Hi, folks - I don't always bring my troubles into a diary like this, but this month is exceptional (and not in a good way) so I need to reach out for help. I am coming up short on the funds to make my house payment for August. I've had some help, but I still need to raise $450 $0 — goal reached! as soon as possible. If it hits my PayPal by today or tomorrow morning at the latest, I can get it in on time and avoid the late fees.
As many of you know, I run an arts & crafts business that provides my earned income. Sometimes I get a freelance writing gig, which is a big boost when it happens. But … this summer has seen both art/crafts sales drop off, and the gig that I was counting on never materialized. Maybe one will in the future, but for now … I’m taking out the contribution links in this diary. There are other folks on the Community Needs list who need help, so if you’re in a giving mood please consider someone here: www.dailykos.com/...
I will leave up my Zibbet shop — this is where I sell my arts & crafts. I have lots of neat stuff that makes great gifts (early holiday shopping, anyone?) and check out the Sale items, too:
BACKSTORY — for those who want to know: About a year ago, I lost a significant chunk of income (which formerly covered the house payment) when a family estate I was managing came to a close, sooner than expected. I continued on my savings and resources, but exhausted that. Basically, I've outlived my money.
I’m 70 years old (no, I can’t believe it), and that is right there going to limit my employment opportunities. My Social Security is $345 a month. I have some health issues but not enough to be called disabled — still, I work very hard at my business and try as best as I can to bring in income that way…. and that is why I so appreciate everyone who helped pull me through today! Including all who simply tipped, rec’d, shared and sent good wishes!
But — there may be a long-term solution:
It's afloat, but it's taking longer than expected. Still, my payouts have reduced the amount I need each month to cover my survival … but funding my Patreon work would solve a lot of issues for me. Plus, I’d be able to really create! I’ve been planning on doing a pledge drive, hopefully the last half of this month, but for now I’ll say — any Patrons who come in from this posting will get the same rewards I plan to have for the pledge drive. Same goes for any current Patrons who upgrade their pledge to the next level.
As always, many thanks to the community and all who have helped and my wonderful Patrons with their ongoing support … This has been hard to write. I hope there will be a day when I don’t have to, even if I am really, really old when I finally get there!
Sunday, Aug 12, 2018 · 9:45:53 PM +00:00 · jan4insight
OMG, we’re done! I’ve reached my critical-need goal for the house payment, and it’s gone over by enough to provide a generous cushion for the month August, as well as putting towards the near future (like car insurance, due in Sept.). Many, many thanks to everyone who contributed — this has to be fastest goal I’ve seen in fundraisers around here in many moons :)
Sunday, Aug 12, 2018 · 10:27:04 PM +00:00
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jan4insight
Administrative stuff: right now I’m shifting from diary-tending mode to bookkeeping & order-fulfillment mode, lol. For those who placed orders, I’ll get a purchase acknowledgement out to you this evening. And for those who donated — I hope to be able to thank each of you individually over the next day or so. It’s going to take a little time! :)