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.

Best to Emmett

Sounds like you have the basis of the letter

here I am. here's what is happening , may you find peace.