NotesFromtheVoices

I wanted to say thanks to all of you for your comments about my last post. Your words meant a lot to me. I just had my second therapy session with Dr. Isla. I now know that I made the right decision by picking up. She is very good and what I need in an eating disorder specialist. She is worth every penny and headache that is Charlotte traffic. Before therapy, my husband and I met for lunch at a Chinese restaurant. We talked about his mother, our marriage, our son and stuff in between. He told that I looked really good today in my red shirt and jeans. "I really like those jeans. They confirm that you have your cute little butt back." It was good to hear that. Lunch was great. I had broccoli and chicken. He had sushi. It was just nice to be able to talk. He told me that he already knew about his mother having cancer but hearing from her didn't make it easy. Overall, he says he is handling it well. He knows her is mind is made up about not having any treatment and he accepts...

Yesterday was a good day. I kicked ass on the phone interview. So well that I have a follow up conference call on Monday afternoon with the editor and managing editor. I won honorable mention in an essay contest for a magazine in Raleigh. My ED didn't bother me at all. I ate without those thoughts pestering. I had the best afternoon ever with my son. We went to the library and picked out books and movies. While walking through the library, we discussed life as only life can be discussed by a three-year-old. One question--why is the incredible hulk green and angry? Afterwards, we went to a thrift shop that supports the local hospice. This is where we hit the jackpot. My son loves putting puzzles together. I found a Bible storybook of puzzles for a $1 and it was brand new. And then we found a bag of dinosaurs for a $1.50. I was told that I was the best mommy ever. Then we sat on the bench and played with the dinosaurs. I got to be the T-Rex. Usually, I get the weird named ones. We ha...

I hate litterbugs. Especially the person who had a huge box full of trash fall off of their truck and onto my property. My husband thinks the state of North Carolina should move it. With the budget cuts that the state is having, my son will be in kindergarten before that box is moved. So I put on my work boots and moved it. I am not much of a yard person but I like for the outside of my home to look neat and cared for. So I am not thrilled with people who litter especially the one who throw a empty bottle out of his window while I was picking up the trash. Sorry but I just needed to vent. My phone interview is at 3 p.m. today. I am nervous but I think I will do well. Even though, my husband has started his census job--he lingered around this morning so I could talk. I have been in this position before with a job. I get my hopes up and don't get it. So I am cautiously optimistic. JJ is with my in-laws while I do the interview. They have to make a trip to Wal-Mart. Iron Man couldn...

Yesterday was a loooong but good day. My son had appointment with a neurologist in Chapel Hill. It was nice to have a doctor to talk to us, not at us or ignore what we (the ones who witnessed his seizures have seen). Dr. T was great. After listening to JJ's history, looking at the MRI (which was good) and having JJ do some tests. For right now, he does not think that JJ needs to be on seizure meds. Thank God!! Dr. T is in the process of getting JJ's records from the other neurologist so he can look at the results of the sleep deprived EEG. JJ may have to do another EEG. Dr. T thinks JJ might be one of rare group of kids who have febrile seizures after they are two. Febrile seizures, while scary to the parents and loved ones witnessing them, are okay. I could have kissed that man. My mother-in-law and sister-in-law went with me to Chapel Hill. James still has census training. I also believe the visit was such a successful because my husband wasn't there. At times, he can be ...

Chicken on a stick rocks!!!!! I love it. It was so worth the wait. I had one and split another with a friend. The festival was nice. It was weird not having to take pictures or write a story about it. I lived worked at the newspaper in Pickle Land for almost seven years. I was amazed at how many folks remembered me. I had a nice time even though it was little warm. One of my friends is a published author and had a booth at the event. Her booth was beside the newspaper where I used to work. The anger and bitterness is gone about the whole incident. It has been replaced by pity. I pity the newspaper itself. It was a damn good paper for more than 100 years and it took being brought by a bad man to turn into a sad little weekly. In life, I think we all should work at really great place with really great people and do really great things. At the newspaper I used to work at, we did that. We were a small paper but we rocked. We consistently beat the daily paper, covered our area well and had...

