Clara, I still can't see my screen while I'm typing, so for give the typos. I think of you so often and hope that you improve and feel better. I know that you must be held in extremely high esteem and are truly cared for by many on this forum. Your down-to-earth sensibility , open-mindedness, and gentle spirit won my heart right away. Please take care of yourself.

Also I wanted to mention.... Do you really want your full name to be on your profile? There are a couple of very creepy people here.

I have no idea why my avatar came up.

This is "Andy". One of two a relative takes care of. The other one is "Amos", of course. I've been called a "Tough Old Buzzard" but I couldn't find a buzzard picture so I settled for "Mule Head".

I LOVE your avatar, Clara!

What a great avatar! He/she looks like a really sweet animal. Mules really are tough animals. I remember the ones that used to plow the tobacco fields back in the 'hollers' of Tennessee; certainly wouldn't be able to use a tractor over that rough terrain! We also think of them as stubborn. Personally, I think stubborn is a pretty good attribute to have once you've reached your position through reason, compassion, and an open mind. Too many people cave once the winds of popular public opinion change direction.

I always enjoy reading you posts; thanks for the great links. I hope you don't stop writing about your life and your experiences because of a couple of criticisms; please consider the 'source'.

We haven't heard from you in a while. I hope that you are OK. I know that you've been sick, so I'm a bit concerned. Let us know how you're doing when you feel up to it. You are missed.