Exhausted by Mall

Call me sleepy this evening; call me tired.   You can even say I'm exhausted.   I spent the day running errands, such as picking up the beach pass for the family to use for the summer; giving out more crocheted book markers my GF Gracie made to help raise funds for "Relay for Life," to going to TWO malls...WITH two kids in tow.

What was I thinking??!!.

I had a mission, really.   First, I needed to hook up with my DH and discuss the issue of new cell phones with the rep.   If you recall, I spent two weeks testing one out.   (It was fun taking pictures with it).  My DH has been in need of better coverage for awhile now, so if we opt to do this it will be his Father's Day Gift.   That would sure save me from having to come up with a crochet project!   LOL.

Second, I needed to pick up some items for the wedding ... you know, the sundries, the basics, the necessities.   I ended up also getting a tiara and a hair-extension clip for my DD who is to be the flower girl.   This will surely save time in having to do up her hair!  All I'll have to do is clip it on & she'll be practically ready! 

The other importance of being at the malls, other than spending money, was spotting all the crochet on the racks at the various stores.  (Hey, at least it's important to me!)  Ponchos seem to be the really big "rave" right now.   Some even "took root" in my already cramped head of design thoughts ... something you know I will eventually have to toy with.   But not right now.

I've got to get back to my projects for the upcoming wedding.   I have four days left.  Four.

Do you think royalty ever gets exhausted by shopping?  

For now, I'm going to go slip that tiara on my head and go crochet for a spell <<G>>

Getting to the Bottom of Things

I've enjoyed teaching crochet at Michaels Arts and Crafts Store for over four years now.  But some red flags went up last week.

I wasn't going to put this in my Journal as I'd rather keep it upbeat and fun, but now think, that if you're placed in my situation, you'd want to know about it.  So here it is:

Last weekend while shopping at the store, an employee told me there was a sign by the time clock stating something about some paper I need to fill out for them.  I thanked the employee and said I'd look into it when I'm off vacation (meaning in July).

Then in the middle of the week I got two phone messages: one from the Store Manager requesting I come in to fill out the paper work, and one from the Store's Office Manager DEMANDING I come in or consider my employment with them terminated. 

Later I conversed with the SOM, and inquired if she was having a better day.  I advised her that the tone & message on the phone was not necessary.  She pushed that I get to the store ASAP for this paperwork, and I advised her that I'm on vacation and am knee deep in family & charity obligations right now (thus the need to take the month off).  It wasn't good enough; she insisted I call her by Friday and tell her which day I WILL be showing up to complete the paper work.

So on Friday, with all the Federal buildings being closed due to Reagan's passing, that left an open in my schedule.  So with ds toting along for the ride, off we went to Michaels to get to the bottom of things.

The SOM demanded I fill out a form that lists

my name

my age/birthdate O

my address

my SSN

my driver's license number O

and my Mother's Maiden name O

Are you having problems digesting the amount of information they want me to fork over after four years of employment?  I did.   O Red Flags went upinside my head immediately!

I inquired what the information was for and she got upset with me.  She couldn't answer my questions.  She did say she'd protect it, but when I pressed on how, she got more upset with me.

Then she demanded that I sign another form giving them authorization to do a check on me that included a Credit Standing O, a Credit Capacity O, Character O, General Representation O, Personal Characteristics O, and Mode of Living O.

I pressed further and again inquired about what all the information was needed for.  Again, she couldn't answer and her language became foul.  In front of my ds, age 5.  (She did later apologize, but not with her heart.)  Throughout the whole ordeal I kept my cool and just kept asking over and over for the reason behind why asking so much information that could, in the hands of someone unscrupulous, ruin me financially.

I filled out some of the information on the first form, and signed (and legally voided my signature) on the second form, along with writing my objections on it and signing it.

I then posted this to one of the online groups I participated on, and this is all news to them.  Most said I should leave my teaching job with such a company that wants to stick it's nose where it doesn't belong.

I did lodge a complaint on the employee hotline.  And today I put a call into the Connecticut Department of Labor and am presently awaiting a CB from them. 

Don't get me wrong, I can fully understand an employer needing some information: Name, address, phone number & SSN for tax purposes, for contacting for scheduling; I can fully understand an employer's need to do a criminal background check; I can fully understand an employer's need to check with former employers ... but I think to be teaching fiber arts, what they're asking is too much, and possibly is not legal. 

I hope the CT Dept. of Labor returns my call soon....I'll post if anything develops.

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UPDATE 12:26PM:  I don't like waiting around for the phone to ring, so I called the Labor Department back.  I got through.  They were stumped why after being employed for four years that the company is suddenly asking for information, and that being highly sensitive.  They think my Human Rights are being violated; gave me their number to contact.  I called the Bridgeport office and left a message for the Intake Officer.  They also think that a law is being infringed upon, so they gave me the number of the CT Bar Association.  I'll call them after I speak w/someone at Human Rights.

