Blended Families

We visited Austin Nichols and his family last evening for our Friday night get-together.

He's quite the bird, living the good life as a housepet. My little friend has the patience of a saint. It's all I can do to pull the leaves and small branches out of Blue's hair after he's had a good run outdoors.

I can't imagine what daily life would be like with a turkey perched atop your china cabinet.

But I guess we all make allowances for the animals (and people) in our life. We adjust.
We share our space. We readjust so everyone's comfortable.

We do this for the GREATEST GOOD FOR THE GREATEST NUMBER.

Mr. Haji-Mo is a good example. He's the one with the little-dog complex that JB and I took in some 4 years ago, because we couldn't bear the thought of what his fate might be if we didn't.

He looks like Blue, but isn't at all like Blue, but he and Blue have learned to live with each other. Blue wasn't happy at all when Haji first came on the scene.

But then, I don't imagine Thomas was too happy when Blue came either.

So how do do think Haji feels about Lina?

I Bet You Didn't Know

I'm off today. My hours have been reduced, but I can't help but feel a bit elated to have a bit of time to myself. Well, not really to myself--there is homework. And class this evening.

But this morning, I didn't race out the door to get ahead of half a dozen school buses. Instead, I wrapped myself in a warm fleece bathrobe, got my coffee and began catching up on some reading.

• Did you know Madonna and Guy Ritchie were on the outs? I read a comment posted to this story which suggested marriage insurance! What a concept! It makes good sense to safeguard your financial well-being in the event the realtionship doesn't make it. But there's also a cash incentive of a payout when you make it to 25 years. I can't help but think this would be a wonderful wedding gift.
• No matter how bad the economy, there are still those who live to excess, and others who want to hear all about it. Turns out, this is a big market for 20-somethings. What kind of message are we sending our youth? The author of this article also indicated: "Publishers and film producers may seek to broaden the range of young-adult entertainment to reflect real world concerns, said Sara Nelson, the president of Publishers Weekly — but only to a point. “I don’t think suddenly you’re going to find books about girls who are earnest and hardworking and help their mothers take in washing.”
• And I came across this quote:

“No one has the right to deny another their life, even though they disagree with it, because everyone has a right to live the life they so desire if it doesn’t harm another, and because discrimination has no place in America, my vote will be for the equality and against Proposition 8.”


Can you guess who uttered those wonderful words?


**NOTE: The bent glass, displayed in my last post, came from my favorite retailer: Target

No Need To Adjust Your Monitor

These glasses are really bent--they're made that way. And what better way to enjoy your morning juice than with the reminder that we are all just a little off?

(And that includes all the animals that run through the house at all hours like a herd of buffalo)

For More Than Half A Century Now

My city-girl daughter included a hand-written thought in my birthday card.

From what I understand, if something is "the shit" it's a good thing.

I had a good birthday, and I'm embracing the second half of my life. The first half went so damn fast that sometimes I feel as if I am running out of time. There's too many things I want to do or feel I need to do. But I know also that too much planning can prevent you from enjoying what's going on right now.

As a direct result, I've made a conscious effort to enjoy life more.

My birthday dinner was crab legs and Caesar Salad.

In honor of Blue's 9th birthday Friday, he was allowed treats
from a Canine Party Platter all this week. In this picture,
he's having a preservative-free bone after a bath.

From here on out, I'm treating everyday like a special occasion.

(Note: If you're curious about the wine, you can find it here.)

I Saw It All, My Friend

The city-girl daughter called last evening as I was walking out of class. She was checking to make sure I'd be watching the debate with her.

I've seen a few good debates in my day, and this one didn't even make it to the bottom of the meter.

I sat through the entire debate with my bowl of popcorn waiting for some substance. I never saw it, my friend.

I just wish I'd spent my time counting how many times McCain said "my friend." Every time he uttered that phrase, the city-girl daughter would look genuinely confused as she turned to me and asked "Who is his friend?"

These are scary times indeed...

All Creatures Great And Small

This picture of my new study partner, Lina, is a prime example of how I've been doing here of late. Life has been in a constant trot since August. I'm really looking forward to mid-term break in two weeks.

