Hello,
I wanted to take the time to thank everyone who responded to my post(s.) I sincerely appreciate all the great comments each of you shared with me! It has been refreshing & enjoyable to read through all of them. The camaraderie in the ST forums is so supportive. I am very thankful and appreciative for it---especially during the slow, "non-winning periods" --which we all experience. My HGTV GP win was solely due to determined, regular entries and (I believe) pure luck. I don't think there is any type of formula for winning a sweep, just consistency. I personally maintain that with a positive, proactive attitude, anyone can achieve almost anything they desire.
Well the money is in the bank and now I'm working on investing, taxes etc. It will be so nice to be able to pay off some of my personal debt, treat myself to a few new toys etc., as well as being able to place an amount into some financial plans for savings. I am not a wealthy person financially, but I have a wealth of good friends and family that any amount of money can't buy or replace. (I include my ST associates/friends in this family!)
Wishing each of you continued success in life & with your sweeping!!!