5 Year Journal Day 24

     Today's prompt is " If you were going to start your own company, what what would it be?" I wanted to be a Disabled Veterans' Advocate, working to file VA claims and appeals. I also wanted to learn Reiki to apply to disabled veterans at the VA. The other thing I was working on was becoming a Peer Support Specialist to work for the VA.

     Today was a sleepy day as it was raining hard on and off all day and was very dark outside. I wanted to stay in bed all day, I really did, but I didn't do that. I had errands to run, and did that instead. I did also work on my chores today. I didn't want to do my walk at all as I was aching. The rain brings pain to me. However, I did eventually walk for the third day in a row. It was much later in the day though. At the end of the day, Caleb helped me by applying an Icy Hot back patch on my back, I applied the Icy Hot balm to my front hip area, and he massaged my feet with cream prescribed by the podiatrist. I am so grateful that he assisted me, as I could not do it myself. He doesn't mind caring for my feet for me. I think he knows how important it can be for diabetics. More importantly, he knows I can't reach that far for long enough to do it myself.
     I went to Caleb's psychiatrist's office to sign a release of information today. He is being referred to other services to help manage his behavior. Then I went to pick up his remaining medications. It's not so bad now that the Mazda is cleaner than it has been. I looked up the cost of a portable heated carpet cleaner because the carpet in there is destroyed and needs washing badly.
     I lost my interest in sending letters to my neighbor once the jail sent them back.
     Rachel has confirmed that she is arriving on Tuesday. I am nowhere near being ready, but I am excited to have her over.
     I should have my last photo shoot accessory next week, my belt. So that's awesome! Hopefully Caleb will have his Lego journal too.
     Let's look at some photos.

     Even being in fifth grade couldn't keep Caleb from riding this tricycle at recess! LOL It was his favorite!

     Caleb being funny for the camera at the bus stop one morning. 2020

     Caleb graduating DARE. 2020

     Caleb's new haircut. 2020

     Bella and me. She tries to get as close as possible! She loves face to face time. 2020

     I got up and came back to lay down. LOL Bella on my pillow and doesn't care if I lay on her.

     Got dressed up for a Wounded Warrior Project work event for veterans.

     Getting love from Bella while sharing the pillow.

     Just because I love taking pictures! I may have gotten a new haircut.

     Feeling like a gypsy that day.

     I voted AGAINST Trump! Deal with it, haters!

     Caleb's first attempt to wear a tie. He found one of my dad's ties lying around. 2020

      Caleb all Jordan-ed out! After Christmas and his birthday. Christinia's idea. 2020

      I thought this was a sweet idea. I registered a Star named after Caleb for his birthday. 2020

      Everybody in the family had matching pajamas for Christmas. The family at the time included Christinia and Harlee. 2020

     Keeping it magical in my home with Harry Potter fan items!

      I love this dog so much. She knows how to cuddle.

     Bella loves her momma and knows that when the weighted blanket comes on, it's time to cuddle!

     I think I had gotten ready for church. I did my hair and makeup, which I hardly ever do. 2020

     I bought this canvas for Caleb after seeing it advertised on Facebook. It's for his footlocker of keepsakes.

     Almost everyday I get this kind of treatment. How can I not know she loves me?

      A more recent "before" picture. 2020

     Getting ready for church. Feeling good! Looking good!

     Trying on my blazer for the Wounded Warrior Project work event. I am no model, and it does not look as good on me.

      Bella in all her perfection surrounded by Caleb's junk. 

     I got these huge hoop earrings for Christmas! It's what I wanted!

      Having a good hair day.

     The 3 amigos! Everybody on the couch with momma!

     Our beautiful Christmas tree! Bella, Caleb, and Harlee.

      Trying on a different color of lipstick turned out good!

     Feeling magical.

      This is one of my favorite meals to make. Pork butt roast (shown with Carolina BBQ sauce), collard greens, and mixed chili beans in chili sauce. Yum!

     Caleb in ACUs at the local park. 2020

     Caleb found this name tape. It was my silent protest to having my name in all caps and without the proper spacing. Yes, I wore it. Yes, it may have been out of regulation. I did not get in trouble for it, but people did notice.

     Caleb brought home these crabs in his pockets! They are tiny! 

     Caleb and his favorite dog, Bella.

     Sometimes you just need a good lip gloss! I love this picture.

     Just another good day for me.

      I fixed Harlee's hair and she wanted to return the favor. She probably had ASD, so any emotional attachment that wasn't to her mom was special.