#freelance — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #freelance, aggregated by home.social.
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Freelancing gives you total freedom.
You get to choose exactly which 12 hours of the day you work, instead of the standard 9-to-5.
Learn more here.
https://www.funfunds.in/p/blog-page_26.html#funfunds
#freelance #freelancelife #freelancing #Freelancer #totalfreedom #financialfreedom #LearnAndEarn #LearnAndGrow -
I'm accepting a few new #freelance #editing 📝 clients in the coming months. If you're interested, let me know ASAP. Spots are limited :) #writers #amediting #amwriting #indiepub #indieauthors http://www.venessagiunta.com/editing-services/
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I'm accepting a few new #freelance #editing 📝 clients in the coming months. If you're interested, let me know ASAP. Spots are limited :) #writers #amediting #amwriting #indiepub #indieauthors http://www.venessagiunta.com/editing-services/
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I'm accepting a few new #freelance #editing 📝 clients in the coming months. If you're interested, let me know ASAP. Spots are limited :) #writers #amediting #amwriting #indiepub #indieauthors http://www.venessagiunta.com/editing-services/
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I'm accepting a few new #freelance #editing 📝 clients in the coming months. If you're interested, let me know ASAP. Spots are limited :) #writers #amediting #amwriting #indiepub #indieauthors http://www.venessagiunta.com/editing-services/
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I'm accepting a few new #freelance #editing 📝 clients in the coming months. If you're interested, let me know ASAP. Spots are limited :) #writers #amediting #amwriting #indiepub #indieauthors http://www.venessagiunta.com/editing-services/
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Di adiós al gasto hormiga 💸 Si eres diseñador web o agencia, centraliza hosting, temas y plugins ilimitados por solo 3€ al mes. Aumenta tu margen y olvídate de licencias duplicadas. Descubre cómo en #ClubWP 🚀 #WordPress #Freelance #Ahorro
https://clubwp.es/?ref=2 -
Fri. July 17, 2026: Perpetual Laundry
image courtesy of Pexels from PixabayFriday, July 17, 2026
Waxing Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Partly sunny, cooler, but humid
Wildfire haze
We’re almost at the weekend! Woo-hoo! I’m planning a quiet weekend of working on the script commission pitch, reading the scripts for the WAM literary committee meeting at the end of the month, and reading some background information for the project my friend wants me to work on with her.
Online meditation group was good. I waffled about attending, but I’m glad I did, and it made Charlotte happy, too.
After breakfast, I headed out for the usual Thursday rounds of grocery shopping, library, and a couple of other stops. It was very busy (summer season, and a little better after days of heat), but I got everything done.
Home, hauled it up the stairs, put it away. Willa wanted some playtime, so we played. She has no idea she is a senior cat. She thinks she’s still a kitten. Which is very cute.
I got about 4 pages done on the script commission pitch pages (I need 15 pages and an outline).
#FreelanceFriends chat was fun.
A friend sent us fans and cooling towels, and they arrived today. The fans are amazing. They are small clip-on fans that run on battery power (charged via USB cords, but long charges) and they are fantastic. I’ve never used the cooling towels before, and I’m looking forward to them. Some research books also arrived.
I turned the edits around for the anthology story. I really liked the editor’s suggestions. Sent it off by the middle of the afternoon.
I did the August marketing content calendar, putting a lot of emphasis on the new anthology. I start up again with the marketing on August 3.
I hope to get release dates on the other two anthologies soon. Feeding the new work into the content calendar while also promoting backlist works well, when I am consistent. But I do need to have something new at least once per quarter.
I did some work on the requested script pages I need to get out. I’m changing my mind about one of the submissions every five minutes. But I did some thinking overnight, and made decisions.
I didn’t get as much done on the ghostwriting as I hoped, and I didn’t get any work done on the radio series. But I still had a decent day.
Last night was the big beach party on Eagle Street. The city trucks in 500,000 pounds of sand (donated by a local company), it’s raked out over Eagle Street, and people show up with umbrellas, beach chairs, etc. There are food trucks and games for kids, and it’s a big old block party. I did not go. For some reason, I thought it was on Saturday (it’s usually on a Saturday), and by the time I saw the Instagram posts of them prepping the sand, I was settled in for the night. I hope everyone had a fantastic time.
The wildfire haze is thick enough that all of us who showed up at the laundromat at way-too-early-o’clock masked. My heart breaks for those directly affected. The haze is inconvenient, but a scratchy throat is not the same as losing everything. Air purifiers on today.
I was out the door early to the laundromat, and back a little after 7. We are making pancakes for breakfast, and after the morning chores, I will fold it and put it away. The non-dryer items are hanging up inside. Even if I had the outdoor line in place, I wouldn’t hang laundry out in the wildfire haze, which leaves a sticky residue on everything.
Have a great weekend, and we’ll catch up on the other side.
#books #freelance #laundry #scriptwriting #writing -
Fri. July 17, 2026: Perpetual Laundry
image courtesy of Pexels from PixabayFriday, July 17, 2026
Waxing Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Partly sunny, cooler, but humid
Wildfire haze
We’re almost at the weekend! Woo-hoo! I’m planning a quiet weekend of working on the script commission pitch, reading the scripts for the WAM literary committee meeting at the end of the month, and reading some background information for the project my friend wants me to work on with her.
Online meditation group was good. I waffled about attending, but I’m glad I did, and it made Charlotte happy, too.
After breakfast, I headed out for the usual Thursday rounds of grocery shopping, library, and a couple of other stops. It was very busy (summer season, and a little better after days of heat), but I got everything done.
Home, hauled it up the stairs, put it away. Willa wanted some playtime, so we played. She has no idea she is a senior cat. She thinks she’s still a kitten. Which is very cute.
I got about 4 pages done on the script commission pitch pages (I need 15 pages and an outline).
#FreelanceFriends chat was fun.
A friend sent us fans and cooling towels, and they arrived today. The fans are amazing. They are small clip-on fans that run on battery power (charged via USB cords, but long charges) and they are fantastic. I’ve never used the cooling towels before, and I’m looking forward to them. Some research books also arrived.
I turned the edits around for the anthology story. I really liked the editor’s suggestions. Sent it off by the middle of the afternoon.
I did the August marketing content calendar, putting a lot of emphasis on the new anthology. I start up again with the marketing on August 3.
I hope to get release dates on the other two anthologies soon. Feeding the new work into the content calendar while also promoting backlist works well, when I am consistent. But I do need to have something new at least once per quarter.
I did some work on the requested script pages I need to get out. I’m changing my mind about one of the submissions every five minutes. But I did some thinking overnight, and made decisions.
I didn’t get as much done on the ghostwriting as I hoped, and I didn’t get any work done on the radio series. But I still had a decent day.
Last night was the big beach party on Eagle Street. The city trucks in 500,000 pounds of sand (donated by a local company), it’s raked out over Eagle Street, and people show up with umbrellas, beach chairs, etc. There are food trucks and games for kids, and it’s a big old block party. I did not go. For some reason, I thought it was on Saturday (it’s usually on a Saturday), and by the time I saw the Instagram posts of them prepping the sand, I was settled in for the night. I hope everyone had a fantastic time.
The wildfire haze is thick enough that all of us who showed up at the laundromat at way-too-early-o’clock masked. My heart breaks for those directly affected. The haze is inconvenient, but a scratchy throat is not the same as losing everything. Air purifiers on today.
I was out the door early to the laundromat, and back a little after 7. We are making pancakes for breakfast, and after the morning chores, I will fold it and put it away. The non-dryer items are hanging up inside. Even if I had the outdoor line in place, I wouldn’t hang laundry out in the wildfire haze, which leaves a sticky residue on everything.
Have a great weekend, and we’ll catch up on the other side.
#books #freelance #laundry #scriptwriting #writing -
Game Workers Rally Against Microsoft Layoffs: 'Corporate Greed Is Destroying Our Games And Our Livelihoods’
https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://aftermath.site/zenimax-save-our-devs-microsoft-protest-layoffs/
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Game Workers Rally Against Microsoft Layoffs: 'Corporate Greed Is Destroying Our Games And Our Livelihoods’
https://web.brid.gy/r/https://aftermath.site/zenimax-save-our-devs-microsoft-protest-layoffs/
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Game Workers Rally Against Microsoft Layoffs: 'Corporate Greed Is Destroying Our Games And Our Livelihoods’
https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://aftermath.site/zenimax-save-our-devs-microsoft-protest-layoffs/
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Game Workers Rally Against Microsoft Layoffs: 'Corporate Greed Is Destroying Our Games And Our Livelihoods’
https://web.brid.gy/r/https://aftermath.site/zenimax-save-our-devs-microsoft-protest-layoffs/
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Game Workers Rally Against Microsoft Layoffs: 'Corporate Greed Is Destroying Our Games And Our Livelihoods’
https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://aftermath.site/zenimax-save-our-devs-microsoft-protest-layoffs/
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Thurs. July 16, 2026: Time to Venture Out
image courtesy of No-longer-here from PixabayThursday, July 16, 2026
Waxing Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Hazy and warm
You can read the latest on the garden over at Gratitude & Growth.
