Monday, June 5, 2017

THE JIG IS UP


Well dear readers, like my idol Mame Dennis, I did my best to keep up with the telephone lines at Widdicome, Gutterman, Applewhite, Bibberman and Black.....and one could say I made my big splash at Macy's. I have been wanting to post this, but wanted to wait till it was an official wrap. You see, about a three months ago, I and half our team of visual and merchandising found out our jobs were being eliminated. It of course came as a complete shock to us all, as the last five years there, the parent company that owned our store did lay-offs, but it has never touched the support side of our luxury retailer. Since Macy's Inc that owned us, had a terrible year with business gone to online shopping, and being down in business anyway, it started affecting our side now. I have seen a huge decrease in foot traffic, even in our store, as more and more people are shopping on-line. But anywho, it still came as a complete shock. I was heart broken. I love what I do more than anything. Our team had been together almost my whole tenor there. It was even more gut wrenching when I found out everyone was let go that week, except me...they gave me the three months to work out. Luckily being there 11 years, I was offered a very generous severance package, and my health benefits will carry for four more months which is great.  My last day was Thursday before Memorial day. And was it ugly. When the store made it public about the news to the store family everyone was shocked, but the inevitable day finally came. I never expected such a send off with cards and swag of all sorts and it was very hard. Talk about raccoon time!!! I never reapplied mascara so many times. I was completely shocked since I came across like a blend of Cruella Deville, Karen Walker and a drunken Mame Dennis. I had no idea just how much my presence affected the store. They were shocked to see Cruella crack too I bet! I even saw some of the stone cold fall that day, and when I finally left, I felt like a retiring actress leaving MGM for the last time. I hope I never have to go through that again. The Mistress was a huge mess. Thanks goodness the clan rescued me and it was off to Rehoboth for the holiday.

What now???

After working for the last 28 years in the visual field...I'm burnt. My boss and HR manager and even myself, am not worried about me finding work right away with my experience and resume. They have already told me if a positon opens in another door...it's mine. I have since decided to take the summer off since I had trips planned already. With my severance, I was also paid out for my 7 weeks, don't act surprised...vacation, and luckily from design projects, had that money put away too. I feel I will take the time to enjoy, regroup, and decompress and then put my contacts out, and start to look for a new chapter closer to fall, contrary to what Ms.Moorecock said of me starring in a Chi Chi LaRue flick. I have already been contacted by a friend who is in HR about another visual positon in the fall. And if all else fails, I talked to my financial guy who can dump stock I own, but I don't think it will come to that. But it still feels weird not working, knowing you don't have a job. I have also contacted our local ASPCA for volunteer work and also a place called Last Chance Ranch that cares for horses. This will give me a chance and time to finally do this, as I enjoy animals so much, and give back to these wonderful creatures and hopefully do some good in the meantime. 

Ms. Moorecock looks worried no?

Meanwhile, Daddy Warbucks came to town this weekend. We spent an evening in New York. It was a lovely time, but now with me not working he wants me to come back to England with him till the movie project he's with wraps, which would mean being there for two-three months. Of course with other travels already booked, I couldn't oblige. At least not till my other travel is done. So I am pretty much over the shock of course, but still seems weird to have my daily routine different, that's for sure. And still yet I maintain my independence..... when the Lad wants me to move to VA and Daddy Warbucks wanting me to move with him, whatever house, in which ever state he's at, or country for that matter. But I am so fond of them both, for coming with a gallant effort.


So I just wanted to share this tidbit with you all, because I pride myself on being an open book. This will be bound to be a new chapter coming up...and it may go well, or it could be a bumpy ride. But worry not....I have collected myself, took a powder. And worry not....when one door closes, another opens.
πŸ’‹πŸ’‹πŸ’‹

111 comments:

  1. I'm sure .. It will be All Ok Again Soon My Dear.!!!!

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  2. What a testament you are. I think I would not have been able to stay and work. I am guessing you were graceful, dedicated and carried on decorum even in that period. You really are a inspiration. You have a great head on your shoulders, but still sorry to hear this. It's never easy.

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    1. Thank you , you seem to know me well. Yes, I made sure that all my I's were dotted and T's crossed. I had to make sure I left on a upbeat, positive note.

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  3. I'm sorry to hear you were let go, but I hope you do find something else later this year when you're ready to go back to work. I've been thinking about that myself. I love my job, but do I want to do it until I'm 65? I may take a lower paying, less stressful job at some point myself.

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    1. Always me best advice is make sure your happy and enjoy your job, since you spend so much time there. I have always lucked out with my jobs, I have loved them all, and have always moved up higher with each one.

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  4. As the Countess DeLave said from The Women "But whither... Whither shall I fly?" Your good....I know will have nothing to worry about. Hugs and kisses to you anyway☹

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    1. No doubt, down a hill and hopefully in the arms of my next husband?

