I'm sorry your daughter's summer job didn't work out... maybe she'll find something if she's inspired to keep looking.

So happy to know you are spending time with your sister. My sisters and I are so close it's hard to imagine living far enough away that we'd have to schedule visits.

Hope your July4th weekend is a wonderful one!

Yes, I meant flu.. hehe I made misspelling. I also hate summer here in Osaka. It is always too much hot and humid. However it started early. So like you every morning I feel like less sleeping in summer. I hope fall is coming soon !

I can't remember all of guys you have dated in your life,too. But I noticed some of guys have the same name. You lead so much exciting life to compare to me.  

We'rre having sort of similar weather over here.

A kind of uncomfortable heat that build into storms but unfortunately they don't seem to 'break' it somehow.

But then typical English we scream out and grab every bit of sun we can because it's such a rarity.

It's not often I hear a woman...erm...bemoan their excessive men friends.........perhaps you should start a little black book.

And yes.....it is only money.

[tommib]

haha

thanks.  a short little two lined novel. 

its all the puny mind can manage. 

Things are never going to be perfect between people. Relationships require persistance and a willingness to communicate to work through problems. They require staying power.

hm.  very nicely put.

He's rather young for me, but I'm not ruling him out

yay.  good for you.  

although he may not be interested in more than friendship with me.

oh well, it could still be a lot of fun.

while reading this the man that you described reminded me of my father.  perhaps i was overly sympathetic.  i have changed my mind.  maybe you shouldnt be his friend.  why grow attached to a potentially abusive man?  do you need a companion so bad that you would put yourself in a threatened position? 

gut feelings perhaps are the best indication.  either way you are a grown woman.  this could come with all the dressings of a great purpose or project but does this man want you tinkering with him?  he doesnt seem like the patient kind.

i'll be reading to see how it goes or what you decide.

They dogs are a great way to meet people.

They just seem like an effective way to ensure you pick up shit in public to me

I think the gut instinct should be followed to a tee, never ignored.

You know the deal.

[tommib]

it sounds like he really needs a friend.  i would do that too.  he sounds like he is trying his best in his mixed up crazy way.  and though it might seem to others he doesnt try at all i imagine he carries his burdens very deep. 

yea.  just a feeling.  he needs help of sorts it sounds like. 

plus it sounds like he was trying to impress you with the things he himself would consider impressive and well you know between men and women those are two very different things.

RYN:

Oh.  Crap.

I appreciated the trawl you made through my entries, and the comments of course. As always much welcome.

I know how you're daughter feels, that 'need' clawing away at her, but then she has so much indepence when she's away perhaps a few more days at home and she'll feel the benefits.

I always enjoy reading about your and your ex's meetings.

I don't know why but it gives some clarity to my own 'ex' situation. Although I never see her (and haven't done since about a month after the split) I still wonder what I'd be like if I bumped into her seeing as it's a possiblity.

Somedays I think i'd just give in and we'd have a brief snigger about it all, though most days I think I'd give her such a stare that she would cry and then I'd move on before I did or said something I greatly regret.

Actually, yeah, it is that second one.

Anyway, to hear that not everyone wants to kill each other after divorce somehow helps me..............so thankyou.

And keep singing those songs to be sung, just let us know what they are........

The "Sometimes you feel like a nut and sometimes you don't" jingle was written by Weird Al Yankovic. For one period in his life my son was buying every CD Weird Al put out. When Weird Al came to town to open for the Monkees in concert, we were there.

When Weird Al wrapped up and the Monkees opened, I looked around and then turned to my wife and said, "I know why WE'RE here, but why is everyone else here?" I turned to the couple next to us and asked "Why are you here?" They told me how they were big fans of the Monkees and were following them all over the country to attend their concerts. I like the Monkees, but I guess I take them for granted. By the time they finished their second song we were ready to leave and we did. Sometimes you feel like the Monkees and sometimes you don't.

I'm glad you chose to use your MDD diary to start to center yourself again after the trip with your ex. Reminiscing can be poignant when the two of you now each has a different center from the one you shared with one another. Of course your daughter represents part of the on-going center you share with your ex.

My son's return home after his freshman year of college was his last. The following summer he and his best friend shared an apartment here where they grew up, but the summer after his junior year represented an opportunity for professional growth that kept him on campus across the country. As my own mother said recently about her progressing Alzheimer's--"You can't keep the wind from blowing."

While it's true you provide your daughter with the comforts of home with no responsibility required of her, that she wants independence is to her credit. I don't know if drugs among her friends pose a real threat to her as you suggest, or if it's a fear or rationale to which you cling in order to withstand the onslaught of change, but ultimately what we want for our children is for them to be independent and responsible. Next summer the natural progression of life may see your daughter in her own apartment. It's not bad for a maturing young adult child to have time to practice fending for themselves during summer breaks before they find themselves fending for themselves in the post-college real world. Still gradual transitions can be sweet. During my son's senior year in high school I dealt with my grief in anticipation of his leaving by thanking God for the loan and giving him back to God. It helped me to have that to remind me that grieving over separation due to one's child's increasing independence was part of the natural order.

You have a great attitude. I understand what you mean about life being full and empty at the same time. It gets better in time--whether because of new bonds you will form or because you will come to accept and even enjoy the new balance.

It sounds as if you have one of those divorces that are perhaps better than the marriage had become at its end. Being able to be friends with one's ex is a real blessing, not only for both of you but also for your daughter. You deserve a lot of credit for having successfully redesigned your own life and for making the best of the separations you've faced. All the best to you as you continue to let go and go on.

[NightListener]

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Okay, so here's the song in the version I like best, but who knows if this will post correctly. It was originally done by KT Olsen (I think) but I really like how this woman, Frances Black, sings it. Called Wall Of Tears.

You are beautiful inside and out. Embrace yourself.

I was happy to read about you meeting Mike... Remind yourself of how beautiful and attractive you felt in his company and carry it with you because you truly are. Touch and being touched (physically) is so important for us.

On another note:

There's a song I'm reminded of everytime I read about you spending time with your ex-husband...I'm going to hunt for the lyrics and possible video/music and post it if I find it...

Hey Kathy!

Thanks for your warm, supportive note in my diary. I appreciate your kind words.

You are definitely an outgoing person who make the effort to live life fully. I enjoyed what I read of this entry, but will have to come back to finish it. I finally met my match in you when it comes to writing lengthy entries. Out of curiosity I copied and pasted this entry into MS Word in order to do a word count: 17 words short of 2,500 comprising 6 pages. I'd say you should write more often except that you're living your life so fully that you probably don't have time to write. I like the example you set for the rest of us in getting out and being with others as much as you do.

Wow. Could have been me writing that line.

Which line I hear you think?

'(He) was attractive so I immediately assumed he wouldn't be interested in me. That's a bad habit I have.'

You didn't say what you thought of 'Benjamin Button', if indeed you got round to watching it.

Lovely to see you keep on keeping on with the social functions, there's inspiration to be had there.

I will read this shortly, commenting first while it's fresh on my mind. I liked your interpretation of Benny Buttons even though I passionately hated the movie, haha. The guy getting struck by lightening was great, B laughed every time and that made me laugh too. I didn't even register the scene of him sitting by the bathtub, but now that you mention it... good catch! The dialog was mumbled and the plot posed more questions that anyone could ever answer to my satisfaction.

There are no sidewalks in my neighborhood, some sandy trails though.

What else, what else......

Interesting new twist!!! Mike sounds like a very good man! How was the Benjamin Button movie????? Worth seeing? I hear it's a bit long...

As always, I enjoy living vicariously through your very active social life. The way your write, I can picture the scenes so clearly. I love it!

Gotta cut this short and catch up on the other entries that I missed later. My little Alayna is talking from her crib wanting me to go get her!

I love a White Russian :-)

My interest is piqued by intuitive healer. How did you resist asking for a read? I liked your description of his (her?) meal, quirky.

A sleep aid is sometimes worth the hangover, it's a hard call.

Nice entry, action packed.

You'll look hard for Tommib in Lost In Translation and still not find.

It's the title of the music track playing when Scarlett Johansson's character is sitting on the window sill of her hotel room just looking out at Tokyo.

For further interest, it's by a fellow who goes by the name Squarepusher, from the Go! Plastic album.

Tommib the track is not exactly a good representation of his usual work, most definitley an aquired taste.

I saw him play last year in Manchester.

Now that was a good night, a story for another time I think.

Christian Marriage and s..x Therapy? Jeez. Didn't she fancy something lighter like Top Grade Brain Surgery?

But well done her. I always admire people who achieve such things.

And similarly there you are again, getting out there, trying it out, socializing even when it's difficult.

Much admiration your way too.

_________________________

Do you think it's true that when you're activily looking for relationship/companionship/basically opposite s..x attention, that it evades you?

Do people somehow 'see' the kind of desperation?

Earlier in the year Ihad absolutely no wish to be with or around anyone in that way, and got attention quite frankly the like that I hadn't had before.

Now I'm a bit 'lookee out' it's a desert of attention.

Interesting I reckon.

[tommib]

I really like the words to Martina McBride's "This one's for the girls" however, I'm don't think you're a country-bumpkin singer....