Since the temps have gotten cooler, the deer can be seen more frequently as you travel up or down this back road where we live. My city-girl daughter has expressed great apprehension about the number she sees them on the edge of the road while driving home from work at night. Pop has taken care of her--easing her fears somewhat--by installing two small devices on the front bumper of her car. They are designed to emit a sound only deer can hear. These small devices should alert the deer to her passing car.

Doesn't work on skunks, though. She managed to end one's life the other night. Now her pretty baby blue Mustang has a very unattractive scent. The driver side window was cracked ever so slightly when the incident occurred, so she's getting quite the education from friends and family.


I haven't been down to visit my little friend for about a month now (since school started), but I understand Austin Nichols has grown quite a bit. During their last visit, I listened to tales of how they are of trying to introduce him to the outside. She walks the bird in an effort to make him more comfortable with life outside the house. Her husband even built him an elaborate pen--complete with a sitting area to accommodate company--but Austin was not impressed. I believe he's comfortable living inside like everyone else.
And who could blame him? When my neighbors visit, they make a pit stop on the kitchen porch with Ziploc bag in hand, to catch candleflies to take home to Austin.

And by the way--you really missed out if you didn't catch the spider video! Geez! It's only a minute and a half.

I'm Finding My Voice

"Women, when they are old enough to have done with the business of being women, and can let loose their strength, must be the most powerful creatures in the whole world.”

I'm (almost) 50 and I am finally finding my voice.

Nowadays, I find myself in all-male world. I'm the only woman in my department at work. I'm the only female in my two night classes.

I'm more accepted in my classes--that may be because I'm old enough to be the mother of most of my classmates! They're entertaining and wonderfully objective. Conversation flows easily. When they speak to me, I can tell they want to hear what I have to say. They're younger.

My male colleagues at work have predetermined notions regarding females. I believe it may be possibly because of their long-standing membership in the dreaded "good old boy network."
Plus--they're old farts and resistant to new ideas...

Like a woman in the mix.

One Single Moment Can Change Your Life

This Bell Hornet seems to have fully realized his dilemma. Lured by the sugar water concoction he is now trapped in the bee catcher.

It looks as if he was too consumed by thoughts of pleasure to consider possible repercussions for his actions. It's amazing no matter how small the creatures, the thought processes and actions mimic human behavior!

Some were quick-witted and managed an escape.

Afterwards they seemed worn out from the adventure--
and slightly intoxicated by the sugary water.

Survivors now had common ground.

The hornets reminded me of a cat washing after dinner
as they began cleaning their face and legs
in an effort to put the whole ordeal behind them.

I Guess Things Are Tough All Over

JB found my friend, the spider, UNDER the deck. I guess she didn't care for all the attention she was getting outside the kitchen.

This video might help explain things better.




I really had no idea...

Worth Repeating

Blueberry Banana Cake

3 eggs
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 cup sour cream
1 ripe banana, mashed
2 cups flour
1 cup blueberries
1 Tbsp lemon zest

Combine all wet ingredients in large bowl. Add flour and mix until combined. Fold in the blueberries and lemon zest, being careful not to overmix. Bake in greased 8" pan at 350 for 30 minutes.
Let cool in pan and remove.
To fill bundt pan, I doubled the recipe and baked 45 minutes.

Friday--Woohoo

I'ma staunch Democrat. If you have a problem with that--quit reading now. I don't need the grief, nor do you.

I read Bill Clinton's book. He's a bit wordy, I'll agree--but what he has to say is worthwhile.
His step-father was an alcoholic that created all sorts of challenges throughout his life. But when his stepfather's life ended, Bil's true compassionate nature shone thorough when he said he realized how much pain his step father must have suffered throughout his life.

I understand anyone who has or has had a family member who is an alcoholic might disagree. Give it time and you may see things differently. Life is not so cut and dry.

I had an uncle that I took to at an early age. Being the liberal minded individual that I am, I sought him out initially because he was an outcast from the rest of the family. I remember him giving me all the change in his pocket--sometimes in excess of 5 dollars! I remember him getting perturbed because I called his hand at cheating at cards. I remember him trying to be so mean in an attempt to run me off.

What comes to mind is that movie about the Walmart baby--what is the name of it? Where the heart is? It has Natalie Portman in the starring role.

There's one point in the movie where Stockard Channing is being questioned by the police about the missing baby, and she explains that alcoholics are not going to hurt anyone--they are just content to hurt themselves.

So true--or has been my experience. Sad, but true.

