I cannot tell you how jealous I am that you're going to see Kelly Clarkson. Her song "The Trouble With Love" is wonderful. When you see her tell her Cinder says Hi.

Seeing you in school and doing well is probably a long time dream of your parents. They need to know that some dreams didn't change because of the stroke. You do too. You will miss them, and they will miss you, but that's an expected part of life. Visit when you can, be there when they really need you, and get that degree. You go girl!

Amanda:

I am so glad that I gave you the idea to 'Blog'. I really appreciated your blog concerning your story and how you found this site.

Yes, you need to go to this concert. Your youth 'has been robbed' from you. You need this 'getaway' to release the stress in your life. I understand that you want to assist in your dad's care and that you want to be there for him.

Your education IS also important. If your mom has the ability to use the computer and knows how to send/receive emails, that should be enough comfort. As far as commuting, you need to pray about that. Also consider the financial part. Would it be cheaper to live at home and commute OR would it be cheaper to live on campus, and keep in touch via email.

Keep up your strong attitude and remember to keep your needs and concerns 'before the Throne'. I will keep you in my prayers, as I'm sure others will to. Just remember "Nothing IS TOO DIFFICULT for Him".

Denny

Amanda please don't feel guilty, life does not stop because someone has a stroke. I know you want to be there for you dad, but as said I am sure it is a dream of your parents that you get a good solid education. As far as the concert..you will have a few days off and come back refreshed (maybe the tension headache will be gone) you are young and deserve some fun in your life.

If your are really needed it is an hour drive.. your dad will be in re hab for awhile it sounds....as chef denny says maybe you can e mail your mom..I have a "freedom" phone plan and all my long distance,in state and out and local phone for one flat fee...(much cheaper than paying for each call..as all of our relatives are long distance.

I am sure your dad will get much joy hearing about your classes and things going on at school...go have a great time, come back refreshed and know we all desrves some joy in our lives.

Have a great time. Bonnie

Thank you all so much for your kind words!!

I do know that I can't stop living because of what has happened, but I do feel like it is my responsibility to be there in the way my parents have always been there for me. I will be living in the dorm with my best friend, so she understands my situation and wouldn't get upset if I had to spend a night or 2 at home..it helps not having to explain my situation to a roommate who might or might not get it. Miranda has grown up with me and knows it all. I roomed with another good friend last year and she was very understanding, I have been blessed in that department.

Denny - After looking at the choices you mentioned in your post, it would be cheaper for me to live on campus. I do get Financial Aid and I also won a 1500.00 per year scholarship when I graduated from high school, so I have the money for campus living. I have all my meals paid for there, and my job is right on campus, so living there I can lean on that financial support and use the money I make working for other things beside living expenses. If I were to commute, I'd be filling up my car 2 to 3 times per week probably, not to mention the wear & tear on my car and I sure can't afford to get a new one right now, plus having to buy food more than I would in the dorm....financially, it makes more sense to live there. I am just going to have a rough time getting used to it again knowing all that is going on back here...but I will continue to pray about it and I know God will get me through. Thank you for your prayers & advice as well, means so much!

Cinder - It's so cool to find other Kelly Clarkson fans!!! I have been a fan of her's since she won "American Idol" and I am so excited to FINALLY see her in concert! I am a bit nervous about meeting her afterwards, but I know it'll be fine!

Thank you all again!

Also a caregiver, I find it very hard to relax and take some time just for myself. I always feel guilty!

You need to take time for yourself and I think it's great that you are getting away. Try not to beat yourself up. You can keep in touch by phone.

I was happy last week just to get out of the house for 2 hours and go grocery shopping.

Have a Great time on your trip...........RELAX........I'm sure everything will be just fine. I also agree - your parent's want to see you succeed. When you graduate your parents will be beaming. Don't feel guilty about going back to school.

Take Care of Yourself................

Kim