It’s the first Monday of September. That means it’s Labor Day here in the States–the unofficial-official end of Summer. Now if Summer would just get the hint and take a hike. I am sooo ready for Fall.

For many, like office and government workers, this is a holiday. Folks got a 3-day weekend. For folks in service industries, first responders, and retail, it’s just another–if somewhat busier–day at work. Sometimes, we’d get holiday pay ie. time and a half. Also, if you’re a writer, it’s also just another day unless you consciously take the day off. Anyway…

I voted last week off the island and then on Saturday, sent it a pink slip. It is officially fired. As y’all know, we lost Jake on Monday. I’m coping but I still get misty-eyed at odd times. There’s a big hole in my heart. It will get smaller with time. Toby is being a sweet boy but he’s nowhere close to being ready for “prime time.” He is sitting better and going “down” on command. Getting in the car? Nope. Not even for salmon sticks. But we’re working on it. Saturday, we received a very sweet note from our vet with ink prints of his front paws and his nose. Late in the evening on Friday night, Only called. Their pupper, Dozer, was having trouble walking and she wanted info on emergency vets. Dozer was a GSD and was at least 10. It was his time to cross the Rainbow Bridge. So yeah, lousy week for the James Gang.

In somewhat happier news, I saw hummingbirds at the feeder and I won Thursday Threads. Still, not enough to keep the week from being kept on the payroll.

It’s a new week and time to get on regular track. I’ll be getting back to work on Ariel’s Damn Book. It’s time. I’ll be working with Toby each day, trying to entice him into the car so we can go get a pup cup. He likes pup cups. I’m hoping that reward after a drive and the training treats to get him into the car will work and then he can start going places with me..

I’m about to finish up my Rock Chick marathon listen. It’s been a fun ride and an easy way to fill in the blank spots and partially take my mind off the empty spaces. While they would drive me crazy if they were real rather than fictional, there’s still a part of me that wishes I actually knew them and could drop into Fortnum’s Book Store for one of Tex’s coffees and sit on the couch to watch the shenanigans. Their antics and predicaments make me laugh and roll my eyes at the same time. Also, the Hot Bunch is hot. Kristen Ashley has a touch.

On that note, I’m going to drink my morning coffee, surf the net a while, and then I’m going to lay down new words or else. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it. Enjoy your day if you are celebrating. Don’t work too hard if that’s your lot. Be safe and stay cool.