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  5. We got your back Mistress. But does this mean your porn career will start now?

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    1. Oh dear, that was ten years ago.

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    2. He could fit right in here with the Weho "movie queens" If I see Chi-Chi I will put in a good word. lol!

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    3. Do it...with his package, he should be popular. Hell, giving it away for free makes no sense.

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  6. Not a bad way to part company, if one has to part company. It sounds like you're handling it all very well and, besides, are very fortunate to clearly not have to worry about what's to come. Meanwhile, enjoy an entire summer off!

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    1. I will Mitchell, thanks! One never knows where I may show up.

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  7. Anonymous6/06/2017

    So sorry to hear about this. It's good to know you have wonderful friends who care about you. Take the time to rest. You deserve it. Hugs!!! Lenalee

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    1. Thanks Lena! Right now, I keep telling myself it's a lonnnnnnng vacation, lol.

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  8. I KNEW it had to be daddy warbucks to take you to NYC! oh girlfriend, I am so sorry you have to go through this. but ya never know where the next adventure might be lurking. enjoy your time off/vacations.

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    1. If I have to sell off some houseboys, I know where to find you. Thank you tootes!πŸ’‹πŸ’‹πŸ’‹

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  9. What a complete shock - - and what an incredibly horrible thing to happen. But I loved your analogy about a retiring actress leaving MGM.

    I have no doubt about your talent and abilities, and I have extremely optimistic feelings about your future. Bigger and better things are on the horizon. You deserve to take the summer off and relax.

    Upward and onward!

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    1. Upward for sure. It's hard to keep a good bitch down!!!! And when I left with people greeting me good bye, it really did remind me of that. Except no limo was waiting.

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  10. Recharge, get bored, and find the next adventure.

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    1. The next adventure is what frightens me,lol!

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  11. Take the time to think, plan, recharge, reinvent. I think it's best. And with your talents I'm sure you'll land on your feet ... or your back ... again real soon.

    On a serious note: this same thing happened to Carlos about a year after we moved to Camden--and we moved here to take the job that was then ending. We panicked a bit, but then we stopped, thought, planned, and he changed course and began working in a field he'd never considered but one he loves so much more that that "other" one.

    So good things await you, this much I know!
    xoxo

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    1. So good things await you? I wonder if it'll be on my back? Thank you for your words Bob. One never knows where the road will lead.

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    2. you'll land on your feet ... or your back ... Bob took my line, lol

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  12. Oh no .....mu poor Mistress! And to quote Auntie Mame's Mother Burnside. "The South will RISE AGAIN!" I am completely shocked they would let you go, but I also know things things are never personal. Buy it is still hard noy to take it personal. I know the feeling all to well...happened three times to me. So now that's how I ended up in Ptown and made up mu mind to to do drag dull time. Hang in there dear. I know you will rise again. I say your smart to regroup. Hell, not like you work in the summer anyhow!!!!! Love ya!

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    1. How many did you have? Thank you Pearly and I'll be seeing you in August.

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    2. Your welcome dear! Drinks and lodging on me!!!

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  13. ((((hugs)))) Your great attitude and love of life will carry you through this time. Bless all your friends and loved ones. Interestingly enough my brother's photography group was laid off by Macy's once. xoxoxox :-)

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    1. Thank you mom!!!πŸ’‹πŸ’‹πŸ’‹

      Funny you should say that about Macy's While our branch of Bloomies took a hit, Macy's really took the hard hit with hundreds laid off, at all levels, and store closings.

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  14. Mistress, I am sorry to read this. I know how tough it is to have to leave a job you love. But you're in good shape financially, have an outstanding attitude and a fabulous resume, so I'm sure you'll be up and running again in the fall. In the meantime, enjoy your summer of leisure -- it's a rare treat to have that much time off to yourself. Have fun!

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    1. A rare treat indeed... and thanks for stopping in friend.

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  15. Oh Shit! Pearl is right though, These things aren't personal, but I know I took it very hard when it happened to me,I went reclusive for some time. It's hard when you still have passion and love what you do. But I can see, even in this time, you HAVEN'T LOST your sense of humor! I know something will come around for you.

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    1. I try to always remain funny...it helps to get through.

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  16. am I telling ms larue yes to the "movie?"

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  17. Oh Mistress, I to am sorry to hear this. And leave it to you to still have your sense of humor. Even though I know you'll be fine, I imagine it still leaves a little uncertainty till you know what's around the corner. I know you'll be fine, Christ your as tough as Joan herself! Did you give them hell in the boardroom I hope?

