My blog has moved since AOL is shutting down their journal service...here is the new address:

http://jen-missingmom...

I think this new one will be much easier to read, especially when it comes to accessing older entries. And I finally added some updates after a long time with nothin!

GREAT BLOG!!!!! Thanks for sharing... :).

This maybe something that I need to do, to help process my stuff!

~Karen

Jen, thank you so much for sharing. I read quite a few entries this morning over breakfast and I can't begin to tell you how many passages I identified with. I thought I was the only one with a compulsion to tell complete strangers that my mom died, and finding some way to work it into the conversation. I'm a pretty self-aware person so I know why I do or say most things, but for the life of me I couldn't figure out why I did THAT, LOL ... until I read your explanation and I was like, "Yes! Yes, that's it!"
Just as an aside, we've got some pretty funky things in common, LOL. I was reading books before kindergarten too, and I take photographs obsessively for the same reason you do, and my husband and I have recently rescued a blind yellow Lab who had 3 days left before he was to be euthanized because nobody wanted him. My mom always wanted me to have a dog but I never had one until now. I am sure she is smiling down on us now.
Anyway, wonderful blog. It brightened my morning and provided comfort and reassurance in so many ways.
Best,
Mary

Wow - thanks to both of you for taking the time to read some of it and leaving me a note - I am really honored by that. I am so glad if it is able to help you some. It has helped me a lot to write it, and it feels good knowing that maybe my experiences can bring comfort to other people as well.

Mary, congrats on the new addition to your family - there is nothing like rescuing an animal, and they are always so grateful. Kudos to y'all for saving him! I'm sure he will bring you a lot of joy and comfort. When you're feeling down, there is nothing quite like a dog licking your face to make it better. :)

Thanks again to both of you for your kind words - seriously, it means the world to me.

Hope to see you soon!