400th Post

Should I have flashing lights, loud casino-esque bells, and a game show host announce that this is my 400th post?

Sure seems like it. Hmmm. Wonder how many hours I've devoted to documenting this chronicle I call my life?

Anyway, this was one of the worst weeks of my life (and it didn't even involve Jack, my house, Jack's job, or the usual web of stressful situations enveloping my psyche). I can't discuss it, but I want to thank all my dear friends for responding to my random, panicked, sometimes-in-the-middle-of-the-night texts. I have a tremendous support network and you all have gotten me through a lot this past year!

As for this experience, I'm already overcoming everything, emerging stronger, more confident, and more sure of my values than ever before. In fact, I realized I'm stronger than those I once looked up to for guidance and encouragement.

That, in itself, makes my heart smile and re-engages my spirit to kick major butt at work. 'Nuff said.

Jack took me on a date last night, so we could giggle and laugh and continue making new memories in Chicagoland together. He whisked me off to the wonderfully-romantic Buffalo Wild Wings two miles down the road. I have a closet affinity for their boneless wings (well, guess I'm no longer in the closet about this!). It was actually a great time, as we played each other in the ongoing trivia game (as our pseudonyms "Ralph" and "Lauren"...first adopted the first time we went to Vegas). Soon, others joined in the game to try and dethrone "Ralph."

Then we went to see Dinner with Schmucks (not my idea), but the movie prompted several good belly laughs. Hey, I owed him for sitting through "Eat, Pray, Love" last week! "Schmucks" was a bit painful in spots, but Paul Rudd is sneaking his way into my Top 5 list. He's cracked the Top 10; part of me wonders if that's only because of his role in Friends? I see him as Mike Hannigan?

Today, in a few hours, The Edge is picking me up for my second Cubs game in five days. The Edge and I have been friends for literally 30 years and it'll be great to spend the day together.

That's one of the best pieces of wisdom my dad once told me..."Someday, you'll want to have your childhood friends in your life. They remember who you were before life made you jaded." I think it's true...they keep you real!