."- Lyndon B. Johnson That my dear friends is exactly how I feel.

4:50 pm Okay, the day is looking up for me. I have an 18 shirt order. Whoo Hoo! Gotta get started. No longer in the red for today, YEAH!!!! Can you feel my excitement.

8:45 I'm ready to close. A total of 19 orders today. Not bad. Lord, you say trust you and I thought I did, but for some reason this time seems harder than normal.---Sexual Chocolate showed back up this time with friends. He didn't get his shirt so I'm assuming no sale. That's one sale that I'm willing to let pass me by. You ever heard that quote, all money ain't good money. Well, in this case all sells ain't good sells.

I'm home and the girls are running, knocking each other down to see their gone all day wanna be Boss Momma. Happy to see them too we give hugs and kisses. This this time no head jerking Bud to greet me. Bud is at church, I forgot it was Wednesday. Brownie is sleep. She's gonna sleep her life away. Big O finally joins the coming home celebration. With a tender kiss and how was your day we made our way to the room. All of us on the bed we tell each other about our day and then walks in head jerking Bud. What's up momma, hey dad. Hey Bud I reply how was church. Good.

I'm able to do a little bit of schooling with them and then off the bed they go. Awe, another day in the life of Boss Momma.

Learning to Trust,
Boss Momma

Day 7 in the mall

Morning:
I'm working on the fact that business is slow and will be slow until December. Kelly is sure to remind me of this every conversation we have. Her words consistantly ringing in my ears throughout the day gives me comfort to hold on. But for some reason I can't help but to think God is also trying to teach me something in this. I wanna be able to do this with no help. I want to depend on me and Big O, and the fact the others are helping me just...well, I'm not comfortable with it. Don't get me wrong it's not that I don't like help, I don't like NEEDING help. That's a huge difference.

I was telling Big O last night that not having a car makes me feel like a kid that has to ask permission where ever I go. I hate it! I think he really feels badly about it all. In my quest to to fulfill a dream, I've sacrificed our car. We kinda knew something was going on with the car before it happened, and because we were trying to get into the mall decided to use the money for the mall instead of the car. I'm feeling really guilty because instead of getting into this mall, I should've just taken care of the car. I did all the convincing that we would make enough money being in the mall to purchase another car if need be. Hummm, now I'm thinking how selfish of me. The entire family has to sacrifice for a dream that I want.

When does wanting to fulfill a passion in you become selfish? At what point do you stop it? Leaving the house this morning Lia Pooh locked all the doors, and hid my purse she said she didn't want me to leave today. She thought if she locked the doors I could call the mall and tell them that I couldn't leave my house because I was locked in. Her pleading with me this morning tore at every heart string I had. I looked her in the eye and said Lia Pooh this is only for a short time, I'm working to help the family...her reply was we don't need your help. Lol, bless her heart all she wants is her mommy, this boss stuff is running her crazy.

Afternoon:
No sales as of yet. The time is going in super slow speed and all I can do is look at all the faces around me. I wonder what are they thinking? What makes some people stop and what makes others just keep walking. December hurry up please!

Evening:
Still no sales. I talked to Kelly again this evening. She had great words of wisdom. I listened closely hanging on to every word. She's read my blog and wonders why I wasn't this upfront with her. To be honest I'm not an open person. I find it more comforting to type on a screen then to talk to a person. For some reason I also feel so judged by people and the less you give them the less they have to judge you by. Another sign of selfishness huh.

11 hours have come and gone. I don't know anybody that would work 11 hours and not get paid. Well, except me. I must be outta my mind. Today is a week since I've opened and I've worked a total of 72 hours making less then $2.00 an hour. Ugh!

My ride is here waiting on me this time. Nice! I'm home within 10 minutes of closing down my kiosk. I yell upstairs letting the kids know that I'm home. Boom, bang, boom here they come running and jumping down stairs, all in an effort to see their momma. Awe, the joys of motherhood. They help me forget about the long day at the mall and the stress of not bring home any money. They hug and kiss me squeezing really hard, Bud comes downs and jerks his head up and says what's up momma. I give him a head jerk back and say what's up BUD? We smile and start telling stories about our day. We do a little school work and off to bed they go. Brownie, went on a college fair trip with her DECA class she won't be home til after 11:00. I try to wait up but can't.

Confused Dreamer
Boss Momma

Day 6 in the mall

Morning:
Today, is my Brownie's birthday. I got off at 4:30 this morning. I tried to stay up to tell her happy birthday before she left, but that didn't happen.

