Unfortunately, it’s difficult to talk about because it’s all so fuzzy to me. The constant emotional abuse over most of my childhood makes it hard for me to pin down specific details, and makes it very easy for me to pretend that it wasn’t as bad as it really was

Once again, I am right there with you. I wish neither of us were.

You are working so hard at this, Tom. I know it's fucking hard. You are really amazing.

Tom I know this year has been really hard for you but you are doing amazing. You are amazing!

You pictures are really wonderful too. I hope that 2012 brings you closer to peace.

{{{{{Tom}}}}}, that's a xmas hug, not a pity hug!

Aww, {{Tom}}, you are so awesome. I hope 2012 is as wonderful as you deserve.

Tom, I was all excited when I got your card today, because my roommate keeps getting mail and yours was the only card I've gotten (besides one from my boss, which had only her name signed and no message. Or money). So I was all "yay Tom!" earlier.

{{{Tom}}}

Tom, on the quit-the-job-for-six-months angle, have you considered seeing if any professional photographers in the NYC area are looking for assistants? A few months helping out/apprenticing under a skilled photographer might let you pick up the technical skills with medium format cameras, darkroom development, and so on that could help lead to a viable career in the field. You have such a good eye for composition and and light, and it's clearly something that you enjoy doing.

Matt's idea = good idea

Seeing you at my Birthday/ post treatment celebration was one of the highlights of the year, Tom, for what that's worth.

Quester, I think the box from highland Ranch is part of the TJs exchange, not secret santa

Sorry, Perkins, Quester had it right. I sent her cookies along with her other Secret Santa treats. One box is chocolate/butterscotch/cinnamon chip cookies and the other box has ginger cookies.

I meant to put a card in the box, Quester, but I'm glad you figured it out. Happy Christmas Eve to all.

Oops! Never mind!