Well it's the last week of Grading and I have enjoyed all the workshops and meeting all my fellow Graders. I knew coming into this I probably wouldn't be able to do the hours but I wanted to try and see what I would gain from the experience anyway. The thing is I was playing poker the whole time during the Grading, just couldn't do the levels that were required of me because of my current financial situation at home.  Living on benefits and having a husband who is on Statutory Sick Pay from work is not a fun way to live but that's what we've been doing since October. I've hated not being able to do the hours but didn't want to quit because I've loved learning so much during the workshops and reading the boards and contributing. I think if I would've had the bankroll to do the hours I would've been in with a shot because I've done all the required work in all the areas of commitment and contribution, etc and, like I said, I've played poker almost every night for at least four to five hours a night during the whole process, just not at the levels I'm supposed to. So, hopefully there will be another Grading in the future for another chance.  

On a side note, while you all are waiting for the 24th to hear the decision of who gets to Blue Belt and the Irish Open package, I'll be also waiting for that date because I'll be heading to London for a very important job interview. I've been applying to so many jobs since I've moved to England in 2006 that I actually have a folder in my Yahoo mail that is titled 'Job Hunting'. I started applying to homeless hostels recently because I've had three years experience working in this field back in Michigan. It was the most rewarding job (but also the most challenging) I've ever had and hopefully I'll do well on my interview and get the job. It's for a night concierge worker position, so I'll be working the midnight shift in London… should be very interesting! So, as I wish all my fellow Graders luck on the 24th, I'm wishing myself a huge amount of the same so next time there is a Grading I'll be able to save up and start with the bankroll I'll need to make it to Blue Belt myself and be the first woman to do so. :)

Have a great weekend at London Live and I will be watching on nutz.tv and chatting in the live chat as usual :)

Love and luck go out to all of you,

Careybear

p.s. Thanks to Neil, Nik, Jen and Snoopy for making the whole process the best!! I love Black Belt!!!