A Year Later...
It’s been just over a year since our house was foreclosed on, forcing us to move out of state. A lot has happened since then—some bad, some good, but most of it has felt relatively neutral, to be honest.
The hardest event by far was the murder of my cousin. I can’t share much, as the case against the killer is ongoing, and I don’t want to say anything that might jeopardize my family’s chances at justice. He was my best friend in the family. Three years my senior, we were incredibly close growing up. Sure, he could get on my nerves like no one else, but I always trusted him completely. He accepted me for who I was, no matter what.
To make things worse, his dad—my uncle—was in a coma at the time and passed away the day after we learned about my cousin’s death. It was a double blow for our family. We’ve done our best to cope with the losses, holding our heads high, but it hasn’t been easy. Thankfully, those were the darkest days of the year.
Other challenges have been more frustrating than heartbreaking. For example, it took almost the entire year to sort out Medicaid coverage and get my oxygen and ventilator equipment transferred to our new state. The process was maddening, to say the least. Still, we persevered with as much dignity and patience as we could muster.
We’ve also experienced more personal losses. At the beginning of the year, we said goodbye to our beloved dog, Gizmo. Later, we adopted a sweet kitten named Sherbert, who tragically passed away earlier this month. Just a few days after that, my husband discovered an abandoned kitten at work. The mother was nowhere in sight, so we brought the little one home. Now we have a new furry friend to brighten our holidays. It’s bittersweet, though—I miss Sherbert dearly.
Beyond the loss and logistical headaches, financial stress has loomed large over the past year. My husband works tirelessly, and while his income keeps us afloat, we’re barely treading water. I’ve tried to find opportunities to earn a little money online, but balancing that with the restrictions of my disability and SSI has been nearly impossible. Falling behind on important bills—like my mother-in-law’s nursing home fees—adds to the anxiety. It’s been tough, but we’re holding on.
Despite everything, I’m profoundly thankful. First and foremost, I’m grateful for my husband, who has been my unwavering rock for nearly 13 years. His support and kindness are unmatched. I’m also thankful for my fur-children—Bella, Fenrir, Akasha, Frosty, and now little Fran. They bring light to my life.
I deeply appreciate my mom, stepdad, little brother, and all my friends, both in real life and online (especially those I’ve met through Final Fantasy XIV). Without these people, I’m not sure where I’d be. A special thank-you goes to Adam Newbold for creating omg.lol, where I’ve found a warm, supportive community.
Looking ahead, I feel hopeful. While challenges remain, I believe better days are coming. Rough waters may lie ahead, but with patience and understanding, I know they’re navigable.
Thank you to everyone who takes the time to read these rambling posts of mine. I hope your holidays have been wonderful so far and that the coming days bring you peace and happiness. ❤️