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My Past Year Conclusion


MichelleLea

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I had dug myself in a financial whole and tried some debt relief programs that turned out to be unrealistic given my circumstances. So, I found a bankruptcy lawyer just down the street from me who had received favorable reviews. She agreed that bankruptcy was my best option. Her fees were not unreasonable, and I started the long and convoluted process. It took a couple of months to raise the money to pay for it and to complete the required financial management courses. I had hearing scheduled for March 17, but the COVID-19 lockdown intervened. I finally did complete it telephonically May 1.

In the meanwhile, I continued to establish myself as a citizen of Indiana. I stopped doing Door Dash after I had a late-night single car crash—no injuries. I am able to make ends meet and put a little aside now with my social security and work at Meijer. Although I lost most of my worldly belongings and miss some things, I am in good shape overall. I am replacing a few things as I can. I seem to be getting along fine. My dogs could use a visit to the groomer, but I have been doing my on grooming until then. We are all healthy and have established a routine that works for us.

The pandemic has really not affected me that much as I live a hermit’s existence for the most part, although this is changing. I have made some friends with my co-workers at Meijer and have spent some time with one young guy outside of work. I have also made friends with a neighbor in my building, a 78-year-old musician who gave me some weed. It has been at least 30 years since I smoked any. Quite a trip. I like it late at night after all my chores are done for the day. I find that I am more honest with myself, both the bad and the good, and I have had more than a few good laughs at my own foibles. I am writing more, reading more, and started drawing again. I feel that I am in a good place. Little by little my place is coming together.

I have started growing my hair out a little and plan on finding a stylist to give me an androgynous look that will be more feminine but still be acceptable at work. This is a conservative area for sure, but I still want to come out more. I am not getting any younger, and I want to be me. As the Kinks sing, “I’m not like everybody else.” I have spent my life trying to blend in. Now I want to stand out a little. I am thinking getting some highlights when I can afford it, and the salons are open again.

So, that is my story up to now. I deal with things as they come and keep looking forward. I make sure every day is a good day. I will do my best to keep you up to date and be part of the TG community again.

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Dear MichelleLea,

Love your sketch of your kitchen.

Yes, I, too, live a simple life. Make a game out of how to get the most out of life on the least money. Keep a budget.

Today, my girlfriend and I shopped at ShopRite. We were mistaken by the cashier for being sisters. Really appreciate the hard work of the associates to keep the store clean and the shelves stocked.

Saving money for my move to Philadelphia PA.

Yes, it hurts to go bankrupt but it hurts even more to be chronically in debt.

Your friend,

Monica

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