Got up around 9:00 fixed breakfast for the kids threw a load in the washer and hopped myself in the shower.

Laptop bag check, purse check, cell phone check, oh, I forgot my sweater wrap. Got it. On my my way to the mall to put in my 11 hours. As promised my husband had someone pick me up. Riding to work I wanted to cry. I wanted to be the first to tell Brownie happy birthday. I love making their day special. My heart is sinking with guilt, I promise, I will make this up to her!

Afternoon:
Only one item sold today, but I'm cool with that. I really don't know how to answer people when they say how are things going. Hummm, should I say not well, well but could be better, or it's going? Should I speak christiany? Speaking those things that aren't as though they were. I give up don't know what to say.

This was my prayer to God this morning. Remember when I was going through that really tough part of my life, and you told me If I trusted you that I would not be disappointed. Well, I'm a need something like that right now. I'm gonna to put ALL my faith in you and I'm gonna trust that you will work this out for our family. I thought this was going to be a business walk, not a spiritual walk. Boy, was I wrong.

The day flew by. I only had 3 1/2 hours sleep last night and had to be up all day so it took all that I had to stay up today.

I started purchasing Christmas gifts earlier this year, so Mz. Chocolate called and ask if she could give Brownie one of the gifts I'd purchased earlier. Great idea Mz. Chocolate sure you can I told her. See, I'm telling you she is thoughtful! The little girls wrapped the gift and gave it to Brownie as her birthday gift. She was thrilled.

I get home and Brownie is gone. She has went to dinner with her "Friend" ugh. I stay up until she gets home. She's here and with a big hug I finally wish her happy 16th birthday. This is horrible 10:00 pm and I'm just now wishing her a happy birthday. She was excited her "Friend" had gotten her a cute jacket, and a necklace. I have to process that one...Anyway, she said nothing about not getting anything or not being able to celebrate her birthday. She just smiled and said she had a really good day. She looked so pretty, she had her make-up on and her hair down. It's a beauty that makes your heart smile.

Her smiling, made me feel good. Her lack of attention she gave to the obvious was overwhelming. She smiled as she told us about her well, I guess I could say it...date. That word was really hard to get out. My little Brownie is growing up.

Another night spend talking laughing and socializing on my bed. That seems to be the nightly trend now. I like it and I wouldn't wanna change a thing.

Wishing you a sweet 16 Brownie,
Boss Momma

Day 5 in the mall

Morning:
I'm feeling much better today. Didn't have to be at the mall until 12:00 pm thank God. Don't think I could have come in any earlier. Big O and I had a long talk, I had to apologize about the foolishness yesterday. Not having a car is overwhelming but he assured me that we'd get through this and that he would handle this transportation thing. Okay, I said with an unassured voice, but feeling better that he even said it.

God, what is it? What are you trying to teach me in this? What do you want me to learn?

I did Mz. Chocolates hair and made sure she was appropriately dressed for church. She now dresses herself for church so I do a once over and send them on. Bud, Tammy, and Bud's friend walked to church again this Sunday. Lia Pooh cried because she wanted to go too, I didn't think she could walk that far so I told her she could hang with mommy today. You should have seen the look on her face...she ran around the house trying to find something sparkling to put on. I wear my rhinestone t-shirts to the mall everyday so she wanted to wear one too. She didn't have any so we decided to make her one once we got to the mall.

Afternoon;
I'm so glad the mall is only open for 6 hours today, because my fool self has to work tonight. Oh, let me let you in on another secret...I have another job. I schedule myself when I wanna work so it's not that bad. The only thing is I scheduled myself to work Sunday night. What the heck was I thinking?

I've only had one sell today and it's okay. Kelly's words keep ringing in my ear, it's gonna be slow in November. Lia Pooh helped me spend the money from the one sell I made today. She needed to eat, play and get a snack while she was here. She wanted me to look at clothes, and see these dolls at the Disney Store that I had no money for. I ask the neighbor lady to keep an eye on my space so that I could get a little mommy time in. It was fun, I don't think I've ever walked in a mall with my Lia Pooh holding hands, laughing, and skipping like we were the only two people in the mall. It made me feel like mommy again, squeezing out all the worries over the last few days. It's amazing what being with your kids can do for you if you just let them.

Evening:
Finally at home, Mz. Chocolate wanting to know the details of the day. I fill her, Bud, and Big O in on the details, and they repay me with the same. Off to sleep for me, I have to go to work in three hours. Brownie, where is Brownie? I need to talk to her. A deep since of sadness falls on me. I realize tomorrow is her 16th birthday and we have nothing for her. Awe man, I won't even see her tomorrow I will be at the mall until 9ish when I get home they are usually on their way to bed.

