Woke in one of the most.....pleasant ways. I'll not go into details, but suffice it to say, my Meaniebutt is quite possibly the most imaginative and considerate, not to mention the most deliciously dirty lover I've ever had.

After lounging around for a bit, enjoying our quiet morning. Then I cooked him breakfast. Which is kinda amazing, since I never cook. Couldn't have been that bad, he cleaned his plate. After we could finally focus and stop snuggling, cuddling, smooching, and all sorts of other diabetes inducing behavior and get dressed. We took off.

After gassing up my truck, we hit the road. The plan was no plan. All we knew was we had 5 or 6 hours to kill. So, off we went. Stopped at a few different parks and recreation areas I'd passed a million times, but never took the time to explore. All kinds of beauty, and even more beautiful because we got to discover it together.

In keeping with the nature theme of the day, I took Meanie to a nearby state park/garden. I had been there once, when a friend of mine got married in front of the fully restored plantation mansion on the property, and I'd always thought it was so pretty out there. And we're only in the planning stages, dreaming, really. But we've already proven that dreams comes true, so why stop now? Anyway, there's this tree. A massive, majestic ancient oak tree on the property. It's called the wedding tree, for obvious reasons. You can feel the love radiate from it. So we've decided. This will be where our ceremony will be, one day. Eventually... lol The pic is deceiving,as it was taken from wayyyyyyyyyyy across the field.


Left there and had the first "commercial" stop of the day. Took him to what used to be a quaint, adorable little beachside town I remember from when we'd skip school in highschool. ....OMG. I was embarrassed I took him to such a trendy, upscale, bullshit piece of tourist trap I've ever seen. Times do change. Luckily, the market I remember was still there, and still carried off the wall, hard to find spices, jellies, sauces, pickled veggies, and beer! Got Meanie a 6 pack of pecan beer, and a jar of supposedly super hot habenero salsa. Tried it. Disappointing.

We hightail it outta retail hell and get us some messican for lunch/dinner. I love how Meanie'll look a a menu, flip through it, then just toss it aside and ask me to order for him. *grin* Haven't failed him yet.

Of course, we went to the beach. Stood in ankle/knee deep in the water and just talked. Laughed. Kissed. Touched. Had to head home then, but got there in time to head to the bay so I could finally share with him the sunset's I've been watching since I came down. Nature didn't disappoint.


Life is so fucking beautiful, my friends.

So today is D-day. The day I tested for Asst. Manager (again) AND the day my Meaniebutt drives down to see me/job hunt.

I was so damn nervous about the stupid tests I woke up at 3:30am. I didn't have to be there till 8. Lol. Went back to sleep, and thank fuck my parents wanted to take me to breakfast before the test and woke me up, because my dumb ass didn't reset my alarm.

I get there 30 minutes early, so I can chain-smoke for 15 minutes before going in. True story. If you're supposed to be somewhere at 8am and you show up at 7:55.... you're late in my book. Anyway, it's just the store manager, and asst. store manager of the host store, and the guy giving the test, who is kinda a big deal in the company. We sit around and BS and swap war stories for a good 20 minutes and I'm wondering where the fuck are all the other people taking the test?!?

Lmfao, after I asked, we all look outside the room and there they all are....too afraid to walk into the room thinking they're interrupting a meeting or something. I LOL'd with the three suits. Hell, I walked right in, shook their hands and introduced myself when I got there.

Take the first test, which is mindblowingly dull, as it's a video test, and they seriously wait like 15 minutes for people to answer a question on the test paper before moving on. I doodled on the scratch paper and nodded off a few times.

Quick break (smokesmokesmoke) and we take the 2nd test. We have 45 minutes to answer 85 questions. Things like "in your current job, you are most satisfied" a. Helping people b.doing a task well c. Leading a group. Etc etc etc.... I'm done in 20. I know exactly what they want to hear, a mixture of leadership, confidence in ones self, and customer service skills. I go out again to chain-smoke while the other 3 finish.

