Life always seems to go in cycles. There are ups and downs, good times and bad times. I think we all go through them.

My father went out to see my brother for eleven days. It was nice to have peace and quiet. While he was gone I probably did more than I should have. Today, knowing he was due home I went full out like I haven't since I hurt my back. At least the house is clean and he came home to a clean bed, fresh blankets, and no problems. As a result of the non-stop movement all day, my back is presently throbbing and my legs are cramping like I can't put into words. I took my muscle relaxers for the first time in over a month. Hello pain, sorry I really wasn't missing you, but I see you found me anyway.

I'd been feeling slightly down. I get that way especially when you keep hearing everyone else seems to be moving forward in their life and I feel like I've stalled. It isn't that I have given up, just feel like I'm stalled. Well, it is amazing what friends can do for you. One of my usual postcard buddies sent me a letter letting me know she has been dealing with issues in her family similar to my own. Helped to put my own life into perspective. Then a dear friend sent me a package as a surprise from her trip to New Orleans. Everything in the package immediately became something I treasure, including an ornament that is presently hanging on the corner of my mirror. As if I wasn't blessed enough, yet another friend sent me a pick me up in the form of food. Who in their right mind wouldn't smile due to that? I have an incredible bunch of friends, and I am blessed to know and have them to keep me grounded and offer support when I need it.

Then there is the woman who I think of as my daughter. I've known her since she is sixteen and been a honored to be a part of her life. She was there to support me when I lost my mother, and I was there for her and her family when her grandmother passed. Now she is getting married and is twenty five years old. I am to be a part of her wedding party. For her, I would do whatever was needed. She is one very special person to me and one who makes me smile just hearing her hello on the phone. We talked the other night for close to four hours and besides her mother, I was the second person to receive a picture of her in the wedding gown she choose.

So been a bit busy lately. The anthology went live and I promise I still have many reviews to leave. Just been caught up in my life a bit. Hopefully all is going well in the lives of those around me. If I haven't been as attentive as I should, I do apologize. However, I have come back to myself so look out, there are many new beginnings for me and I can't wait to start them.