Typing on my phone on the road trip home but wanted to share a nephew update. My niece reports that for the first time in a week he responded to questions and even asked when he would get the feeding tube out. They have weaned him off sedatives and say tubes may go tomorrow. He still will be there a while and have rehab to regain strength, but turned a big corner. As a guy with lots of medical training he is going to be so mad at himself when he understands what all is going on. Huge relief.

Glad for your nephew's good news, Laura!

That's great news, Laura. What a huge relief for you and his family.

Little kitty footprints in the snow. I know who it is now; it's the black feral who's been roaming around here for a couple years. He won't let me near him; he won't even eat food I set outside for him.

I know who it is because, I saw that black cat, on an asphalt road, at night, by the light of a quarter moon. I have really good night vision.

I have photographed everything 4 times over and have recorded every phone call and video taped every conversation.

The fine line I walk is that leaving voids my rights, so I've got to stick until I ensure that I get my deposit back...which is 900 x 16 years compound interest, whatever that may be...and that I have defended all my rights.

Once I get some sleep, I will talk to some lawyers to make sure my next steps are wise ones.

Zen, didn't it feel like summer?! Seriously, those extra degrees were what kept me from totally decompensating today.

Tomorrow, it is back to frigidity. In 2 weeks, though, we could be seeing a break in the frost. Can't wait.

My good bud is coming home from Germany on Thursday, and that will be great too. He is prepped to help me with the moving process, etc.

Speaking of angels, Sparky, you are so comforting to me. I always know you have my back and, even though I'd do anything not to put you out, I feel so much safer in the world knowing you are in it.

I am humbled by how rich with friends and safety nets I am.

Bed time for this bonzo. Sweet dreams y'all.

Good night, bonny. I hope you sleep well.

I threw away the cigarettes with half a pack left. Still have this stupid muscle tension headache, I hope it goes away overnight. Had to buy a new computer, mega ouch. It's so bright! It doesn't know me yet! The scroll is wrong!

Speaking of bedtime, same goes for me. Night, all.

I'm so glad to hear your good news, Laura. May the healing be surprising in its swiftness and inspiring in its completeness.

It's great to hear that your nephew is getting better, Laura.

I'm glad you're finding some options, bonny, because your current living situation sounds really unpleasant. I hope you get settled elsewhere soon.

Great news, Laura!

Bonny, so keep in mind that if he keeps your deposit more than 30 days he owes it all back--per DC law he has 30 days to give you back your deposit with a list of what he's deducting if anything, otherwise he owes it all.