Dear Francesca,

One day delayed, I moved in yesterday. The afternoon was hot and the breeze against my slightly sweated skin felt good as I unloaded my things. Although things aren't completely settled, i.e. there is a lot of my aunt's stuff (and some junk) still sitting around, I do have my own space. I would prefer living alone if I knew I could remain stable, but with working part-time, I couldn't really afford to. So, when I get those yearnings of living elsewhere alone, I try to think of how much money I am saving with this route.

It is exciting to be back in the city. Fighting through interstate and expressway traffic to get there, this morning I saw my doctor. I get to cut back on one medicine and probably phase it out completely in three weeks. The others I will still continue to take for a while, for in part, my stability relies on pills. I then went by the library and the health food store, enjoying being out.

I sat down to write to you to clear my thoughts. The excitement and possiblities of so many things to do is a bit overwhelming. I want to go out, do things, see things. When I was here in the winter and spring and working full-time, I rarely felt like getting out because of pain or fatigue. Now that I am feeling better I want to make up for lost time. I need to pace myself though and not overfatigue myself, as I am still facing tiredness often. My doctor said that cutting back and eventually eliminating this one medicine should help with fighting the fatigue. I certainly hope so.

So, what shall I do for the afternoon? A nap might be nice, or I have some new books to read from the library. I also feel like writing, perhaps working on some of my poems.

Franney, I feel like my old self again. I am no longer tossed about through the storm, beaten and battered. I feel stronger now, and I hope that feeling lasts.

Yours,
Hannah Iona