Addiction in any form is so vicious. It dissolves families and attempts to suck the very life out any relationship.

I am reminded of what Momo has always told me--Don't let the sonofabitches win...

Sleep Is The New Sex

I long for long, deep uninterrupted sleep.

I've taken to putting a few drops of this marvelous herbal cure called Rescue Remedy on my tongue every night before I retire. It calms all the thoughts banging around in my head and helps me fall asleep more quickly.

Life is just too full of interruptions.

The days are too long and the nights too short.

I'm trudging through work all day and then class. The way I figure it, I have two hours at home--awake--in the morning followed by two hours --awake, in the evening.

And of course, weekends are for catching up on homework, doing laundry and grocery shopping. Am I crazy or is everyone's life this busy?

I'm three weeks into this schedule, so there's only nine more to go.

I had a goal to finish one degree by year's end, but now realize I will spill over into spring.

Since my parents are in their 70s and still kicking, I know that I still have time to accomplish all the things I would like to accomplish.

But in the meantime--I must keep moving...

Better Than An Alarm Clock

When Miss Lina decides it's time to get up, she crawls under the covers and drapes herself across me. If all that movement doesn't wake me, she nuzzles me continually.

So much for sleeping in....

All Things Must Pass

The last time I saw my spider friend was 48 hours ago. I think she has moved on. I'm thinking she has grown tired of all the attention and the flash from my camera.

I read up a bit about the Orb spider. From what I understand, patience is not her strong suit. It seems that sometimes the female Orb spider will kill the male if he fumbles (or is not quite as skilled as she would like) during foreplay. She has a zero tolerance.

My oldest daughter's response-- when I shared this with her-- was "Right on... "

This next generation has zero tolerance in so many relationship areas... and I am so proud. My generation still has a bit of that bite-your-tongue-and-just-ignore-it going on.

But, I have learned to pick my battles. And I have learned "he who walks away from a fight, lives to fight another day."

So are you fighting... or picking your battles?

Along Came A Spider

I'm back in school and working full-time, so time is precious. I rise at 5 am and return home each evening about 8 pm. Long days make for busy mornings.

Very early Friday morning I noticed a HUGE web out on the back deck as I was feeding the fat cats. I remember thinking how nice it would be to photograph it and share its handiwork. The web must have been at least 3 foot across and hung vertically.

But I got busy with my morning routine. I did switch the outside light on and glance out the door once more when I went to fill my coffee cup. I made a mental note to get the camera out at daybreak and get a photo then. But after my shower-- once the sun had risen--the web was gone without a trace.

Had I just imagined it?

I checked this morning at 4 am and the web was back...


...along with the fat-bodied spider. I did some research and believe this to an Orb Spider. She (again) removed the web at daybreak.

But by nightfall, she rebuilt it. From what I understand, the Orb Spider puts the web up and tears it down everyday.

So we have a new pet--or guest--or something.

I like to use what time I have after work and school each day to catch up on homework, get the occasional look at JB or have some conversation with the oldest daughter.

The oldest daughter shall, from this point forward, remain nameless. I have gotten too much chin music from her for blogging about her. But I am happy (thrilled) to report that she, too, is in school!

Lace And Slingshots

I remember a time when the most important thing to Miss Jessica was getting to wear those rumba panties.

All I had to do was show her the rows and rows of lace on the seat of those panties and she was hooked. I potty trained her in 2 days because she wanted so desperately to wear those pretty pink panties.

So I know she has determination--and follow through. I know when she sets her mind on something, it can happen.
She can make it happen if she truly wants it. She just has to want it bad enough.

I won't even go into what has replaced rumba panties and now covers her bottom. When I do the laundry these days, it looks more like a slingshot.

But the fact still remains, I know what she is made of and I know what she is capable of--when she sets her mind on getting something accomplished.

My only problem these days, is getting her to remember the satisfaction associated with setting goals and reaching them.

It takes patience.

Raisings & Raisins

I know the picture looks like raisins.

The picture is what was left of a container of white grapes that I purchased and put in Miss Jessica's apartment refrigerator when I visited during July 2007.
I took the picture when I visited May of 2008, when I spent a week packing her up and found it still in there where I had placed it almost a year ago.

Do you think she intended to make raisins--naturally? Or maybe cleaning the fridge just wasn't high on her list of priorities...


