I'll tussle you for the olives, Laura. And thanks for the idea of a dental vacation. That honestly never occurred to me, but I've got a passport and a front tooth I broke on an apple 7 years ago, and spent tall dollars fixing again a couple of months ago. (I'll stow away in your luggage!)

Smonster, I'm sending a virtual hug your way. It is so lovely to see you recognize your own progress. You have really put in the work and your community benefits. Which I hope makes your heart stronger too.

Smonster sorry everything is piling on and I'm glad we here to make it a bit easier.

What they all said, smonster. You're awesome. I'll have my martini up and dirty please.

That is a lot of shit to shovel, smonster. None of that stuff is easy. But sometimes it's easier to shovel when you're singing a work song, and it's easier to sing a work song if there is more than one voice in the chorus.

As usual, Windsparrow expresses it beautifully.

That is a lot, smonster. It's so great to hear that you're strong enough to lend support to others, though. And that you're remembering to take care of yourself.

I know I'm not here that often, and I lurk more than I post, but I want to tell y'all how very much I love you and appreciate (everything).

And also stealing the words of smonster because she said what I wanted to say (and I'm a lazy writer), and reminded me that I don't say it often enough. I've never been what you would call prolific, and lately I'm barely more than a lurker; but I love you guys SO MUCH, friends in the glowy box.

We love you too, smonster. I'm glad you're in a place to get through it, instead of getting stuck in it.

{{{Epic}}}, just because. You've had a rough time of it lately too.

Happy birthday, askye!

Epic, it's always good to see you.

waves to EpicTangent

Epic, it's always good to see you.

And it's always good to be seen. Also ditto.

Waves back. Embraces those who are so inclined.

I took off Monday and Tuesday next week (because Tuesday is my birthday and I always try to take my birthday off and coming in one day then having a day off seemed silly), and I swear, the thought of those 4 days in a row off were the only reason I could face coming to work today. I can't wait until my sick/vacation time is not screwed up anymore so I can have an occasional mental health day, ISTG.

And because I can't let Steph corner the market on Birthday-ho-ness - though of course she is the original and bestest - but I'm 2 days older than her, so I need to get mine in before her [wow, stream-of-consciousness much?] Tuesday is my Birthday!

Man, one little Birthday Pimpin' Post and Bitches shuts down for a whole day? Weird.

I meant to reply to it yesterday, and again this morning, and...well, you see where that got me.

I wholeheartedly approve of taking your birthday off work! (Which I will not be doing, thank you freelancing.)