Well, this wasn't supposed to be a question I'd need to ask, but that was before running into the side of a granite boulder. I was supposed to be in Oklahoma the beginning of July. Gee, everything was set, housing, family, even the finances were all a done deal. I was supposed to have moved out from my house, and I would still be leaving more than 1/2 my monthly money so the house (can anyone say investment?) payment would be made.

But that boulder was there, and I ran into it. Opinions vary as to the cause. My wife who wasn't there says one thing, I say something entirely different. Everyone else, including the Highway Patrol agrees with me, and no fault was found. The road was wet and I lost control of my vehicle and hit the boulder somewhere between 30 and 40 miles per hour. My car was a total loss. I've never been so grateful for airbags. My insurance company said it was worth more than I'd paid for it, needless to say I didn't argue. So I wasn't able to walk till last week. The new leg doesn't work so good. (No, I didn't lose my leg in the accident, I just was fitted for a new leg), and my leg is at least two weeks away from being usable again.

A wise woman whom I consider a good friend said I wouldn't make it on the date I'd planned. Needless to say, the rental I had all lined up went to someone else. My friend has every right to tell me "I told you so..."

On the home front, I am looking for a place to spend Thanksgiving and Christmas. I don't see my recovery as being complete much before then. Being absent is my gift to my family; they will see my not being there as enormously easier than my being there (can you say awkward?).

On the positive side, I'm profoundly happy with how my body has responded to estrogen (the Spironlactone also played its part). My therapist and my endocrinologist (as of Friday) both have signed off on changing my name and Gender (you can do them both at the same time in California). I see this as necessary to my own health and well-being. As soon as my leg heals I will be moving. Tuesday I will find out when I can see a judge (at least four weeks from now).

But, that still means I hope to find some place to go for the holidays. Anyone need an accomplished cook?

Love, hugs, and blessings.

Beth