Head back in, and am chatting with 2 of the other guys. One (and the only one of the three) was smart enough to dress in business casual. One was wearing his baker's whites, and the other was wearing shorts and a T-shirt. *face palm*The one in business casual (older than me, the other two are younger) asked me what store I worked at. When I told him, he said, "Sweet! That's the store I'm going for! They need an assistant" I told him to head to the back of the line, buddy. My store manager has all but promised me I'll be staying. This won me no points with any
of my other test takers.....

The 3rd test was the one I was sweating. Department knowledge. Where they ask job specific questions, and ya gotta know your shit. I opened the book.....and heaved a 3 ton sigh of relief. I so totally got this. I'm a fast reader, damn near a speed reader. So I usually take tests fast as well. I'll read an entire page, picking my answers, then go back and carefully make sure I've got the question number and answer letter perfectly correct. (I hate those stupid fill in the bubble tests)

Out of 73 questions, there is one that I KNOW I got wrong (totes looked up stuff when I got back to my store. And there is one I guessed on. Which drives me bat shit-insane crazy. Because I had a feeling 3 days ago it would be on the test, and I tore the bakery apart looking for the guide on it, but couldn't find it. Every other question I felt a lil "eh" about, I looked up and found that I was right.

So. Possibly 2 out of 73 wrong. I'd say that's acceptable!!! As my manager said, you have to miss at least 2.....or they might think ya cheated! Anyway, was done in 22 minutes. So put my test where dude was sitting and walked out.

Went to find dude, and found him with the store manager AND the district manager. I shook all three hands (firmly, I despise weak hand shakers). Thanked testing guy for everything. Thanked the store manager for letting us use his office space, and winked at the district manager, saying that I'm sure I'll be seeing him again real soon. Thankfully, they all laughed. Testing dude said he hoped I did well on the tests, to which I replied, "Oh yeah. I did." And pulled out my old Asst. Manager name tag, flashed it, and said he could just pin it on now and save time. Again, laughter. There is a very fine line between cockiness and confidence, people. And I tightrope that shit.

Now, within an hour, my heart comes back to me!!!! I've missed him so very much. All I can think about is kissing him......*grins* we've got reservations at a hotel on the beach this weekend. Expect pics!!!

One of Meanie's co-workers is sick. Like....the type of sick they put an expiration date on you sick. I've spoken with her a time or two. *shakes head* I couldn't imagine, and I hope I never have to.

What this means for us, other than Meanie losing a co-worker and a friend, is he might also lose his vacation in 2 days. I could tell he was NOT happy to tell me about this, for both reasons. As he told me, I already knew what might happen. If they take his vacation away, simple. I drive the fuck up there and spend 3 days in his arms, taking in the beauty that the area has to offer.

No matter what happens.....this is the last "visit" trip either of us have, unless we're visiting his kids and friends up there later. I know I've spent years dating someone hundreds of miles away. I won't do it again. I will move heaven and earth to make shit happen. WE will make this work. I have zero doubts. It's just..... gonna be that way.


So let it be written.....

I love my associates. I really do. Ma ex-military dude is hilarious, with a super dry wit ya'll know kills me.

Anytime he closes, he'll park behind me out in the depths of the Sahara (aka, the parking lot) Usually I'm his mid-shift. And I usually like to eat lunch sitting on the tailgate of my truck. The last time he closed and I was his mid-shift, he parked SO close I couldn't swing my feet while sitting on my tailgate without kicking his bumper. So I told him that he could TOTALLY park WAY closer next time... I mean, I could rest my feet on his hood, rather than let them dangle!!

So today, he's closing. I clock out and say 'night. Head out towards my truck and totally break up laughing halfway there... that ASSHOLE!


LMFAO. After I got done laughing, I sat on the tailgate (while it was up....since I COULDN'T put it down), and put my lil footprints all over the hood of his car. NEENER NEENER! Then I called the store.... He answered. "Hi! Thank you for calling ******. This is ******, how may I help you?" I say "You can learn not to park like an asshole, ya jerkface!" and hung up... *gigglesnorts* I can't wait till tomorrow when he goes outside and sees lil Kricket footprints all over his hood....