This one's for all you girls about thirteen
High school can be so rough, can be so mean
Hold onto, on to your innocence
Stand your ground when everyone's giving in

This one's for the girls

This is for all you girls about twenty-five
In a little apartment, just trying to get by
Living on, on dreams and spaghetti-o's
Wondering where you life is gonna go

This one's for the girls
Who've ever had a broken heart
Who've wished upon a shooting star
You're beautiful the way you are
This one's for the girls
Who love without holding back
Who dream with everything they have
All around the world
This one's for the girls

This is for all you girls about forty-two
Tossing pennies into the Fountain of Youth
Every laugh, laugh line on your face
Made you who you are today

This one's for the girls
Who've ever had a broken heart
Who've wished upon a shooting star
You're beautiful the way you are
This one's for the girls
Who love without holding back
Who dream with everything they have
All around the world
This one's for the girls

Yeah, we're all the same inside (same inside)
From 1 to 99

This one's for the girls
Who've ever had a broken heart
Who've wished upon a shooting star
You're beautiful the way you are
This one's for the girls
Who love without holding back
Who dream with everything they have
All around the world
This one's for the girls
Yeah, this one's for the girls

Here is some pics !

 Strange ?

I hope this time you can see them !

[masako]

I just watched The Reader too, not knowing much about it. I felt like there was so much there to think about. I said to myself, I think I really liked that. But I wasn't sure. I do want to read, the Lady and the Little Dog now. It must be a short story in a greater Chekhov volume, because I couldn't find it by searching the library catalog.

I have been meaning to look into meet ups. I'm not sure I'm as brave as you, though.

Maybe we should meet on Skype. I often forget to power up my yahoo im.

Thank you for your reply ! Plese check this http://masako.mydeardiary.com/entry.html?de_key=2346716

I put some pics of  the Halloween party there. I was shocked they are all gone. But I made my website for pics in public so hopefully you can see them as checking the blank. If no please tell me again.

I have never been any foreign contries. From your dairy I have learned you have visited some countries. It is wonderful experience,isn't it ?

I just break up with an American guy. He is just an e-mail friend though.  But it has been more than 2 years. It is hard for me to stop writting him. I felt he was not serious about women, not only me but all of women he has known through the internet. He just plays around.  I then I finally wrote him the last note. Then he stopped to write. It is hard to find a nice man..

I always meet a foreign friend here in Japan. Mostly they are women. I feel this way is much safer than meet men friends. I need to have at least your half of courage.

I met an American woman in Tokyo Japan about 7 years ago or so. She divorced twice and she tried to find a nice Japanese man as her third husband when I had known her from the site of Japanese pen pal. Then finally she got one ! When I met her she was with her Japanese husband. He is from Tokoyo. And I had to admit he was a jackpot.

Why not you ? Why not me ?

Being happy when amongst people and down when alone is something I can definitely relate to, and it sure is not an easy task but then again its not that difficult too, I reckon we just adapt to our surroundings and situations.

Lovely pics once again.
I am amazed at your courage to put yourself out there in search of love and yet not get negative when things don't work out.
Lol I like the way you spoke about 30-something women in the singles club. Good Luck with your hunt

I love people watching, and boy, did I have fun scrolling through the parade pictures! Wish I had been there. Just had a thought that holding a camera is a fantastic way to people watch! I should get a monstrous one and snap away. I don't think people would really understand me as a photographer if I'm holding a tiny digital camera.

I'm beating myself up for drinking iced tea too late in the day, so now I'm online waiting until I get tired enough to sleep.

Hoity Toity, Indeed! I don't see why a 30 second video of the guitar players would have hurt anyone. Unless of course there were huge signs posted saying NO VIDEOGRAPHY OR PHOTOGRAPHY OF MUSICIANS. Which I doubt there were.

Enjoy your entries, as always. A little bit of you reminds me of me sometimes.

[mixedupmama]

Photos are great. (but then you knew I'd say that didn't you?)

Love the one foot Fonz in the bowl and really quite fancied the girl in yellow eating.

Get a number by chance?

Also good to see that the phrase Hoity Toity gets used world wide.

You still get out there and I admire that greatly.

I'm looking for a film club in my city, I don't know if I'm, looking in the right places because it's turning up nothing at the moment.

I shall continue hunting.

Good luck with the recharging.

Ha ha......a nice bit of Chagrin does wonders.

Well sorry to hear that it's been a bit low but it also sounds like you've been busy.

Loved the photos, especially the highly colourful leaf (reminded me of a parrot), the one that's slighty rotting on the end.

Seems an odd thing to say doesn't it, 'slighty rotting on the end'.

Welcome to SchoolboyJuvenileComments.com

Todays comment: You can see his winkie!

I like squirrels.

Over here some years ago now the Grey Squirrel was introduced (I don't recall who or how). I took over the squirrel populace which was overwhelmingly the Red Squirrel.

So now only in far flung reaches do you find red squirrels (though with interbreeding you do catch some grey ones with an almost dull rusty fur).

So I'm in a place in the Lake District called Cockermouth (don't laugh) and I'm in a cottage there and as I walk in theres a gun by the door, double barrelled thing.

I obviously notice and look a little bit surpirsed by this and the owner says "It's for the grey squirrels, it helps out the red ones."

True story, no point to it, it's just true.

Anyway hope your well and what not. Take care.

What a cute little squirrel...hehe hotdogs indeed

Hope you're having a lovely Easter weekend Kats

*hugs*

Lily

so cute!

yeah, i haven't had anything to say on here either.

RYN : Well I'm an Indian who is a new migrant into Australia so the culture gap that I talk about is the classic east v/s west difference. At this stage I don't know if I will experience one but there is a possibility that I will.... coz obviously its going to be difficult finding people with similar interests as me and that will in turn affect my PR and blah blah blah you know how it is.... in due time hopefully I'll adjust

RYN: regarding the shallowness of men.

When I was married I was worried that I was in some way not manly.

Truth is that assessment was correct. I suspect it to be one of the (many) factors of my wife's disinterest in me.

Anyway.

Once the crutch of a partner was removed and I was in the big bad world on my own I realised that I am 'quite manly'.................

...............or more accurately 'typically male'.

I guess what I'm saying is I agree.

I think deep down men are quite shallow in the areas mentioned and so yes, the yacht would be good, but thankfully I have enough about me to know that it would be ultimately unfulfilling.

But fun for a while.

You're very brave with your ad placing.

I'm not sure I could do that, in fact I know I couldn't.

I saw a girl on the pavement today whilst I was in the car.....she looked very cute.

Anyway, I thought what would happen if I just stopped and asked if she fancied meeting foir a coffee sometime?

How foolish of me.

Anyway, I didn't, but you do something similar but in the proper 'organized' way.

Good luck to you and your courage too.

[tommib]

I have been checking out Craigslist platonic section. Even there I have to weed through men seeking men and men seeking women for more than friendship. Well I haven't found my Ethel Mertz. Maybe she moved in next door. I still haven't introduced myself to the new neighbors.

A lot of fish in the sea and a lot of nibbles on your line. There has to be one between the ages of 36 and 69...

We argue about little things, but the fights always escalate regardless. And it just makes me think about the bigger things in life, and I get depressed and think maybe my relationship isn't helping. But who knows?

I have some friends from Sierra Leone. I'm glad you've been keeping busy again :)

Kicking out that chicken curry and I'm now sat here with the flavour of korma rolling around my mouth at 11.10pm.

I'll have to do with a cup of tea I suppose. How very English.

Hi again. First I'l respond to your comment on my diary, then I'll read your entry & comment.

So here goes. As far as all of this catching up with them, I hope so too. And, I fully intend to make some calls in the morning. I'll be calling child protective services, Crystal's probation officer, & anyone else I think will get something done. A while back, they were raided, & Zac spent a week in jail. Our family thougt maybe that would give him a dose of reality, but evidently it hasn't.  I guess we'll see what happens next.

You said you felt like I'm probably in worse pain than you are at the moment. The way I look at that is, your pain is just as severe to you as mine is to me. I could never say that someone else's pain isn't as bad as mine. I've had that said to me before, & it felt really bad to think that someone else was down-playing my pain just because they felt like theirs was worse.

What do you think is causing the nerve pain in your feet? I have what I thought was restless leg syndrome, but my dr now says it's diabetic neuropathy. Just wondering if maybe that was your problem. Either way, nerve pain sucks! lol I hope you have less pain as I'm writing this. I hate to know that my friends are in pain.

What kind of books do you like to read? Just curious, because I read at least 3 books a month, & I must have 50 books to give away.

Now, to comment on your entry.......

Your herb garden sounds so nice. I wish I had the talent for that kind of thing! I bet it smells heavenly when you walk out there! Not to mention the tomatoes & peppers!!! I really do need to learn to grow "stuff". LOL

One thing stands ot in your entries every time I read them. Your relationship with your ex. It sounds like the two of you have really been able to get along well together, which is great for your daughter. That's exactly how me & James are. I think we do it for each other just as much as for Ayanna, but it's really nice to be that way. I always like to read what the three of you are up to.

So no word from John hugh? I know our religions are completely different, so I'll just say this. If it doesn't work out for you two, then it wasn't meant to. As I've said before, you WILL find your mate. Patience isn't my stongsuit either, but hey-what choice do we really have?

Well, big huggles to you, & I hope that your pain lessens so that you can move around without too much misery!

[glynne]

Ohhhh all that Indian food sounds sooooooo good I bet all those wonderful spices would help clear my head. I have a code in my node

Glad you have been enjoying yourself Kats...good food, good music, good friends. Perfect

xo

Lily

Yes-it can be reported anonymously. The guy called me back again last night & told me even more junk. I swear, I don't guess jail taught them a thing!!

How are you today?

Oh jeez-talk about creepy!!!!!! I think I would have freaked out right from the start!!! I can't believe he actually hunted down your diary! Something just is NOT right about that at all. Gives me the willies!

So, the thing with John is sounding like maybe he's just not into dating right now. I'm not sure it's just YOU, but maybe just in general. Like I've said before, leave him be, & see if he calls you. If not, there's someone out there for you. You just have to wait for them to find you.

