How to Fling an Otter Across Two States

[LoisB]

Thanks Ladies, I appreciate the good thoughts and love.

So, I need to vent a bit. I have about one million things running through my head.

Had a discussion with the girls yesterday...we are all in agreement that the house is perfect for us, a step up from our current home and something we all feel excited to move to...We also discussed how not one of us is willing to continue living hand-to-mouth.

D12 is, after seeing this house, simply over-the-moon about moving. She is packing as I speak.

HOWEVER, I'm not willing to sacrifice my peace-of-mind for anything right now.

I spoke to my friend who has helped me in the past with money. She and I will sit down on Saturday morning and create a budget. I'm going to work up a preliminary budget right now. I may need to ask for more than $300 per month from d20. But, she can take it or leave it.

And, I've been thinking about ways to bring in more income without killing myself. Ideas, so far:

-I call Kohl's and see if I can work 10-15 hours a week in Watertown. I could, then, use the amazing discounts for Christmas. The newspaper really couldn't say anything because I've been clear about the whole housing price dilemma...and, the work wouldn't be grueling. I don't like the idea of MORE time away from d12, but it sure would help with Christmas and clothing budgets and so forth...

-I take stories I write for the newspapers and freelance them after some tweaking. For example, I was already planning on writing a story about prepping your house for winter...Well, with some tweaking, alter the story with a few national resources, I could pitch that story to magazines. I have a better chance of selling the articles as an editor. As I write this, I can see this is my best bet. I could do that while sitting with D12 as she watches her shows or does homework or whatever.

My Gawd, this child is so excited for this house. I simply have to figure this out. She is so over-the-top excited about moving now.

Smokey's b'day card arrived yesterday. It had a picture of a tabby cat on the front...D12 had a tabby cat that was eaten by the foxes last spring. Smokey has no way of knowing this because he hasn't spoken to D12. Inside, he wrote..."This card made me think of Luigi..." D12 said, "Thanks dad, you just made me sad with my b'day card and miss my cat." He sent $25. I'm glad he sent it, even if it was somewhat pathetic and 8 days late.

In the car, D20 asked me..."After we move, will we ever see our dad again?" I told her..."I can't answer that. I'm sorry. I wish I could tell you. I know you can reach out to him...if you are comfortable."