Back in February, when I was planning my spring schedule, there were 2 events in April which I really wanted to attend. I was afraid that taking 2 weeks off from work was too much for finances, as I have no income at all in July & August. However, I felt that these were opportunities I didn't want to miss, so I made the decision to go.

The first event was our get-together in Las Vegas, which as you all know, was simply fantastic!

The second event, this past Friday-Sunday, was an annual poetry convention and workshop which I had not been to in 3 years. It moves around the state and hadn't been in SoCali for 4 years, and I really wanted to take advantage. This was really fantastic too, and I'm so glad I went!

Here's the kicker: (and now you'll see that my title was not a typo) -- the weekend of the BWS party, I came home to almost 100 degree temperature. This past weekend, it hit 101. Even if I stayed home, I would not have been able to sell at Hollywood. Temps that hot are guaranteed migraines (plus almost no customers) -- so I would be kicking myself for staying home from activities I really wanted to do.

So it turns out I made the right decision for TWO reasons -- the one I knew about (really wanting to attend these events) and the one I couldn't foresee -- our lovely insane weather.

I consider that a blessing.

I recently heard a preacher say, "Change your thinking, when confronted with problems. Tell yourself, [It's not happening 2 me, it's happening 4 me.]
God places us where we need 2 B, when we need 2 B there.
All things work together 4 good 2 them that love The Lord.
Or something like that???
jabber

Absolutely, you were blessed and wise to recognize it as such.

Plus you won in Vegas and won at BWS so hopefully that helped cover your travel costs!

I for one am glad you came to Vegas, you are such a pleasure to be around and hey, you won some cash...The weekend would't have been as much fun without your presence, and you even sold a bit of jewery to boot...Your guardian Angel was watching out for you all the way around.

Thanks Chatty and Dotsie! I tend to choose the joy of life over money, and worry about cash later. (which is why I'll never be rich!) Experiences and opportunities sometimes just come once, and I believe in following my heart. When I'm older and poorer, at least I'll be able to look back and say "I had a great time."

On the practical side -- yes, I came out a little bit ahead of financial expenses in Vegas, but immensely richer because of the wonderful friends I met.

And yes, I think Goddess/God/Universe is watching out for me.

Meredith, I too believe in followig my heart and also recognize that one of the greatest compensations will be down the road when I look back and say, "boy, what a ride!" So I couldn't agree with you more.

I think each of us was blessed by the trip to Lost Wages...