Oak Kitten...how are you?

[BeckyVA]

Oak Kitten, several weeks ago I replied to one of your posts...I've been off line for awhile and was curious as to how you are doing? Hope all is well and that time has helped your situation. Let me know how you are. Thanks!

[Oak Kitten]

Hi Becky,

Thanks for asking. I am doing OK. I have been incredibly busy these past few weeks, so I have not been able to spend much time on the JIMB.

Right now I am on the home stretch on my dissertation. I am trying to finish up the last chapter and get it out to my committee. So that has occupied every spare moment outside of working full time and my navy reserve commitment. Yesterday I decided to rebel and spent one whole day planting my garden - doing something I wanted to do instead of something I HAVE to do. It was great. If I can get my dissertation finished by next weekend as planned, I can start to get my life back and have some fun again.

In terms of my personal crisis, the initial shock and anger at the unfairness of life has abated and I am trying to think of as many constructive things as I can do to help make the best of bad situation for the people I care about. That is really about the only thing a person can do. If you choose to wallow in anger and despair it does not do you or anyone else any good.

Thanks to everyone who sent their expressions of concern. I really appreciate it. As I said before, you guys are the best.

Oak

[BeckyVA]

Glad to hear things are going better. You are so right; find good healthy things to do - putting yourself first sometimes is so necessary and when we do something we love...goodness overshadows the negative. I love to garden; we have some peonies that are in bloom right now and the blossoms are as big as softballs! Beautiful pinks with a maroon stripe through them! I see that you are in Fairhaven, MD. I have a friend from there, in fact, her parents still live in Fairhaven. Take care and know that you remain in my thoughts and prayers. Good luck on the dissertation. Becky