because i'm chronically ****, and i wanted to reply, i'll just list my responses...

1. my puppy had similar problems. but for years, my mom would just help carry her hind end up and down the stairs. she was such a good dog, but in the end, it was obvious she was starting to suffer, and couldn't get up at all any more. she'd still wag her tail when they'd go near her (i was away at college), but they just knew it was time. i'm thinking good, peaceful thoughts for your puppy, too. i hope you still have some time left with her.

2. good for you for letting the answering machine get it-- if you can't deal with your mom right now, then don't worry about dealing with her right now. gods know i've ignored my phone a few times, too.

3. any chance you call call up the pee wee football folks and register him late by phone? (i'm famous for the "i coudln't make it to the scheduled time-- family emergency!" excuse.)

4. don't worry about missing the meeting-- sure, it sucks, you might get a talkin'-to, but the reality is that it happens. (and see excuse in #3 above.)

5. i think you should tell your husband to put up or shut up, but that's just me. hand him some classifieds. or walk away. but i have little patience.

6. i highly recommend Money Management International for debt consolidation. They've been fabulous to work with for me. It doesn't cost or hurt to call and just see what they could do for you.

7. good for you for plowing on. there's still some obvious strength and fight left in you. it gives me hope for me, too.

i know what it's like to be overwhelmed. try to take it one step at a time. you've already broken it down into a nice list. now it's just time to tackle it. keep your chin up.

((((((zenobia))))))

ghost

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....Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.