And yes, methadone is often used to get people off of heroin, but it is also used for pain. I've taken it myself, for legitimate pain of course, but I honestly don't see the attraction. But I think their kids should be taken from them, & they should go to jail. What decent parent gives their baby drugs???????

Hi Kats Wow! Your photos are awesome as always!! You have an eye for capturing really interesting subjects. Can you call flowers and trees subjects?

I'm just home from a 13 hour day at the pub. It was sooooo busy. Thats a good thing, but man I'm burnt out We have a really good band in there tonight, Sean Ashby. He's Sarah McLachlan's guitarist, and also has his own band. Great sound and very talented

I'm starting to feel a bit of a cold coming on, I'm just sipping herbal tea and I'm thinking about cuddling up on the couch with the remote

Have a good weekend Kats

love...Lily

Good decsion on the John front I think.

I've spoken about a girl that I liked and went on a date with a few weeks ago who although makes all the 'right' signs as to be interested doesn't seem to take the initiative.

I've stood back and stopped being the chaser. If she's interested I've made it clear that I would like her to get in touch but I'm not going to spend my time pestering her.................(no matter how beautiful she is)...........so same boat situation there.

Sounds like you need the 'goal a  day' therapy.

Well, I say therapy, just an idea we use at work with people with low mood/depression etc.

Write out all the things that need doing around the apartment, and do one of them a day.

Motivation is like a dynamo. It's difficult to get going but once you do it kind of takes over.

Hope your dynamo sparks soon.

Love the photos as always. Especially like the gothic lion (dragon? but I think it's a lion).

[tommib]

We have been uncomfortably warm here as well, I prefer a break where I don't have to use heat or a/c however seems to be less and less "free" time each year.

Lovely pictures.... as usual.

Hmmmm.

That's some scray stuff right there with the car park fella.

A nurse at my hospital was car jacked the other week.

Man basically threatened her through the open window of her car and forced her to hand her keys.

Tough calls in the world for women generally when thugs like that are about.

great minds do think alike :)

yes, i'm on facebook, and i would love to listen to a video of treefrogs!! my email is nicolenikkicoleyedna@yahoo.com it should be easier to look me up that way. thanks for the offer!
where i moved to in canada, there are no tree frogs because there are no trees :(

Oh, I just deleted my top ten things to say because I am trying to keep everyone but myself out of my journal. I thought everyone had a chance to read it. Oh well.

Bradfords blooming already? Oh to be in Georgia :-)

Try not to get too down about the rejection thing. After all, it may not be that at all. Maybe let him call & ask YOU to do something next time. If he doesn't, then you'll know.

The experience with the man in the car sounds scary!! I probably would've tried to run over him!!! LOL Yes-I tend to go way overboard!

I hope your internet gets back up soon so you don't have to leave home to do your entries! Well, bye for now.... 

Ewww!!! That sucks but I'm glad I'm VIP.

Wow! It sounds like you have a pretty busy life! I don't even know what I would do if I had that much going on. I guess I'm a pretty boring person. LOL

To answer your question, yes-I lived in Roswell for 12 years, & dated a guy who lived in Stone Mtn.

What part of Atlanta are you from?

Hi Kats, nice to read you I was wondering where you'd gone. That is kind of creepy that guy tracked you down here on MDD. I hope he doesn't bother you!

Most of the snow here has melted, but we still have big piles here and there of the same dirty brown stuff. The temps are warming up a tough, but still rather cold. I just can't wait for sunny summer days! I have had my fill of winter.

Had a great visit with Dave, enjoyed time relaxing together, cooking yummy meals, lots of shopping, and dining out. It always sucks coming back, although I missed my son too.

Tay is doing great, working full time, making good money and he has benefits. For now he is content being in the workforce, but he does have plans to go to college and get a trade. I am encouraging him to do that in the next few years. He's still young and has lots of time for more schooling. Right now he's loving the big paychecks and is stashing every cent. He is proud to have his bank account growing, and has plans to buy a truck sometime this summer. I told him to hang onto his money and drive his car for as long as possible, its paid for so why not keep on driving it and keep saving.

My Dad passed away this past monday, so its been a tough week, tomorrow (saturday) is the funeral, so I'm mentally preparing for a long day. He is in a much better place now.

Take care Kats...catch up again soon

*hugs*

Lily

omg thats awful about creepo and you have every right to feel violated. I feel a bit concerned for you but am worried  I will make you feel panicked saying this. It's a bit scary that someone can find you via something like this when it's quite random... I want to say watch your back and make it clear you are not interested.

I always seem to attract wierdos in my  life because I am too nice to say no.

Be careful friend.

I know what you mean about not wanting people in your real life to know about your diary etc. I feel the same! But it is amazing that in different ways these not real people who are not in our real life can become our real friends. 

Hey there. I'm sorry you have a cold. If it's any consolation, I do too. But anyway, your picnic sounded nice-save for the wind blowing things around. I've actually never really been on a real picnic. I might have to try that sometime. How long have you & your ex been separated, if you don't mind my asking?

So, you mentioned an atheist & agnostic meeting. Are you one of these? I was just curious. I've never really noticed you mention it before. Well, I hope you have a good day! Huggles!! 

yum, icecream & poppycock... you may find a visitor at your doorstep

[mixedupmama]

Oh ickiness.

I've woken up this morning with a plethora of cold symptoms.

It would have been a phone in sick day, I feel that bad, but we're short at work as it is so......................

I know what you mean about that 'one too many' e-mails. It made me laugh in familiarity.

[tommib]

Thanks Kathy, Take care.

Chad

(((((((((((((((Kathy)))))))))))) I'm sorry that your precious daughter went through that...Rejection is NEVER Easy.

I'm sorry that things turned out that way with Dave..I'm proud of you for giving it a try! Go YOU!

  Glad that you've had so many positive things to keep you busy.

 Have a Blessed day!

 Love you!,

      Jewel

That fluorescent orange "cheese" is scary stuff. I swore off of it, but I guess PMS makes some exceptions.

Can I come over for ice cream?

Kathy, your entries always have such a positive note to them Good to hear from you. Take care.

Chad

Whirlwind should be the whole week, not just sunday.

I have wanted to see the wrestler, I think it is one of those good but painful to watch movies that I am just not up to right now.

I enjoy reading about your mother/daughter time. I love that you offer backrubs and foot massages :-)

What flavor ice cream?

This was my favorite part: "I did some nifty little sour grapes thinking and managed to get over him thoroughly in no time flat."

That really was an unlucky day for your daughter......a real humdinger.

Still in life we take the rough with the smooth.

Thanks for the comment on my diary. I kind of have to agree about the entry being more about the author than myself, but again, as you point out,  could hardly let it go with pointing out some of the more drastic parts of it.

Still in life we take the rough with the smooth.

I think more diaries should include the phrase 'a wide assortment of dogs'.

Still in life...................oh actually that doesn't work in this instance......................

I borrowed Sense & Sensibility from my parents. I really liked your comment about it. I saw it once but don't really remember it.

You're right, our situations do share a common thread.

I always enjoy your comments, they are so insightful and real.

Didn't get a chance to see all of these pics yet, but I will.

wow, your $60 went a long way! sounds like you had a really good time, and i am glad :)

[InMyHead19]

I'm happy you have this little network of friends that keeps you busy. Things like that keep us going.

Just finished writing a lot about nothing in my diary. Stop by for a read if you wish.

(liked your photos. especially the chinese boy(?) on the bridge and the little one hiding under her mother's coat)

Hey Kats:) Loved the pics...shapes and shadows was really kwel...you captured some interesting shadows with the furniture and fences etc. I always enjoy your photos. Thanks for sharing:)

Lily

Consider my heart fully eaten out!

I have to say despite the quality of your previous photos and chinese new year ones on here, I think boards, bricks and store fronts has been my favourite collection so far.

Much of it brings back memories of being in the U.S last year.

Especially Williams, just South of the Grand Canyon.

A beautiful set of pictures, thankyou for popping them up.

Have you ever seen.read Waiting For Godot?

I hear Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellan are to do the show at some point, I'd love to see it.

Anyway, Sounds like business as usual for you. Some good, some bad, it's like the story of all our lives.

 I had noticed the strimming down of entries but you do what you want when you want, such is the nature of a diary.

It's god that you feel some benefit from it, I know I do.

Still doing that dellicious food thing though, I'll have to go and eat now!

Hang in there Kathy, I know this will sound strange coming from a pessimist like me, but the dating situation will improve for you. Take care.

Chad

i found my girlfriend through an internet dating website, and now we're engaged...it's not completely counter productive.

sry about your brother :(

i'm glad you're doing alright though:)

(((((((((((((((9Kathy))))))))))))) I think that it's a good thing that you are getting your true feelings out here where you can gain some support.

    I'm glad that you've not given up on finding the love of your life...I know that finding him can be a daunting and even paiful process..But he will have been worth the effort.

    I'm glad that your daughter was honest with you about how she's been feeling and that you are there to show her support.

   Keep us posted.

  Sending MUCH LOVE your way!,

           Jewel

Hi, I miss you in your absences. Your title- lately I've had that going round my brain and I don't know why, so I felt stopped in my tracks when I opened your page. I must have known something about it at some time. Why did you make it your title?

I am letting myself off the hook for the blues due to SAD too.

You are so right about therapy.

xo

Howdy and happy birthday, sorry I'm late. Your birthday wishes to me made me chuckle. I could even hear the whistle through your toothless grin :-) lol

Hope you're doing well, I guess you're still going at warp speed.

Hi Kats Sending you early Birthday wishes in case I don't get back here before sunday. Time is flying by fast, in a couple of weeks I'll be leaving to see Dave for a couple of weeks...can't wait!

