I am one of those people who came to the point 6 years ago where I couldn’t afford the high cost of living in California any longer, particularly the unaffordable housing. And I couldn’t afford the moving van either so I shipped the boxes that I could and sold the rest. But I landed in Ohio instead of Louisiana. I have to thank Mark Bean for reminding me how happy I am to be a former Californian, far away from all that hot air!

Hmmm. Usually your article is accompanied by a picture or two. Could it be someone is feeling a little shy about sharing a pic of herself in a short, tight dress? Come on, cough up the photos. After all, you did agree to give yourself over to the process!

This sounds interesting. I am just curious - what is your time lag from experience to column? Did you "wrap production" on the matchmaking three months ago, or are we getting to hear about this endeavor week by week "as it happens"?

Really, Lindol French? God forbid that we have people talking (or, as in this case, writing) openly and honestly about mental illness. God forbid we get to hear a first-hand account from a person is successfully coping and living with mental illness. God forbid we go back to the dark ages when we hid away (if they were lucky) people with mental illness. Really…GOD FORBID!!! Life is messy and we have to talk about messy things so they can evolve into something less messy, more normal. Keep the truth coming, Elaine!

WOW!!! I have enjoyed the past couple Gridlifes, but I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE this one!!! (is it a total giveaway that I fit the title age bracket??) I heartily concur with your message. And I so appreciated you sharing the pictures of your Dad's photo/card keepsakes - it's a rare gift to receive confirmation after the fact that your loving gestures meant so much to that person who meant so much to you. It should serve as a great reminder/lesson for all of us.