In other news... THREEEEEEEEEEEEE days!!!!!!!!!!!! I've been so excited, I not only forget about my test, I forget I have the season premier of sons of anarchy in TWO days!! *happydances*

We're down to FOUR DAYS!!! Gawd, I can not wait to have him back with me. Skype, text and phone is okay. But seriously, nothing can replace the feel of flesh on flesh. A hard hug when you're feeling down, a kiss when you first wake, a hand holding yours as you walk.....

I've been so excited to see him again I've all but forgotten to be nervous about my Asst. Managers test. The only time I *do* remember it, is when the Store Manager, Asst. Store Manager or (jeepers!) the DISTRICT Manager reminds me.

This sounds super cocky, and it might be. But I'm not worried. I got this. I passed last time only missing one question. And THIS time, well....this time I have the supreme reward waiting for me once I finish. Not an Assistant Manager position, but my darlin. In the flesh. With hugs and kisses galore. I know that passing this test is just one more step towards what looks to be an amazing life with the man I love.

I'm not worried because he has so much faith in me. He *knows* I got this, so I must have it. Simple. I'm thankful for such a supportive, wonderful man.

I've been so damn mad all day. Someone keyed my mom's car while her and my dad were eating lunch at a restaurant. It's a 2013 model, for fucks sake!

She has quite a few bumper stickers on the back, one of which reads, "I carry a gun because a cop is too heavy" and another features the virgin Mary and say something about life beginning at conception. The only thing I can think of was some dickhead douchenozzle is either Pro-Gun Control, or ProChoice.

Either way, what the fuck, people?!? My parents are two of the nicest, most understanding and forgiving people I know. They are also AMAZINGLY tolerant to viewpoints different from their own. How forgiving are they? When my mom posted on FB about her car getting keyed, she also said she'd be praying that they find peace and that the spirit would enter them. O.o How am I that saint's child? Because I'd be swinging a baseball bat in a circle, calling for someone's head.

I seriously don't get it. Look, I have strong views myself, on very polarizing issues, Gay marriage, gun rights, abortion, etc etc etc. But I'm not gonna deface someone's possessions just because they have an opposing viewpoint! Most people work hard to get and maintain their vehicles.. trust me, I'm saving up for a car as we speak. Just....ugh.

Whoever did it better be happy that my mom and dad-doo are praying for them, because I got a Louisville slugger just WAITING for some windshield time....

The countdown continues... and this is my last day off until my beloved Meaniebutt comes rolling back into town. I think I spent it well. Had lunch with my momma. We try at least once a month to have a lunch just me and her. I spent 5 long years away from my parents, and that was harder than I thought it would be. We're a very close family. I can and do tell my parents everything, and they accept and love me however I am, or what I choose to do. It means SO damn much to me that they adore Meanie like they do, and he loves them just as much.

Anyway, after lunch went shopping. Picked up a new shirt for work, a pair of shorts that fit too perfectly NOT to buy, a very pretty fancy ankle length skirt, and a corset/garter combo that's just so sweet with it's pale blue lace. I also found a pretty sweet pilsner glass I picked up as a going away gift for Ratta. Has an old skool-esq heart with wings and a banner which reads "Love conquers all". Which is true of both our situations.

Had our meetup at "OUR" bar. It was bittersweet. I call Ratta my soul sister, because.....well, she just is. We've been through a lot of the same things. And now we're saying goodbye. I'm so very very happy for her and her man. They are adorable together, and I love seeing Ratta in love and so happy. It's a thing of beauty, ya'll. I didn't want any tears when we said goodbye, so I did it band-aid style. Quick. I know, we'll still have NN and FB, as well as phone or text....but she's been my safety net since I came back home. I never did, but I knew if everything got to be too much, I could make the call and she'd be right there. Her timing is impeccable, as always. She leaves me in the very capable hands of my CB, as I entrust her happiness and care to her man. (He knows I AND Meanie will think nothing of taking a few days off, road trippin, and kicking the ever loving shit outta him if he hurts her. Just to be certain, it's in writing now. *smiles sweetly*)

