Hi everybody,

I hope you are all doing well. I have been busy interviewing again, but this time didn't get the position, so I have resorted to the fact that things do happen for a reason, and trying to look at thepositives in my current position, most of all happy to be employed in this economy!!
Still haven't gone to the casino!!! Last time was June 3rd. I have a mountain of debt incurred from this nightmare, as I said, it took this horrible crisis to wake my husband and me up and say enough is enough. We are going to pay for it for a long time to come. But you know what? For the last 11 weeks or so, I have spent so much more quality time with my family. My husband and I have started our walks again with our little one and our dog. I've joined a health club to tackle my 25 pounds (my other demon). I also feel soooo much better about myself. I haven't overdrawn my acct since that last casino trip (knock on wood). My payday loans are half of what they were 11 weeks ago. I finally feel like I'm on the right path.
And guess what? There was a breakthrough...I told you when I first joined that many of my family members are compulsive gamblers...most in denial. Well, tonight, my parents said they noticed I hadn't gone to the casino in months. Before I would never admit that I had a problem. I am very private and my family is extremely critical. Well I was honest tonight, and while I didn't give any real personal details, I told my parents that I did not like the person I became when I went to the casino, and my husband and I refuse to go ever again. They said they agreed 100% and they admitted they became the same people when they were on there! The conversation had started because a group of my family was up at the casino playing cards. My parents said a big fat NOOO when invited, and they said they planned on continuing this pattern. I am soooooooo happy for them and hope they stick to it. Someone posted about a video recently. I watched it, and guess who is watching now, enthralled with it? My parents!!! :)
Keep strong everyone...I have been battling with gambling at the casino for 15 years now, and I don't want to waste ANY more life on it. I am so enjoying quality time with family, esp. my children. Mostly because I'm not sweating like I used to every night, worrying about how many overdraft fees I would incur, or being so negative I had a bank account closed, or thinking of multiple sneaky, deceitful ways to get money. If I can make progress, ANY one can...I did some very low things to get money and I am so not that person away from that place. Love and prayers to you guys!!! :)