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6/15/04 UPDATE:  I received a ) call from CT's Human Resources Department and had a long conversation with the rep.  In a nutshell, he said, if the company is asking ALL of the employees the same information ... and he focused on that Michaels is requesting we list our age/birthdate ... "then there's no discrimination being done.  If all have to comply, and it's their policy, then it's OK."  He said, though, that they are required to provide a specific reason on why it's being asked and strongly recommended that I call the company's HR department.  He didn't really dwell on the fact that the other information requested could financially ruin me should they not be able to secure it, so I'm not really satisified with his answer.  I do plan on calling Michael's HR department, and then calling the CT Bar Association.  Why would the Dept of Labor think something is fishy and then the State HR folks say no, I don't know.  I'm still not comfortable with this entire situation.

BTW, I'm plannning on sticking all the updates in this Journal Entry to keep them all together so that I'm free to go back to posting thoughts on crocheting.  So if you're interested in keeping up with this issue, click onto the "link to this entry" and save it as one of your favorites so you can go directly to it.

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UPDATE 6/18/04:  I came home this afternoon and found a message on my machine from the the DM (District Manager) saying he wants to discuss my concerns.  He left no call back number so I'll have to wait until he calls again as I don't want to call him and get that "rushed" feeling because of possible distractions.  I'd rather he call me back when he has allotted time to discuss this matter with me fully.

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UPDATE 6/23/04: The DM has not called back.  In the meantime an email I had sent to the Dept of Labor came back stating "The Consumer Credit Reporting Act is a federal law and not within the jurisdiction of this Agency.  However, I looked up the law and in order to get the credit report, the company needs your authorization.  Therefore, the company may ask you to provide the information they are requesting.  If you choose not to give the authorization, the company may terminate your employment.  You do not have a contract with them and therefore, you are an employee at will and as such may be terminated for any reason or for no reason.  I am not sure if there is anything in the law that would give you recourse for a termination and you might need to contact the Consumer Credit Unit of the Banking Dept.  "

The key words used here are CONSUMER CREDIT REPORT.  I am not applying for a credit card, nor a mortgage, and cannot possibly see how this has anything to do with crocheting, or teaching crocheting.  Looks like my next step is to contact the Consumer Credit Unit of the Banking Department.

Counting Down ...

Today was the Monthly Meeting of the Happily Hooked on Crocheting Club.  This is a group that was started over 2 1/2 years ago with just five ladies.  I was one of the five founders and serve as it's President.  Today the group has over 35 members, and we have a great time together!

While at the meeting we worked on our plans for upcoming events (man! are we going to be busy, and it's going to be fun detailing it for you here in my Journal!!)and we had a little "Show & Tell" session too.  Elaine brought in some of the most gorgeous scarves; Ann and Ruth brought in more preemie blankets.  I showed off my Shawl (Click Here for Retro Journal Entry) and Bridal Amulet Bag (Click Here for Retro Journal Retro) They both received rave reviews.  One member said she needs my shawl for a cruise she'll be going on.  I told everyone I plan on wearing it at the upcoming Convention ... Which is only Five Weeks Away!!!  J

Getting to the Count down for the bridal items ... I've stopped working on the ring pillow as I'm in need of having a serious amount of pre-beading done.  I'll have to get my "Bead Team" working on that.  In the meantime I've completely shifted gears on how I want toconstruct the money bag.  This I started at the Meeting this afternoon.

I've decided I'll start with a circle ... and make it a huge one at that.  Maybe with a circumference of about two feet -- or two and a half.  It will be done in rows of various types of white yarn, some mixed with others to create different textures.  Then it will be gathered, with the top "rows" being that of freeform crochet, toped with a beautiful eyelash yarn by Cherry Tree.  I'll then create a draw string that will allow her to wear it upon her arm during the Dollar Dance in comfort.   I already have the circle about 1 foot round and will continue working on it tonight.

So now we're down to 6 six days ...  Who needs sleep anyways?

So I hit a Speed Bump

You know how it is, you've got your groove going, got a time-table in mind, minding your business, perhaps singing a song or two when suddenly things change.  I hit a  speed bump while reaching for my goal of completing my projects when I was at work today.

I went to work at the ever beautiful yarn store known as Knit Together -- it's an absolute pleasure, don't get me wrong!  It's just that I get so excited when I get to see all the new fibers that came in during the week ... and the mind starts to brainstorm, which I advised yesterday is trouble a brewin'.

You want to look at this one, and touch that one.  Then put this one with that one and see how they look together ... or perhaps side-by-side.  Then you start to think about the size hook it would take to make a fabric with a drape to die for.  And before you know it, you've got newly adopted goodies coming on the ride home with you.  (You know how it is, new fibers are born to be wild -- always looking for adventure! )

I did warn my students taking the Absolute Beginner crochet class today that this is what happens when you get YAS: Yarn Acquisition Syndrome.  It's the same with HAS: Hook Acquisition Syndrome, and the same with PAS: Pattern Acquisition Syndrome.  And lately with GAS: Gadget Acquisition Syndrome.  Controlling these syndromes is nearly impossible; but, it is highly enjoyable.

I'm proud to state that I controlled myself today, but for how long?  I left with no new treasures today as I know I have seven days.  Seven days to complete the bridal projects, and no time to take on a new one.