Yesterday morning, I caught up on some email. I realized I hadn’t yet sent my UK producer the requested materials for the next radio production, so I got that out the door, and caught up on a few other things. I tried to make as best use of time as possible before I had to move out of the office because it was too hot. Working in another room means running off the laptop battery, which doesn’t last very long. The manufacturer claims 6-8 hours, but it’s really closer to 2. And I can’t really plug in anywhere in the living room when the fans and coolers are running,
It does force me to focus and then take breaks, though.
I’m getting ready to prepare an LOI for a company who’s looking for something else, but I have an idea that might be worth their while. It would be remote (of course) with occasional trips to their location about an hour away in VT. So that’s on the list for next week, as is an idea I have for Assets4Artists. That idea is in a very embryonic stage, and I want to spin it out so it’s a real proposal. I was working away, thinking, “I need xyz, I wish A4A had that” and I heard Briana’s voice in my head saying, “well, tell us what you need and let’s see what we can do” so I’ll put together a polished pitch and see if it works for them. As they expand, they’re shifting some of their focus, and I think this idea would help build on that, while giving a throughline to the foundation they already have.
I refused to let myself work on any of those things, other than scribbling a few notes so I wouldn’t lose the idea completely, because I had a deadline to meet.
I struggled with the ghostwriting, trying to smooth out the logic and keep it all working properly. I managed to get it off a little after 5 PM. I start the next assignment today, which is due on July 29, although I might get it in a little early, since a good portion of it is already sitting in my brain.
The haze from the wildfires was eerie. The temperatures didn’t get as high as predicted, but the air was heavy, humid, and smoky. I was only 77F when I woke up this morning, though, and I have the fans running to get it cooler. It should only get up to 85 today, and then be in the low 80’s for the weekend, cooling off at night.
On today’s agenda: supposedly online meditation group, the usual Thursday errands, Freelance Friends chat, turning around the edits on the short story (biggest priority), getting out the script materials that should have gone out yesterday and did not, working on the commission pitch, working on the radio series, and starting the next ghostwriting. That’s rather a big list, so we’ll see how much I can actually get done. I have a feeling I’ll work on the commission pitch through the weekend, which is fine.
I changed my mind about one set of script materials. What I was originally going to send needs more thought and work. I have another piece from which I can send sample pages, and then finish a draft if they want to work on it.
Have a good one!
#freelance #ghostwriting #ideas #proposals #theatre #writing -
Thurs. July 16, 2026: Time to Venture Out
image courtesy of No-longer-here from PixabayThursday, July 16, 2026
Waxing Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Hazy and warm
You can read the latest on the garden over at Gratitude & Growth.
Yesterday morning, I caught up on some email. I realized I hadn’t yet sent my UK producer the requested materials for the next radio production, so I got that out the door, and caught up on a few other things. I tried to make as best use of time as possible before I had to move out of the office because it was too hot. Working in another room means running off the laptop battery, which doesn’t last very long. The manufacturer claims 6-8 hours, but it’s really closer to 2. And I can’t really plug in anywhere in the living room when the fans and coolers are running,
It does force me to focus and then take breaks, though.
I’m getting ready to prepare an LOI for a company who’s looking for something else, but I have an idea that might be worth their while. It would be remote (of course) with occasional trips to their location about an hour away in VT. So that’s on the list for next week, as is an idea I have for Assets4Artists. That idea is in a very embryonic stage, and I want to spin it out so it’s a real proposal. I was working away, thinking, “I need xyz, I wish A4A had that” and I heard Briana’s voice in my head saying, “well, tell us what you need and let’s see what we can do” so I’ll put together a polished pitch and see if it works for them. As they expand, they’re shifting some of their focus, and I think this idea would help build on that, while giving a throughline to the foundation they already have.
I refused to let myself work on any of those things, other than scribbling a few notes so I wouldn’t lose the idea completely, because I had a deadline to meet.
I struggled with the ghostwriting, trying to smooth out the logic and keep it all working properly. I managed to get it off a little after 5 PM. I start the next assignment today, which is due on July 29, although I might get it in a little early, since a good portion of it is already sitting in my brain.
The haze from the wildfires was eerie. The temperatures didn’t get as high as predicted, but the air was heavy, humid, and smoky. I was only 77F when I woke up this morning, though, and I have the fans running to get it cooler. It should only get up to 85 today, and then be in the low 80’s for the weekend, cooling off at night.
On today’s agenda: supposedly online meditation group, the usual Thursday errands, Freelance Friends chat, turning around the edits on the short story (biggest priority), getting out the script materials that should have gone out yesterday and did not, working on the commission pitch, working on the radio series, and starting the next ghostwriting. That’s rather a big list, so we’ll see how much I can actually get done. I have a feeling I’ll work on the commission pitch through the weekend, which is fine.
I changed my mind about one set of script materials. What I was originally going to send needs more thought and work. I have another piece from which I can send sample pages, and then finish a draft if they want to work on it.
Have a good one!
#freelance #ghostwriting #ideas #proposals #theatre #writing -
Thurs. July 16, 2026: Time to Venture Out
image courtesy of No-longer-here from PixabayThursday, July 16, 2026
Waxing Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Hazy and warm
You can read the latest on the garden over at Gratitude & Growth.
Yesterday morning, I caught up on some email. I realized I hadn’t yet sent my UK producer the requested materials for the next radio production, so I got that out the door, and caught up on a few other things. I tried to make as best use of time as possible before I had to move out of the office because it was too hot. Working in another room means running off the laptop battery, which doesn’t last very long. The manufacturer claims 6-8 hours, but it’s really closer to 2. And I can’t really plug in anywhere in the living room when the fans and coolers are running,
It does force me to focus and then take breaks, though.
I’m getting ready to prepare an LOI for a company who’s looking for something else, but I have an idea that might be worth their while. It would be remote (of course) with occasional trips to their location about an hour away in VT. So that’s on the list for next week, as is an idea I have for Assets4Artists. That idea is in a very embryonic stage, and I want to spin it out so it’s a real proposal. I was working away, thinking, “I need xyz, I wish A4A had that” and I heard Briana’s voice in my head saying, “well, tell us what you need and let’s see what we can do” so I’ll put together a polished pitch and see if it works for them. As they expand, they’re shifting some of their focus, and I think this idea would help build on that, while giving a throughline to the foundation they already have.
I refused to let myself work on any of those things, other than scribbling a few notes so I wouldn’t lose the idea completely, because I had a deadline to meet.
I struggled with the ghostwriting, trying to smooth out the logic and keep it all working properly. I managed to get it off a little after 5 PM. I start the next assignment today, which is due on July 29, although I might get it in a little early, since a good portion of it is already sitting in my brain.
The haze from the wildfires was eerie. The temperatures didn’t get as high as predicted, but the air was heavy, humid, and smoky. I was only 77F when I woke up this morning, though, and I have the fans running to get it cooler. It should only get up to 85 today, and then be in the low 80’s for the weekend, cooling off at night.
On today’s agenda: supposedly online meditation group, the usual Thursday errands, Freelance Friends chat, turning around the edits on the short story (biggest priority), getting out the script materials that should have gone out yesterday and did not, working on the commission pitch, working on the radio series, and starting the next ghostwriting. That’s rather a big list, so we’ll see how much I can actually get done. I have a feeling I’ll work on the commission pitch through the weekend, which is fine.
I changed my mind about one set of script materials. What I was originally going to send needs more thought and work. I have another piece from which I can send sample pages, and then finish a draft if they want to work on it.
Have a good one!
#freelance #ghostwriting #ideas #proposals #theatre #writing -
Thurs. July 16, 2026: Time to Venture Out
image courtesy of No-longer-here from PixabayThursday, July 16, 2026
Waxing Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Hazy and warm
You can read the latest on the garden over at Gratitude & Growth.
Yesterday morning, I caught up on some email. I realized I hadn’t yet sent my UK producer the requested materials for the next radio production, so I got that out the door, and caught up on a few other things. I tried to make as best use of time as possible before I had to move out of the office because it was too hot. Working in another room means running off the laptop battery, which doesn’t last very long. The manufacturer claims 6-8 hours, but it’s really closer to 2. And I can’t really plug in anywhere in the living room when the fans and coolers are running,
It does force me to focus and then take breaks, though.
I’m getting ready to prepare an LOI for a company who’s looking for something else, but I have an idea that might be worth their while. It would be remote (of course) with occasional trips to their location about an hour away in VT. So that’s on the list for next week, as is an idea I have for Assets4Artists. That idea is in a very embryonic stage, and I want to spin it out so it’s a real proposal. I was working away, thinking, “I need xyz, I wish A4A had that” and I heard Briana’s voice in my head saying, “well, tell us what you need and let’s see what we can do” so I’ll put together a polished pitch and see if it works for them. As they expand, they’re shifting some of their focus, and I think this idea would help build on that, while giving a throughline to the foundation they already have.
