is it really 2011?

so here we are. 

2010 just disappeared, didn't it?  i still can't get over how fast the year went.  i, for one, am glad it's past and we are looking forward.

i have a lot happening the first part of this year.  i was scheduled to begin 6 weeks of classes for bariatric surgery on Jan 18.  i don't think i can do it now, however.  i just can't afford it.  my rent went up $100 per month and i have a stupid car payment for a 1996 Saturn that's worth $700 but which I am paying $9,000 for.  i am also being hounded by collection people for the medical bills from my hysterectomy which i couldn't pay in 2009 because i was unemployed. 

the good news is i finally quit smoking and this is my LAST quit.  i don't want to smoke anymore and i am proud of that.  and in quitting, i've also lost weight ... so i've dropped 20 lbs in about 4 months.  i wasn't even really trying ... just changed eating habits.  SO, i think that if i continue on the path that i'm currently walking, and add exercise, i can lose this weight myself.  it will take longer, but i know it's a healthier way to do it. 

i am still loving my job.  i mean i love it.  i look forward to going to work every day.  my boss is awesome (most days) and i am so happy to be doing something to be helping kids.  it's not a lot of money and i struggle, but it's worth it.  sometimes i think of looking for another job that pays more, but i would be giving up contentment and satisfaction. 

my son is doing okay.  still can't find a job but he's been with his girlfriend for almost a year now.  he's very attached to her 3 boys.   he also gets to see my grandson on a consistent basis and they are developing a wonderful relationship.  he's made positive changes about his life.  he just needs to work on the job thing.  right now he's taking on the role of Mr. Mom.  it's okay.  it works for them right now.

i will be more consistent in posting as i need an outlet.