Hey everyone. I kinda feel like I owe my furry friends/watchers a brief explanation of why I haven't been around much in the past... well, year or so. I've been going through some tough times financially. I left my tedious job at the coffee house last October (2009) to strike out on my own as a freelance journalist. I was hoping to actually use my college degree. I had several thousand dollars saved up and a friend who could throw me some night work from time to time to suppliment my income while leaving my days free to research and write. Unfortunately, my plan didn't work out. I had a hard time breaking into the trade and the little money I was making didn't cover my rent. I lost my apartment last May. Fortunately, I had family living just outside of town I could move in with. I tapped a friend who was able to get me work at a wine shop he manages so I'm employed at least. The job is fun, but doesn't pay that well.

So that's where I am and have been for the past several months. My family's been wonderful. I've been helping them out as much as I can to compensate for the free housing. I miss living in the city something awful, but at least I work there so I'm not in too much withdrawal. I hope to find better work soon, maybe even in my field but I've been having little luck in that area.

I know I haven't been online much. I'm sorry for that. I've missed some birthdays recently (you know who you are!). I'm going to try to make an effort to be more social not only because you guys deserve it, but I need it too. *hugs all around*