I talk to Brownie assuring her that we will celebrate her birthday just not tomorrow. She smiles and says well, would you mind if my "Friend" takes me to dinner. You know what, I need to process this...This is what I tell my kids when I need to buy some time. Yikes, I don't want her to go, but is that selfish? I don't know how to tell if what I'm feeling is right or wrong. I don't have anything planned and i don't want her having a good time with him and we haven't done anything. Big O says let her go...so with that I'm off to sleep.

3rd shift working Momma,
Boss Momma?

Day 4 in the mall

A new day is before me, I will have high hopes of what this Saturday will bring. It's early and there are lots of people in the mall. Should be a great day.

• Okay, it's now noon and no sales. I'm freaking out.
• One o'clock and now I'm under complete attack...I've finally sold 1 thing and that's not good. I have got to get Kelly on the phone to help calm my nerves. Sending Kelly a text saying getting discouraged only sold one item today. She text back it will come. IT WILL COME!!! That's not what I want to hear. Kelly, I need some words of comfort here...please give me something more than that! I sent her a message back saying should have sold ornaments. To that she replies, day is not over. DAY IS NOT OVER. It's two o'clock and hundreds of people in the mall and I've only sold one item, the day is almost over!
• It's now three o'clock and my ride text me to let me know she can't come get me she has a headache. You know what I want to say don't you....I'm so done! Hummm, and I wanna be BOSS MOMMA. I'm changing my title to broke down wanna be boss momma.
• Okay it's now five o'clock and a few more sales have trickled in...not many. I made more during the week then I made on this packed Saturday. OMG, what have I done. I wanna quit, I wanna pack my stuff and leave the mall now! If it wasn't for all these people in here I would be bawling underneath this table. I'm in complete panic mode and don't know how to get myself together. My cell is ringing like crazy and I don't wanna talk to anybody, not even Big O, I'm mad, sad, and disappointed. Kelly did say it would be slow, but this is beyond slow.

My mall neighbor come over and we talked. I found out that they are christians, they were very encouraging. The lady ask if she could bless my business and I said yes of course. Is this God trying to build faith in me? Ugh, God why help me build faith now? You are God just give me faith and lets me move on.

As the night progressed I started thinking how can I push this helpless feeling inside of me out. I decided to list product on my website and eBay. I began to feel a little better when I started listing stuff. I felt like I was doing something instead of just sitting here.

I finally started thinking a bit more reasonable. I've been open 4 days and I'm upset and ready to close because sales aren't where I think they should be. It takes some businesses years to make money. This shows me I have a lot to learn. I'm all over the place emotionally and need to really get a grip.

It's closing time and Big O picked me up and yes I lit into him. I was still a little upset, well a lot upset because of today and I he knew it. He didn't say too much, just babe it's gonna be okay, I know your feeling down because you haven't done what you thought you should but it's okay.

I couldn't even bare talking to the kiddos so I gave kisses and hugs and said goodnight. I was up all night tossing and turning.

Sleepless in Cordova,

Boss Momma

Day 3 at the mall

Morning:
This morning started at 7:00 am. I woke up and finally cleaned the mess I made in the living room. I set up my mall display in there, so it was a mess. While cleaning I was able to cook dinner and get some laundry done. It feels like a full work day and I haven't even started yet.

It's really slow this morning. I'm thinking this is Friday and there should be a lot more people at the mall. This waiting game is really kicking my butt.

Afternoon:
Still no sales today. I'm getting worried. Time is just ticking by. Tick, tock, tick, tock...

Evening:
I'm scared. No sales and it's almost closing time. Okay, Kelly said it would be like this. I'm trying not to panic here. 11 hours in a mall with no sales, this is making me worry, worry a lot.

Finally home and it hurt to have to come and tell the kids and Big O that we had no sales today. They looked at me and said well, there's always tomorrow. Oh, how I love my family. Lia Pooh rubbed my back and said it's okay mommy I will pray that God will give you customers tomorrow. I smiled and said thank you. Mz. Chocolate just smiled and said do you want me to scratch your head? I love for people to play in my hair, for some reason it relaxes me. So I told them about my day as Mz. Chocolate played with my hair. Brownie says this is the reason she doesn't want to have her own business. She says she needs a pay check regularly. We laughed told a few jokes and off to bed we all went.

Big O looked at me and said it's okay, it's gonna work just give it some time. Those words comforted me through the night.

