One of the other things I wished I had done when I was younger was to take much better care of my teeth. I never learned the value of a nice smile until I was much older. It is one of the reasons I feel so uncomfortable around people. I would have also taken advantage of the dental implants they have now.

I also should have added to my original post, that the best way I have found to get my focus off of myself, and my many shortcomings is to sincerely pray for others. Our church has lists of many people to pray for every day. I also try to give to some of my favorite charities. I wish I could do more. There are so many people who are in much worse conditions than I am in.

I am unable to go anywhere anymore, so have little contact with others except with the delivery people who bring me my groceries and other things. Although I have no smile for them, I try to sound pleasant and thank them.

I have to say though that I have a better attitude now that I have been doing my best to focus on others rather than just myself. Also, my faith has increased as I've gotten older, and that has made a big difference. I still have things to worry about, especially health issues. Right now, I am waiting to hear from the dermatology clinic at UW in the Settle area regarding the biopsy I had two days ago. I sure wish there was a Mayo Clinic near me. I know there are other things wrong also. It is so hard to get to my doctor, and it is so hard to be able to ask him questions after the appointment. I guess they haven't figured out how to bill you for a phone call, and they want you to make another appointment every time you have a follow-up question so they can bill your insurance. But I suppose I would have the same problems with the Mayo clinic. I remember as a child my mom would just call the doctor and he would come to our house. That should be an indication of how old I am.

Thanks for your feedback.
Marian @tia8marie