I refused to let myself work on any of those things, other than scribbling a few notes so I wouldn’t lose the idea completely, because I had a deadline to meet.
I struggled with the ghostwriting, trying to smooth out the logic and keep it all working properly. I managed to get it off a little after 5 PM. I start the next assignment today, which is due on July 29, although I might get it in a little early, since a good portion of it is already sitting in my brain.
The haze from the wildfires was eerie. The temperatures didn’t get as high as predicted, but the air was heavy, humid, and smoky. I was only 77F when I woke up this morning, though, and I have the fans running to get it cooler. It should only get up to 85 today, and then be in the low 80’s for the weekend, cooling off at night.
On today’s agenda: supposedly online meditation group, the usual Thursday errands, Freelance Friends chat, turning around the edits on the short story (biggest priority), getting out the script materials that should have gone out yesterday and did not, working on the commission pitch, working on the radio series, and starting the next ghostwriting. That’s rather a big list, so we’ll see how much I can actually get done. I have a feeling I’ll work on the commission pitch through the weekend, which is fine.
I changed my mind about one set of script materials. What I was originally going to send needs more thought and work. I have another piece from which I can send sample pages, and then finish a draft if they want to work on it.
Have a good one!
#freelance #ghostwriting #ideas #proposals #theatre #writing -
Thurs. July 16, 2026: Time to Venture Out
image courtesy of No-longer-here from PixabayThursday, July 16, 2026
Waxing Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Hazy and warm
You can read the latest on the garden over at Gratitude & Growth.
Yesterday morning, I caught up on some email. I realized I hadn’t yet sent my UK producer the requested materials for the next radio production, so I got that out the door, and caught up on a few other things. I tried to make as best use of time as possible before I had to move out of the office because it was too hot. Working in another room means running off the laptop battery, which doesn’t last very long. The manufacturer claims 6-8 hours, but it’s really closer to 2. And I can’t really plug in anywhere in the living room when the fans and coolers are running,
It does force me to focus and then take breaks, though.
I’m getting ready to prepare an LOI for a company who’s looking for something else, but I have an idea that might be worth their while. It would be remote (of course) with occasional trips to their location about an hour away in VT. So that’s on the list for next week, as is an idea I have for Assets4Artists. That idea is in a very embryonic stage, and I want to spin it out so it’s a real proposal. I was working away, thinking, “I need xyz, I wish A4A had that” and I heard Briana’s voice in my head saying, “well, tell us what you need and let’s see what we can do” so I’ll put together a polished pitch and see if it works for them. As they expand, they’re shifting some of their focus, and I think this idea would help build on that, while giving a throughline to the foundation they already have.
I refused to let myself work on any of those things, other than scribbling a few notes so I wouldn’t lose the idea completely, because I had a deadline to meet.
I struggled with the ghostwriting, trying to smooth out the logic and keep it all working properly. I managed to get it off a little after 5 PM. I start the next assignment today, which is due on July 29, although I might get it in a little early, since a good portion of it is already sitting in my brain.
The haze from the wildfires was eerie. The temperatures didn’t get as high as predicted, but the air was heavy, humid, and smoky. I was only 77F when I woke up this morning, though, and I have the fans running to get it cooler. It should only get up to 85 today, and then be in the low 80’s for the weekend, cooling off at night.
On today’s agenda: supposedly online meditation group, the usual Thursday errands, Freelance Friends chat, turning around the edits on the short story (biggest priority), getting out the script materials that should have gone out yesterday and did not, working on the commission pitch, working on the radio series, and starting the next ghostwriting. That’s rather a big list, so we’ll see how much I can actually get done. I have a feeling I’ll work on the commission pitch through the weekend, which is fine.
I changed my mind about one set of script materials. What I was originally going to send needs more thought and work. I have another piece from which I can send sample pages, and then finish a draft if they want to work on it.
Have a good one!
#freelance #ghostwriting #ideas #proposals #theatre #writing -
Anyone need any audio or video editing done?
I can do voiceovers, video editing anything you need?
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Anyone need any audio or video editing done?
I can do voiceovers, video editing anything you need?
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Anyone need any audio or video editing done?
I can do voiceovers, video editing anything you need?
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Anyone need any audio or video editing done?
I can do voiceovers, video editing anything you need?
-
Anyone need any audio or video editing done?
I can do voiceovers, video editing anything you need?
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This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast looks at the growing trend of AI fatigue. Kurt and Toby note that clients are finding that AI tools alone can’t solve their pain points. It presents a big opportunity for agencies and freelancers to save the day!
You’ll find advice on the importance of selling solutions (rather than code), adopting agency subscription models, and […]
https://thewpminute.com/ai-fatigue-is-an-opportunity-for-agencies/ -
Tues. July 14, 2026: Bracing For More Heat
image courtesy of Stefan Schweihofer from PixabayTuesday, July 14, 2026
New Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Bastille Day
Partly sunny, hot, and humid
Hello, and I hope you had a good weekend. Today is supposed to be brutally hot, and I may pack up and go to work at the library.
July 14/Bastille Day is a day I consider my personal Independence Day from something dating way back to when I lived in San Francisco.
You can read the Community Tarot Reading for the Week here.
On Friday morning, I folded and put away the laundry from the laundromat, and hung up the pieces that couldn’t go in the dryer and came home wet. In the summer, about 40% of what we wear can’t go in the dryer. I have a rolling rack in the storage room, and I also hang pieces up where it makes sense.
I waffled as to whether or not to go out and do my errands, but then I figured I might as well. I headed to a thrift shop I’d visited on Thursday, where I’d gotten some good deals (Mercury Retrograde). There was one thing I left behind that I couldn’t stop thinking about. So I went back first thing to see if it was still there. If it was, I would buy it. If it wasn’t, that’s the way it goes sometimes.
It was there.
I had to look for it, since it had been moved, but it was there.
What is “it”?
A sewing machine. A Brother VX808 sturdy, metal sewing machine from the 1980’s. I got it for $10. I didn’t plug it in to run it at the store, but I did move all the bits to make sure they worked.
Now, I have the expensive Viking-Husqvarna sewing machine I bought when I worked on Broadway, and that I still use. I’m looking for a place to service it around here. It’s a terrific machine, but it’s best for clothes and lighter work. The heavier work, for quilting and art projects, doesn’t do well on that machine, even with a sturdier needle. I need a heavier machine. I loved the Singer Heavy Duty machine I used in-studio at MASS MoCA last fall. I’ve been keeping an eye on that model to possibly buy one, but right now, it’s more than I want to spend. So I’ve been looking in thrift shops, with a budget of around $50. I saw this machine on Thursday, and really liked it, but it was a Brother, not a Singer, so I left it.
And couldn’t stop thinking about it. I was dreaming about it Thursday night.
So now it lives here.
Of course, there’s no manual and Brother no longer has downloadable manuals for it. I think I can get what I need for free online, or maybe an inexpensive PDF. The manual I found for sale is $17, and that’s more than I paid for the machine, so no. Just no. I planned to find threading instructions and run a few tests on it latest by Saturday, since I had until Sunday to return it if something was wrong with it. I mean, you’re not supposed to buy things like electronics, computers, appliances, houses, cars, big ticket items, etc. during Mercury Retrograde, or it will bite you in the butt. But while this is technically “electrical” (since you plug it in and use electricity, not foot pumps), it is a small piece, and very inexpensive ($10), fitting into the Mercury Retrograde realm of finding bargains on cool stuff. We will see. If it turns out to be a disaster, I’m out $10.
But it’s nice and hefty, and no computer crap in it. The Viking doesn’t have anything computerized, either. I don’t want a sewing machine with a computer. The ones owned by friends and colleagues that have all the fancy computer elements often spend more time in repair than in use.
Stay tuned.
I had hoped it would have a metal bobbin, but it has the plastic. So I need to hunt down more plastic bobbins for both machines (since they both take plastic bobbins and I hate them). I have ones that supposedly work for the Viking that I special ordered don’t actually fit.
Anyway, after I got the machine purchased and strapped into the front seat like a recalcitrant child, I stopped at the post office to buy stamps before the price went up on Saturday. So I stockpiled.
Home, put everything away, and settled into the ghostwriting. Had a good session, and relaxed in the evening. I was sad to learn of the death of Bonnie Tyler. Her music is tied to very specific memories in my life.
Up early on Saturday to start the regular routine and the usual Saturday housework chores. Made a curried chicken salad that will tide us over for lunches in hot weather these upcoming days, and also did a batch of vegetable stock in the crockpot.
I tested the thrift store machine, and it works perfectly. I even figured out how to thread it without a manual! I have to get used to it, the feel is very different from the Viking. It’s lovely and sturdy, though, with a steady, nice machine rhythm.
