Yep. She called me earlier today and left the following message: "Cindy, honey, I need you to bring me some beer on your way home tonight, I think 6 should be enough."

She still goes back to when we lived right around the corner from each other and I could do that, no problem. I call her back and have to remind her that I live an hour away and cannot bring her beer. She then remembers and says she understands. I ask her if she went to Kroger on the bus today as she had told me she would. No she did not. Not going into detail here. Suffice it to say, she has a little problem from time to time and can't leave home. One might wonder if she has created this problem but I can assure all that she has not. It is a problem for her. Trust me, I know.

While on the phone with her, she told me about her new friend who is in her apt. watching TV with her and honestly, I thought it would be Teresa. But NO. Really, a new friend. I say "Mom, that's great. I'm really glad you found a friend." She briefly interrupts our conversation to ask her new friend if she can meet me, her twin sister, no, no, uh her daughter when I come Sunday. That's when I knew it wasn't Teresa; a voice I am not familiar with said yes. Yipee. Mom has a friend. Thanks new friend. I think I might love you.

As far as the financial needs are concerned, I think we need to do our best (? OK) to put restrictions on the cigs. and beer. Let her know that she can spend X amount each month and that is it.

I will talk with her Sunday about quitting smoking. She did quit for quite awhile and didn't seem to mind. I will talk with her about both of us quitting and maybe we could help each other get through it together. I won't be lying cause I really do need to quit too and I could use a buddy to help. It is not an easy thing to do. I have been giving it great consideration these last several months for many reasons. The price is through the roof and I think I would have more of an appetite and maybe put on a few pounds. That would be a good thing.

Giving up the cigs. Ouch.