Watch Post Raisin Bran Cereal at EncycloMedia.com



She's been here long enough to decide she doesn't like it here and misses Texas. But that's today. We all know from a hundred years of experience that tomorrow always presents things in a somewhat different light.

I'm hoping her future here in Virginia will be like the grapes-to-raisins thing and eventually pan out, if given time.

How Late Is Too Late?

JB got this shot of a treed bobcat, compliments of Lucky-- the dog that keeps on giving and giving. Lucky was Miss Jeni's15th birthday gift (she's now 22 ! we brought this dog from Texas 7 years ago when I relocated) and here she is with me in Virginia. She's a beautiful dog, but entirely too temperamental--requiring a kennel during thunderstorms and too much attention from all the family.

Ansd she chases everything in sight-- hence the bobcat!

I must say, in her defense, Lucky hasn't been the same since Jake passed.

Nonetheless. It has been a weekend.

A weekend full of parenting thought long gone. But is there such a thing? Finished parenting?

I think not. I hope so, but I think not.

I find myself facing two semesters of the dreaded math--the math I thought would vanish and not be necessary all of a sudden--but is still there staring me in the face!

So, what better time to educate my offspring on the doing of deeds we would rather not do?

But, as usual with unprovoked wisdom-- it feel on deaf ears.

I hate that, don't you?

So, I busied myself with laundry and the cleaning of floors. We had words..there is a definite communication gap--am I that old and out of touch?

I think not.

Every parent--every generation--is tasked with doing everything within their power to make the path of the next generation more tolerable.

And just when I think all is lost, Miss Jessica phones and tells me she loves me. She tells me she has lived 6 years without me and isn't quite sure how to react with all this up-in-your-face-parenting. Should she call and let me know she is going to be out late and risk waking me up? Or should she just not call at all?

I tell her it is never too late to call a parent and put their mind at ease.

And having said that--
I can now go to bed.

Continuing My Resolve

So, I filed suit against the sorry ass car repairman that kept my car for 4 1/2 years and he delivered it (complete!) just one short hour before our court appearance.

So the TR6 is home again and shining like a new penny...

And I have crossed one thing off of my list of things to do in 2008.

It feels good. I'll enjoy this brief fleeting moment of triumph (no pun intended) before I continue on with the remainder of the list.

It's Not Whether You Win Or Lose...

It's how you play the game.

This evening Miss Jessica challenged JB and I to a game of Scrabble.

JB raised the stakes a bit. He suggested the loser would have to clean the house for a week--to my expectations--

not that I am unusually neat or anything...

At any rate, the game was splendid and the conversation divine!

And the housecleaner for a week?

I'll let you figure that one out...

Send The Waaambulance Away

Thank you, thank you Unrelaxed Dad for being the party pooper at my pity party yesterday. Your comment helped me realize what I should already know--I'm pretty darned lucky.

The commute sucks but it is by way my comfy little Saturn--which gets 34-36 mpg--as opposed to standing room only transportation.

When I arrive, there are no time clocks or micro managers. I am left to do what needs to be done. There's also one of those fancy, schmancy single cup coffee contraptions complete with an assortment of coffee and tea--offered AT NO CHARGE.

And did I mention there's a cafeteria on site, complete with short order grill and salad bar?

Dress is business casual.

Having said all that, I feel a bit like a spoiled brat for whining about the commute. After all, I am 50 this year and we all know it's much harder to find a job when you're over 40.

I am now happily living, working and eating.

The eating thing is going through a major over haul as I am trying to improve the body image before birthday number 50 rolls around...

Everything But The Kitchen Sink

I love my kitchen. We redid it 4 or 5 years ago and I have plenty of room to do all kinds of cooking. I just don't have much time these days.

The 40 minute commute is governing my life.

Its a race with living. So, do we work to live or live to work? It's much akin to the chicken and egg--the more you think about it, the more frustrating it becomes--there is no real answer.

It's All On A Wheel

What goes around comes around. We reap what we sow. We've all heard it and shit it off for nothing more than an old cliche'.

Not true.

What do you think makes us worry so much about out children? It's what we did and got away with--that's what make us the most concerned.

We know.

It's is indeed all on a wheel. The sad part about is that our parents worried (we never realized that until this very instance) and we are doomed to the same fate. There's not one single thing we can do to change it. It's like Momo always told me--experience is a hard teacher, but it sticks with you.

