To Forgive is Truly Divine

Dear loved ones:

My behavior has been truly inexcusable. I am so sorry that I have been impossible to reach via phone. The only explanation that I have might seem weak, but I promise you that I would rather talk to you than do what I am doing.

Here is how I am spending my days:

I wake up at 5:00 am to get to public transportation, which I ride for an hour to 1 1/2 hours each way (with more walking than I am used to at both ends). Cell reception is extremely spotty.

I work for nine hours at a job that I am really starting to like, but which is totally new and out of the old comfort zone. Cell reception is nearly impossible (just ask Shari).

I am still setting up house, and wind up at the store every day--carrying groceries on my sides, front, and back. I feel a lot like a mule. No hands for cell phone . . .

When I get home, it has been 12 plus hours, and I have to be perky and meet social obligations so that I can be popular in the ward.

My legs and feet have swollen to tree-trunk proportions due to humidity (does anyone know if that is normal?) and there is definitely bruising involved. I have also nearly gone crazy in the sticky heat. Someone please invent a full body anti-perspirant!

After switching to a new cell plan, my voicemail got screwed up, and I had no idea who was trying to reach me (but apparently there were many of you--thanks!).

Anyway, please forgive me for my rudeness, and know that I think of you more often and more wistfully than you know. Thank you for all of your support. I will be in touch soon--I promise.