I'm working at home today, have to get yearend accounting done for the pub..blahh! It's really cold here... -12F plus a wind chill making it feel like -34F Brrrrrrrrrr

Take care my friend...catch up with you soon

love...Lily

(((((((((((((Kathy))))))))) I enjoyed reading about what you are up to and what your daughter is doing!

    How did things go with the Doctors appointment?

     Are you still searching for MR RIGHT?

     Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday Dear Friend!!!!!!!

    Love you!,

        Jewel

thinking of you! too tired to write longer comment and too tired to write the promised email but i will get around to it eventually! there's much to tell.

((((((((((((((Kathy)))))))))) It's so good to see an update from you!

    Fianances are very challenging here as well...I have applied for my disability...am praying to get that but have been told that it could take a year to hear back!

   Sorry that the ex is still causing you some heartache..I know that you truly loved him so very much and always will to an extent.

   Glad that you are keeping busy and trying not to sink into lonliness and dispair!

   Glad that your daughters date went well.

    Keep us posted!

 Much Love ALWAYS,

        Jewel

Oh storage.

I'm getting stung for £45 ($90 ish) each month.

All for a bit of floor space in a warehouse that's too cold in the winter and too warm in the summer.

Oh my poor, poor records.

Hello.

So nice to sit and read a well written entry. I should make such effort on mine... ha.

I'm glad you're singing! What song did you sing on Christmas Eve?  (always curious) The sing-along group sounds marvelous. I hope you are finding much enjoyment from it.

I'm sorry you are worried about your daughter. I can't imagine how it must be because I haven't had to deal with that. (yet!)  Perhaps she is seeking attention/love/fulfillment from whatever... a lot like the rest of us who are lonely... But, just like the rest of us, that journey needs to be made with lessons learned from mistakes, etc. For you as her mother who knows such things it must be hard not to be overprotective... I know I would be! Hang in there and offer advice when necessary. A little caution never hurts, but if you're overly protective you might drive a wedge between the two of you. (who am i to know tho, just rambling my thoughts)

I'm due to write you an email about something... but whether I actually do remains to be seen. Perhaps I will eventually... (how's that for leaving you hanging?)

[mixedupmama]

Hi Kats Nice to see you back. Wow you have been busy huh? I was off xmas day and what we call boxing day (26th) and then back to work. Real busy during the xmas holidays. We're closed right now to do renovations...ie...painting and redoing the floors...original hardwood I painted all day today, touch ups tomorrow and that part is done!

Anyway, I sending positive thoughts your way, afterall, its a new year

Love Ya!

Lily

Seems once again we're not in dissimilar places.

Ex's being up in the mind where they should be leaving us alone at least in our thoughts.

New Year being 'iffy' speaks volumes also.

However with a newyear comes new interests, or so I'm led to believe, and I guess anything can happen.

Good or bad.

But let's concentrate on the good eh!

It's nice to hear from you... Thanks for stopping in.

Thanks for letting me know you're ok Hope you have a Happy New Years eve..and best wishes in 2009!

xo

Lily

Hey Kats...hope you had a nice xmas...so where are you anyway??? Hope you drop in soon and let us know whats new 

Miss you!

Love Lily *hugs*

[LilyPie]

(((((((((((((9Kathy))))))))))))) Glad to read that you are doing well and staying busy with positive things!

   I've missed you...haven't been online much these days.

   Good news about the tests and Joe's family being so kind to you!

   Praying that your Christmas and New Year are filled with Blessings, Love, Good health and Joy!

  Love always,

    Jewel

I think it's great your daughter is coming home and staying local. I guess because I attended a commuter college, I always felt going away to school was really over rated. Working is real life. I'm glad you will see plenty of her; that's best for both of you.

It would be great if are virus free!

Going to look at your pics now...

Here it is, December already. The last month of 2008.

I enjoyed the slideshows of your photographs. The one photo that caught my attention the most was the young man dressed in his native garb chatting on his cell phone. It was the perfect blend of technology vs. tradition.

I imagine you are in the middle of your trip to gather your daughter. I'm glad she made the decision to come home and that you and your ex are able to be closer to her. (I remember that first semester living away from home in the dorms-- I was shell-shocked to say the least... it was the same year my friend got sick and ended up dying of cancer... the combination made me leave school and live in the sanctuary of my mother's cousin home for a year... but that's a whole other story.) Anyways, I'm glad your daughter made the decision. I'm sure she probably struggled with it a bit.

Looking forward to your next entry...

[mixedupmama]

Hi there! I'm trying to think of the "right" thing to say to this entry, so bear with me if it comes out all wierd, ok? LOL

First off, I'm glad you'll get to see more of your daughter once she starts back to college.

Now, on to the dating thing. I have to agree with the internet dating deal. I really don't think it's such a good idea. I used to try to meet people on those sites, & even met a couple in person, & luckily, they were both very nice guys. BUT, I was in a chatroom around that same time & found out that another of the females on there had met one of the guys in person, & he beat her up very badly. In another case, the guy actually bit the girl's nipples off. No joke. So please be careful!!!! I don't mean to scare you or anything, I just would hate to see anything bad happen to you. That would be terrible!!

On a lighter note, (lol) I hope things get better for you as far as the dating thing, or having a companion anyway. If you ever figure ot where the good guys are, how about letting ME know!!!

Love the photos as always.

Like the cemetary ones (feel the gleeful morbidity), and the one of the organ with that fantastic old sequancer/drum machine (could tell which) on top.

Made my day that did.

You seem happily jotting (?) along, pleased to hear it also!

I agree with you, anyway, I don't see why you should actively have to "sell" your positive attributes to someone else, let someone meet you in your own natural environment and have to work hard for your affections . Sometimes, even though I think I behave completely devoid of romantic sensitivities, I think underneath all that I'm a pretty hopeless romantic. I loved all those books that conveyed love as such a sweet intimate process. Even in those days if much of those works were written out of some sort of escapism, the idea of gallantry and the male being the one who has to prove his worth to the girl, well I like that, even if on the other side of my being I think I am also partially more feministic of spirit and feel that as women we should be able to do absolutely anything we ever wanted. I'm just a complete contradiction, but who cares!

Hey Kats I just spent some time looking at all the pics you've taken. Awesome! I really enjoyed the pics from the powwow, very kwel and such beautiful colors 

Thanks for sharing my friend, its always a treat for me to see beauty through your eyes

Have a nice weekend..

*hugs*

Lily

the colors of your photos are fantastic! always!

[InMyHead19]

nice pics

[Echos and Whispers]

Hi Kats Loved the pics..beautiful colors..I especially loved the one with the sunray coming through!

Hope you have a lovely weekend

love

I enjoyed those. :)

In response to your pregnancy question, medically I am taking drugs which interfere with cell division so I was asked if I was planning to have any more children before I was prescribed them. So I'm hoping that situation doesn't arise for me to have to worry and maybe make some tough decisions. On a personal level, although I haven't actively planned any more children, if I had a healthy pregnancy, we would soon adjust.

I think they are the most interesting and beautifully shot pictures you've put on here.

And the Pez cat scares the shit out of me.

Ah ha! I spy blue skies! The sky is grey here and I think it's going to stay that way for a while... the rain has come and entered my bloodstream... just call me Eeyore.

I always enjoy your photos. I absolutely love seeing the world through other's eyes (behind the lens). Isn't it amazing how everyone sees things differently? Sometimes I go on Flickr and Photobucket just to browse through photos... I love when websites put up "this week in pictures" too.  I suppose it comes from the creative gene I inherited from my relations.

I was trying to picture the crazy smiling cat you bought, so I am especially pleased to see it posted here. It's exactly the way I imagined it, only bigger than what I pictured.

I was inspired by the rain today, so if you're up to reading another entry of mine, head on over.  It's a downpour of thoughts that were trying to make sense but came out too fast...

My date to see Secret Life of Bees has been postponed- again. Argh.

We were in Georgia last year for our anniversary. Pecans, pecans everywhere. I had a pecan caramel thing (the name escapes me) with a bottle of cold Coke. It was a good snack.

I'm going to look at your pics now.

Thanks for the photo comments... and yes, I said hello on facebook, but no worries, like you, I'm rarely there... I just thought I'd spice up the pot a little.

Your Halloween night of food and karaoke sounds delightful... I've only done karaoke once in my life but really liked it after I figured out how to sing in time to the music... ha! I sang the popular Sarah McLachlan's "will you remember me?"  and ended up with so many compliments that it shut me up the rest of the night... I haven't been back to a karaoke since then, but reading about your adventures makes me wish I had been there with you.

[mixedupmama]

Your old witches costume with a new hat..........I like that, no idea why, I just do.

You didn't mention the songs you witchily tried out.

It's always good to see a band you like, especially when it's unexpected.

I'm very glad to read that you actually worry about the residency of the White House past putting an 'X' somewhere. So many people won't look past their vote on Tuesday and ignore the long term.

As for my entry about the friend who'd 'been' with other friends, it's important to point out that these friends were unattached at the time of their.....erm.....rendezvous.

So no cheating was ever committed.

At least not to my knowledge.

regrets are definitely a waste of energy...i often push them away, but every once in a while they surface.

i am going to keep taking my meds; i have to. i wish i didn't have to, but the fact is i do if i want to get better and stay alive.

i am in agreeance with the last part of this particular entry, "I'm living moment to moment to moment and for now." that's all i've been doing for a while. i feel like an alcoholic, just one day at a time. but hey, it works, right?

Merde! What will they get up to next.

I bought the original animated Transformers: The Movie last week to find that they had re-inserted the word 'shit' back into the film.