After I left the bar, I was driving along the beach and just had to stop. Got a beer from a beach side bar and took my heels off, and went for a walk. I've had a lot on my mind, and walking along in the cool waves let's me think. About all the changes I've been planning, hoping, and dreaming for and about. It's finally happening. Work, Meanie, I've even found us a sweet lil cottage to rent until we find something more permanent. It isn't very big. I kinda prefer it that way. The perfect little "honeymooner's" place.

Left the beach, but I was feeling just too sexy and fierce in my short lil sundress and mile high strappy heels to go home just yet. So I walked around the outdoor mall, browsing. I did stop in Victoria Secrets to pick up a pair of silky thigh highs to go with my earlier purchase....and some of my favorite perfume, the one that makes me feel sexy and beautiful and all grrrrr.

CRAP!! Forgot the massage oil from Bath and Body works!! Meh....I have 7 days... Decided to splurge and get us a room on the beach for a night, complete with a jacuzzi tub. Meanie has promised after a nice long soak, a full body massage, with some parts massaged more than others. *grin* I'm so fucking spoiled.

The countdown continues... and this is my last day off until my beloved Meaniebutt comes rolling back into town. I think I spent it well. Had lunch with my momma. We try at least once a month to have a lunch just me and her. I spent 5 long years away from my parents, and that was harder than I thought it would be. We're a very close family. I can and do tell my parents everything, and they accept and love me however I am, or what I choose to do. It means SO damn much to me that they adore Meanie like they do, and he loves them just as much.

Anyway, after lunch went shopping. Picked up a new shirt for work, a pair of shorts that fit too perfectly NOT to buy, a very pretty fancy ankle length skirt, and a corset/garter combo that's just so sweet with it's pale blue lace. I also found a pretty sweet pilsner glass I picked up as a going away gift for Ratta. Has an old skool-esq heart with wings and a banner which reads "Love conquers all". Which is true of both our situations.

Had our meetup at "OUR" bar. It was bittersweet. I call Ratta my soul sister, because.....well, she just is. We've been through a lot of the same things. And now we're saying goodbye. I'm so very very happy for her and her man. They are adorable together, and I love seeing Ratta in love and so happy. It's a thing of beauty, ya'll. I didn't want any tears when we said goodbye, so I did it band-aid style. Quick. I know, we'll still have NN and FB, as well as phone or text....but she's been my safety net since I came back home. I never did, but I knew if everything got to be too much, I could make the call and she'd be right there. Her timing is impeccable, as always. She leaves me in the very capable hands of my CB, as I entrust her happiness and care to her man. (He knows I AND Meanie will think nothing of taking a few days off, road trippin, and kicking the ever loving shit outta him if he hurts her. Just to be certain, it's in writing now. *smiles sweetly*)

After I left the bar, I was driving along the beach and just had to stop. Got a beer from a beach side bar and took my heels off, and went for a walk. I've had a lot on my mind, and walking along in the cool waves let's me think. About all the changes I've been planning, hoping, and dreaming for and about. It's finally happening. Work, Meanie, I've even found us a sweet lil cottage to rent until we find something more permanent. It isn't very big. I kinda prefer it that way. The perfect little "honeymooner's" place.

Left the beach, but I was feeling just too sexy and fierce in my short lil sundress and mile high strappy heels to go home just yet. So I walked around the outdoor mall, browsing. I did stop in Victoria Secrets to pick up a pair of silky thigh highs to go with my earlier purchase....and some of my favorite perfume, the one that makes me feel sexy and beautiful and all grrrrr.

CRAP!! Forgot the massage oil from Bath and Body works!! Meh....I have 7 days... Decided to splurge and get us a room on the beach for a night, complete with a jacuzzi tub. Meanie has promised after a nice long soak, a full body massage, with some parts massaged more than others. *grin* I'm so fucking spoiled.