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  18. I answered a call one day from my boss and 90 seconds later hung up in a daze. I had just been laid off. I’m an Type-A personality who always has a plan, a back-up and sometimes a back-up to the back-up. But I had absolutely no idea that this was coming down the pipe and therefore found myself plan-less. To say I was in a state of shock is an understatement. It took a case of beer and three bottles of wine to sink the sorrows, but I took time off, probably the smartest thing I did, and regrouped. If you have that luxury it's a good time to regroup and relax so you will be fresh again. Big hugs out to you, I know you have this.

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    1. Thank you....but I thought I was always fresh as a daisy.

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  19. It's difficult even when you know it's coming, and your pain, sorrow, and shock are to be expected. I'm very happy to hear that you have socked away over the years and you're ready for this hiccup. In the meantime, hit the beach, enjoy your time with the critters (save a horse, ride a cowboy), and roll with the punches.
    Many big, long, warm hugs to you, my mistress. And I'm throwing in some kisses for good measure!

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  20. I don't recommend a job at Widdicome, Gutterman, Applewhite, Bibberman and Black. Their terrible and the coffee stinks. Hugs to you dear. And MARRY HIM MUM...the minute Warbucks asks!!!

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  21. So sorry to hear the news. It would seem odd to not work after that long. I have been there several times, My advice is know that you’re not alone. Shit happens and everyone knows that. Also know that you don’t need to throw your applications to the wind. You can harness your network as a source of support and inspiration. Also don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. Think about doing some freelance work while you’re looking for a fulltime position. It’s a way to get out of the “I’m unemployed” mindset and can also be a way to prime the pump in your job search. Enjoy the time though...hugs.

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  22. I Love the positive attitude, and sense of humor. Just keep doing what you do best and everything will fall in place Mistress.

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    1. Or it will fall in place and off to the side.

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  23. I've been laid off several times (though I can't really say they were from jobs I love) so I feel for you. Since you have experience in a field that actually interests you (I don't) I can't help but think you'll bouce back. Mame always did.

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    1. Thank you Kirk. I just hope I don't bounce back in a fox hunt.

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  24. Opportunity knocks in many forms . . . You are an awesome source of charm, energy, creative and intelligence . . . I can't wait to see your next 10 years!!! Having worked in the store, everyone there loved you, even ones that don't know you well, even liked you. You will be missed. I can imagine it was a blow all the way around.

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  25. I know its never easy dealing with layoffs but you've got the right attitude. I'm a firm believer that when one door closes, another one opens. There are bigger and better things in store for you. Stay strong.

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  26. I only wish you to be happy and relax. Take the time to regroup, and maybe consider the Chi Chi LaRue offer!!!!!!

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  27. Anonymous6/06/2017

    I have read your blog for some time and never posted, but felt I wanted to say thank you and not to worry. When I got laid off seventh months ago from a really well known magazine, I thought a sense of sadness, knew it was coming, but in the end a huge sense of relief all at the same time. It's a great time to make moves now. This too shall pass.

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    1. Thank you for stopping in and come back anytime.

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  28. I do sympathise, my dear - redundancy has come my way several times over the years, and no matter how many times you remind yourself it's not - it still feels like a personal body-blow. Nevertheless, to paraphrase (the real) Norma Desmond: "I am big! It's the stores that got small."

    Enjoy the freedom for a while, dear. And maybe see you in London with Daddy Warbucks some time! Or does he have a palatial stately home somewhere in the shires? Jx

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    1. Thank you Jon! You best be sure if I come to London...there will indeed be at least one round of stiffeners! Warbucks is/was at Oxford for movie details. Far as I know he has no palatial stately home in England. Yet.

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  29. We love you Mistress!... This is a cheers for better things to come.. They aren't done with you yet!!! I've seen your work on here.

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  30. When are you coming to visit? We can go wine tasting again. But this time let's head to the Central Coast. That way we can go to the Monterey Aquarium. Oooo. And Mission San Juan Bautista, site of that final scene in Vertigo.

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    1. We'd have to head to the Central Coast.....Napa is still recovering from our last trip.

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    2. Plus they're more generous with the pours there. That day I hit five wineries...

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  31. Well I hope you told them "don't forget the skates for the little nippers. Get 'em at Gimbel's!"

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  32. I'm so sorry to hear this. It makes one wonder what will even happen to stores soon. I'm NOT a online shopper. With mu business I go to New York often. It’s sad to see once bustling 8th Avenue stricken with urban blight. Now Bleecker St. Between landlords jacking rents up too high, and online shopping, it's killing ma pa shops and even chains and locally owned shops. People shop for everything online. I’m not blaming anyone, it's very convenient– But I see all of the delivery boxes in my hallway and realize that stores will never stay open if we no longer shop in them. Online shopping will thrive and stores will keep on closing. It's already amazing to see the number of empty store fronts.

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    1. I think your right. Every mall at least I hear has a number of stores gone, and you do see streets of storefronts just empty. Philly seems to have had a resurgence though. I don't recall so much retail downtown.