Great.

Whats the meaning of the cut out pumpkin at Halloween.

Over here we've just (like many an American tradition) started to do it. Admittedly the pumpkins available are somewhat smaller than those you've put on show.

have you done the 'Ex waited in line/healthy pizza/warmed soup/driven to Griffen' type entry before?

I had an amazing sense of de ja vu (forgive the spelling) from it.

Hiya Kats I read your entry then ventured over to view the slideshow. Wow...great pics! The kid pics were fun, you did such a good job capturing their excitement and curiosity. I'm always thrilled to see your photography, you are very talented my friend Well its 1am and I'm tired...time for Zzzz's

*hugs*

love Lily

Hey Kats As always, your post was a great read. I even imagined how beautiful the pics are that you took. Hope you post them

Sorry to hear about George..hope he finds his way home!! Its hard to lose a pet, they are part of the family. Positive thoughts

As always, I read all my favs, I just wish I had more time comment on every entry:(

I'm off to the pub this evening to meet and greet the band thats playing...friends of the owner. They are all well to do businessmen who just want to play. Should be interesting lol

Have a good nite Kats!

*hugs*

love....Lily

Hello friend. Wouldn't you know, I still have internet connection. 

I've been exhausted and feel myself snapping at every little thing. Might be stress.

I am adjusting to working weekends, but I do not like going. I enjoy it but I'd rather be at home.

Your entries are beautiful and full of vivid description. I've enjoyed reading them because they've brought me out of my own little lonely place...

Not much else to write at the moment. Seems a little unfair, soaking up all this good stuff but not having anything to write in return.

Saturday sounds like it was AWESOME!!!! I am so jealous of your ride through the countryside and all those flowers you got to see. i miss stuff like that. ever since i moved, i barely see nature, and i hate that part of the move. i LOVE bagpipes. they give me goosebumps. i like to listen to them live outdoors the best because its so surreal.

thanks for your comment on my previous entry. i know you suffer from a lot of things like depression so i am glad to have a comment from someone who has been there.

Very pretty pictures. I especially love the second one. The browning and shriveling of the leaves is beautiful in some way

Sounds like you have a lot going on right now, but it sounds like things are going pretty well, so that's great!

I absolutely LOVE your pictures!!! They are always so beautiful. I'd love to be able to take photos that pretty!

I've been a-searchin' for a film club in my local area, to no avail.

Could I set one up? No of course not.....I'm just not that organised.

Beautiful pictures as always, the first one in particular, great colours.

[tommib]

(((((((((((((((Kathy))))))))))) I'm sorry that you are feeling sad and lonely!  You sound like you have been very busy and getting out there- a BIG GO YOU!

  But I understand that you are longing for a loving mate to share your life with! 

    You are handling things with your daughter soooo well...A BIG GO YOU!

     Keep us posted.

   Love you!,

        Jewel

I know what you mean about not being able to figure out how to write.

I think (purely opinion of course) that it's not that you can't write about it, as you have done so in the past and very well, but you can't think of a different way to write about it.

At least that's what I have trouble with.

I know what you mean about my mothers potential answer, there's just only so long you can hold yourself in the dark without wanting the light. Even if it's a dull light.

Kathy,

Very nice pictures. Take care.

Chad

I saw Splendor in the Grass. Natalie Wood. I liked it and wanted to read the book; it's not a book it's a play. (Right?) I learned then that I just can't stand to read scripts.

Nothing can bring back the hour
of splendour in the grass, of glory in the flower.

William Wordsworth

The first pic, is that moss? I love moss. One side of our house dips down and moss collects there. A friend of mine- I think it's safe to say friend- has been attempting to grow a moss garden for some time. She whipped up some existing moss with buttermilk in the blender and poured it out back. I don't think she's enjoyed much success but I really do like the idea of a moss garden.

That yellow stuff in the second and third pictures, what is that? I see that around. I always imagine it's dill but I don't know.

I really like picture seven, the way that bug is looking at you, I love the antennea. I like the colors too, the greens.

Is that a spider with translucent legs? *shudder*

This is what I'm thinking. You should compile some of these prints as a series: bugs on stuff. Obviously a little tweaking of the title is required. You seem to like taking photos of birds and bugs and butterflies working and playing in nature. I'm always excited by a theme.

One last thing I had left to say re your last comment. I love reading in the car. It warms right up in the sun and with both windows open you can get a nice cross breeze. I also like feeling that I'm in a kind of fish bowl.

my favorite(s): the path w/wooden railed fence & sun filtering through,  the small butterfly on trio of yellow flowers, the yellow flower w/bug against black, and the purple berries.

you have true talent, my friend! thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much for your last comment. In response to your question I ended up writing a whole entry, so head on over to my place to read up on it. 

I appreciate your insight and encouraging words. Your online friendship means the world to me!

My inspiration for living my life is thin these days...

I love popcorn with parmesean cheese although I am too poor to buy the real cheese so I eat it with the powdered crap. It too becomes a dinner more often than not.

My life will change soon as I have accepted a position as a caregiver for the retirees at a retirement community nearby. We need the extra income so my weekends will be spent in the presence of the elderly. I know I will enjoy it but it has been ages since I've held a 'real' job. I am a little anxious. Training begins Monday.

I joined the Christmas choir at a church. I sing soprano and it's been ages since I've sang, but I do enjoy it, so it's my one slice of sanity. Little J comes along and plays with children of other members while we rehearse. I'm not a church goer, but it does provide companionship.

I am glad you are not wallowing in the muck of loneliness. It is a bad habit of mine.

Books are marvelous. I am making more time to read. A recent visit from my aunt that lives in Arizona made me become the happy owner of at least 15 or so paperbacks. Most of them have proved to be lovely reads. I never pay attention to authors or anything... I especially enjoyed one called The Kite Runners. I am a collector of books however I have reduced the amount I own by trading them in for cash at Halfprice Books and donating them to the library... I love children's books. Your copy of The Snow Queen sounds divine. I enjoy Mary Engelbright's illustrations.

As always your entries are a pleasure to read... Thank you for sharing your life with me.

[mixedupmama]

I've never thought of that, what you said about males and females in nature, not at least, the way you put it. Men where black so that we can wear whatever color we choose, that's the way I always thought. Very interesting observation though. I paused to imagine a bird of paradise doing a mating dance. The mating dances I usually see are done in black boxer briefs and are quite spastic.
I am glad I was the one in turquoise on Saturday. I did enjoy it, more as a spectator than an active participant. We only had one dance, because the music was so young, and because his suspenders were killing him. Just as well since I couldn't keep my shoes on. I tried to take in everything and really savor it. It was an amazing occasion; not what I would do with a hundred grand but fun when it's someone else's.

I recently read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. You probably know this. It is easily in my top ten favorite books of all time after one read. Possibly top five. Reading it was like savoring a pastry on the champs elysees. I remember I had a red raspberry fruit tart standing there and it was the single most satisfying culinary moment of my life. Back to New York however, every word in this book is so perfectly chosen, the sentences string together and it just feels like something melting on your tongue. Absolutely exquisite. The story is sad but strong. I'd love to hear your thoughts if you read it. I'll say when you read it. I've asked my parents to do the same. Dad is only on page twenty (!) after two weeks so my mom confiscated it and I'm sure will make better progress. My mom reads like she breathes. By the way, I don't feel that books substitute human companionship, I think it makes me long for it, sometimes until my heart aches.

I have something called a Slanket. It is what it sounds like, a blanket with sleeves. Really brilliant but it might remind you of something else... um, a robe! Haha. Anyway, I never opened it last year but I am really looking forward to using it now that the weather is turning. When I read I face the problem of cold extremities. My mother has fibromyalgia (sp?) by the way. Sometimes I think I might have something like it because my knees often ache and when it's cool or damp and especially a week or so before my period starts I just ache all over. That reminds me. After I read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, I became obsessed with Betty Smith the author. I read two of her next novels over the next two weeks. I currently have the last one, Maggie-Now, checked out. I'd wanted to have a Betty Smith September and read everything she wrote in this month, but I'm currently distracted by a really delicious novel called Matrimony, not by Smith. Maggie waits. Anyway, in Joy in the Morning, the heroine tells her new husband not to touch her, she feels like glass she says, that will just shatter if she's touched. He realizes she's having her period and is a little awkward. That's how I feel exactly, like everything just hurts and if I'm touched wrong I'll break into pieces.

I'd be very interested in your daughter's reading list. I love the way college delvs into obscure themes. Very exciting.

The popcorn, it was a nice treat at the bottom of the bowl. I just ate all of the shavings off my fingers like snowflakes. By the way, tried s..x high if that's what you're talking about. First time I thought it was brilliant, the second time, pretty awful, like out of body and I was being mauled by a stranger. I'm really not into pot.

I am not spellchecking. Let's hope for the best.

[thingishthings]

I went through a Piaf stage.

I was actually after a tune that was used on an advert (never did find out what it was) but in the searching (second hand stores/charity shops etc etc) i found a compilation with the song "L'homme de Berlin" on.

It's beautiful. Not so much the song itself (My translation of the title is 'The Man Of Berlin' at my guess, I try and avoid direct translation of foreign language records, it takes something away for me) but more the sound of the recording, very, very haunting.

The record sleeve says that it was the last thing she ever recorded and did so on her bed, very ill,  studio equipment being brought into her bedroom; hence the slighty ropey recording.

But it lends so much to it.

Enjoy your mucky wallowing weekend.

It's good that you are staying busy. It always help to squelch lonely feelings. I used to feel lonely too and I wasn't as equipped as you to deal with it. Instead, I would sulk and cry.