I sense that my mind is still in Stamford at this moment, compairing, touching, dreaming of future projects.  It's a small speed bump in my time frame, but I can handle it.

After all, it's only seven days we're talking about.  It's a week.  I can finish them in a week, right???

 

Eight Days and a Brainstorm Happens

I have eight days ... eight days to finish the ring bearer's pillow, and the money bag.  When what happens?  A Brainstorm.

Brainstorms are trouble.  They really are!

I received the latest enews-letter from Berroco today (Berroco is a major yarn manufacturer/distributer) and in it they mention Coronado Beach Thongs -- instantly I recall that the couple will be spending 10 glorious days in Hawaii for their Honeymoon.  You see where this is leading, don't you??

Hmmmmmmmmm -- so now I'm wondering, do I have enough time to sneak in a pair of Beach Thongs for the Bride ...

Eight days.

Did I also mention that I went to Michaels Arts & Crafts AND the Craft Basket today looking for more crystal beads?  Sold out of the size I wanted -- at both locations.  

So I opted to purchase a few packages of some a size larger.  These are to go along with the pearl beads to drape on the bottom of the pillow.  Maybe on the sides too.  It's that brainstorming thing happening again...

Wish me luck!

Eight days....

"Shake That Thing" & Update

Aloha!  :)   Today, along with my DS, and members of my group, I attended the local Salvation Army's Luncheon put on by the Women's Auxiliary.  They invited various groups -- crocheters, knitters, quilters, and so on -- that helped them reach out to our local community last year and aid some 500 local families.   They did a wonderful job with this luncheon! 

They had a "tropical" theme, and had a group of Polynesian dancers come dance for us.  Did I say that I got called up with some other ladies to dance with them?  I felt like I had two left feet with branches for arms; I was laughing so hard that I was always a step or two behind. (oh who am I kidding -- I couldn't shake my hips and keep up at all!  LOL) ... afterwards they said that we're now "Certified Polynesian Dancers."  So I'll be adding that to my resume  (heh heh heh).   

The food was great, and then they presented each group with a framed certificate detailing their gratitude for the donations they received.  My group, The Happily Hooked on Crocheting Club, was honored for the many, many hats, mittens, scarves, and New Toys we donated. (There was even a crochet sighting, as the dancers skirts all had crochet around the waist line!)   

There were many people there, and one even approached me to inquire where I got my "I (heart) to Crochet" rhinestone pin I was wearing.  Nice group of people. Nice time had by all!  

A progress report on the ring bearer's pillow:  Man, as much as I love  to crochet, I do not enjoy doing granny squares.  Even though I only intend on doing one for the bottom of the pillow, it seems to  be dragging on & on.  It does look pretty, don't get me wrong.  And I know people LOVE granny squares.  It's just not my favorite thing to create.  I have about 2 1/2" in width to go (or about 10-15 million more rows, which ever comes first -- an exaggeration yes, but this is the feeling I get with creating granny squares and I don't really know why).  

Now this has me thinking about the top section of the pillow, and I'm thinking that I'd like to do this in filet crochet spelling out the groom's and bride's name -- to make it a real keepsake.  I'll have to start graphing that out.  Perhaps this is something I can do in the parking lot tomorrow afternoon as I await for my DD to get out of school. 

If I opt not to do the filet, then I'm thinking (gulp) to granny square it to make it match the bottom.  But I think I'd make a long chain and skip the first zillion rows or so, and just make it so that it's a few inches wide.  This, I think would frame the pretty satin fabric, and I can then have the rings centered in the middle.   Hmmm... we'll just have to wait until I get this first granny square done.  

How many more days do I have?  Hmmmm.  Nine.  Nine days.  

Until next time, Aloha!

The Start of the Ring Bearer's Pillow

It is so hot out there today ... 10:00 in the morning and it's reading 93.4 degrees already.  Too hot.  Mother Nature might have thoughts of slowing me down in working on this project, but I'm determined to get it all done.

Ten days.  Is that right?  I have just 10 days.

I've decided that for the bottom section of the pillow it will be just your ordinary granny square done in white thread.  I'll have one of my children -- perhaps both of them -- to do some pre-beading for me (I need about 2000+ beads strung on the thread and then I'll surface crochet them on.  (Kids love to play with beads, so they should be up for the challenge - LOL)

Meet the "Bead Team" ... this is my DD: Darling Daughter and this is  my DS: Darling Son.  Say Hi kids.  "Hello!"  They also do Crochet Consulting on the side (aka advising me what fits, what colors they like, what stitches they like, and over all, what they'd like for me to crochet for them. LOL)

Getting back to the pillow, I'm thinking to make the beads hang on the bottom, much like a chandelier, in different lengths.  My thoughts are that the edges would be short and as it gets to the middle it would get longer & longer.  It should be pretty as it's carried down the aisle by my son.  Of course this means that I'll need to pick up some more crystals too ... they give off such a great shine; more so than the pearl beads I'll also be using.

So, don't be alarmed if you should stop by for a glass of lemonaide and find a tub of crochet "cooling off" in the fridge.  Like I said, Mother Nature might have thoughts of slowing me down, but I'm determined to make this deadline.  :)