So, if you want to share my burden--worry about a daughter that is accustomed to flat ground that is suddenly faced with curves in the road, and worry that she may or may not be the best judge of character, and pray that I will be able to have faith enough in her to get a good night's sleep now and again.

Thanks for helping me out. It gets to be a bit too much sometimes...

Mexican Manicotti

This was one of the dishes I made for Miss Jessica's 24th birthday last Sunday. It's a Tex-Mex twist on an Italian dish.
I apologize for no pictures. That just means it all went very, very quickly!

1 lb lean ground beef
1 can refried beans
2 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 package (8 ounces) manicotti shells
1 1/2 cups water
1 jar (16 ounces) picante sauce
2 cups (16 ounces) sour cream
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced ripe olives, drained
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican style cheese

In a bowl, combine the uncooked beef, beans, chili powder and oregano. Spoon into uncooked manicotti shells; arrange in a greased 13X9X2" baking dish. Combine water and picante sauce; pour over shells. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Remove from the frig 30 minutes prior to baking. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
Uncover; spoon sour cream over top. Sprinkle with onions, olives and cheese. Bake 5-10 minutes loner or until cheese is melted.

I also made my Taco stuffed Pasta shells, bacon cheddar dip and queso.

The queso is really easy and always a hit. I put one can of chicken broth and a can of Rotel in a crock pot. Then I brown 1 lb sausage; drain it and add it to the pot. Then I cube 3.5 pounds of velveeta and add it to the mix. (you can add a small 4 ounce can of green chilies, if desired.)Simmer until smooth. Serve with tortilla chips.

If You Wanna See A Rainbow

...you have to put up with a little rain.
I learned today that my hours were being cut from 40 t 33. I was ecstatic! The thought of school in less than a month was weighing heavily on my mind--and my schedule/ I just hope it lasts!

During the workweek, I'm not worth much after work when I get home from the commute. I hope that all soon changes and I can post my Tex-Mex recipes for you in the next day or so.

Time for bed...

Turkey Trot

Friday finally arrived! The end to the work week, and the beginning of some wondrous social interaction.

It began with the Turkey trot. JB and I went down to visit Austin Nichols. He flies now. He eats his weight in candle flies as well.


My little friend was busy fetching them from the back porch and hand-feeding them to him most of the evening.

And later that evening, my best friend in the whole world--that I've known since I was 16--stopped by for a visit. What a treat for my oldest daughter to meet her. More on that later, I promise.


Here's those crepe myrtles that block the setting sun each evening. There are massive and remind me that I need to prepare for the onset of Japanese beetles. The honeybees are having a field day right now.

Thomas is still pissed over Lina-- but he's getting better with it, I think.

And my Amaryllis is in full bloom! This was a gift from a neighbor more than 2 years ago, one Christmas. I love that it reacts so well with its surroundings and surprises with me with blooms twice a year now.

And tomorrow is Jessica's 24th birthday. I have a huge Tex-Mex meal planned.

I've asked Momo and Pop to relay stories of when they were 24. What were you doing when you were 24??? And what wisdom do you have to bestow??

Casting Shadows

This evening I sat at the kitchen table and propped my feet up as I sipped a glass of Merlot. While waiting for the oven timer to signal dinner, I found myself being hypnotized by the shadows dancing on the wall across from me.

The sun was sinking slowly, but had pushed through the large crepe myrtles by the back deck to capture it's last moments of attention.

It's as if it was hoping for a second wind--but finally surrendered--knowing full well it was really done for the day.

Good Intentions

It was just an ordinary day and started with a morning bath.

A little playfulness in between...

Then the catnip was introduced.

What was this stuff??

And what is it doing to me? I can't let go... I'll keep it close--just in case.

But for now, I think I'll take a little nap.

Only The Strong Survive

This is the last one standing of the 13 eggs--and his name is Austin Nichols. My little friend just calls him Austin. A rather dignified name for bird, wouldn't you say? I was confused until I learned than Austin Nichols was the guy who invented Wild Turkey. I have had a taste now and again--its been quite a few years-- but was never aware of that fact!

I guess we do truly learn something new every day--if we're open to the possibilities, that is.

