I know many don't care or are sick of the subject, but I continue to get a lot of PMs asking how I'm doing. So I thought I'd give those who give a shit a current report so I don't have to keep giving the same answers individually.

I'm doing great-- my mom and dad came down today to take me out to lunch and my mom says I look 10 years younger. A bit of an exaggeration, but still. I've been here a little over a week, and though last time I wanted to lose my mind, I'm doing fine the second time around because I know what to expect, and I'm 100% determined to kick this ridiculous "habit" of mine. Fortunately, the two girls I couldn't stand when I first got here have moved-- though they were my age they had the mental maturity of 15-year-olds. The two women I've befriended-- my roomate and one in another room-- are both in their 40s and married with children. I can have intellectually stimulating conversations with THEM, especially my roomate who was a high school English teacher. She also plays the pan flute beautifully, and she often plays every night, which is very comforting and lulls me to sleep. The group sessions are numerous and long, and it's kinda funny because there are only three girls-- myself and the two women I mentioned earlier, and about 12 guys, most of them parolees and in their early 20s. They seem like the sweetest boys, and their stories are very sad and quite touching-- I've been guilty of getting teared up a few times in group. Yes, I know, I'm a sap. I can't help it.

At the house, I've started a recyling program, which I'm very happy about, and I spent most of today replanting the front garden. It was very theraputic, and hopefully the bulbs will flower in a couple of weeks, so I will be able to see the results. The house manager also has a gorgeous American Bulldog, and for those of you who know how I feel about dogs, it should come as no surprise that I've spoiled him rotten with treats, chew toys, and lots of playtime during my few breaks. He's grown quite fond of me, I'm happy to have a dog to distract me from how much I miss my own.

Next weekend I get a pass to leave for a day and a night, so I will be taking the train up to LA so I can attend to my garden and transplant the seedlings that have been growing since I've been gone. I'll be happy to be home, though it will be for a short time.

Thanks again to everyone who has sent me messages of love and support, they mean more to me than you could possibly know.