I cleaned the case, which is a somewhat porous plastic. I thought it was a greying beige, probably from age, but when I cleaned the case, it’s actually a lovely cream color. The machine itself is red and yellow and looks cheerful. Now I can move between the two machines, depending on the project. Another really cool feature is a ruler along the bottom of the case.
According to my research, both machines take the same Class 15 bobbin, and the Brother CAN use the metal bobbin as easily as the plastic. I will have to experiment. I much prefer metal bobbins.
That was pretty much the entire day.
I was saddened by the death of actor Randolph Mantooth. I enjoyed his work, and I have a lovely memory of us closing a dive bar in Hell’s Kitchen talking about ways to work together. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, but we had fun trying to figure things out!
Up early on Sunday, morning routine, trying to get it cool inside. Got it down to 73, which was lovely.
Heard about the death of Senator Lindsay Graham. Let’s just say I will not mourn him. Now, stop lying about Mitch McConnell, and let’s get things sorted.
Did the Community Tarot for the Week, which you can read here. Basically, it’s “keep your mouth shut and drink water” this week. Reasonable advice.
I’m delighted that my 10-minute radio suspense radio play “The Cabin in the Woods” was chosen for the 8th season of Mini Shenanigans in the UK. You can read more about it here.
This company produced my 15-minute radio drama “Inspired By” this past spring. “The Cabin in the Woods” will go live sometime between May and August of 2027.
Tended the plants, did more housework. Updated the Pages on Stages website to reflect the last few readings/productions. I thought I’d kept up, but I guess not.
I drafted a new flash fiction piece. I felt stuck in general with my writing, so I looked back at my #31 Prompts I originally posted several Julys ago. The prompt for the 12th was “I felt the sound of the knife’s slice” and that instigated a somewhat creepy piece of micro fiction. It needs work, but at least there are words on paper. I started it in the morning free-write, and then finished it on the computer.
That was pretty much the day. It was warm, but not too hot. I kept thinking of a lot of “should haves” and didn’t.
Rolled my eyes so hard they almost came out of my head at the fake “proof of life” Mitch McConnell’s people put out. The doctored photo of him from several years ago isn’t fooling anyone. The fact that Andy Beshear’s “best” is a strongly-worded letter à la Chuck Schumer means I have no interest in seeing him try to run for president. If he can’t even lead the way to find out the truth about one of his own senators, he can’t lead the country.
As usual, the Democrats are failing miserably, because they’d rather be complicit than effective.
Sad to hear about Sam Neill’s death. He was both talented and filled with integrity.
Up early on Monday, getting the fans on, everyone fed, morning routine. It was Day 325 of the morning free-write sessions, and I wrote about half of a flash fiction piece from the day’s prompt.
I was out the door on time and at the mechanic’s. I got 4 new tires (which I’ve needed for about a year), an oil change/servicing, and the rubber side bumper that was starting to peel back on the passenger side was refastened. A big chunk of change, but the car is much happier, which means I am much happier.
Ran a couple of successful errands on the way home.
Hauled everything up the stairs, got it put away. Got out the emails to the poets for the program information I need. Sent off the draft of the rough assembly of scenes of I WILL BE DIFFERENT to the two people who are kind enough to read such a truly rough assembly. Heard from the anthology editor for the comic noir cat anthology that I will get my edits in the next few days and have to turn them around by the end of the week. We got a preview of the cover, and it is so darn cute. I will share it when I can. The anthology drops on August 25, which is great information, as I’m just starting to work on the content calendar. I will have taken 6 weeks off from marketing, a hit on income, but I needed the break. I will get things back up and running in August. Having the anthology to promote will help.
ICE murdered a man in Texas last week, and one in Maine on Monday. And Dems are busy being nice about Lindsay Graham instead of taking action on people being murdered in the streets. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – useless. I know a lot of people who hit the streets in Maine yesterday, and I’m grateful.
Then, settled down to work on the ghostwriting. I had a good session, but didn’t get as far as I hoped. I have to finish today, and then clean it up tomorrow before I send it off. It was comfortable enough to work in my office all day, with the ceiling fan going. I managed to get the inside temperature down to 74F with the fans going, and it never got above 80, which was fine. It was about 84 outside, a couple of degrees cooler than predicted. We were fine with just the ceiling fans during the day.
I started reading a book in the mechanic’s waiting room which I finished later than night that I did not like. I kept reading it because the writing is good, the way the writer creates images and the sentence structure, the musicality of it. Unfortunately, I disliked all the characters intensely, and by the end of it, resented the time I spent in that world. And yet, the writing was very good, and I learned from it, so it wasn’t wasted time.
It’s supposed to get up to 96F today, which, just ick. I’ve only been able to get it down to 78 so far, which means we will need the coolers later today. If I’m uncomfortable, I will go across the street to the library to work in the afternoon to finish the ghostwriting.
I doubt I will make it to yoga tonight, especially if it’s very hot and humid.
It was decent sleeping weather, and I woke up early to get the fans going and start the day. The air was already heavy with humidity.
I used the free-write time to work on a piece from the day’s prompt. I have a sense it will be longer than a flash fiction, either a short story, or maybe a novella. There’s more in there that can be contained in a small cup. I will play with it, between other projects. Once I get this ghostwriting assignment out the door, I will also finish the flash piece I started yesterday.
This new moon has me feeling at a crossroads on a couple of different projects. I have to do some thinking before I make decisions (and I’m certainly not going to make or end commitments during Mercury Retrograde). But I need to make some changes and adjustments in the coming months. Which is a good thing, not a bad thing. I just have to figure them out and then do them, not just react to things going on.
Anyway, that’s the weekend, and now we are in the week itself. I hope you’re having a good one, and taking care of yourself in this weather.
#art #cars #cooking #freelance #justice #poetry #reading #sewing #theatre #writing -
Tues. July 14, 2026: Bracing For More Heat
image courtesy of Stefan Schweihofer from PixabayTuesday, July 14, 2026
New Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Bastille Day
Partly sunny, hot, and humid
Hello, and I hope you had a good weekend. Today is supposed to be brutally hot, and I may pack up and go to work at the library.
July 14/Bastille Day is a day I consider my personal Independence Day from something dating way back to when I lived in San Francisco.
You can read the Community Tarot Reading for the Week here.
On Friday morning, I folded and put away the laundry from the laundromat, and hung up the pieces that couldn’t go in the dryer and came home wet. In the summer, about 40% of what we wear can’t go in the dryer. I have a rolling rack in the storage room, and I also hang pieces up where it makes sense.
I waffled as to whether or not to go out and do my errands, but then I figured I might as well. I headed to a thrift shop I’d visited on Thursday, where I’d gotten some good deals (Mercury Retrograde). There was one thing I left behind that I couldn’t stop thinking about. So I went back first thing to see if it was still there. If it was, I would buy it. If it wasn’t, that’s the way it goes sometimes.
It was there.
I had to look for it, since it had been moved, but it was there.
What is “it”?
A sewing machine. A Brother VX808 sturdy, metal sewing machine from the 1980’s. I got it for $10. I didn’t plug it in to run it at the store, but I did move all the bits to make sure they worked.
Now, I have the expensive Viking-Husqvarna sewing machine I bought when I worked on Broadway, and that I still use. I’m looking for a place to service it around here. It’s a terrific machine, but it’s best for clothes and lighter work. The heavier work, for quilting and art projects, doesn’t do well on that machine, even with a sturdier needle. I need a heavier machine. I loved the Singer Heavy Duty machine I used in-studio at MASS MoCA last fall. I’ve been keeping an eye on that model to possibly buy one, but right now, it’s more than I want to spend. So I’ve been looking in thrift shops, with a budget of around $50. I saw this machine on Thursday, and really liked it, but it was a Brother, not a Singer, so I left it.
And couldn’t stop thinking about it. I was dreaming about it Thursday night.
So now it lives here.
Of course, there’s no manual and Brother no longer has downloadable manuals for it. I think I can get what I need for free online, or maybe an inexpensive PDF. The manual I found for sale is $17, and that’s more than I paid for the machine, so no. Just no. I planned to find threading instructions and run a few tests on it latest by Saturday, since I had until Sunday to return it if something was wrong with it. I mean, you’re not supposed to buy things like electronics, computers, appliances, houses, cars, big ticket items, etc. during Mercury Retrograde, or it will bite you in the butt. But while this is technically “electrical” (since you plug it in and use electricity, not foot pumps), it is a small piece, and very inexpensive ($10), fitting into the Mercury Retrograde realm of finding bargains on cool stuff. We will see. If it turns out to be a disaster, I’m out $10.
But it’s nice and hefty, and no computer crap in it. The Viking doesn’t have anything computerized, either. I don’t want a sewing machine with a computer. The ones owned by friends and colleagues that have all the fancy computer elements often spend more time in repair than in use.
Stay tuned.
I had hoped it would have a metal bobbin, but it has the plastic. So I need to hunt down more plastic bobbins for both machines (since they both take plastic bobbins and I hate them). I have ones that supposedly work for the Viking that I special ordered don’t actually fit.