I hope you feel better. Good luck with Carlton, no matter which way things go there. Take care.

Chad

Oh dear the 'stopping the film' scenario.

One I can't do, I immerse myself in film.

How sad.

Glad to see you keep things on the move even if it is hard, and dare I point out the slight glimmer of brioghtness at the end there?

"I'm looking forward to it"

Well hooray for that!

I was at a bridal shower a few months ago, one of the guests trains seeing eye dogs so she had the dog with her. The shower, all women naturally and most with small children, was probably a difficult place to take a pup in training. All of the kids wanted to pet him but weren't allowed. Even the adults had to stifle impulses to reach down and pat the furry head. It's all a part of the training I guess. The dog was already so well behaved, you'd hardly even know it was there.

Tell me, do your eyes glaze over during conversations about recessive genes or are you as good a sport as you sound?

There is a great comedy skit by Jim Gaffagin, you can catch it on Comedy Central or watch it on YouTube. He does a bit about hot pockets and it's hysterical. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9c9lAfXQHs

Did you enjoy The Holiday, you didn't say? I love that movie. So many parts. I love when Cameron Diaz takes off her coat and the little girl says, You look like my Barbie!! Oh man, so many great parts.

((((((((((((((((((Kathy)))))))))) Thank YOU so much for the note! I'm sooooo glad to read that you daughter is calling you!@ Woohoooooo

 Sounds like you've been staying very busy with your date life- I'm glad that you'[re getting out there and trying different people.

   Know that I send you much Love always,

               Jewel

Hey Kats Just dropping in to say hi and let you know I've been following along with your entries. Glad to hear all is well with you and hope your meeting with Carlton goes well, I look forward to the update on your visit with him

Not much new on this end, work work work. Lots to do to get ready for the change of season at the pub, closing the patio, preparing the new fall/winter menu etc.. its neverending but I love it. Sure keeps me out of trouble

Hoping to maybe go visit Dave again in november, if not it wont be til after xmas and I will fly down. I miss him so much, our three weeks together in august was amazing, I wish I didnt have to come home, but alas my son is priority in my life until he's ready to spread his wings. All in all life is good

Take care my friend...

love Lily xo

((((((((((((((((((((9Kathy))))))))))) So glad to read that you got to talk to your daughter and that you have been so busy with postitive things..You sound really good!

 I hope that you have a wonderful time with Carlton!

   Many Blessings and Much Love are being sent your way!,

               Jewel

Hey Kathy,

I couldn't read Bridget either so I've sent her an email.

Take care,

Nic.

I was interested in your trip to Michigan because lately I've been reading Betty Smith's books, author of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, and the reoccurring theme is University of Michigan. Does anyone still name their daughters Mabel?

What is your daughter's boyfriend like?

Kathy,

Thanks for your comment. I'm glad you had a good trip overall. Take care.

Chad

(((((((((((((((((9Kathy))))))))))))) I know that this is such a big adjustment for you and that you will miss her terribly!

 It's a Blessing that you two have grown so very close!

  Much Love always,

       Jewel

So no suprises really for the trip.

It was always going to be tough wasn't it.

Still, another situation survived.

DragonCon sounded fun though.

[tommib]

I'm assuming your back now? 

Thanks for commenting. I'll adjust eventually. Don't we all?

Well her temper will flare because along with fatigue she'll have probably a little anxiety mixed up in there....it a coping mechanism.

All you can do, as you say, is try to keep yourself in check.

Take care on the trip.

My friend, I hope your travels to Michigan go well and that you are able to find some peace in this time of change. I remember my father dropping me and all my stuff off at my dorm. After he left I cried and cried. Perhaps your daughter's snappiness is due to a certain bravado she's been trying to attempt while she faces true independence.

Since you'll almost be halfway here why not stop in Seattle for a quick visit before heading home? :-) 

Do hang in there! My best wishes and warmest thoughts are with you.

p.s. your last 2 sentences made me chuckle...

Kathy,

Good luck and safe trip. Take care.

Chad

That wasn't a nice thing to say :-(

I have declined a number of invites to Dave & Busters. Just does not appeal. I can tell I don't like it without ever having been there.

Good luck on your trip, update if you can.

Kathy I hope this doesn't upset you and you know I don't comment much but I just feel led to say something. It bothers me that your daughter is sometimes so harsh with you.  I say something like "you talk too much and she can't stand listening to it" just makes me sad. I've shared before that I lost my step mom (the only mom I've ever known) to cancer a few years back and what I would give to hear her "nag" me just one more time. I wish you daughter could see how much you love her and just learn to embrace it. 

anyway.. I hope the trip went well. I hope this isn't too harsh I just felt the need to say so!

Laters!

Kathy,

Thanks for your comment. I hope things work out the way they're supposed to with Joe. Take care.

Chad

((((((((((((((Kathy)))))))))))) I'm so happy that you and your daughter have grown soooo very close! YAY to the Heavens!

   I know that you will miss her and that it will be an adjustment!  Jess's being an adult and needing her space has been a BIG adjustment for me!  But with time it gets easier.  And it's good that you have so many interests to keep yourself busy with!

   Best wishes in the romance department!

   Much Love always,

          Jewel

Kathy,

I'm glad you got to spend the quality time with your daughter. Now, if you can just get some quality time with a man that would be good. Take care.

Chad

Probably the first and only time a broken down car has been of benefit.

Enjoy your time with her.

With your Herclue like infection have you been using 'Ze leetle grey brain cells'?

Sundays used to be my favorite. When I was a child we dubbed the day as "family" day which meant absolutely no neighborhood kids over and we'd usually go off on an adventure as a family... Climbing the dunes on the Cape, sailing, beach outings, long bike rides on the many bike trails, Sunday "drives", airplane rides in my dad's little plane, nature walks... If you could imagine my parents doing this with all 9-10 kids along... We were a spectacle everywhere we went. This is why today my mother has 26 grandchildren and counting!!! 

I would like to continue the tradition of Sunday outings with little J and my husband... we try to, but it's not always put to plan. I'd say we manage to do it about once a month. That's better than none!

I feel sad for you when you write Lois has been distant... hopefully that will change after the beach trip she is going on has come to an end so that the awkwardness may come to an end... I see that you continue on anyway attending church and potlucks... good for you, though I sure you might forcer yourself.

It is so important to have that connection with girlfriends, so I do hope things get back to normal. Do you have any other women friends around to spend time with? Now that your daughter is headed off to college they may come in handy.

I would be thankful for the company of Joe too if I were in your situation. Although it's not "spicy" at least it's someone to spend some time with doing things you enjoy. The photo shoot of the scarecrows sounds interesting. It will be neat to see how many actually get set up. I hope you'll share your photos of them!

Have you ever been to any poetry reads? There was one going on in downtown Seattle by the marketplace a week ago or so when we went out on a Sunday outing. I like poetry and used to write, but sometimes the poetry I hear people reading floats right over my head. It's pretty however, and somewhat entertaining. I especially thought of you when I was observing all the colorful people and all the stands of fruit and flowers for sale... I think you would have a heyday photographing the area. It's much busier in the summer months than any other time.

Well, I must pull myself away from the computer... I was going to comment on your next entry but have run out of time... it's off to the wild world of motherhood! Enjoy your day.

[mixedupmama]

These internet guys sure are peculiar.

I've had Subway a time or two, I bought a cookie too. It tasted just like the sandwich.

I enjoyed the visual of plumes of steam. Very nice.

Lately I've enjoyed the idea of me in a fake mustache, usually I imagine this at my desk at work. Wouldn't it be funny if I just sat at my computer in a fake mustache like it was the most normal thing in the world. Maybe I am under socialized? These are the things I think about to amuse myself.

I feel sad that your daughter is going away.

Thanks Kathy, I'm sorry you got sick. Take care.

Chad

Kathy, I hope your cold is gone and that you're having a good week so far! I wanted to see what your facebook profile is... I'm on there and spend more time on that lately than MDD! My email is 2coloradojen@earthlink.net  you can write anytime! 

I'm sad and happy for you about your girl going off to college! College (my undergrad) was the best 4 years! I had so much fun and grew up so much. Wish I could say the same about grad school. Anyhow, my mom and I were very close when I was "away" at school and I often felt slightly homesick. I'm sure your daughter will be the same!

I am always intrigued by trailor parks. Who lives there I wonder? What do they look like inside? Often they have nice landscaping and nice cars outside which is weird. Are they as depressed and a trailor home implies? Do they live there by choice? I want to know.

I like your word, suggestible.

Sex dreams are exciting, but a little sad, too.

Not much fun for you but going to college will be a great experience for her.

Hoping some of those mentioned photos end up on here.

I've been taking the fish oil capsules just for a few days but they haven't repeated once...

What else was I going to say, dang it.

[myprincehascome]

did you take those pictures of the humming birds?

[InMyHead19]

Your photos from last entry are (as always) great.

I took a lot of photos while away (Germany and USA), I might compile my favourites and stick them up here.

Well done on going to see Hellboy II. I've quite been looking forward to it, I love the comic book and the first film so I'm hoping for great things.

You have fingerprint recognition on your laptop???

Perhaps you should have watched Mission Impossible.

Anyway I'm glad things remain ok for you.

Thanks for the comments.

Hey Kats! I'm here in Ohio with Dave Finally!! My vacation started when I drove across the border...hehe and it will end on aug 24th when I drive back across the border We're having a blast, we miss each other so much..every moment together is precious

Your pics are beautiful as always hun, I'm thrilled you share them with us Busy women you are ! the new 'freethinkers' group sounds interesting, and the jewelery making. WoW Kats thats so kwel

Enjoy life my friend, keep on doing what you're doing..you have come a long way since I've known you and you just keep getting better! *cheers*

love and big hugs

xx Lily

Thanks Kathy.............sorry I haven't called recently. I haven't been in a very good mood. Take care.