Wow, where to begin. I have had a great visit here in Pickle Land. It started today with breakfast at McDonald's and the morning paper. Then to Goldsboro to see some folks. Went to Beulaville two of my favorite consignment shops. No clothes but I brought the book, the Devil Wears Prada and a lime green photo album. I have found you can never have to many frames or photo albums. After a quick lunch at Hardees of a chili dog and fries. Back to Pickle Land, where I stopped at another consignment shop where a brought a bunch of nice shirts. Then I went to my former place of employment--T. It was nice seeing one of the people. After the paper was sold last year, there are very few former people. But the office manager is still there and is really nice person. I know she must be miserable but realizes in this economy that a job is a job. It was nice visit. Today was day of catching up with old friends. My next stop was a visit a former colleague and friend who taught me so much about the...

I am here in Pickle Land so much has changed but so much has stayed the same. This is a picture of me and my guys. Not many pictures were taken of me in the past year. And I'm glad. But I am proud of this one because I am healthy, happy and with my guys. I am staying with Dream Diva in her home. She has mad decorating skills because her home looks like some out a decorating magazine. Tomorrow, I am going to a consignment shop that i have missed since going. On the job front--I am one of 160 applicants for the job. People as far away as San Diego have applied. I have a slight edge--I know the area and my former boss works for the paper. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed and saying my prayers. I am glad I am in recovery. I can appreciate things more. I stopped at Chick Filet for an eight piece nuggets meal with fries and a medium lemonade. The chili dog could wait. It was delicious. So far, I am having a great time. Just finished watching Harper's Island. I am challenging mys...

Today has been a bittersweet day. I had to go to Chapel Hill and say goodbye to my therapist and sign some paperwork. I will miss her. Besides her, I have only had one other therapist who made me feel comfortable but accountable for my ED. I like that. I will miss her but if I get the job then i can get back in the program. Right now, I am taking a break to eat a chili dog, fries and a Pepsi while waiting for the traffic to die down. I am headed for Pickle Land. I will be there for about three days. I have missed my friends and that crazy town. I am in a better place to visit. I will be staying with my friend, Dream Diva and her crowd. So it will be an interesting weekend. I miss being on the road and collecting newspapers and various experiences. Also as a treat, the picture you see posted is my little drummer boy, JJ. I love this picture because he was trying to teach mommy how to play the drums. So here's to a great weekend with lots of catching up, memory making and good food. ...

I am trying to get everything done before I leave for Pickle Land tomorrow. My son and I took a roll of film so I dropped it off to be developed. I am interested to see how his pictures turned out. He loves taking pictures especially of me. I am not good with mirrors and photos of myself but I did it for him. Hopefully, the pictures turn out okay and I can put some on the site. We got him some basic generic video system with games for beginners. We played some yesterday. He loves the racing game especially crashing the motorbike. So far, today has been a fairly good day. I had a grill cheese for breakfast before I cut a little grass. I am leaving the rest for next week. I get tons of magazines in the mail so I wanted to make sure a path was cut for the mail lady. Plus, my husband killed a huge snack last week. Last summer, my son and I encountered a snake in our long driveway while walking to the mailbox. Do you know that snake reared its head at us. Needless to say, I picked my son up...

I got this questions from the latest issue of Instyle Magazine. I get a lot of fashion ideas from this magazines. Favorite accessory --my wedding ring What do I wear when I'm down --a pair of camo shirts and pink shirt What do I wear when I feel pretty --anything green with a pair of heels When's it raining --my brown Sketcher boots What do I sleep in --Curious george pajamas Favorite handbag --a cool Kate Spade bag that I found in consignment shop for $12. It is worth $300. Jeans --a pair from the old navy that feel like heaven Worst fashion moment --overalls Three places I'd rather be --with my son, a library or writing Favorite thing --My son's laugh Celebrity crush --Vin Diesel. He could just stand there and look gorgeous. Favorite color --green Drink --orange soda Food --chicken salad Dream/goal --to become a librarian Dream last night --Riding the carousel at the mall in Fayetteville, NC with my son My fear --succumbing to the whispers of Ana On my wish list --a d...

