random stuff that needs to fall out of my brain

1) my car got broken into wednesday night. I never keep anything in my car. Nothing. Well, I did have my iTrip thing in the glove compartment. These stupid thieves ransacked my car, broke a 200-dollar window, and got a 30-dollar gadget out of it.
So annoying.
And it doesn't help me feel any safer or more comforatable in a neighborhood I have already noticed being speckled with unsavory rental properties.
And now I'm beginning to sound like my father, so I'll stop.
2) I lost a few co-workers this week to a workforce reduction. I was spared (yay -- because I have my dream job and I would have been seriously crushed...) but I still feel sad. I worked with an incredibly talented team, and it's hard to part with people who you respect, enjoy, and would call friends. Sigh.
3) Diana and I are supporting each other in our weight-loss efforts (the person who said the last xx pounds were the hardest were the hardest, has never spoke truer words)... check it out.
4) Finally, some thanks to dole out to friends and the like:
Heather -- for being willing to lend your ear and support to my family, for myriad reasons, and for your willingness to be my personal-trainer-in-absentia while your foot heals (I
cannot WAIT to get back into the gym with you, girl!)
Diana -- for changing your mind, about 100s of things... mostly, I just appreciate seeing you
grow. It's real cool.
Barbara and Nathan -- You guys deserve every happiness on the planet, and I couldn't love either of you more.
Christy -- for just getting where I was at with the violation stuff yesterday. It's so great to
have someone to talk to, who *gets* you when other people might not.
Jenni -- because I'm really glad you decided to e-mail... and because I want you to know how
much happier you look in your new place in the world.
Susan -- because I remain in awe at your ability to hold it together through the worst of
situations. I aspire to be so many bits and pieces of you.

OK. In the midst of all the turmoil, I am somehow reminded how blessed I am with people who truly love me for just who I am -- and do not ask me to be someone I am not. Christy said to me not that long ago that it was a shame that it took a tragedy for her to realize how many people unconditionally loved and cared about her. I'm looking at far more minor tragedies (and near misses), but I'm feeling the same way. Friendships truly do create a beautiful tapestry in your life.