ALIENS HAVE ARRIVED

It seems fitting that the week we celebrated 4th July – Independence Day, that I received the sacred envelope in the post. A passport to independence: The Homeland Security issued Work Authorization Card.

I stand proud as a “Legal Alien allowed to Work”

As a new titleholder of a Work Authorization Card, all that stood in the way from relinquishing my ‘Lady of Leisure’ title was to obtain the crucial Social Security Number.

I made the uneducated decision to visit the SS office at the brand spanking new (personal opinion – UGLY) Federal Building.

After a weary 3-hour wait, in what I now know as the busiest Social Security Office in San Francisco, full of dare I say "lots of crazy people," I finally received my all important Social Security Number.

How quickly one’s life can change, one day you don’t exist, then thanks to the issue of one small card and a nine digit number - you have a presence.

Now, not only am I a Legally Recognized Alien, lo and behold, I am now completely set-up to have……..

MY IDENTITY STOLEN

Identity Theft is a humongous issue in this country, last year there were over 8 million cases of identity fraud, it causes the victims tremendous stress; never knowing what new charge will appear on their credit card statement.


During our 4th July lunch with Luke and Kathy, Luke mentioned this article, a local case of stolen identity that affected one San Francisco woman.

Our lunch with Luke and Kathy was our first trip to explore the Castro Neighborhood. The “Gay” Village of San Francisco proudly draped with the rainbow colors from the light poles and overflowing with good looking, well dressed guys…. and lots of them. After enjoying lunch at The Sausage Factory we continued to be tour guides and checked out more city sights.

The previous weekend Darren’s boss kindly guided us on a tour to Monterey Bay Aquarium, then along the spectacularly scenic 17 Mile Drive to reach the picturesque town of Carmel by the Sea (pop 4400).




Carmel had been on my destination wish list, so I was feeling pretty lucky to be there. In the voice of the famous Clint Eastwood, the one time Mayor of Carmel….

You've got to ask yourself one question: Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?"

"Dirty" Harry Callahan” 1971

I do feel pretty lucky and fortunate that I also have been able to lead a pretty cruisey lifestyle the last four months, but all good things must come to an end. Tomorrow, I have my first temp assignment… and I’m Excited.

XX

Mel