Anyway, after I got the machine purchased and strapped into the front seat like a recalcitrant child, I stopped at the post office to buy stamps before the price went up on Saturday. So I stockpiled.
Home, put everything away, and settled into the ghostwriting. Had a good session, and relaxed in the evening. I was sad to learn of the death of Bonnie Tyler. Her music is tied to very specific memories in my life.
Up early on Saturday to start the regular routine and the usual Saturday housework chores. Made a curried chicken salad that will tide us over for lunches in hot weather these upcoming days, and also did a batch of vegetable stock in the crockpot.
I tested the thrift store machine, and it works perfectly. I even figured out how to thread it without a manual! I have to get used to it, the feel is very different from the Viking. It’s lovely and sturdy, though, with a steady, nice machine rhythm.
I cleaned the case, which is a somewhat porous plastic. I thought it was a greying beige, probably from age, but when I cleaned the case, it’s actually a lovely cream color. The machine itself is red and yellow and looks cheerful. Now I can move between the two machines, depending on the project. Another really cool feature is a ruler along the bottom of the case.
According to my research, both machines take the same Class 15 bobbin, and the Brother CAN use the metal bobbin as easily as the plastic. I will have to experiment. I much prefer metal bobbins.
That was pretty much the entire day.
I was saddened by the death of actor Randolph Mantooth. I enjoyed his work, and I have a lovely memory of us closing a dive bar in Hell’s Kitchen talking about ways to work together. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, but we had fun trying to figure things out!
Up early on Sunday, morning routine, trying to get it cool inside. Got it down to 73, which was lovely.
Heard about the death of Senator Lindsay Graham. Let’s just say I will not mourn him. Now, stop lying about Mitch McConnell, and let’s get things sorted.
Did the Community Tarot for the Week, which you can read here. Basically, it’s “keep your mouth shut and drink water” this week. Reasonable advice.
I’m delighted that my 10-minute radio suspense radio play “The Cabin in the Woods” was chosen for the 8th season of Mini Shenanigans in the UK. You can read more about it here.
This company produced my 15-minute radio drama “Inspired By” this past spring. “The Cabin in the Woods” will go live sometime between May and August of 2027.
Tended the plants, did more housework. Updated the Pages on Stages website to reflect the last few readings/productions. I thought I’d kept up, but I guess not.
I drafted a new flash fiction piece. I felt stuck, so I looked back at my #31 Prompts I originally posted several Julys ago. The prompt for the 12th was “I felt the sound of the knife’s slice” and that instigated a somewhat creepy piece of micro fiction. It needs work, but at least there are words on paper. I started it in the morning free-write, and then finished it on the computer.
That was pretty much the day. It was warm, but not too hot. I kept thinking of a lot of “should haves” and didn’t.
Rolled my eyes so hard they almost came out of my head at the fake “proof of life” Mitch McConnell’s people put out. The doctored photo of him from several years ago isn’t fooling anyone. The fact that Andy Beshear’s “best” is a strongly-worded letter à la Chuck Schumer means I have no interest in seeing him try to run for president. If he can’t even lead the way to find out the truth about one of his own senators, he can’t lead the country.
As usual, the Democrats are failing miserably, because they’d rather be complicit than effective.
Sad to hear about Sam Neill’s death. He was both talented and filled with integrity.
Up early on Monday, getting the fans on, everyone fed, morning routine. It was Day 325 of the morning free-write sessions, and I wrote about half of a flash fiction piece from the day’s prompt.
I was out the door on time and at the mechanic’s. I got 4 new tires (which I’ve needed for about a year), an oil change/servicing, and the rubber side bumper that was starting to peel back on the passenger side was refastened. A big chunk of change, but the car is much happier, which means I am much happier.
Ran a couple of successful errands on the way home.
Hauled everything up the stairs, got it put away. Got out the emails to the poets for the program information I need. Sent off the draft of the rough assembly of scenes of I WILL BE DIFFERENT to the two people who are kind enough to read such a truly rough assembly. Heard from the anthology editor for the comic noir cat anthology that I will get my edits in the next few days and have to turn them around by the end of the week. We got a preview of the cover, and it is so darn cute. I will share it when I can. The anthology drops on August 25, which is great information, as I’m just starting to work on the content calendar. I will have taken 6 weeks off from marketing, a hit on income, but I needed the break. I will get things back up and running in August. Having the anthology to promote will help.
ICE murdered a man in Texas last week, and one in Maine today. And Dems are busy being nice about Lindsay Graham. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – useless. I know a lot of people who hit the streets in Maine yesterday, and I’m grateful.
Then, settled down to work on the ghostwriting. I had a good session, but didn’t get as far as I hoped. I have to finish today, and then clean it up tomorrow before I send it off. It was comfortable enough to work in my office all day, with the ceiling fan going. I managed to get the inside temperature down to 74F with the fans going, and it never got above 80, which was fine. It was about 84 outside, a couple of degrees cooler than predicted. We were fine with just the ceiling fans during the day.
I started reading a book in the mechanic’s waiting room which I finished later than night that I did not like. I kept reading it because the writing is good, the way the writer creates images and the sentence structure, the musicality of it. Unfortunately, I disliked all the characters intensely, and by the end of it, resented the time I spent in that world. And yet, the writing was very good, and I learned from it, so it wasn’t wasted time.
It’s supposed to get up to 96F today, which, just ick. I’ve only been able to get it down to 78 so far, which means we will need the coolers later today. If I’m uncomfortable, I will go across the street to the library to work in the afternoon to finish the ghostwriting.
I doubt I will make it to yoga tonight, especially if it’s very hot and humid.
It was decent sleeping weather, and I woke up early to get the fans going and start the day. The air was already heavy with humidity.
I used the free-write time to work on a piece from the day’s prompt. I have a sense it will be longer than a flash fiction, either a short story, or maybe a novella. There’s more in there that can be contained in a small cup. I will play with it, between other projects. Once I get this ghostwriting assignment out the door, I will also finish the flash piece I started yesterday.
This new moon has me feeling at a crossroads on a couple of different projects. I have to do some thinking before I make decisions (and I’m certainly not going to make or end commitments during Mercury Retrograde). But I need to make some changes and adjustments in the coming months. Which is a good thing, not a bad thing. I just have to figure them out and then do them, not just react to things going on.
Anyway, that’s the weekend, and now we are in the week itself. I hope you’re having a good one, and taking care of yourself in this weather.
#art #cars #cooking #freelance #justice #poetry #reading #sewing #theatre #writing -
Tues. July 14, 2026: Bracing For More Heat
image courtesy of Stefan Schweihofer from PixabayTuesday, July 14, 2026
New Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Bastille Day
Partly sunny, hot, and humid
Hello, and I hope you had a good weekend. Today is supposed to be brutally hot, and I may pack up and go to work at the library.
July 14/Bastille Day is a day I consider my personal Independence Day from something dating way back to when I lived in San Francisco.
You can read the Community Tarot Reading for the Week here.
On Friday morning, I folded and put away the laundry from the laundromat, and hung up the pieces that couldn’t go in the dryer and came home wet. In the summer, about 40% of what we wear can’t go in the dryer. I have a rolling rack in the storage room, and I also hang pieces up where it makes sense.
I waffled as to whether or not to go out and do my errands, but then I figured I might as well. I headed to a thrift shop I’d visited on Thursday, where I’d gotten some good deals (Mercury Retrograde). There was one thing I left behind that I couldn’t stop thinking about. So I went back first thing to see if it was still there. If it was, I would buy it. If it wasn’t, that’s the way it goes sometimes.
It was there.
I had to look for it, since it had been moved, but it was there.
What is “it”?
A sewing machine. A Brother VX808 sturdy, metal sewing machine from the 1980’s. I got it for $10. I didn’t plug it in to run it at the store, but I did move all the bits to make sure they worked.
Now, I have the expensive Viking-Husqvarna sewing machine I bought when I worked on Broadway, and that I still use. I’m looking for a place to service it around here. It’s a terrific machine, but it’s best for clothes and lighter work. The heavier work, for quilting and art projects, doesn’t do well on that machine, even with a sturdier needle. I need a heavier machine. I loved the Singer Heavy Duty machine I used in-studio at MASS MoCA last fall. I’ve been keeping an eye on that model to possibly buy one, but right now, it’s more than I want to spend. So I’ve been looking in thrift shops, with a budget of around $50. I saw this machine on Thursday, and really liked it, but it was a Brother, not a Singer, so I left it.
And couldn’t stop thinking about it. I was dreaming about it Thursday night.
So now it lives here.
Of course, there’s no manual and Brother no longer has downloadable manuals for it. I think I can get what I need for free online, or maybe an inexpensive PDF. The manual I found for sale is $17, and that’s more than I paid for the machine, so no. Just no. I planned to find threading instructions and run a few tests on it latest by Saturday, since I had until Sunday to return it if something was wrong with it. I mean, you’re not supposed to buy things like electronics, computers, appliances, houses, cars, big ticket items, etc. during Mercury Retrograde, or it will bite you in the butt. But while this is technically “electrical” (since you plug it in and use electricity, not foot pumps), it is a small piece, and very inexpensive ($10), fitting into the Mercury Retrograde realm of finding bargains on cool stuff. We will see. If it turns out to be a disaster, I’m out $10.