Worried in Cordova,
Boss Momma

Day 2 at the mall

Morning,
I'm still figuring how I'm gonna get back and forth to the mall. This car issue is really getting old. This morning has been really slow it's going on 11:00 and no sales. Kelly did warn me that in the first few weeks it would be really slow. She told me to purchase only the minimum to get me to Thanksgiving. I'm glad I listened.

Afternoon:
Sales are starting to creep in slowly this afternoon. Santa is due in later today and hopefully more people will show up for that. I know, I know santa this early in the season seems crazy doesn't it. I'm not complaining especially if he's bringing the buying Christmas spirit with him.

Evening:
Another 11 hour day has finally come to a close. I'm tired from all the standing and can't wait to crawl my body into my comfortable bed. But you know before I do that I gotta spend some time with the kids.

Got home and the kids were sitting in my room awaiting my entrance. With shouts of joy the little ones ran and grabbed me for hugs and kisses. Bud, greets me with a what's up mom...and how much did we make today. Didn't know I was gonna have to answer to the family on a daily basis about our progress. How funny is it that your kids are wanting to know what our gross sales were today. I filled them in on all that happened and off to bed we all went.

Big O holds me close and whispers in my ear, I'm so proud of you! Keep up the great work. I don't think he knows how much energy I took from those words.

Feeling hopeful,
Boss Momma

Opening Day at the Mall

Morning:
I'm standing in the middle of my dream this morning. It feels good to have come this far. I was up until 3:00 am, but I got everything set up and ready. Well, almost everything...this dag on cash register has gotten on my last nerve. I've been trying to set it up for days and can't figure it out. Oh well, I'm not going to let that damper my spirits.

Afternoon:
I had my first customer around 10:30 this morning. She purchased two shirts. Whew Hoo! It's now 5:00 pm and no other sales.

Evening:
It's been a long day. More sales finally! My precious friend Randi J and her daughter just stopped by to show some support and make a purchase. (the one that let me use her car and sent out that email) I had some friends call and send text messages with well wishes. All of which still vibrates loudly in my heart.

I finally get home and the kids are all over me with tons of questions. Did you get a lot of customers, are you gonna fix dinner, can I go with you tomorrow, did you bring us a treat, are you gonna take me to practice... Oh my, I just wanna lay down. Instead I sit on my bed and have all of the kiddos join me. They each tell me about their day and how much they missed me being at home. They wanted to know every customer and every dollar made. So I go over with them how much we made and what each customer wanted. They seem excited about seeing mommy and hearing about all the business stuff too. Kisses and off the bed they go...What a way to end the day.

Dream in motion,
Boss Momma

One day until opening

Wow, what a day yesterday. I got almost everything done! All I have to do today is return a few things and pick up my sign.

My poor kids they were home all day yesterday. My little Lia Pooh was calling me every hour asking how long are you gonna be. School work has just fallen by the waist side these last few days, I suppose it will be like that a lot over the next two months. Well, summer school here we come. Shhhh, don't tell the kids.

I have the car again today so I will do the few things I have left to do and come home and get started with putting the display completely together, fix dinner, and get ready to set up tonight. At this point I have no idea of the car we will use to haul all of our stuff to the mall, but I figure it would work itself out.

I forgot to mention that yesterday I got an order of 27 rhinestone t-shirts. Wow, you see how God works to provide for his children. I now have enough money to get everything I need to get started. That up all night stuff is for the birds, I knew I should've just trusted that God would work it out.

I've finally finished everything, and just as I thought it would, the car issue has worked itself out and we are now headed to the mall to get set up. I will post pictures of setup.

Preparing to life my dream,
Boss Momma

Two days before opening

I have never been so excited to drive. My girl Randi J came to pick me up before she went to work. Randi J you will remember was the same friend I mentioned a few days ago that sent out the email about me needing help financially. When she arrived at the house she happily presented me with a nice sum of money. Ummm, do you know how blessed and humbled I felt at that moment. I felt loved, honored, and totally speechless.

Dropping her off I realized that I don't receive well. I love to give and don't know how to receive. At that moment I had no idea what to say. I felt like saying thank you, but for some reason thank you did not seem to express my overwhelming sense of gratitude.

After this emotional ride I just took, I needed to get myself together so that I could get everything I needed and get it ready for opening day. Will post tomorrow how far or not so far I've come.

On the road again,
Boss Momma

Opening day/ more time

Well, it's no longer opening day it's now two days before opening and I have a list of things still needed to be done.

