Author: admin

As I have mentioned in previous posts, I have had more problems with this vendor than I would care to remember.  Every time I would go to the foundry I would end up so sick because they would be threatening to charge me more. More money was already added to their additional bid. I’m stuck here, and I have to just bide my time. They were supposed to have the project done by a certain date, and I received a call a few weeks ago saying that they could not meet the deadline. I know my clients were going to be pissed, but frankly, after what we have been through with my kids and losing their home and family pet in a fire, it is just art.  I told my client the foundry would do a good job and they could have an additional party and celebration when the sculpture came. They were not happy. What was I to do?   Well, then I was searching the internet and discovered a story from the paper in their area saying my vendor is going under and there is a chance that the IRS may seize their property, which means my property. This is a monumental sculpture and not something I can walk away with.  I have done what needed to be done as a businesswoman. I found someone who came and helped me get my art out of there.  It was a mess. I drove the 877 miles while I was recovering from Pneumonia.  I did it. But I get a sense there is more trouble ahead with this project.  Please God no. I have just lost 80,000. Don’t let it be worse than that. No stress, I am a strong woman. I am stronger than fire and stronger than a vendor going bankrupt.  I now know the trickle down effect of such a disaster.  I will do this.

Pusche

I have heard of the Ides of March, but apparently, I have another special day in March—March  28th. I went to the doctor today. I just could not handle a cough.  She said I had walking pneumonia. When  I went to check out, the women there had to take a second look. I was apparently there on the same day at the same time last year for the same thing.  So here we go again. Another round of antibiotics, and steroids.  I just barely get over this stuff, still coughing and maintaining.  I thought fall season was my bad time as I lose my voice and cough and can’t sing Christmas Carols,  but apparently, I have two bad seasons.  I’m going to lick this thing. The sculpture should be done at the foundry soon and placed. I’m holding on to that. I can’t wait for this to be over as the stress with this vendor is making me sick.  Waiting for the confirmation of when I need to go and approve all the metal and schedule delivery.  I hate to leave my kids, but I’m glad they are staying at my house while I’m away.

It may be a bit of a struggle but I’m still breathing in life.

Pusche

 

 

Please everyone. I would be amiss if I didn’t write a little about your home and fire safety.

PLAN YOUR ESCAPE
We learned that fire is silent and quick.  Planning your escape and letting everyone know how and where to meet is important.

The National Fire Protection Agency offers lots of information and downloadable PDF’s.

ADD FIRE EXTINGUISHERS and FIRE ALARMS
Check and add fire extinguishers and fire alarms to your home. We have learned how quickly a fire can spread, and how dangerous the smoke can be.  In 15 minutes our entire home was in flames, and smoke levels consumed way before that time frame. You only have moments. Fire alarms save lives. Check the batteries, and set up dates. Test the smoke alarm monthly and change the batteries every year. Do it on a date that you will remember, labor day or a birthday.

SAFETY
Check your home for safety Here is a list from Parents Magazine 

SAFETY AND CHILDREN
Teach your children, even very young children about fire safety. Our granddaughter had a visit from a fire department just a few weeks before the event.  Start one in your school or civic organization. Or at the very least check out the resources on Fire facts .org.  They offer resources for kids parents and educators.  

PLAN YOUR PURCHASES WITH SAFETY IN MIND
The fire took the house, and what the fire did not take smoke and water did take. It was interesting that much of the antique hardwood furniture survived.  They are cleaning some of the pieces.  This article in Today  says that “Research shows that 30 years ago, you had about 17 minutes to escape a house fire. Today it’s down to 3 or 4 minutes. The reason: Newer homes and the furniture inside them burn faster. A lot faster.

RECOVERING FROM A FIRE
We know how difficult it can be to recover from this emotional disaster.  The American Psychological Association has put together a wonderful resource for those hurting.

We also could not have done this without the support of family and professionals.  Seek help; it will go a long way to making things move forward at a time when you feel stuck and can’t breathe.

CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH AFTER A FIRE
Don’t forget your children. This trauma influences all family members. You may need to find help for your children. Ours was three at the time. We are busy taking care of things and sometimes forget that our little one can’t process everything or know how to share. She is also in counseling. Know the signs and help the little ones. Here are some resources about Children and Fire

From the National Child Traumatic Stress Network

RJ the fire dogs blog has some good suggestions

This blog and video by Samantha Pekh, M.A., Registered Psychologist shares thoughts and suggestions for helping you child through the trauma of a house fire.