8 days.... just 8 more days until Meaniebutt is back where he belongs, in my arms and in my bed. If you'd like, I could give you the estimated "exact" time when I'll get to put my lips on his....but pretty sure we're the only two who honestly give a shit about that.

It's amazing how a man who is supposedly so violent, misogynistic, hateful, hurtful, and just plain ole mean could possibly be so very loving, affectionate, sweet, understanding, generous, and thoughtful.

The last time he came down to visit, I didn't get much for days off. I'd tried, but it just wasn't possible. Let me tell ya, coming home to Meanie after 9 hours on my feet? Awesome.....I almost wanna suggest he be a house husband, so I can get the perks! lmfao

In 8 days I'll have him back with me....Gawd how I miss the little things. The kisses when I'm not expecting them, the whispers of love in my ears, and....omfg.....the grabbing, pressing against the wall, and kissing the fuck outta me as I'm on the way to put clothes in the washer.....

Meaniebutt's been my best friend for so many years now. I've always loved him. I wish I had realized how very much and how deeply I would years and years ago.... Woulda saved everyone a buncha time and heartache...

So to my Meanie....I dedicate this....

I went into work after my glorious three days off.... and get down to it. I'm the "pack-out" person, meaning I work the counter, helping customers and put all the baked goodies into their containers, keeping the sales floor stocked.

I love when I get to pack-out. I am in heaven. When there's no customers around, it's asses and elbows, getting as much packed as I can. When there ARE custos around?AWESOME! I did everything from the simplest task of introducing a new shopper to our cookie program (kids get a free cookie whenever they come in), to running across the store to find an item a customer wanted and bringing it back to her while she was waiting for her deli order. I LOVE this shit ya'll. I like making people happy. When I'm at work....my main goal is to MAKE people happy....

Anyway, I went off on a rant.....MY NEWS!!!! So there I was, slicing bread and bagging it, when the store manager (S) walks up and starts to talk to me. I have to cut the convo short, as there's a lady looking a bit lost at the decorated cake case. I get her the cake she needs, write on it, and am handing it back as he starts to chat again. I give him an apologetic look and a shoulder shrug as I head off to help a gent with his choice of rolls....which leads me to walking him over to produce and discussing (at length) the best choice of tomato for his BBQ.....

I FINALLY get back to the bakery, where he is still waiting. I apologise, but he keeps telling me it's okay. They come first. Then he hands me a thick stack of papers. It's official. I am ON the test roster for Assistant Bakery Manager. The test is Sept. 11. I KNOW I got this, but I was sweating, having not heard anything official yet, and it being only 10 days away. Paperwork gets lost, people forget to send things in.....

And this is SO not even the best news of the day!!!!

A few hours later, my dept.manager (C) is in. I'm once again at the bread slicer, asses and elbows during a slow moment. Store manager comes up to talk to C. They are standing not 3 feet away from me. I catch a little bit of their conversation. S said to C "She's just got to pass the test, and last time she took it, she only missed 1 question, so I'm not worried"

..........HUH?!?! Honestly, I didn't give two shits about my scores last time I took the test, as I was promoted a week or two later......Are they talking about ME?!?!

*loud ass bread slicer noise as I'm slicing*

"So she'll be working 50 a week and (B) will be stepping down to 30 hours a week". B is our assistant manager, a kick ass lady who works harder than I do, but is fighting an amazing amount of health issues. At this point, I don't even pretend to be NOT listening and look at them.

That's when S turns to me and asks if I can handle 50 hours a week. My reply, "With all due respect, sir. Have you NOT seen the hours I've been working since I got here?!?"

They laugh and S gives me a nod as he walks away.......

I was told by EVERY manager here that S is almost God-like in his unwillingness to promote an associate to a management position within the store. He wants them shipped out. As the deli manager said when I toldher the news..." Daymmmmm woman! You must a done something right!!"

So as long as I don't fuck up this test.............