I got a call from a friend not so long ago and she asked me if I would be interested in working for her at the store. My first thought was WORK…(insert screaming emoji here…and a million plus explanation points!!!) How in the hell, I mean WHY in the hell would I go back to WORK? Seriously…Now? Like in, “Can you start next week” now. OH CRAP O LA….this is going to require the absurdness of me being punctual! This will force me to put on foundation. I will have to search the world over for work apparel, and somehow smile while doing so.
So I said, “Sure”!
I am too young to be idle. I need to be creative, think outside the box, meet and greet, execute responsibility, get back in the grind, acquire new skills, and examine new challenges. Right?
I buttoned up my white quarter length sleeve shirt with my one and only rocking it stylish necklace, I got me some TB espadrilles, and showed up at 9:00 am ON the DOT! Finding myself on the payroll at the finest Furniture and Design store in downtown Gainesville. “Hello, Martin Furniture and Design, this is Tracy, how may I help you”? (the professional me)
I am a professional rookie while awaiting my social security! I have admitted this before but I own the title of having more teenager jobs than anyone. On purpose mind you. Meaning… jobs for adolescents which do not require expertise. Okay, okay, I haven’t “followed my dream”, reason being…It never occurred to me to have career fantasies! (what a nightmare) I haven’t necessarily chased “my calling” either, but I did get this call! I intuitively ignore my exceptional talents, gifts, and virtues and devote my time simply concerning myself with having a sufficient amount of fun. Fun is the celebration of enjoyment, a pastime of laughter, and the antonym of work. I now wake up a smidgen bit earlier to take care of business, I lather my face in Chanel foundation, No. 30, and scamper out to my nine to five. My new delightful diversion!
Work is “strictly” a party at Martins Furniture and Design… and they pay me to come!
Thanks for the invite!
Amanda "Mandy" Evans
You have seriously had more “careers” than anyone I know!
Tracy Gaines
I have quite the resume and absolutely NO qualifications! Good luck with your new endeavors in Florida…I will be down there to experience your fabulous restaurant!!!! So excited for you!
Becca
You are too funny Tracy!
Tracy Gaines
Becca…An almost famous DJ….lots of laughs together. I love every picture you post of Kennedy.
Maggie
Tracy! I am always so happy to see you at the store! You make me laugh – and I always want to stay and hang out with you and Courtney!
Tracy Gaines
The best part of “anything” are the people you get to know along the way! I’m very lucky to hang out with such talented people like you! You are amazing!
Barbara Chester
Ok- I had to Google “TB espadrilles” so clearly you are more trendy than me. 😉
Tracy Gaines
No one needs to google anything in my nothing trendy closet! I would love to go buy all new work clothes but working in a super cool furniture store just makes me want new pillows! Come buy…;)
Carol
You have tried to have a real professional job once if you have not forgotten. I remember you calling me at my professional job which I had for many years and asked me a question! What do office people do?
Tracy Gaines
OFFICE people…What a great blog. I miss OFFICE people!!!!
Leigh-Anne
Love this!!! I need to come visit, you make it sound SO fun 🙂
Tracy Gaines
It is the most dangerous place in Gainesville to be. I dare you!!!
Callie
You are a perfect fit for Martin’s! Love this post and you! You always put a smile on my face. Xoxo
Tracy Gaines
Call me when you need a new lamp, pillow, or sofa…wink wink!
LeAnn nethery
Tracey,
I’m so glad you are enjoying your work adventure!
Keep it up girl!
Tracy Gaines
Hi LeAnn,
Back up on the horse… or should we say dog and pony show at this age! It’s so much fun!
Debbie Chambers
Tracy, I love your blog! Sounds like you are definitely in your ‘happy place’.
Tracy Gaines
Debbie,
Thanks a million. I love that my blogs are being read! It keeps me sane! Hope to see you soon.
Gilda
This is your best ever blog! I think you are loving your new adventure! Good for you Tracy. Now about that stylish necklace you are wearing………
Hope I see you soon.
Tracy Gaines
Oh dear…You got me! I will return your beautiful necklace ASAP. (I really have only worn it once to a party)
I’m so lucky to be working in a beautiful store with even more beautiful people…and “part time” makes it even more perfect!
See you soon.
Suzanne
Hey Tracy! I think it was four years ago in March I had jury duty for a solid week with Courtney. I have never had so much fun. I learned so much from her. She is a cruise expert. I have zero eyebrows and she told me my work with my Maybelline brow pencil looked good…nice arch she said. I will forever be in her gratitude for her telling me to get some wifi at home. Like yourself I consider y’all the two most fascinating people I know and would pay money just to hear y’all read the phone book. I am so envious that you get to spend the day with those Martin girls.
Tracy Gaines
You and Wesley are our family! And no one will go down in history more than the two of you as the most fascinating peeps in G’ville! WE LOVE YOU! Boy friends and girls friends for ever!