But it’s nice and hefty, and no computer crap in it. The Viking doesn’t have anything computerized, either. I don’t want a sewing machine with a computer. The ones owned by friends and colleagues that have all the fancy computer elements often spend more time in repair than in use.
Stay tuned.
I had hoped it would have a metal bobbin, but it has the plastic. So I need to hunt down more plastic bobbins for both machines (since they both take plastic bobbins and I hate them). I have ones that supposedly work for the Viking that I special ordered don’t actually fit.
Anyway, after I got the machine purchased and strapped into the front seat like a recalcitrant child, I stopped at the post office to buy stamps before the price went up on Saturday. So I stockpiled.
Home, put everything away, and settled into the ghostwriting. Had a good session, and relaxed in the evening. I was sad to learn of the death of Bonnie Tyler. Her music is tied to very specific memories in my life.
Up early on Saturday to start the regular routine and the usual Saturday housework chores. Made a curried chicken salad that will tide us over for lunches in hot weather these upcoming days, and also did a batch of vegetable stock in the crockpot.
I tested the thrift store machine, and it works perfectly. I even figured out how to thread it without a manual! I have to get used to it, the feel is very different from the Viking. It’s lovely and sturdy, though, with a steady, nice machine rhythm.
I cleaned the case, which is a somewhat porous plastic. I thought it was a greying beige, probably from age, but when I cleaned the case, it’s actually a lovely cream color. The machine itself is red and yellow and looks cheerful. Now I can move between the two machines, depending on the project. Another really cool feature is a ruler along the bottom of the case.
According to my research, both machines take the same Class 15 bobbin, and the Brother CAN use the metal bobbin as easily as the plastic. I will have to experiment. I much prefer metal bobbins.
That was pretty much the entire day.
I was saddened by the death of actor Randolph Mantooth. I enjoyed his work, and I have a lovely memory of us closing a dive bar in Hell’s Kitchen talking about ways to work together. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, but we had fun trying to figure things out!
Up early on Sunday, morning routine, trying to get it cool inside. Got it down to 73, which was lovely.
Heard about the death of Senator Lindsay Graham. Let’s just say I will not mourn him. Now, stop lying about Mitch McConnell, and let’s get things sorted.
Did the Community Tarot for the Week, which you can read here. Basically, it’s “keep your mouth shut and drink water” this week. Reasonable advice.
I’m delighted that my 10-minute radio suspense radio play “The Cabin in the Woods” was chosen for the 8th season of Mini Shenanigans in the UK. You can read more about it here.
This company produced my 15-minute radio drama “Inspired By” this past spring. “The Cabin in the Woods” will go live sometime between May and August of 2027.
Tended the plants, did more housework. Updated the Pages on Stages website to reflect the last few readings/productions. I thought I’d kept up, but I guess not.
I drafted a new flash fiction piece. I felt stuck in general with my writing, so I looked back at my #31 Prompts I originally posted several Julys ago. The prompt for the 12th was “I felt the sound of the knife’s slice” and that instigated a somewhat creepy piece of micro fiction. It needs work, but at least there are words on paper. I started it in the morning free-write, and then finished it on the computer.
That was pretty much the day. It was warm, but not too hot. I kept thinking of a lot of “should haves” and didn’t.
Rolled my eyes so hard they almost came out of my head at the fake “proof of life” Mitch McConnell’s people put out. The doctored photo of him from several years ago isn’t fooling anyone. The fact that Andy Beshear’s “best” is a strongly-worded letter à la Chuck Schumer means I have no interest in seeing him try to run for president. If he can’t even lead the way to find out the truth about one of his own senators, he can’t lead the country.
As usual, the Democrats are failing miserably, because they’d rather be complicit than effective.
Sad to hear about Sam Neill’s death. He was both talented and filled with integrity.
Up early on Monday, getting the fans on, everyone fed, morning routine. It was Day 325 of the morning free-write sessions, and I wrote about half of a flash fiction piece from the day’s prompt.
I was out the door on time and at the mechanic’s. I got 4 new tires (which I’ve needed for about a year), an oil change/servicing, and the rubber side bumper that was starting to peel back on the passenger side was refastened. A big chunk of change, but the car is much happier, which means I am much happier.
Ran a couple of successful errands on the way home.
Hauled everything up the stairs, got it put away. Got out the emails to the poets for the program information I need. Sent off the draft of the rough assembly of scenes of I WILL BE DIFFERENT to the two people who are kind enough to read such a truly rough assembly. Heard from the anthology editor for the comic noir cat anthology that I will get my edits in the next few days and have to turn them around by the end of the week. We got a preview of the cover, and it is so darn cute. I will share it when I can. The anthology drops on August 25, which is great information, as I’m just starting to work on the content calendar. I will have taken 6 weeks off from marketing, a hit on income, but I needed the break. I will get things back up and running in August. Having the anthology to promote will help.
ICE murdered a man in Texas last week, and one in Maine on Monday. And Dems are busy being nice about Lindsay Graham instead of taking action on people being murdered in the streets. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – useless. I know a lot of people who hit the streets in Maine yesterday, and I’m grateful.
Then, settled down to work on the ghostwriting. I had a good session, but didn’t get as far as I hoped. I have to finish today, and then clean it up tomorrow before I send it off. It was comfortable enough to work in my office all day, with the ceiling fan going. I managed to get the inside temperature down to 74F with the fans going, and it never got above 80, which was fine. It was about 84 outside, a couple of degrees cooler than predicted. We were fine with just the ceiling fans during the day.
I started reading a book in the mechanic’s waiting room which I finished later than night that I did not like. I kept reading it because the writing is good, the way the writer creates images and the sentence structure, the musicality of it. Unfortunately, I disliked all the characters intensely, and by the end of it, resented the time I spent in that world. And yet, the writing was very good, and I learned from it, so it wasn’t wasted time.
It’s supposed to get up to 96F today, which, just ick. I’ve only been able to get it down to 78 so far, which means we will need the coolers later today. If I’m uncomfortable, I will go across the street to the library to work in the afternoon to finish the ghostwriting.
I doubt I will make it to yoga tonight, especially if it’s very hot and humid.
It was decent sleeping weather, and I woke up early to get the fans going and start the day. The air was already heavy with humidity.
I used the free-write time to work on a piece from the day’s prompt. I have a sense it will be longer than a flash fiction, either a short story, or maybe a novella. There’s more in there that can be contained in a small cup. I will play with it, between other projects. Once I get this ghostwriting assignment out the door, I will also finish the flash piece I started yesterday.
This new moon has me feeling at a crossroads on a couple of different projects. I have to do some thinking before I make decisions (and I’m certainly not going to make or end commitments during Mercury Retrograde). But I need to make some changes and adjustments in the coming months. Which is a good thing, not a bad thing. I just have to figure them out and then do them, not just react to things going on.
Anyway, that’s the weekend, and now we are in the week itself. I hope you’re having a good one, and taking care of yourself in this weather.
#art #cars #cooking #freelance #justice #poetry #reading #sewing #theatre #writing -
Tues. July 14, 2026: Bracing For More Heat
image courtesy of Stefan Schweihofer from PixabayTuesday, July 14, 2026
New Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Bastille Day
Partly sunny, hot, and humid
Hello, and I hope you had a good weekend. Today is supposed to be brutally hot, and I may pack up and go to work at the library.
July 14/Bastille Day is a day I consider my personal Independence Day from something dating way back to when I lived in San Francisco.
You can read the Community Tarot Reading for the Week here.
On Friday morning, I folded and put away the laundry from the laundromat, and hung up the pieces that couldn’t go in the dryer and came home wet. In the summer, about 40% of what we wear can’t go in the dryer. I have a rolling rack in the storage room, and I also hang pieces up where it makes sense.
I waffled as to whether or not to go out and do my errands, but then I figured I might as well. I headed to a thrift shop I’d visited on Thursday, where I’d gotten some good deals (Mercury Retrograde). There was one thing I left behind that I couldn’t stop thinking about. So I went back first thing to see if it was still there. If it was, I would buy it. If it wasn’t, that’s the way it goes sometimes.
It was there.
I had to look for it, since it had been moved, but it was there.
What is “it”?
A sewing machine. A Brother VX808 sturdy, metal sewing machine from the 1980’s. I got it for $10. I didn’t plug it in to run it at the store, but I did move all the bits to make sure they worked.
