March 10, 1998 I've been so bad about writing in my on-line journal. I keep meaning to do that, but lately it hasn't felt as though I have had much time. I've been very busy and neglectful of my web page. So, I resolve now, publicly, to be better about it. What has been keeping me busy is my new life outside of this confining house. I've been substituting for about a month now. It has definitely been interesting. I find that I prefer 3rd through 5th graders. They still love school and, for the most part, listen to the teacher. 7th grade is the worst though. I didn't realize that I may have been so awful myself. While there are some good, attentive students, so many of them think they know everything and aren't afraid to tell you that. Amazing. It must be that initial influx of hormones. The best part, though, has been teaching and talking to people outside of what I know. In essence, being social. I haven't only been busy subbing, but I've also, with the help of my co-coordinator Mary, been throwing together an alumni chapter of KU down here. There has never been one here and it is a bit exciting being at the start of something new. We had our kick-off on Saturday with KU in the Big 12 Tourney (which we won!! =)). Only 15 people showed up over a 2 day period, but I see that as a good start. The NY group only had that many in the beginning of tournament season themselves when I was there. So, I'm sure it will get even better. We watch games again this weekend. I can't wait!!! I've been thinking a lot about what being social means. It doesn't only mean meeting and talking to people, but also some sense of freedom. I still don't have that. Without wheels I won't have that in this town. Public transportation sucks here. No other way to say it. And, I can't afford to take cabs around town, nor do I enjoy waiting 20 minutes to wait for a cab in order to go 5 miles. Hopefully, I will be able to start driving again someday soon. However, I'm not counting on it. At least, I am now getting out to be with people other than my parents.