Chad

((((((((((((((((((9Kathy))))))))))))))) It's sooo good to see an entry from you and to read that you are doing good! YAY to the Heavens!

  You've come so very far my friend!

   So glad that you and your daughter have been spending so much time together..I really miss mine.

     Sorry to hear that things with Joe are not what you are looking for..I agree that the man of your life should appreciate your talent!

      I am glad that you have him to spend time with!

   Glad that you are getting over your feelings for your ex.

   Have a Blessed week!

 much Love always,

          Jewel

[Jeweliet]

Baby we ALL have a long way to go.  Glad to see you're starting to enjoy the journey! (grin)

Kathy,

Thanks for your comment. I'm glad things are going well for you. Take care.

Chad

i really liked your last paragraph of this entry. it's very positive, and for you that's really good hehe...i am glad that you have all these things to look forward to. i am also happy that your daughter is still staying with you all those days. about the laptops, if you use them, they're worth the money for sure.

i can't wait to see more pictures from your upcoming photo outings!

by the way, i am always impressed with the amount you write in your entries. you're very consistent. 

Thanks for your comment Kathy. Take care.

Chad

My favorites are the ones showing petals that have fallen off the flowers... for some reason I notice that in my every day travels and once even wrote poetry about it... As always, thanks for sharing.

My mother's art is a medley of everything! She's very creative and her art is somewhat "impressionist" rather than realistic. She does everything from watercolor and acrylic paintings, to pastels, to clay formations, and her recent joy is what she calls stained glass mosaics. I can send you the link to her web page via email if you're interested in seeing what she's created. In fact, I'll email that off to you now.

Thanks for your comment Kathy. I'm presently trying to suck my brains out through my ear using a plunger so I can put them back together......lol. Take care and hope you had a good day.

Chad

Cool pictures.very well taken. Thanks for your comment. How do you know I'm not a zombie? lol Take care.

Chad

Very, very, very beautiful.

Whoa! Beautiful pictures! I love the butterfly one, and the third one.

~Alaina~

well you said it! He's boring...sounds like My Ex! Remember Ax?  Well Ax became Ex and he lost 30 pounds! Know what? After 5 minutes in his company, thin or not, I know why I divorced him.

I wanted that spark(le) you talk about. I've got it with Teebone. Even though he goes underground now and then. I've gotten better  at focusing on my own agenda too!

http://xf1.xanga.com/d7dc475378431202712625/z157311724.jpg

Thanks Kathy...............talk to you soon.

Chad

Thanks for your advice. I can't afford my own place yet but I will someday. Take care.

Chad

Re: your comment to me, Dad is in the habit of squandering life's fortunes, as pitiful as they may be. No, he can't ever really decide where the money went, just that it's gone. It's a bad scene for my mom.

James Dean really hit the jackpot with Pete, huh. I did notice the married bit in his bio. I think if I were to have a bio, marital status would be one of the first things mentioned, so it made sense to me. I agree, there must be a million single cat ladies who would love to get a piece of him. When I bought my prints the woman at the counter asked, "So, how many cats do you have?" I said, "Huh?" I couldn't think why she would assume I had cats until I realized, oh, CAT PEOPLE. I told her, not only do I not own a cat, I don't even really care for them. That did not please her much, but it's true. Pete however is not just a cat. He is an indigo blue, caffiene addict, VW driving, world travelling, wine tasting genius.  I loved the article that explained Pete just started enjoying red wine in the last year. Hey, me too :-)

Dear Kathy,

It seems very clear from what you've written that a relationship minus the sparkle and zing and minus any obvious "other" connection, is a friendship pure and simple and for goodness sake don't "settle" for less than you want, especially when you are embarking upon a dating scene as a single woman with so many choices, (even if you don't think so)until you actually find the right person, there are plenty more people out there.... Joe sounds nice, it sounds like you have a good companion in Joe, but maybe there will be fireworks with another Mr Bloggs around the next corner.

Oh gracious...  I certainly don't know what to tell you but maybe just point blank ask Joe where he sees your relationship going? Two months seems far enough into it that it's time to be honest. Although with that comes the fear losing a nice cup of decaf coffee down the drain...

I guess I'm glad for the little fights with the husband. At least it keeps things interesting. I'd just prefer it with a little cream and sugar... lol.

(((((((((((((((((((((Kathy)))))))))))))) It's so good to see an update from you! It made me smile so big -reading about all of the good times that you've been having with your daughter! You are very blessed!

    Sorry that you aren't happy with Joe...Hoping that you find the one that you are looking for.

  Much Love and Many Good wishes!,

             Jewel

Nice entry.

Notes:

Gypsy is an interesting name, I think I like it.

Wouldn't it be cool to be born and die on the same day of the year. Like fate, nice and neat.

Smiled at "the way the cookie crumbles."

Don't give up after four years.

xx

I very much enjoyed the surreal trip I took this morning from my office chair as I followed you in your dream. Two things we share in common, dreams of big old houses- in mine I am always very excited to explore all of the rooms- and two, babies. It's not unusual for me to find an abandoned baby, often in a dirty bathroom. Anxiety sets in when someone else wants to claim it, and I never win. Oh and I always have some boyfriend I am eager to kiss, and it is never B :-( lol.

I wanted to post the prints I bought here but I can't, so, here's the link if you want to look at his work and you'll get the idea:

www.onthevergegallery.com

Enjoyed looking at your photographs, I cruised through very slowly and soaked up the naturescapes.

Haven't read this entry yet but I will.

Hi Kathy, it was good to read you.

It may be confused but it is all "go" in your life...and it makes great reading.

So your ex has two sisters with issues? Schizo and OC, does mental illness run in the family? Do you think it's nature or nurture? Just curious.

I understand your dismay with the tattoo. Every time my brother turns up he's got another one, and his wife too. It makes me sad in the pit of my stomach when I see it. I feel like he is disrespecting his body, a body that was perfect just the way it was. Ironically I really do like tattoos, maybe just not on someone I love so much.

B and I didn't kiss for a very long time.

Guitar lessons, how lovely! I don't think I would be very knacky at it; my natural feel for it is to hold it left handed. I'm right handed.

Getting a bargain on a used book is a great feeling. I have bought a dozen hardbacks at my local library for just fifty cents each.

A pen pal is a joy.

Have a good weekend.

(((((((((((((((((Kathy)))))))))))) It's such a Blessing to see an update from you!!!!! I miss you and think of you often!

   Glad to know that you've been busy living life!

  Glad that things are so good with your daughter!

  Glad that Joe is still in your life and that you are enjoying his company!

    Sorry for those who are struggling with the symptoms of mental illness..makes me realize how very blessed I am to have found meds that work for me.

  Praying that your week will be filled with Blessings!

   Write more often!

   Love you!,

        Jewel

You have a busy life.......I couldn't handle it..lol

Chad

Hello CMU.

Guitar lessons eh?

Guitar's a doddle, depending on how 'good' you want to be.

Lost is still Lost to me.

When I eventually get my own place again I'll hire it out and have a Lost catch up few days.

Turn off the phone and just immerse myself in it.

The last thing I saw was one of the first season 3 episodes.

So some way to go.

You entry reads quite enjoyably, hope that's the case for you.

It's good to read an update from you. I'm glad that things seem to be going good for you. You seem less lonely; which is always good. Maybe you were grieving the loss of your marriage and your X. And now that time has passed, you are dealing with it better.

Thanks. Take care.

Chad

Thanks, I hope you feel better. Take care.

Chad

Just stopping by to say hello. I imagine you'll write an entry soon because as soon as I start "worrying" about you I find you update. I've only written a few piddly stupid ones because I find that all I want to do when I come on here is complain so I've taken to not writing so much.

My summer nanny job is supossed to start on Wednesday but I've heard nothing from the family as of yet... they should be returning from a vacation (they drove) and they promised to call as soon as they got settled back at home. So far there's no sign of anything from their teenage daughter whom I keep in touch with on facebook... and I know she went with them, so they're not back yet cuz she'd be online as soon as "civilization" allowed.

I had a pretty non-existant 4th celebration. I forced my husband to go buy turkey hot dogs and the buns and made up a "sort of" potato salad to serve with them. The best part about the hot dogs were the grilled onions I slathered on top. We watched the fireworks for about 2 minutes on tv and then switched over to something else, can't remember what we watched.

I look forward to your next entry, whenever that may come. Hope you're doing well and have completely recovered from that bug you had when you last wrote this entry.

[mixedupmama]

Lost.

Now there's something else I've lost track of.

I'd like to thankyou for your comment on my diary.

I've not gotten on there as much as I would like, due to travelling and just the way I've felt.

But I find that no matter how long the time gaps there are always people on here to come back to, that's a great comfort and one of the few definites in my life.

Thanks very much..................and those food descriptions still make me hungry.

I would never have the nerve to take such a long trip like your daughter. I have very defined comfort zones.

Hey, what do you say about sharing that Coca Cola cake recipe? I've never heard of something like that and it sounds very cool. I even promise to delete it in timely fashion ;-)

Thanks for the cake recipe. I didn't ask for the other one, so no worries!

[mixedupmama]

You're welcome and thank you.

Chad

I hope you feel better and I hope things work out for you with Joe. Take care.

Chad

A dose of vitamin C and 2 aspirin took care of the chills & scratchy throat I had... Hopefully you will be feeling better soon! I am recovering after long days of kid-filled fun and non-stop going going going. (See my latest entry).