Now, I have the expensive Viking-Husqvarna sewing machine I bought when I worked on Broadway, and that I still use. I’m looking for a place to service it around here. It’s a terrific machine, but it’s best for clothes and lighter work. The heavier work, for quilting and art projects, doesn’t do well on that machine, even with a sturdier needle. I need a heavier machine. I loved the Singer Heavy Duty machine I used in-studio at MASS MoCA last fall. I’ve been keeping an eye on that model to possibly buy one, but right now, it’s more than I want to spend. So I’ve been looking in thrift shops, with a budget of around $50. I saw this machine on Thursday, and really liked it, but it was a Brother, not a Singer, so I left it.
And couldn’t stop thinking about it. I was dreaming about it Thursday night.
So now it lives here.
Of course, there’s no manual and Brother no longer has downloadable manuals for it. I think I can get what I need for free online, or maybe an inexpensive PDF. The manual I found for sale is $17, and that’s more than I paid for the machine, so no. Just no. I planned to find threading instructions and run a few tests on it latest by Saturday, since I had until Sunday to return it if something was wrong with it. I mean, you’re not supposed to buy things like electronics, computers, appliances, houses, cars, big ticket items, etc. during Mercury Retrograde, or it will bite you in the butt. But while this is technically “electrical” (since you plug it in and use electricity, not foot pumps), it is a small piece, and very inexpensive ($10), fitting into the Mercury Retrograde realm of finding bargains on cool stuff. We will see. If it turns out to be a disaster, I’m out $10.
But it’s nice and hefty, and no computer crap in it. The Viking doesn’t have anything computerized, either. I don’t want a sewing machine with a computer. The ones owned by friends and colleagues that have all the fancy computer elements often spend more time in repair than in use.
Stay tuned.
I had hoped it would have a metal bobbin, but it has the plastic. So I need to hunt down more plastic bobbins for both machines (since they both take plastic bobbins and I hate them). I have ones that supposedly work for the Viking that I special ordered don’t actually fit.
Anyway, after I got the machine purchased and strapped into the front seat like a recalcitrant child, I stopped at the post office to buy stamps before the price went up on Saturday. So I stockpiled.
Home, put everything away, and settled into the ghostwriting. Had a good session, and relaxed in the evening. I was sad to learn of the death of Bonnie Tyler. Her music is tied to very specific memories in my life.
Up early on Saturday to start the regular routine and the usual Saturday housework chores. Made a curried chicken salad that will tide us over for lunches in hot weather these upcoming days, and also did a batch of vegetable stock in the crockpot.
I tested the thrift store machine, and it works perfectly. I even figured out how to thread it without a manual! I have to get used to it, the feel is very different from the Viking. It’s lovely and sturdy, though, with a steady, nice machine rhythm.
I cleaned the case, which is a somewhat porous plastic. I thought it was a greying beige, probably from age, but when I cleaned the case, it’s actually a lovely cream color. The machine itself is red and yellow and looks cheerful. Now I can move between the two machines, depending on the project. Another really cool feature is a ruler along the bottom of the case.
According to my research, both machines take the same Class 15 bobbin, and the Brother CAN use the metal bobbin as easily as the plastic. I will have to experiment. I much prefer metal bobbins.
That was pretty much the entire day.
I was saddened by the death of actor Randolph Mantooth. I enjoyed his work, and I have a lovely memory of us closing a dive bar in Hell’s Kitchen talking about ways to work together. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, but we had fun trying to figure things out!
Up early on Sunday, morning routine, trying to get it cool inside. Got it down to 73, which was lovely.
Heard about the death of Senator Lindsay Graham. Let’s just say I will not mourn him. Now, stop lying about Mitch McConnell, and let’s get things sorted.
Did the Community Tarot for the Week, which you can read here. Basically, it’s “keep your mouth shut and drink water” this week. Reasonable advice.
I’m delighted that my 10-minute radio suspense radio play “The Cabin in the Woods” was chosen for the 8th season of Mini Shenanigans in the UK. You can read more about it here.
This company produced my 15-minute radio drama “Inspired By” this past spring. “The Cabin in the Woods” will go live sometime between May and August of 2027.
Tended the plants, did more housework. Updated the Pages on Stages website to reflect the last few readings/productions. I thought I’d kept up, but I guess not.
I drafted a new flash fiction piece. I felt stuck, so I looked back at my #31 Prompts I originally posted several Julys ago. The prompt for the 12th was “I felt the sound of the knife’s slice” and that instigated a somewhat creepy piece of micro fiction. It needs work, but at least there are words on paper. I started it in the morning free-write, and then finished it on the computer.
That was pretty much the day. It was warm, but not too hot. I kept thinking of a lot of “should haves” and didn’t.
Rolled my eyes so hard they almost came out of my head at the fake “proof of life” Mitch McConnell’s people put out. The doctored photo of him from several years ago isn’t fooling anyone. The fact that Andy Beshear’s “best” is a strongly-worded letter à la Chuck Schumer means I have no interest in seeing him try to run for president. If he can’t even lead the way to find out the truth about one of his own senators, he can’t lead the country.
As usual, the Democrats are failing miserably, because they’d rather be complicit than effective.
Sad to hear about Sam Neill’s death. He was both talented and filled with integrity.
Up early on Monday, getting the fans on, everyone fed, morning routine. It was Day 325 of the morning free-write sessions, and I wrote about half of a flash fiction piece from the day’s prompt.
I was out the door on time and at the mechanic’s. I got 4 new tires (which I’ve needed for about a year), an oil change/servicing, and the rubber side bumper that was starting to peel back on the passenger side was refastened. A big chunk of change, but the car is much happier, which means I am much happier.
Ran a couple of successful errands on the way home.
Hauled everything up the stairs, got it put away. Got out the emails to the poets for the program information I need. Sent off the draft of the rough assembly of scenes of I WILL BE DIFFERENT to the two people who are kind enough to read such a truly rough assembly. Heard from the anthology editor for the comic noir cat anthology that I will get my edits in the next few days and have to turn them around by the end of the week. We got a preview of the cover, and it is so darn cute. I will share it when I can. The anthology drops on August 25, which is great information, as I’m just starting to work on the content calendar. I will have taken 6 weeks off from marketing, a hit on income, but I needed the break. I will get things back up and running in August. Having the anthology to promote will help.
ICE murdered a man in Texas last week, and one in Maine today. And Dems are busy being nice about Lindsay Graham. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – useless. I know a lot of people who hit the streets in Maine yesterday, and I’m grateful.
Then, settled down to work on the ghostwriting. I had a good session, but didn’t get as far as I hoped. I have to finish today, and then clean it up tomorrow before I send it off. It was comfortable enough to work in my office all day, with the ceiling fan going. I managed to get the inside temperature down to 74F with the fans going, and it never got above 80, which was fine. It was about 84 outside, a couple of degrees cooler than predicted. We were fine with just the ceiling fans during the day.
I started reading a book in the mechanic’s waiting room which I finished later than night that I did not like. I kept reading it because the writing is good, the way the writer creates images and the sentence structure, the musicality of it. Unfortunately, I disliked all the characters intensely, and by the end of it, resented the time I spent in that world. And yet, the writing was very good, and I learned from it, so it wasn’t wasted time.
It’s supposed to get up to 96F today, which, just ick. I’ve only been able to get it down to 78 so far, which means we will need the coolers later today. If I’m uncomfortable, I will go across the street to the library to work in the afternoon to finish the ghostwriting.
I doubt I will make it to yoga tonight, especially if it’s very hot and humid.
It was decent sleeping weather, and I woke up early to get the fans going and start the day. The air was already heavy with humidity.
I used the free-write time to work on a piece from the day’s prompt. I have a sense it will be longer than a flash fiction, either a short story, or maybe a novella. There’s more in there that can be contained in a small cup. I will play with it, between other projects. Once I get this ghostwriting assignment out the door, I will also finish the flash piece I started yesterday.
This new moon has me feeling at a crossroads on a couple of different projects. I have to do some thinking before I make decisions (and I’m certainly not going to make or end commitments during Mercury Retrograde). But I need to make some changes and adjustments in the coming months. Which is a good thing, not a bad thing. I just have to figure them out and then do them, not just react to things going on.
Anyway, that’s the weekend, and now we are in the week itself. I hope you’re having a good one, and taking care of yourself in this weather.
#art #cars #cooking #freelance #justice #poetry #reading #sewing #theatre #writing -
Tues. July 14, 2026: Bracing For More Heat
image courtesy of Stefan Schweihofer from PixabayTuesday, July 14, 2026
New Moon
Pluto, Mercury, Neptune Retrograde
Bastille Day
Partly sunny, hot, and humid
Hello, and I hope you had a good weekend. Today is supposed to be brutally hot, and I may pack up and go to work at the library.
July 14/Bastille Day is a day I consider my personal Independence Day from something dating way back to when I lived in San Francisco.
You can read the Community Tarot Reading for the Week here.
On Friday morning, I folded and put away the laundry from the laundromat, and hung up the pieces that couldn’t go in the dryer and came home wet. In the summer, about 40% of what we wear can’t go in the dryer. I have a rolling rack in the storage room, and I also hang pieces up where it makes sense.
