I'm leery of outlet stores since finding out that a lot of manufacturers produce items directly for the outlets and they're not as good as the regular stuff with their name on it.

Check the tags. For most brands, the stuff produced specifically for the outlet has a different tag (usually something like two or three diamonds or stars under the name of the brand.)

I go to Starbucks, but only for ginger ale which is delish. I am a Coffee Bean girl, but only for bucket sized iced tea.

I've just started reading All the Light We Cannot Sea which makes me want to unplug everything and just read.

I could really use a lot of ~ma for my mom. My stepfather said something so cruel to her (I don't know details) that she is now holed up in my spare bedroom and barely communicative. He's becoming more and more difficult and cantankerous over the past few years, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back.

She's been suspecting dementia on his part for a while now, but mean is mean. I'm worried about what will happen to her financially if she leaves him, and I'm worried about the toll on her mental and physical health if she goes back.

I'm so fucking terrified, guys. I feel helpless and sick and worried and I can't stop crying.

Oh Anne, your poor mom. I'm so sorry.

Oh god, Anne, I'm sorry. Best to both of you.

{{{Anne}}} That's horrible. In my experience people with dementia can be mean in a way you wouldn't have previously thought them capable of being. Is there any chance your mother could get your stepfather's doctor involved?

I'm so sorry Anne.

Anne, right now? You're being very helpful. Get through tonight, the next moment, engage drs and go from there. Right now, your mom is in a safe place, with you.

It's scary seeing our parents vulnerable.

In my experience people with dementia can be mean in a way you wouldn't have previously thought them capable of being.

This. But that doesn't make it any easier to take.

Thank you all. I'm just hoping I can sleep tonight.