• Get acrylic frames for examples
• get material from fabric store
• get velcro
• get some type of cord to hold my bags
• get wood from Lowes
• get sticks to stablize the back of the boxes
• get gift bags, mesh, and cash register from Kelly
• get lights for the display
• order t-shirts
• program cash register
• get sign made for kiosk
• find a car

That is a lot to do in a few days with no car. I got a call from a dear friend Randi J offering her car if I needed it. Yes, I need it thank you very much. So, I have a car that I can use Monday and Tuesday. Whew, one less thing on my plate.

We had a few donations come in over night, yeah! Have you ever attended a church and they were begging for money? I got $10.00 all I need is $20.00 more and the rent is paid! Come on saints just give, give and the Lord will bless you press down, shaken together and running over...well, that's how I'm feeling right about now.

My kids bless their hearts didn't wanna miss church today so they got up and walked. Hummm, don't know if I should be happy or sad about that. Not having a car sucks!

Signing out on what should've been opening day.

Boss Momma

One day until opening

Past panic, I called the mall yesterday evening to see if I can open on Wednesday Novemeber 4th. They said no problem so I do have a little more time.

Morning:
I received some of my rhinestones late yesterday. Sallie did call last night to let me know she'd put the remaining package in the mail and that it should be arriving sometime this morning. Okay, I'm starting to feel a little better. I still have tons of stuff to do to get my display mall ready, with very little time on my hands, I have to beg borrow and steal, well maybe not steal but beg and borrow a car fast.

Today is Halloween and although we don't celebrate Halloween we usually have a Fall Harvest celebration at church and our kids are really excited about it. All week they have been anticipating this day, my Lia Pooh woke up with such glee in her eyes because she was going to get all dressed up. Little did any of them know, I hadn't gotten costume the first for today. I don't have time to have fun is what I keep thinking to myself and I DON'T HAVE A CAR!

Afternoon:
Whew, I did received the rest of my order earlier this morning so I'm planning on working on my samples and getting everything cut, and stored in it's proper place.

Brownie is going out with her "friend" and I can't take it. It's too much going on. I like to process stuff like this. I'm sure she's glad that I'm busy and dad just said he thought it would be fine. Big O even ask them to go pick up costumes...not sure if that was a good idea...need to process that too.

Okay, so Brownie made it back in one piece all smiles, and with the bag of costumes. She pulled them out of the bag and the little girls were sooo excited. When she told me what she paid for them I had to gasp for air, trying not to ruin the pure excitement the girls were having at that moment. OMG, we are broke we can't afford to spend $70.00 on food that alone costumes. This is something they are going to wear for 2 hours, if and only if we can find a ride. We are now $70.00 more broke and we don't even have a car to get them there.

We finally locate a friend who is going and is happy to pick up the girls and take them with her. Bless her she even took pictures. I felt horrible that I wasn't there with them, but they had a blast! They just wanted to go. Later when they got home I ask where the candy was and they said momma you didn't give us a bag to put candy in so we didn't get any. :( OMG of all the things to forget.

This day is gone with no real progress, $70.00 more in the hole, but I have happy kids that made it to the Fall Harvest Celebration . I guess that is progress huh.


Boss Momma signing off

Two days until opening

Morning:
I'm spazzing! Three days until open and I have no product to sell. My money is gone and I'm just not sure I'm gonna be able to pull this thing off. I will be making personalized rhinestone t-shirts at my kiosk in the mall and as of today I have no rhinestones, no t-shirts, no nothing. I talk to my rhinestone lady Sallie, she said she will go ahead and send the lettering, but everything else is taking a little longer than expected. I'm sick...I've been up all night thinking about my other options. If all else fails, I will just go to every Hobby Lobby in the city and buy up all their supplies. I'm on the phone trying to be really polite, because I know that I will be doing business with her all season long. Adding to my stress if the fact that we don't have a car. The fact that I don't have a car is an even longer story and I don't wanna even dive into that discussion. I'm freaking carless and I'm about to go into the biggest endeavor of my life.

Afternoon:
I had to go make the payment to the mall for my lease. One of my friends graciously ran me over there. I am really glad that's outta the way. Now for the product and the money for the product. I feel like a bum, I sent out a message to my family asking for donations that can be repaid come the first of December. I was truly surprised and blessed by my friend which I will call Randi J who sent and email to our girls group without my knowledge asking for monetary help. At this point I need pennies! OMG! What have I gotten myself into...calm down and get a grip girl it will all work out. This is what's going through my brain right now.

I gotta go, I'm tired from all this stress. I have to take a nap.

Boss Momma...at least I hope.