I am feeling much better than yesterday. I still have my good and bad days. There are fewer bad days. I was so tempted to take to the bed yesterday. Instead, after some homemade quesadillas and tomato soup, I went through the task of separating my clothes. Putting up the winter clothes, taking out the summer clothes and preparing the donation pile. I hit shuffle on computer for my music. I had a nice time. I am quite the clothes horse. My closet is now organized and if I get the new job, it will be easier to pack. I am looking forward to this weekend. Even though, it has been awhile since I was around people on a constant basis. I am working on not being so isolated so I am taking toddler steps. This weekend is a big step. I found out yesterday that my mother-in-law has pneumonia and my father-in-law had heart monitor put on. They are really great people. My sister-in-law will take care of my son while i am away. I can't wait until we know for certain about my son's medical con...

I woke up today just wanting to be alone and staying in bed. Thank god, we don't have internet at home. Otherwise, I would have no reason to leave the house. I'm at the library. I am doing the usual job search and unemployment filing. I just don't feel like dealing with people. So I am just going to try as hard as I can. I had a conversation with the librarian so at least I am not being to anti-social. This weekend has been nice and sunny. Yesterday, I covered a lecture for the newspaper. It was nice being a reporter even for a few hours. Finished a great book while the boys were watching cartoons. My husband wants to get a X-box for our son. My husband has no interest in video games so I guess I will be X-box mommy. For the next few days, my husband will be in training for a census job so a little more money will be coming in. I so hope I get this job. I guess that is why I am down. I have gotten my hopes up for several jobs since I became unemployed. Some days, it is hard...

Even though, money has been tight. My husband gave me some money last night to buy some clothes. He has watched the donation box fill up. So he told me to treat myself to something nice. And I did. I went to a niiiiiiiice Goodwill store. I tried on 20 pairs of jeans and pants. I brought four pairs that look sweet on me. A nice top and a book. Then I went to this consignment shop called Plato's Closet and brought the bag I have been visiting for three months. At times, I have no clue what my husband is thinking but I know he cares. He knows I have a little stress about gaining weight and not being able to fit in my clothes. He nicely rreminds me that the most of the clothes I have were from the girl's section. All in all, it's been a nice day. Had my favorite breakfast. Lunch at Wendy's with a milkshake for dessert. Went shopping, looked in the mirror and didn't freak out. This is what the road to recovery looks like. I have decided to go to the Pickle Festival next ...

My day started early. I had to interview the assistant superintendent for a story about summer school. I arrived on time but he was in a meeting and his secretary wasn't sure when it would be done. So I told her I would come back later. The super and I miss each other by minutes. By the time his secretary got me, I was in line at McDonald's getting ready to order a sausage biscuit and gravy. I love those with a passion. So I had to make a decision--breakfast or the interview. I chose breakfast and told the secretary that I would return in a hour. In the past, I would have chose the story over food. I wanted the biscuit and gravy and the town where the super was located didn't have a McDonald's. It feels good to make a good decision. My husband and I left at the same time. We both were tired. He came home late and we stayed up talking. He told I looked really good today. Quote--"You look good and healthy." I glanced at myself reflection before going in for th...

