We always have the most beautiful wildflowers pop up in the fall. These beauties are right next to the top of the big garden bed. I pass them as I walk to my car. These wildflowers are one of my favorite parts of the seasonal change. Some of them are very colorful. I took some photos the other day and I’ll share them with you over the next few days.

The latest: I got the PCR Covid test yesterday. When I turned in my swab, the technician said “You should have results within 2 to 4 days.” Ummm….I said I had to have them by Monday morning at the latest because I needed the test done for a job. She responded that “they” tell them to say that but that the test results have been coming through more quickly of late. Well. That’s all I could do. Later in the day, I received an email from the Covid testing czar for the touring company reminding me to get my test yesterday and to submit the results by today at the latest. Ummmm….that ain’t gonna happen.

I wrote back saying that I had the test at 12:30 pm yesterday. I didn’t think it likely that I would have my results by today, since it can take 24 – 48 hours, sometimes more. Since they had insisted I couldn’t do it before yesterday, my hands were tied. Then the guy actually said that some people get several tests at several locations so that one result might come through sooner. My response: I don’t live in a city. I live in the country. I’m not sick, so I can’t get it done at one of the labs around here. They will only do a test upon a doctor’s recommendation for those who have symptoms. So my only option is to have it done at a drive-though pharmacy, which is what I did. (I am not about to drive all over the place trying to coordinate Covid tests at various locations.)

So the end result is that I don’t have a frigging clue if I’ll get the results in time. The language used by the touring company is that results have to be submitted before the first day of work/travel. Well, I’m traveling tomorrow. I’m working on Monday.

I told the guy I’d keep him posted and that if by early afternoon tomorrow, I had not received the results, I would let them know and we could maybe try to rearrange the schedule.

Too much work and stress. I can’t be the only person going through this waiting game with work/employment dependent on the timing of the results.

I warned Sophie about wet leaves and here she is, slipping on one.

I just want to take a moment to address some questions that came up in yesterday’s comments. The sweater and skirt are made by AnnaMargoeva on Etsy. She is Russian, as are so many Blythe customizers/creators. And Sophie is a customized Blythe doll done by a woman who lives in England, you can find her at Candyflossbyrose on Etsy. Her prices are quite reasonable, as well, and she couldn’t have been kinder. She took the time to answer all my questions. She carved the nose and lips, did the makeup and freckles, changed out the eye chips (the 4 colors that show when you pull the pull ring to change eye positions), added new eyelashes, pull rings, and sleepy eyes (which is accomplished by adding an additional pull ring to shut the eyes.) She may have changed out the hair as well.

I’ve dipped into this particular rabbit hole because I’m so fascinated by it. I’ve watched videos of customizers carving the details on a face, adding makeup, weaving hair into the scalp, changing out the bodies – it’s all fascinating. No, I have no desire to try that myself! I am in awe of the artistry that goes into customizing a doll and I am content to reap the benefits.

I think Rose did a beautiful job on her. She has such a sweet face. I’ve found that choosing one of these girls is very much dependent on your emotional response to a particular doll – and in my case, my pocketbook! Sophie’s face elicited a strong response in me and that’s why I chose her. A hint of vulnerability, seriousness, trepidation…I guess I saw myself in her. And except for the blond color, my hair was worn exactly the same way when I was a little girl – bangs and long, straight hair.

Hope this answers some questions!

Stay safe.

Happy Saturday.