Ladies,

I just thought I'd stop in and apologize for my lack of presence here. My life has been very hectic the last few months and my forum participation has suffered.

The situation with my boss became increasingly hostile leading up to the announcement of her retirement and onward until the actual event. She actually started saying things like, "You must really hate your family," and "I think you hate me," to myself and co-workers. She retired April 30th and has been out of the office for a week and things are improving, but it is still stressful to be at work-- especially since she has been invited back for small things. I've also been working overtime on contract.

I have 6 months left on my current project and had already interviewed for a job for after, but now the director of that organization is leaving which leaves my funding and employment up in the air.

In other news, my mother has been very sick with what we believe might be the beginning of COPD because of chronic bronchitis. She currently has a chest infection and I've been home with her because she is on oxygen, etc.

I was previously insured through a group situation with a family member and he has decided to leave the group plan which means I can no longer keep my medical insurance and will have to go through the exchange, which is significantly more expensive for me with poorer coverage. I already pay very high medical bills because of my heart condition and ongoing prescriptions and care. Also, it means I will likely have to switch insurance 3 times in a single year.

The financial unsure feelings have put a bit of a cramp in my shopping style as I'm attempting to save money between now and Sept. while I'm still under contract. I felt I shopped "a lot" buy my standards this past fall buy managed to wear out a good chunk of the clothing I bought during that time period, which means I obviously didn't have enough clothing. Looking at my spring and summer wardrobe I could use to add some pieces.

Anyway, I apologize for being a flake, and am glad to be back.