Today, I met with my new therapist. It was a journey getting there. It started with my husband and I's cellphones not working this morning. I hate my cell phone provider. Once that was cleared, it was off to the unemployment office. I am eligible for 15 more weeks. Yay! This gives me much motivation to find a job. Hopefully, my main prospect will come through. After this, I went by the library and found a ton of new magazines for sale for 25 cents each. It was magazine junkie's dream. Next, it was an almost hour long drive to the new therapist. Thank god for mapquest. For the purposes of this blog, we will call her Isla. She is very nice. Today, she asked questions about my ED and I. After the session, she noted that I have been through a lot for one person in a span of a year. She was amazed by the fact that I have went from 75 to 109.7 lbs. She asked me for an assessment of myself. I told her that I have come a looooong but has a ways to go. I still have some restricting iss...

Right now, I am writing on one side of the screen and my son is watching Sonic X. I had a great afternoon. Got to do a little journalism and hit the mother lode at the library. Oh and my husband ate the steak from this morning. After a great interview, I stop at one of my many libraries to check in with my people. In the books for sale bin, I found the John Grisham book for a $1. A $1. I am still on cloud nine. Also found some old Paula Deen (2007) magazines. I took all I could find. Then I stopped in at the Hospice Thrift store and found some children's books for my son. So all in all, it's been an excellent day. Then onto the sandwich shop, where I got half a chicken salad sandwich and a bowl of veggie soup. It was excellent. I so love it when a day is so nice. And now I am with my favorite little guy watching one of his favorite shows. He has a dinosaur memory game that he loves. I can't wait until we can play Candy Land and Hi Ho Cheero! Of course, park season is about ...

True story--I left home this morning with every intention of recertifing with the unemployment office. As I left, farmer that owns the huge field next to our house was cutting down trees that belong to us. When I drove off, my husband was gesturing rather wildly to the guy on the backhoe. I get to the office, wait in line and am about to tell the lady my social security number when I get a phone call from my sister-in-law. You need to go home, she said, because your husband is locked out of the house. He had accidentally locked himself out. So I grumbled as I walked to the car because I had plan to treat myself to lunch before I had to interview someone for a story at 2 p.m. Then all of sudden, I remembered that my husband had put two frozen steaks on the George Foreman grill. I sped home as fast I could. I was 15 minutes away. The steak were burned to a crisp but our home was still intact. Moral of story--If you are going to yell at someone, make sure that you have no food cooking and...

Yesterday, I called 14 eating disorder specialists in this area. I have talked with 10. One in particular stands out. Plus, the study folks called this morning and said they were so impressed with the progress I am making that they would be willing to allow me to stay in the program free or at a reduced rate. What's a girl to do when so many want to help. I made an appointment to meet with JE, the possible new therapist. We talked for about 30 minutes on the phone and I felt very comfortable with her and she dropped her rate per hour significantly for me. Plus my therapist at Chapel Hill has spoke highly of her. I feel very hopeful in the direction things are headed. My husband and I talked. He is willing to pay for me to go somewhere nearby. He didn't comment on the Chapel Hill too much. Probably because I mentioned their concern with him possibly backing out on the new therapist. When things are so out of control and disordered, I have no appetite but I had some garlic toast ...

It's Monday again. I have filed for unemployment. But today is different because in about 30 minutes, I got to recertify for unemployment and find out how much I have left. I am not looking forward to this. I have spent most of the morning on the phone calling various eating disorder specialists. Since today is considered a holiday by most, I have left a ton of messages. I called my therapist with the study and told her that we were done. She said they are going to do all they can to find someone in this area for me. She commended on how well I have done. I can honestly say that I did my best. And it was an honor to be in one of the best eating disorder programs in the nation. Even though, I am a little bummed about leaving the program--I know that I did my best. For breakfast, I had some garlic toast with cheese. I wasn't really in the mood to eat so I had to eat something. I have some pretty promising job leads and I think I am going to join a support group for the jobless. I...

