Sometimes It's Hard to Focus...When You're Sad

My family is at the reunion in Ohio this week. I am not there. This weather will not let me be outside. I am missing seeing everyone and having fun. I am not 83, I am only 43...this sucks!

One position I thought was a guarantee, at least part time, has turned out to be a no-go. That sucks!

Yes, my book is at the publisher, but without any job prospects, that doesn't help me much at the moment!

Sorry, just feeling sorry for myself today, and felt the need to share with whoever is still reading.

A Couple Pictures from the Reunion

With my girls Beth and Patty! We all grew up in the same neighborhood. Love them!!!

 With one of my best friends from high school, Chris, and his beautiful wife Kari! We still party at Buffett when I make it.

With Kim--not only did we survive high school together, we also went to college together and have definitely stayed friends through the years!

When Did I Get This Old?

Tonight is my 25th High School Reunion. Seriously, I can remember graduating like it was last week. I know I will have a great time seeing everyone and visiting (can't really say "catching up" because I am friends with a lot of people on Facebook, so I know what's going on), but I seriously can't be old enough for this!

Can I?

(Pictures next week)

I Met Glennon and Sister!!!

OMG, Glennon  is even more adorable and strong in person than she is on her blog! Love her!!!!

Me and Glennon!

Me, Glennon, and my neighbor Geri!

Seriously, if you are not reading her, you should be!!! 

Focus on Fathers!

Happy Father's Day to all the fathers, grandfathers, and those that play the role of a father in someone's life!

I have many wonderful examples of fathers in my life:

- My father-in-law: who has done so much for his sons and welcomed me to the family as if I'd always been a part of the family. Who fights for what he believes in and loves his family more than anything!

- My Pappy: My mother's father. He taught me that I could do anything. He taught me how to garden and was always there when I needed him, if he wasn't traveling or out having fun. My Pappy taught me that life was only worth it if you actually lived while you were alive--the day he went into the hospital for the last time, he was supposed to be on his was to Atlantic City with his AARP group!

- My Dad: who has loved me since the day I was born. I know this because I had major health issues due to birth defects and my Dad left my Mom in one hospital to go with me as they transferred me to another hospital. He loves to pick on me, but always has my best interest at heart. I am, and always will be a Daddy's Girl! Today I called my dad to see if he wanted to go to a classic car show, something we love to do together, but the U.S. Open was on, so he chose to stay home. I know that he would do anything for me and has supported me, eventually, on all my decisions even if he didn't understand them.

- My cousins, uncles, and brother-in-law: they all love their children more than life itself and would protect them at any cost! They also know how to have fun with their kids and I love that about my family.

FOCUS on Writing

Yes, I am still deeply embedded in the job hunt, but right now I have other things to keep me busy. If you remember earlier I mentioned several possible publications...well, the Public Relations case study has been approved for publication and the edits have been submitted. I have also done some freelance writing for a design firm in Pittsburgh.

The BIG news is that my dissertation has been picked up for publication in a Social Media series! I am in the process of editing my dissertation to read more like a book than a compilation of other people's work. I am my own worst editor, but I have no choice. It is moving slowly because I am too close to the project. But the things most worth it aren't easy, right?

If you responded to my survey several years ago, I may be contacting you for permission to use your story in the book. I hope you say yes!

Lessons from the Mental Hospital: Glennon Doyle Melton

I LOVE Glennon's message and her blog but I thought this was absolutely amazing and extremely appropriate for a blog titled "Therapy Failed". If you aren't reading Momastery, you should be! She is inspiring, honest, and funny. I cannot wait for the opportunity to meet her when she does a book signing in Pittsburgh this month!!