He's loose in the house while folks are at home, and put safely away while they are out. But he's doing well overall, and hanging in there. It's quite an adjustment on everyone.


My little friend runs after him most of the time with a paper towel.

Bless her heart, I couldn't do it. My Jeni had lovebirds that, I swear, that must have gotten into shit-slinging contests--and they were caged! Birds are just not clean animals.

But I admire my friend. She saved Austin's life. And she is doing the best she can to make sure he finds a place in this world.

She is --by all rights--his mother.

Things Are Shaping Up

The absolute highlight of this week has got be the arrival of my Victoria's Secret Semi Annual Clearance bras. Hurry! There's only two days left!

Being on sale and all-- I ended up with one bright orange and one key lime, along with the prerequisite blush pink and ivory.

Momo always told me to never skimp when it comes to a good bra. I have to admit there's something nice about having good lingerie--even if you're the only one that knows.

And my best friend in the world--that I've known since I was 15--confessed to me last visit that she was forever in my debt because I introduced her to Victoria Secret bras. As a result she looks better in her clothes, having retrieved the better part of her bosom from it's hiding place under her arms.

I recommend the Body by Victoria line. You'll thank me, if you give them a try.

Sometimes It's More About The Small Sparklers

Don't give up on me. I'm just tired. I'm still getting acclimated to a 40 minute commute and an office building the size of a small city.

But I'm not complaining--I'm thankful.

I rise at 5 am to have coffee and breakfast and a shower before I follow some local who's intent on driving 4o mph in a 55 mph speed zone. Then I walk myself to death in this huge ass building with so many people that they have their own cafeteria! But the food is good, actually--and moderately priced as well. I am lucky.

At the end of the day, I drive home while mentally planning dinner. Today we managed to have dinner by 7:30 pm, so I believe I'm getting in the groove of things.

And after dinner tonight, Miss Jeni's purse rang me and I listened to her fiancee' tell their guests all about sonar and algorithms. I'm sure you're familiar with the phone call from someone who never made the call--the one where the phone is so far down in the purse that something hits redial and you hear all kinds of things that were never intended for you to hear.

But all I really heard from this unintended phone call was the sound of life moving on.

Let Us All Be Independent

What better wish for the world than for us all
to find our own spot and flourish?

Life Is Moving Swiftly On

We're all hanging out and doing our own thing. Miss Jessica is in and out with her schedule and I'm grabbing hugs on the run and trying to bestow motherly wisdom on the fly. No time for prep work--I have to lay it out because time is of the essence.

I did manage to paint my toenails--this morning. It's overrated, I still believe. Too much upkeep for so little return--but that's just me.

JB gave Blue a bath and he (Blue) seemed visibly pleased.
JB was pretty happy about it as well.

I thawed 2 pounds of shrimp for something pretty tasty.

I mixed up some fresh garlic and a few red pepper flakes and
cooked up some Garlic Shrimp. Here's my simple recipe:

2 pounds shrimp, peeled
8 cloves garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
1 Tablespoon red pepper flakes
2 Tablespoons Parsley

Put olive oil in pan with garlic and cooked until browned. Add pepper flakes. Throw in shrimp and then parsley. Stir until shrimp turns pink.

Note: the garlic is wonderful but may have after effects!

It Is What It Is

I feel like I have been neglecting to keep you all abreast of the happenings here in our little kingdom. There have been so many changes and adjustments.

Miss Jessica is gainly employed and enjoying "the easiest job" she has ever known. I get hugs every day and find comfort in knowing she is close enough to get comfort or give comfort when needed. She is honest to a fault and has pointed out that I am getting old, my pores are large and I don't spend enough time "making myself pretty."

She's 24 next month--it's obviously more important to her to be pretty, than it is to me. I have given up hairspray, and only paint my toenails when faced with open-toed shoes. It's just that I realize my energy is a hot commodity and should be used where it can have the most impact.

I am more settled, I think, with my position in the world and more accepting of myself and my surroundings.

It is what it is, as JB often tells me.

But I'm in a happy place. I am happy that I realize that spinning my wheels just tires me out and gets me nowhere. I am happy to realize I cannot control the thoughts of others, but only my reaction to them. I working on remembering this on a daily basis...

The new job is working out. I have 40-minute commute and a job that is more than I had hoped. Life is good and I am learning to ride the waves.