I waffled as to whether or not to go out and do my errands, but then I figured I might as well. I headed to a thrift shop I’d visited on Thursday, where I’d gotten some good deals (Mercury Retrograde). There was one thing I left behind that I couldn’t stop thinking about. So I went back first thing to see if it was still there. If it was, I would buy it. If it wasn’t, that’s the way it goes sometimes.
It was there.
I had to look for it, since it had been moved, but it was there.
What is “it”?
A sewing machine. A Brother VX808 sturdy, metal sewing machine from the 1980’s. I got it for $10. I didn’t plug it in to run it at the store, but I did move all the bits to make sure they worked.
Now, I have the expensive Viking-Husqvarna sewing machine I bought when I worked on Broadway, and that I still use. I’m looking for a place to service it around here. It’s a terrific machine, but it’s best for clothes and lighter work. The heavier work, for quilting and art projects, doesn’t do well on that machine, even with a sturdier needle. I need a heavier machine. I loved the Singer Heavy Duty machine I used in-studio at MASS MoCA last fall. I’ve been keeping an eye on that model to possibly buy one, but right now, it’s more than I want to spend. So I’ve been looking in thrift shops, with a budget of around $50. I saw this machine on Thursday, and really liked it, but it was a Brother, not a Singer, so I left it.
And couldn’t stop thinking about it. I was dreaming about it Thursday night.
So now it lives here.
Of course, there’s no manual and Brother no longer has downloadable manuals for it. I think I can get what I need for free online, or maybe an inexpensive PDF. The manual I found for sale is $17, and that’s more than I paid for the machine, so no. Just no. I planned to find threading instructions and run a few tests on it latest by Saturday, since I had until Sunday to return it if something was wrong with it. I mean, you’re not supposed to buy things like electronics, computers, appliances, houses, cars, big ticket items, etc. during Mercury Retrograde, or it will bite you in the butt. But while this is technically “electrical” (since you plug it in and use electricity, not foot pumps), it is a small piece, and very inexpensive ($10), fitting into the Mercury Retrograde realm of finding bargains on cool stuff. We will see. If it turns out to be a disaster, I’m out $10.
But it’s nice and hefty, and no computer crap in it. The Viking doesn’t have anything computerized, either. I don’t want a sewing machine with a computer. The ones owned by friends and colleagues that have all the fancy computer elements often spend more time in repair than in use.
Stay tuned.
I had hoped it would have a metal bobbin, but it has the plastic. So I need to hunt down more plastic bobbins for both machines (since they both take plastic bobbins and I hate them). I have ones that supposedly work for the Viking that I special ordered don’t actually fit.
Anyway, after I got the machine purchased and strapped into the front seat like a recalcitrant child, I stopped at the post office to buy stamps before the price went up on Saturday. So I stockpiled.
Home, put everything away, and settled into the ghostwriting. Had a good session, and relaxed in the evening. I was sad to learn of the death of Bonnie Tyler. Her music is tied to very specific memories in my life.
Up early on Saturday to start the regular routine and the usual Saturday housework chores. Made a curried chicken salad that will tide us over for lunches in hot weather these upcoming days, and also did a batch of vegetable stock in the crockpot.
I tested the thrift store machine, and it works perfectly. I even figured out how to thread it without a manual! I have to get used to it, the feel is very different from the Viking. It’s lovely and sturdy, though, with a steady, nice machine rhythm.
I cleaned the case, which is a somewhat porous plastic. I thought it was a greying beige, probably from age, but when I cleaned the case, it’s actually a lovely cream color. The machine itself is red and yellow and looks cheerful. Now I can move between the two machines, depending on the project. Another really cool feature is a ruler along the bottom of the case.
According to my research, both machines take the same Class 15 bobbin, and the Brother CAN use the metal bobbin as easily as the plastic. I will have to experiment. I much prefer metal bobbins.
That was pretty much the entire day.
I was saddened by the death of actor Randolph Mantooth. I enjoyed his work, and I have a lovely memory of us closing a dive bar in Hell’s Kitchen talking about ways to work together. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, but we had fun trying to figure things out!
Up early on Sunday, morning routine, trying to get it cool inside. Got it down to 73, which was lovely.
Heard about the death of Senator Lindsay Graham. Let’s just say I will not mourn him. Now, stop lying about Mitch McConnell, and let’s get things sorted.
Did the Community Tarot for the Week, which you can read here. Basically, it’s “keep your mouth shut and drink water” this week. Reasonable advice.
I’m delighted that my 10-minute radio suspense radio play “The Cabin in the Woods” was chosen for the 8th season of Mini Shenanigans in the UK. You can read more about it here.
This company produced my 15-minute radio drama “Inspired By” this past spring. “The Cabin in the Woods” will go live sometime between May and August of 2027.
Tended the plants, did more housework. Updated the Pages on Stages website to reflect the last few readings/productions. I thought I’d kept up, but I guess not.
I drafted a new flash fiction piece. I felt stuck, so I looked back at my #31 Prompts I originally posted several Julys ago. The prompt for the 12th was “I felt the sound of the knife’s slice” and that instigated a somewhat creepy piece of micro fiction. It needs work, but at least there are words on paper. I started it in the morning free-write, and then finished it on the computer.
That was pretty much the day. It was warm, but not too hot. I kept thinking of a lot of “should haves” and didn’t.
Rolled my eyes so hard they almost came out of my head at the fake “proof of life” Mitch McConnell’s people put out. The doctored photo of him from several years ago isn’t fooling anyone. The fact that Andy Beshear’s “best” is a strongly-worded letter à la Chuck Schumer means I have no interest in seeing him try to run for president. If he can’t even lead the way to find out the truth about one of his own senators, he can’t lead the country.
As usual, the Democrats are failing miserably, because they’d rather be complicit than effective.
Sad to hear about Sam Neill’s death. He was both talented and filled with integrity.
Up early on Monday, getting the fans on, everyone fed, morning routine. It was Day 325 of the morning free-write sessions, and I wrote about half of a flash fiction piece from the day’s prompt.
I was out the door on time and at the mechanic’s. I got 4 new tires (which I’ve needed for about a year), an oil change/servicing, and the rubber side bumper that was starting to peel back on the passenger side was refastened. A big chunk of change, but the car is much happier, which means I am much happier.
Ran a couple of successful errands on the way home.
Hauled everything up the stairs, got it put away. Got out the emails to the poets for the program information I need. Sent off the draft of the rough assembly of scenes of I WILL BE DIFFERENT to the two people who are kind enough to read such a truly rough assembly. Heard from the anthology editor for the comic noir cat anthology that I will get my edits in the next few days and have to turn them around by the end of the week. We got a preview of the cover, and it is so darn cute. I will share it when I can. The anthology drops on August 25, which is great information, as I’m just starting to work on the content calendar. I will have taken 6 weeks off from marketing, a hit on income, but I needed the break. I will get things back up and running in August. Having the anthology to promote will help.
ICE murdered a man in Texas last week, and one in Maine today. And Dems are busy being nice about Lindsay Graham. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – useless. I know a lot of people who hit the streets in Maine yesterday, and I’m grateful.
Then, settled down to work on the ghostwriting. I had a good session, but didn’t get as far as I hoped. I have to finish today, and then clean it up tomorrow before I send it off. It was comfortable enough to work in my office all day, with the ceiling fan going. I managed to get the inside temperature down to 74F with the fans going, and it never got above 80, which was fine. It was about 84 outside, a couple of degrees cooler than predicted. We were fine with just the ceiling fans during the day.
I started reading a book in the mechanic’s waiting room which I finished later than night that I did not like. I kept reading it because the writing is good, the way the writer creates images and the sentence structure, the musicality of it. Unfortunately, I disliked all the characters intensely, and by the end of it, resented the time I spent in that world. And yet, the writing was very good, and I learned from it, so it wasn’t wasted time.
It’s supposed to get up to 96F today, which, just ick. I’ve only been able to get it down to 78 so far, which means we will need the coolers later today. If I’m uncomfortable, I will go across the street to the library to work in the afternoon to finish the ghostwriting.
I doubt I will make it to yoga tonight, especially if it’s very hot and humid.
It was decent sleeping weather, and I woke up early to get the fans going and start the day. The air was already heavy with humidity.
I used the free-write time to work on a piece from the day’s prompt. I have a sense it will be longer than a flash fiction, either a short story, or maybe a novella. There’s more in there that can be contained in a small cup. I will play with it, between other projects. Once I get this ghostwriting assignment out the door, I will also finish the flash piece I started yesterday.
This new moon has me feeling at a crossroads on a couple of different projects. I have to do some thinking before I make decisions (and I’m certainly not going to make or end commitments during Mercury Retrograde). But I need to make some changes and adjustments in the coming months. Which is a good thing, not a bad thing. I just have to figure them out and then do them, not just react to things going on.
Anyway, that’s the weekend, and now we are in the week itself. I hope you’re having a good one, and taking care of yourself in this weather.
#art #cars #cooking #freelance #justice #poetry #reading #sewing #theatre #writing