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  33. So upsetting to hear when someone loves what they do so much, taken away. If I was there I'd play you a comforting solo on the cello. Mistress, you are still young yet... and will have the rest of our lives to work. think, regroup and clear your mind. Hugs.

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    1. Thank you doll! yes you know it. Hope your enjoying your trip!

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  34. Just how'd I'd picture you too...with a cigarette stick searching want ads. Or are they for hooks ups? Hugs to you!

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    1. Is there any other way? The coffee and side car is on the other side.

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  35. Parting of the ways is always fraught....but you write it all with so much humour xx

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    1. Humor in some cases is my only device for life savings. I try to keep a laugh going. Thanks dear.

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  36. "“There came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” – Anais Nin

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    1. That's beautiful!!!!!!!

      πŸ’‹πŸ’‹πŸ’‹

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  37. Cheering for you to enjoy the summer and knowing that you're going to continue to do and create beautiful things. Xox

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    1. Thank you Dez! You've been gone far to long.

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  38. I know too what it’s like to do the walk with the box (mine full of happy meal toys). Sometimes a door closes to put you in a new direction you’re supposed to be in. This is it! Hugs cutie.

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  39. I am sorry to hear you are no longer working at your job. That bites. But I can imagine you will Live, live a bit, and then start a new chapter. Best wishes to you.

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    1. The LIVE LIVE! is one of my favorite chapters.

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  40. You will do well in whatever you set your mind to.  You are a do-er and a dreamer and that is a powerful combination. I'm sorry you lost your job, I know it was a passion, but I feel certain much better things await you. I love that you tied in that Mame gif with the cigarette. bwrahahaha

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    1. Awwwwww, the big lug! Thank you dear.

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  41. Mark Cortez6/07/2017

    I too enjoy your blog daily and have never commented but felt I should and let you know I'm thinking of you. Welcome to the Club! I've been out of work since Febuary. My best advice to you is to look at everything in a positive way. I've had 8 job interviews since then and even though I didn't get any offers at least the interviews give me practice at learning what to say/what not to say.

    Also as someone who has spent the last 3 summers since college cooped up in an office, now you can go for walks, read in the garden all that. Sure losing a job sucks in a lot of ways but just try focus on the positives. Way to easy to get depressed when out of work so don't let that shit take hold. Oh and keep busy as well! Sounds like you got this and still have your humor.
    :D :D :D
    Best of luck

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    1. Thank you so much for stopping in, won't you say for a drink?

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  42. Well CRAP!!
    I hate to hear that.
    I wish you more luck than necessary.

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  43. I'm sorry to hear about your lay-off. I have a feeling, even though I don't know you, that something good is waiting for you just around the corner. Enjoy the time off though.

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    1. Hopefully it's a wealthy man, with a gin distillery who has legs of steel!

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  44. As someone that has been down this road many times, I feel your pain. I'm retired now, but was laid off two times when I still worked.Staying positive is your best tool. I've still got some of that but if it runs out I know I'll be in trouble. Stay connected and keep up the fight. You sound like you will have many opportunities to grow from this. Good Luck from someone who knows all too well the sadness this can bring...at least your positive and funny. I wasn't.

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    1. But look at you now! Thank you Ms.Fingers!

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  45. Your really are the Pied Piper!

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    1. Shhhhhhh, don't let out all my secrets as to how I get the houseboys here.

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  46. Anonymous6/07/2017

    In Three Words.
    You Are Fabulous.
    JP

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    1. Right...turn the tables on me, you little cute thing you! Thank-you very much!

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  47. Good luck to you. I hope your dream job ideas work out for whatever it is you want.

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  48. Good luck Mistress...surely someone with persistence and creativity, not to mention your Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve And Talent, will likely you will land well. See what I did there????

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    1. Did you just call me a cunt, you hag?!?!? Lol!!!

      Thank you CarmenπŸ’‹

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  49. I'm sorry to hear you lost your job. But if I know anything, it is that, like a cat, you are going to land on your feet.  I hope you don't mind my asking, but what is it you did?

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    1. I don't know about you Ms.Kitty, but I feel so much more yummy!

      Thank you!!!

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  50. I'm so sorry about your job. That sucks (and not in the good way, bwahaha). A new door will open when the time is right and you'll land on your feet. XO

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    1. I'm glad you think so, most think I'll land on my back!!!!

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  51. I can only imagine what went through your mind at first. I would have been shocked and disappointed too. But if Mame Dennis is your role model....then you have this and will have a fun ride in the meantime.

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    1. Thank you! Could you be persuaded to have a drink, dear?

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  52. Just saw this post while reading back posts. Were so behind. That sucks, and it's even harder to leave when your well liked too. Hang in there Mistress.

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Go ahead darling, tell me something fabulous!