My Past Year in J-Land

                                        

I know I showed off this lovely cake before, but today we get to eat it! Yummy!  I spent a couple of hours last night in the Anniversary Chat.  I met some new people, laughed hysterically at some of the comments, got to walk down the red carpet.  Of course I didn't win Best Dressed because I forgot to put the picture of my outfit in my journal. For your edification, I wore a slinky red dress which showed off my curvaceous body, shoes to match, a red Gucci bag, and stunning diamond and ruby necklace, rings, earrings and bracelet.  These were on trial from the jeweler and wouldn't you know they took them back just before the photo op.  I know I could have won.

The chat was lively, sometimes outrageous and I found myself laughing hysterically at some of the comments.  I met Stevie of video fame after he finished hosting the UK chat.  I also had a chance to meet new friends and chat with some cherished friends as well.  It was wonderful.

Krissy has  asked us to do an anniversary adventure by sharing our last year in J-Land.  As you know, her husband John is back in the hospital again, but both of them truly want us to carry on.

                              

My last year in J-Land has been tumltuous, wonderful and hectic.  The day we found out about the ads, I spilled coffee on my laptop.  I ruined it, and it would be several months before we could replace it.  I did my first meme in November, asking people to share their gratitude every day for the whole month.  It was great. Did the same meme for Christmas memories.

In January, two little girls came to stay with us while mom was in the hospital seriously ill.  The girls are now a permanent part of our family because mama passed away in February.  We thought we were through taking in kids, but God had other ideas. 12 and 13 is a difficult time for girls and I didn't do too well when my daughter was that age, so I guess the Lord wants us to work on it.  Our 13 year-old has Downs Syndrome and she is a joy - much easier than the two 12 year olds.

I spent so much time reading journals at times that my wonderful hubby was beginning to think I had abandoned him.

I've had a rough time the last few months and J-Land has stuck by my side.  Many have IM'd me with encouragement and prayers.  Others have sent e-mails and e-cards.  So cool to see them in my inbox. And now I have received 4 postcards: from PA, Missouri and Florida.  Thanks guys, they really lifted my spirits. 

J-Land has become such a close-knit community and I am proud to be a part of it for 2 years now.  If I could meet you all in person, that would be my greatest wish.  I'd like to be with Krissy right now, holding her hand, encouraging her and John through this rough time.  I'd like to visit Mosie's farm and play with the filly and see Robin's new home before Michael gets transferred again.  And Pamela is just a coule of hours away.  I'd love to go to Ohio to see my son and drop by Lisa Jo's house to hug and encourage her . . . . well you guys know what I mean . . . not enough room to mention them all here.  Suffice it to say I have met and made some wonderful friends here. 

My past year has been filled with ups and downs.. . .the death of my birds, now replaced with 16 more of various breeds and needs; cutting my hours at work; starting to swim after nearly 25 years, and learning just how precious my family is to me.  I know AOL-J hasn't done these things, but I am able to share my thoughts and feelings here without fear of repercussion.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, J-LAND!!