Janet, I'm with you! Humor is one of the wonderful traits that we all share in our family of four. I know, adoption comes with another set of expectations and emotions that I have not experienced personally. I can only imagine that it can be even tougher for both the mom and daughter (or son) to have the type of relationship that is nurturning and good for all -- without a few bumps in the road. What I'm talking about isn't your basic angst that happens in all families. None of us are perfect parents or perfect kids. And yes, I'm sure I did my best to drive my mother and father batty! Not every memory is bad.... we had good times (as many of my girlfriends acknowledge with their moms too. ) What I'm talking about a fundamental philosophy of raising children and embracing help when you are told over and over that you need it. When parents are not happy with themselves, they cannot be good examples for their children. Add in untreated mental illness and narcassism and you have a toxic environment for a small person to thrive in. I am sad to say that I know others who had similar upbringings and didn't quite make the connection to what is and is not acceptable. I only hope they don't choose to breed and pass along what they learned.

I talk about this all the time with friends who enjoy using social media. We are NOT broadcasters, we are all talk show hosts. We have an opportunity for real, meaningful dialogue, but that means taking the time to read and post thoughtful commentary.

Adam, it does make you feel like someone, anyone, (Buehler??!!) is listening!!! :) Thank you for taking the time to pop over here and drop a line.

Very true, Steven. Lots of shallow interaction with more people is part of the "broadcasting" of your thoughts. But there are nuances in posts that those who know you well can pick up on. They can read between the lines. And that makes it pretty cool. And, truthfully, I'd trade a meal, a cup of coffee, a glass of wine, a walk in the park with someone over a blog post anyday! But so many of my dear friends live very far away and while we try to call often, sometimes, it is good to know that we can keep in touch through our posts. While I wouldn't necessarily call someone to tell him about my opinion on recent gun deaths at the hands of young children -- I can post and let my friends agree or disagree. That is priceless!

Thanks Oscar. I do like comments because you are right, it shows that people are actually reading and reacting. Keeping your tone respectful is the key. No one likes to come back to rants! :)

Indeed, you are right. From explosions in Texas, stories about a 5 year old being raped in India, and terror in our communities -- it's a bit much for all of us to comprehend. The world moves very fast these days. You can't stick your head in the sand, yet you can't dwell on the negativity. I am amazed by how resilient we are as a people. We get knocked down by these horrific acts, but emerge stronger and even more determined.

Rick, good point. It's funny, but I still see the me in there that I've been since I was about 19. That hasn't changed. I think we've earned our scars and lines and I have no issues with them. But I am on a kick to feel healthier -- both in mind and body -- and while I still can go anywhere with my head held high, there are days that I just wish I could stick with a plan that would bring me back to a more comfortable place. I don't need model thin -- just healthier, stronger, with less of that creeping middle aged tire that has taken residence around my gut!