Loved it! The library people ... the arena people ... said it was great. Taking it to the Old Farts' Club for coffee hour tomorrow. Spread a little joy around - bring a smile to people's faces. ole joyful ... whose smile is pretty well toothless, now

"Behind every successful man is a surprised woman. -Maryon Pearson " I've also heard/read this one as; Behind every succesful man is an astonished Mother-in-law. Ron

I hope that folks realize this joke was presented in fun, and in no way was meant to belittle Blondes. When I was in high school, I thought that blondes were cute especially if they had healthy hair. Now, as I am becoming aged, my hair has turned blonde (Some say its gray; I say its a matter of perspective.)

I found myself in this complex step family situation due to death not divorce, however, from what I hear ... the grieving process of a divorce is similar to that of the grieving process of a death. After extensive counseling ... the point they all seem to drive home is ... My life has changed, It is forever different. I am different now. I can never go back to the way it was. I accept this new life and make the best of it. My personal point ... What doesnt break you makes you stronger. It almost broke me ... I blew the scale off the stress charts ... In less then two and 1/2 years (just the HIGHLIGHTS in chronological order) ... I got married, I had my first child. Bought a new house. Just found out that second child was to be a Boy. Husband was killed in a car accident. Moved into a fixer upper my high-energy husband wanted. Roof leaked, needed new furnish, etc... Change of occupation (Over ten years experience programming computers for fortune 500 companies - to a full time stay at home single mom, that had never changed a diaper, until the birth of my first child). Gave birth to second child who had an undiagnosed ear problem (stupid doctor - I switched pediatricians). This child never slept more then one hour at a time until I had tubes put in his ears at 1 year. No one would keep him over night. I had to beg (which is very difficult for me) friends and family for a few hours once a week (if that often) so I could sleep. The sleep deprivation almost sent me over the edge. I found strength in my children. I forged on. Things got better. I now believe more in myself and my abilities. I am stronger now, an independent women and I have confidence that I can conquer any twists and turns life may throw my way. I have emerged with more confidence in myself and who I am. I realize that I will do anything for my children's well fare. Remember Lea, you beat the odds, you made it out of an abusive relationship. I admire you and your strength. Accept it. learn from it. Thank your parents for giving the brain power and instilling the strength in you to over come such a hurdle. Maybe some sort of volunteer work to help others in abusive relationship, might ease your sole. And Yes, writing just the highlights, still brings tears to my eyes.