I don't know if it is going to rain or just look like it all day. I did a lot of research yesterday on ED specialists in my neck of the woods. My husband has decided that he would rather pay than get the services for free. He thinks it will be cheaper to go to Charlotte than Chapel Hill--gas and timewise. I was upfront with him that he is looking at anywhere from $50 (on cheap side) to easily $200 an hour. I let him know that there can be no backing out. I have commitment to a level of treatment for my recovery so I want to stay on track. He agreed that we would find treatment for me. I'll keep you posted on the search for treatment. Today is one of those days where there is no set schedule. I am working on the alphabet with my son. He knows it with the exception of a few letters out of place. Of course, his favorite letter is J. I think my husband wants to go grocery shopping. He and my son take forever in the store. Once, he took so long that I finished half of a 600 page boo...

After a long talk about a lot of stuff, my husband finally admitted that he didn't want to participate in the study. I'm not upset or angry. I just glad he finally admitted so we stop wasting everybody's time. Since this is a holiday, I am looking for eating disorder specialists who have a sliding scale. I think it is important that I stay on the road of recovery and not be left to my own devices. Since my own devices usually include crippling depression, restricting like crazy and suicidal thoughts. I am glad we cleared the air. Last night, I wrote him a two page letter with bullet points. He said the letter gave our conversation some structure. I am not naive to think things will be all peaches and cream. It felt good to be heard and to have a conversation over a meal. My husband said he has missed us going out to eat to discuss things and just be a couple. I had the buffet at KFC. In the past, buffets would frighten me but the KFC buffet here is small and manageable. Als...

This year I will be in charge of lawn care since I am the only one with no allergies. I made sure I ate breakfast--two bowls of cereal and peanut butter and jelly sandwich before I begun. It took a few hours but I did the mowing. A few hours and three water bottles later. I am proud of myself because I did it. I checked out the mower, brought a new gas can, got gas and did mower maintenance by myself. Go girl power!!!!! The yard looks great. I didn't realize how big and cumbersome our lawn was until I started to cut it. Since we live beside a busy highway, I got honked at a lot. Lunch was some leftover KFC and soup. Best meal ever. It amazing how good food taste when you are tired and hungry. Afterwards, I met up with the beach bums (my guys). My son had so much to tell me that I thought he would burst. He has a runny nose so I don't know if it's a cold or allergies. I'll try to post some this weekend but due to the holiday, it will be sporadic since the library will be...

Yesterday, I went for study day. I met with the nutritionist who was pleased that I am drinking more water and adding more veggies to my diet. She said she was also pleased with my attitude of being proactive and being able to see my triggers to restrict. I have to say that I really feel comfortable with the nutritionist. In the past, most nutritionist are judgmental and bossy but she is polite but firm. I like that. Next up was my therapist Milly. She is the coolest. We talk about different things and then I discovered my husband had not called the couples' therapist to tell her he wasn't coming. Milly and I discuss this. I told her I have done everything in my power to convince my husband about important it is to participate in this study. But my husband seems to think I find treatment closer and pay a sliding fee rate. The sliding fee rate is okay after I finish but I gaining some great tools and help now for fee from one of the best eating disorder programs in the nation. F...

Once again, I am here for study day with the nutritionist and therapist. Oh by the way, GO HEELS. Congratulations on capturing the championship. Since it is just me at the house. I leisurely got up and ate breakfast, which was some leftover Manwich from last night. Yesterday, I went mini grocery shopping. Instead of spending five minutes in the store. I was in there for 30 minutes. I got a little anxious but manage to calm myself down. I brought some good stuff--peas, corn and broccoli with cheese,garlic toast, hamburger, orange soda, water and a Glamour magazine. I felt goog being an active participant in my recovery. It just felt so good to shop even for a little bit. I may have to try this some more. Today, it was a nice drive. I burned a cd for the drive that included U2, Coldplay, Lady GaGa, Lil Wayne and others. So I was dancing while driving. Gotta go, the nutritionist is here.

