I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.

Most of the odd looking comments from granny were my friend VCM trying to check out some things long distance. Word verification is once again working. It seemed to be a system wide hiccup. And speaking of hiccups, I'm trying to convince a friend to divulge his secret cure. I'll keep you posted.

The galloping crud is back complete with chills and coughing spells. I nervously allowed the two little girls to go to the Santa parade with a group and without me. (First time) They were fine. Then they all trucked off to the town square for the tree lighting ceremony They had a cell phone with them and it's only about 4 blocks from here with no traffic (streets blocked).

When I was 10 or 11, I ran all over the place in my small town but these are different times or maybe I'm more protective because I'm older and more fearful for them. They have a little more freedom each year but I'm always relieved to see them walk in.

Elcie could have gone but she's just at that age to leave childish things behind. It certainly made it easier for her sisters but I hope she doesn't regret it. She's growing up so fast.

I missed the concert in Modesto (San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus) I've been waiting a month to see. Just wasn't up to the drive, Tim had to work, and I tried all day to reach Jim. I gave our tickets to the girls' mom and her boyfriend along with the van and they went instead. It's only about 40 miles but the way I felt, 4 miles would have been too much.

I just told Andrea I need an extra blog to hold all the poor me's. Okay, enough already.

Thank you all for the support. Too many to list - most of you are there in the comments and almost everyone I know emailed. It helped writing about it whether or not it was the "right" thing to do. I had to take back the power somehow. If it happens again, I'll just consider the source and ignore it.

Girls are on their way to bed - their weekend campout in the living room. Elcie's already down and I'm sure asleep.

I was useless today. Fixed a brunch and a decent dinner, did a little laundry and then felt sorry for myself. Tomorrow will be better. It almost always is.

My title talked about "the kindness of strangers". That isn't quite accurate. By now, none of you are strangers.

Goodnight from Blanche Dubois