A short story about a middle-aged farm wife trying to raise her kids along with a couple of grandkids while dealing with an alcoholic husband, whom she loves dearly, and a competitive mean-natured mother-in-law. Just when Ruby thinks she and her alcoholic husband Benny' marriage is improving, her daughter and son-in-law move in causing irrecoverable damage. Survival or ruin are Ruby's only two choices.

I look at this photo taken in January 2003; my son was just 3 days old. Somehow time has moved steadily and he is now 8.5 years old, entering third grade as a thoughtful and philosophical young guy (and a joy to be around, I must add).

I remember this moment captured in a photo. I was tired, unprepared for first time patenting and scared by my own lack of familiarity. I was beginning my journey as a mother seeking... And it clearly continues.

Are You Still Smoking?This is a real serious issue with me. If I knew then, what I know now, I would have stopped smoking for my children's sake and all my loved once including my adorable pets in my life. Please read this and share it with as many friends, friends that you want to hit real hard with a strong message. This is so important. Thank you for reading my article....