A little something to let everyone know I’m still alive and doing well. This is of Ash and I at her birthday during her visit over the holidays. Once again, she picked Hooters, so my sister, nephew and I did our best to celebrate with Ash. Poor girl was still a bit sick and out of it from her cold meds but she managed.

I am happy. With a job I truly love and look forward to and enjoy the people I work with, a family feeling, how could I not? I’d say the pay is the only thing lagging but I know in time that will catch up to my needs. I would rather be struggling financially and love my job than financially set and hating my 8-5 daily life. Additionally, I get to use my skills and interests that I am passionate about and highly appreciated.

Sure, I miss Ash. Of course I do! As we discussed in our conversation yesterday, it’ll be months before I see her again (I just can’t afford a spring break ticket of $600 for her to come over a week when I’d have to work and only see her in the evenings). Yet she is so positive about our time apart, so it makes it much easier for me to remain positive. She plans what she wants to do, talks about things in details, but she also tells me about her time at school, what she’s learning, even singing the songs from her music class.

It is difficult knowing she’s growing and changing and I’m unable to see the majority of it, but I also know there will come a time when she will return to me. Ash reminded me that at least when she’s with me we can have more fun, less “non fun, boring tough things like school to worry about”. So that’s what we do! When things are right, I will fight for her return but until then, life must go on.

And it does! I have a new friend I’ve been spending most of my free time with, coffee at Starbucks, going dancing, watching movies. Sure beats staying online and in my room all the time, but I still enjoy my quiet time. Just not as often. In the past I’ve hesitated to write about what’s going on because they’re new to me, or I’m unsure how to start or what direction to go. Looks like I’m going to have to push myself and smack my own ass into action and writing.

I will give some periodic updates with a few pictures here and there, but if you’d like to read more on me, my struggles and well, anything else, please email your request and I will share my new location (but do understand I am still very selective as to who knows). Those who have followed me over the years, I know you, so don’t hesitate. It’s been nearly eight years, and as the ones who said it, they were right…I can’t stop writing.