Five torrential rainstorms, four traffic jams, three days at ScaperCon, only two types of imported beer, and one flooded highway later, I have returned home.

Alive, but still pretty frelling dark.

I've got an interview at 4pm EST, 1pm board time, I think -- jobma greatly appreciated!

When you're done with Michele T.'s jobma, could I get a little bit. My job is a special appointment, and I was told that I would be reappointed (and that the paperwork was done). Turns out that the paperwork was NOT done, and "someone" has decided not to renew my appointment. Essentially, random academia intrigue/politics/bullshit. I had applied for a few positions before my reappointment was "confirmed" and never took my name out of the running, so jobma for those please, cause I'm not into this bullshit anymore.

I also need jobma. I was offered a chance to interview as the primary candidate for our publications/publicity manager, as he is leaving. It would double my salary. I need to come up with a proposal on how I would change the job and what I can bring to our goals. I am scared.

I think I need -ma of some description. Spoke to my dad this morning; my mother nearly died last week. She's no longer critical, and is expected out of hospital tomorrow; but this is happening more often. My contract here includes some provision for trips back home in the event of 'serious illness, death, or personal emergency', subject to approval. I think I'm going to try to invoke it.

Question for Seattle, Portland and SoCal peeps

I'm in the early stages of arranging signings/readings for The Weaver & the Factory Maid in Southern California, Seattle, and possibly Portland. I'm trolling for input and suggestions from the locals as to their suggestions for the best bookstores at which to read.

I think I have Seattle taken care of (the Barnes & Noble at University Village is my first choice), but suggestions for LA (chain or indie) and Portland (ditto) would be gratefully received.

Any and all input to sf_deb@yahoo.com would be appreciated. Ta!

My pictures from the BBQ are here. Enjoy!

Also, I'm going to be most likely pretty dark gray, charcoalish until the end of the week. I'm leaving for Cleveland in the morning to go to Cedar Point (My first time!) and don't get back until Friday. Probably won't have too much time to drop in.

I'll be dark until tomorrow night. Going to visit a friend on "the Vineyard." I'll report back with any Carly Simon sightings.

I will be dark gray for the next two days, and then black until a week from Saturday. I have a wedding to attend this Saturday, and then I will be in Cape Cod for a week without computer access.