don't think it makes you a hero.

It's been a gloriously productive week. We bought a lot of stuff that we needed - printer, wireless router, painting supplies, flowers, candles - and we got most of it set up. So why are the bedroom and the living room still such a mess!? Ack.

I've talked to Dad three times today. During the first call, I found out that Kathy was apparently throwing a birthday party for Stevie this weekend and invited Mom and Dad. Of course they couldn't make it, but Dad told me to call Kathy and invite myself. Second call was to find out Kathy's number, which is on my old phone. She didn't answer, but texted me about an hour later saying that the party was today, but it was short because of the tornadoes and floods in the area. She said that we would get together next weekend.

Then I tried to call Grandma at St Johnsland, but somehow got the wrong Grandma on the phone. Luckily that phone call only lasted for a minute, because I realised that this Grandma was, in fact, not my Grandma when she dismally answered "Normal" to the usual "How are you feeling?" Third call was to find out why the hell I'm last on the information totem pole in this family - not really, but that's how I felt. Mom gave me Grandma's new direct line, told me that there was a "mass text message," and also that Boo was going to call me. Funny how none of that happened. I called Grandma, and Aunt Doreen answered and told me that Grandma was not feeling well, and could I please call back later.

The single thing that I hate most about "growing up" is that no one seems to care about anyone else anymore. I'm slightly guilty of it, too: I get too caught up in accounting homework or cleaning the apartment, I forget to call. But I can't really remember the last time that anyone but Dad or Grandma actually cared about what I was telling them. Now Dad's all caught up in the Texas deal and Grandma's worried about her rehab - both completely understandable, justifiable reasons to be busy.

I don't know, maybe it's because I'm not great at keeping in touch.

All I know is that I miss them.