Today I have my nephew in my care ALL day and need to clean up the kitchen after my husband, who alone for 2 days knew how to use it but not clean it... I was too tired yesterday to tackle it so I must do it today before it gets too much further out of control.

((((((((((((((((((Kathy)))))))))))))) Glad to read that you are staying busy and getting out so much.

  Joe sounds like a sweetheart!

    Praying that your weekend is FILLED with BLESSINGS!

   Love you!,

     Jewel

P.S. Your note about mom's birthday really helped!!!!

I'll stay tuned to find out.

When I returned from my honeymoon I cried for three days because I missed my mom and my home. I even told B a couple times I was "going home" and he said, "this is your home now." lol. Oh man. It was hard. Even last summer I cried when B and I were placed in separate twin beds down the shore, in the same room but separated by a dresser. I do not adjust well

Last night B said he'd bring home pizza and we could have an early dinner before going our separate ways. I said, Separate ways? I want to go whichever way you're going!

I got a little jolt when I read 34 years old with a 15 year old son. I realized my high school girlfriend is on exactly the same time line, only she is 29 and her daughter 10. It just feels like yikes to me.

Thanks for your comment. I hadn't thought to ask them about my trip. I'm going regardless. I need to get away. I'm going to snap if I don't. I need this trip and the time away. I hope the time goes slow once I get there. Unfortunately the time leading up to the trip is going slowly too, 10 more days. Ugh! At least tomorrow it will be in the single digits, it seems to go faster once that happens. Good luck with Joe and everything else in your life. I hope it all goes well for you. Take care.

Chad

Oh my goodness, Kathy, your detail about the "romance" with John was so compelling, but in a really oh-NO kind of way! Poor you, nothing worse than try-hard passion when it just isn't there. Here's hoping you can sort THAT one out quickly!

Joe sounds like a very dear kind of companion, and it sounds as though you are really warming to him. Time is working its magic. I guess there are some issues, but I don't think any relationship is totally without them. See where it goes, eh?

Nic x.

[Travellerme]

I really feel for you because I can hear how much you long for a real relationship... It reminds me of me before I met my husband... I would see so many different men and wonder if "he was the one" and worry about it the whole time I was out with the man. (Those were the days of having a personal ad.) I'd rush into sex way too soon and then realize that was the only thing they wanted... but that I wanted the good sex AND the good companionship. I even dated one man much older than me for a while and while he was the good companionship, I never felt the "sizzle" with him...

It's such a conundrum. No wonder you feel clueless.

[mixedupmama]

Good advice and thanks......Take care.

Chad

It sounds like you have a fairly busy life. There's always something going on. I wish I had more to keep me busy, but being transportationally challenged(even my bike keeps getting a flat tire)I'm at a disadvantage. Thanks for you comment. You gave me some things to think about. Take care.

Chad

By the way, I think you are right not to seal off yourself from dating other men. It's too bad that you are in another state because I would totally set you up with my friend's dad... You have some of the same interests, plus he's got a great sense of humor. But enough of me playing matchmaker...

Oh that reminds me of a song! "matchmaker matchmaker make me a match, catch me a catch!" 

We could go on and on, couldn't we??? 

[mixedupmama]

One thought: maybe Joe has some health issues that he's worried about too! Maybe he's in the same sort of situation as you. Or maybe not, but honestly, if it comes down to it in the relationship and you both really want it there will be a way!

[mixedupmama]

Wow, so much to read! You HAVE been busy.  Unfortunately J is pulling on my hands to get off the computer, so I'll have to leave a REAL comment at a later time...

[mixedupmama]

Oh honey, I have many many friends with Herpes that have NEVER passed it on to a partner.  You don't need to tell him until long after the first hand holding.  Google it, and how to tell a partner.  As long as he has no aversion to condoms he need never be exposed.  Especially if you are vigilant and take your meds accordingly.    If you are blessed enough to find another connection you can even talk to your doctor about Valtrex, which is a preventative daily med for YOU which greatly decreases outbreaks altogether....

Don't sell yourself short honey....let the relationship bloom and grow and NEVER think that this will be a deal breaker, only a slight bump in the road that means simple things, like warm showers after intimacy, and slight preparation before hand.  Believe me, you are WORTH it!

((((((((((((((((9Kathy)))))))))))))) Sounds like we are going and have been through alot of the very same things! Thank YOU for truly understanding!

    I also feel that it's even harder to back off since we've gotten closer.

   You daughter sounds VERY BRAVE! I know it must be really, really hard thinking of her driving that far alone.

  Hope that things to continue to go well with Joe!

   Much Love always,

        Jewel

I'm sorry to say, I don't have access to her diary either.


Thank you for the comment!

(((((((((((((((((((Kathy))))))))))))) A big congrats to your daughter!

   It's such a Gift to read about the closeness that you are sharing! YAY to the Heavens!

   It's also a Blessing to read about your Blessings! You sound good!

   I love you and miss you!,

         Jewel

Mmmm, I like the words to that African song... very nice.

My weekend was spent at home. Saturday I babysat my nephew. Sunday was a lazy day. And Monday well, I guess I actually got out of the apartment... I went over to my friend's house and babysat her kids so she and her husband could go appliance shopping for their kitchen remodel... Maybe it sounds crazy, but it was nice because M watched J and I got a break from J who's been trying my patience to no end. It's different watching someone else's kids. When I got home we went out as a family to mexican food as a treat! It was a nice ending to a 3 day weekend.

Suppose I should update my diary soon... I like to do it when no one's home and J is napping. Tomorrow I'm off to my mom's for the day and to my second-to-last pottery class... I'll miss that class when it's over-- but all this is a whole entry in itself, so I'll save it for that savory moment when I have time to myself...

[mixedupmama]

Yeah, I know I have to make my own life, sometimes it's just easier to bitch about it.

Chad

There is nothing more perfect than nature. Flowers are so beautifully intricate with detail, its nature at its finest Thank you for sharing Kats! I so love to look at the pics you take

Hope all is well, things are moving along as normal here. Very busy at the pub, seems that summer is on its way. I'm on the countdown for the end of July when I can go and see my man!! I miss him so much

Take care Kats, just keep looking on the brighter side of life

Love you lots!

Lily

i absolutely love when you post your photography!

i really loved the one with the leaves and all the water droplets on it. also the one with the two little girls sitting on a rock

My son was sitting on my lap as I looked at these photos. He kept exclaiming "pretty", "pretty", and on some "tree!" He laughed at the last one of the lizard and stuck out his tongue and did his lizard licking motion...

You have talent my friend! Thank you for sharing.

This is just another reason for visiting you... Some day!

You're welcome.

Chad

Awesome pictures.

Chad

I hope you enjoyed your lunch. I admire that you still have ties with your ex's family... By the way, did you buy out the market again? 

There is nothing wrong with old fashioned, it's kind of like ice cream. Does that make sense? My favorite flavors of ice cream are the "old fashioned" flavors. Some might consider them bland, but yummy, they sure are delicious.

Slow churn your relationship with JoeMart...

okay, enough with the analogies.

My camera is a cute little digital Canon Powershot with 8 mega pixels and zoom 3.8 x IS.  (I have no idea what all that means.) It's a good camera and has lots of different settings... outdoor, foliage, underwater, kids&pets, snow, night, portrait, beach... And many options to change many other things on it but I haven't experimented much with that aspect of it. I like it but I miss the "old way"  of dropping off film and then picking up the photos and seeing what I caught on film. Technology has come far.  When I was a teenager I had one of those flat cameras that took 110 film. SO COOL. 

[mixedupmama]

You're so bouncy I'm going to have to call you Tigger.

I don't enjoy the heat of the summer, but I love the sunshine and the longer days. My favorite season of all is Fall... and it's usually nice around here until November. In fact, on Halloween evening this past year it was sweatshirt weather! I love it. Not too cold, not overly hot... Just right in the middle.

Don't stay discouraged too long... I know it's easier said than done but hopefully by now you've read the Velveteen Rabbit and realized that "when someone loves you for a long time, not just to play with, but really loves you, then you become real."  I encountered tons of men out there just wanting to play and then I found my husband. SO... I know you've been married before and been through it all, so it must be discouraging to put your heart out there only to have it hurt.

Just keep bouncing!

Sorry things didn't work with John. He seems/seemed like a very interesting and compatible match for you. From my experience with dating sites back in the day it seemed that most of the men on there are are looking for sex right from the start. It's unfortunate he couldn't accept friendship from the relationship because it sounds as though you were compatible in that area with him. Oh well, it's the American proverb; Everything happens for a reason.

I'm glad you were able to connect with your daughter's boyfriend a bit. 

Your stepdaughter's wedding sounds like it was a lot of fun for you... I can just picture you dancing on the floor to the last few songs with that young man. How fun!

I'm glad you are keeping busy and your emotions are stable for the time being... I know that your ex's move probably hasn't been easy for you. Good for you for keeping company with everything else! I still wish I lived closer so I could spend some time in your company too.

I'm glad you were able to make the trip to see your ex's new home, though I'm sure it was emotional. I love the sound of the little screened porch and your description of it being "old and airy". Even though you don't have a "space" there, I'm sure you will visit.

I'm glad you'll have the company of your daughter during the summer... Although from the sounds of it, you keep yourself busy!

I am jealous of your botanical gardens... sounds like a beautiful place. What kind of camera do you use?

Hello Kathy.

If this man likes the old fashioned way, then perhaps it will be a while before the subject turns sexual and unless it does, there is no reason to tell him. I think, with the STD, if you build up more of a personal relationship before introducing the concept of sex, the groundwork should hopefully withstand the revelation; that's the idea anyway. .

I saw your double today. On a bus. They say everyone has one.