My husband gave me some money to do a little shopping. Since I have started to gain weight, my clothes don't fit. In the past eight months, I have went from 75 lbs size 18 in girls to 105 lbs and sizes 2 to 4. It hasn't been easy maintaining the weight, but I keep telling myself it is for the greater good--my health and my son. I have been dreading it because it involves a mirror and trying on clothes. I decided to start simple and go to the Goodwill. A few hours later, I have a pair of jeans, a cute pair of ballet flats, a kick ass jacket, the perfect black sweater, a bag, some books for my son and a cool sweater. All this under $30 with some name brands. Goodwill rocks. And I looked in the mirror without cringing too much. I have been given the go-ahead to do a little toning up and some moderate exercise. I want to look decent for swim season. My son will be taking swim lessons soon and I might just take some myself. So I want to be somewhat comfortable with my body. All in a...

Another week of applying for jobs. There are some reporting prospects, administrative jobs and possible some work at Myrtle Beach. I am just tired of not working. I help my in-laws and parents out a lot. I should volunteer more but taking care of family is enough. I think tomorrow might be the last Chapel Hill day. My husband is applying for a job at Myrtle Beach. His thing is that help for my eating disorder can be gotten anywhere. I have given up on trying to tell him how important it is to be comfortable with your therapist. But I will take this week by week. I got my taxes done today. This is the latest that I have every had to do them. Being unemployed sucks. Before getting the taxes done, my husband took me to breakfast at Bojangles. Two breakfast days in a row. Money is very tight. I hope to take a trip back to my old stomping grounds in Mount Olive but I will just have to see how things will turn out. I miss MO but what's the point going back if I can't bring my son. My...

Yesterday, I had a great lunch with my son. Even though it wasn’t the most nutritious. It was meal that I ate without giving in to Ana. JJ had a hamburger and I had a chili dog and we shared an order of fries. We talked about dinosaurs, Curious George and sexy ladies. My three-year-old son has discovered girls. Two girls in bikini tops came into Hardees. It took a few minutes to get him back to eating. I remember thinking while I was eating that I am so glad that I didn't kill myself a few months ago. Even though, I still have bad days from time to time I don't want to miss my son discovering things and growing up. But for a hour yesterday, it was all about a mother and son. Not an eating disorder. The whole weekend was great. Last night, I walked on the beach with my husband. It was a little cool but it was so nice. It amazing how if we take a little break from our lives how things can be put in some sort of perspective. This morning, we got an early stop with breakfast at a B...

We are still at Myrtle Beach. I am not a group trip person. With this said, I have had a pretty good time. We didn't go bowling but my son had fun in the heated pool with his cousins. Afterwards, we had at late dinner at Shoney's. I have never been a Shoney's person but last night the food was great. JJ spent the night with his cousins in the high rise hotel. My husband and I stayed at a friend's house. He was sleep before I was done showering. The bathroom is full of mirrors. I absolutely hated it. I am not comfortable with looking at myself yet. So I was very anxious and just downright uncomfortable. So far today, I have brought two newspapers. My husband brought some shirts. We had lunch at Hardees and now the two guys are on the porch talking with old friends. JJ is pretty good at conversing with adults. Meanwhile I am inside blogging and watching the NASCAR race. All in all, it has been a pretty good day. I love the beach. It is very relaxing. Now the gang wants t...

I think we are going to join my sister-in-law and her daughters at the beach this afternoon. My husband hasn't decided yet so I am trying to get some stuff done. If we go, this is going to be so much fun. My son loves the beach. Plus, I think we are going to try to go bowling tonight. It will be his first times. I so enjoy watching him experience the firsts. It makes my heart and soul so happy. Yesterday, we worked on counting. Not to brag but my little guy can count to 30. He's a little smartie. And he is soooo outgoing. I remember one time we were at Wal-Mart standing in line. Behind us was a rough looking biker dude with the tattoos and everything. My son smiles at him and says "hey what's your name? My name is JJ!" And then my son held his hand out. By the time we had checked out and were leaving the man remarked how he was having a bad day but my son cheered him up. It makes me happy to know my son has this ability to help others. It's moments like this t...

