Daniel, that is admirably old school, but nothing applicable to the world of employment today. As you well know, firms have no such loyalty and will layoff people whenever it's financially convenient. Especially as a temp, you don't owe that kind of loyalty.

signed,
Temped for 10 Years

Anne, I worked on your CowGirl ReBop mix a lot yesterday.

Emmett has developed Mystery Leg Pain. I thought he was just sore yesterday because we walked around so much after his fever broke. But it was so painful he couldn't stand up or extend his legs. I thought he'd be better by morning, or I'd at least be woken up during the night if it was bothering him. Nope - it only hurts if he stands on them.

It's very disconcerting because there's no swelling, no obvious cramping, no injury, no bug bite. But it hurts him so much he can't even stand up. So - we're off to see the doctor this morning.

I think his Mom is feeling better from her nasty bout of poison oak, but I'm going to get into work late today - and I really can't miss a lot of time right now. Feh. JZ's off to get bananas for the potassium, but I really don't think he's got regular muscle cramps.

Daniel, I'm with everyone else. It's very nice that you have that loyalty, but not necessary in the real world that we call now.

Connie, I'm sorry this is adding extra stress on you right now. You certainly don't deserve it. Definately do whatever you feel is best for you, though, and don't let anyone else's thoughts or possible thoughts change your mind.

Poor Emmett! The little guy has really had a rough weekend. Good luck at the doctor, Hec.

Oy, poor guy. Hope it turns out to be something banana and/or icepack fixable.

Dan-- totally go for the interview. I was kind of looking when I was an agency temp, I feel a little different now that I'm a company temp. But hey, still a temp.

Connie -- sorry you are stressing over this. You definitly shouldn't go if you think it's just going to add to that.

That's scary, David. Could it be a growth spurt thing? I hope he feels better soon, whatever it is.

Connie, this sounds like a hard situation. I have no advice, but I will be thinking about you. I agree that "write it, send it, and put it behind you" is probably the best thing to do for now. Do you think she wants a big dramatic Forgiveness Letter, or just a note to let her know you're well?

connie, it sounds like our head is in the right place. You wish her peace. funerals are for those left alive. You know you and your blood family well enough, chose our own way to let go. - Which is what you said, but it makes so much sense.

And listen to everyone Daniel. I hope you are enjoying the little bit of everybody wants me that is going on now.

Go Anne

and you should be doing some work Vw!

{{{Connie}}} It sounds like you know what you're going to do and that it's the right decision. Good luck with the letter.

{{Emmett}}

Aww, poor Emmett!

Could it be a growth spurt thing?

I usually felt that pain along my shins, and then got regular cramps in my calves. Also, while he did have a bit spurt last year - he didn't manifest any of these symptoms then. Hmph.

Connie, I know how deep your estrangement is with your family. I'll just note Giles' advice that forgiveness may not be something they deserve, but something your mother needs. (Well, she probably doesn't think of it as a forgiveness issue, but obviously she wants to make some connection with you before exiting.)

Sending the letter would be a kindness, that I think you can afford. I don't know anybody who regrets their emotional generosity in these situations. But I know a lot of people who regret not being able to do anything before it was too late.

Do you think she wants a big dramatic Forgiveness Letter, or just a note to let her know you're well?

I don't really know. I honestly think trying to resolve years of misunderstandings at this point in time is needlessly dramatic. Our family style was never comfortable with drama. The line I'm taking for my own mental health is "Here is a letter from your grown-up youngest daughter, who has life complications of her own, but who wishes you well because all that is in the past." If she wants drama and is up to drama, then she'll have to instigate it.