I'm not sure I have a lot of time for politics right now. Does that make me a bad person?

Not that anyone is accusing me of being a bad person.

I've popped-in from time to time over the last several weeks to catch-up on the news. Let's face facts: DU is a good aggregation site; but my life is kind of hectic right now.

I'm swamped and I'm pooped -- and I'm also very happy. I've had some real serious issues lately. My dad went in to the hospital for bypass surgery and may have to retire from his job as a General Contractor. My boss has been very cool about me taking time to visit him while he was in the hospital and I thank God my step mom is there for him. He's home now and grousing about having to switch to Lite Beer. Meanwhile, my husband's kid sister -- who is the sweetest thing ever -- is still hurting inside from her mom dying from cancer last summer. Lover Boy and I have been playing surrogate parents by bringing her out to our country home every other weekend or so while my FIL gets better situated.

Of course LB and I have our own house we're trying to make more of a home for ourselves (I planted lettuce and green beans last weekend! And I wore shorts!) and we're both just buried at work. Some time ago I cried on DU about how much I miss him when he works late or on the weekends. Now I'm the one putting in long hours. Being a responsible adult sucks, okay! I'm just going to put that out there right now. However, when we're together our every moment seems all the more special. Or as Lover Boy says, "abstinence makes the heart grow fonder."

Yet, amid all this craziness I'm happy. I've never felt closer to my husband, family and friends. Even my brother and I had a pleasant conversation for the first time in a long time. Never before have I felt so strongly that I have a -- purpose, if such a term can be forgiven. It's like I'm in charge of so much and I can finally contribute in meaningful ways to people I can touch and hold and hug. I still have my principles along with everything I hope and believe in but I'm not sure I want to give up what I have for a few bumper stickers and a sign in my yard.

I'm in love with my life but I honestly don't know if I have enough hours in the day to be a die-hard political activist/junkie. And truth be told I'm not looking forward to the upcoming campaign with all its attending acrimony. If pundits want to scream at each other they can do it without my watching or listening. I've got better things to do.

I'm guessing I'll still stop by on occasion to stay current. There are so many of you I miss connecting with; so many good people here. If I'm not around as much please know how much you guys still mean to me.

<<hugs>>