After what seems like days and days of rain, the sun is back. Sun, I missed you a lot. I kind of slept in this morning after the long day yesterday so I'm trying to make the most of the day. Yesterday, I applied for a ton of jobs online. I know somewhere out there is a job for me. I just hope it finds me soon. I am really working on the amount of water that I drink. From time to time, I watch General Hospital (a soap opera). I heard on the news that the Guiding Light, a soap opera, is being cancelled in September. I never really watch this but my late grandmother did. This was her show. I can remember coming home from school at 3:30 knowing that it was still during the sacred hour. When the show was on from 3 to 4 p.m. my grandmother was not to be discovered. The only acceptable reasons were the house on fire or death. Sometimes I would watch it with her. I know she is probably disappointed to hear that her show is leaving the air. It is the longest running show on television and i...

Hi Ribbon, I wasn't sure how to link the answers back to you so I decided to post them. I still trying to figure all of this out. Here's the answers! 1. Why do you blog? It gives me an outlet to express myself and I have met many nice people from all over the country and the world. 2. Do you have any hobbies? I love to read all kinds of things. I also collect anything of James Dean and Curious George. I have also a magazine and library junkie. I love going to different cities to see what their library look like. 3. If you could have just one wish, what would that be? My son would be healthy and seizure free. 4. Why do you live where you live? For now, it is near my parents and in-laws who are not doing well, need support and some TLC. 5. Tell us something that you really like about yourself? I like my sense of style even if others don't agree or understand.

We are back home. Actually, my son is at my in-laws. I needed a break from in-law overload. They are great people but too many of them can be to much for me. JJ was quite a big boy with the MRI. He was upset when came from under the drugs. The doctor said he will be in and out all day. The results of the MRI will not be revealed to us until the April 27 when we go for our second opinion at UNC-Chapel Hill. (GO HEELS!!!!!) So now we just watch him and wait. So far he has been doing great. I can't wait until the weather is lovely and we can hit the park with my nephew. They love the park. On the way to radiology, my son saw the bird display at the hospital and informed my husband and I that he wanted a bird someday. "Not now, Mommy," he said. "But someday I want a bird." I added this to my mental list of things to remember since I know he will not forget this. I am starting to feel like myself. While waiting for the MRI to be completed, I emailed some follow up ...

My son is having a MRI today. It's hard not being back there with him. But JJ is strong. I hope we can find out the reason for the seizures. I have been up since 4:15 a.m. The MRI was scheduled for 8 a.m. but we had to have him at the hospital by 7 a.m. JJ was given some red liquid to make him drowsy. This is a first that nobody wants to have for their child. Being in the surgical waiting room, brings back memories of when my mom had surgery in October. So we wait. My husband, my mother-in-law and sister-in-law are here just waiting. I think this is the longest 45 minutes of my life. I do not like parking decks. All those vehicles stacked on top of each other. Since I have been coming to this hospital with my mom, I feel a kinship with this hospital. As I write this my husband and in-laws have struck up a conversation with others who are waiting. They are not shy folks. After the MRI, I think we are going out to eat since JJ couldn't eat or drink for the MRI. Since I am still f...

It was one year ago today that the new owner took over the newspaper where I worked. Two days from now, I was eliminated. The reason I bring this up, I found out my benefits year for unemployment ends on April 11. I have been unemployed for almost a year. So today is sort of a down day. I had to cancel Chapel Hill because the state of North Carolina is so overwhelm with unemployment claims that my money has not been deposited so I didn't have enough gas money. I didn't find this out until last night when my husband said there was no money on the card. Today, I met with someone at the unemployment office. She was very nice and understanding. She said it was computer snarfu and my money would be deposit later today. I can breathe a sigh of relief. This is when I found out about the benefits year. The lady should get a medal. After talking with me, she calmed down the angry lady behind me. So today is kind of a down day because I was looking forward to Chapel Hill. So here I am in...