McDermott International Inc. (MCDIF)

[jugs]

You are undoubtedly one of the most well balanced individuals I know. One of your neatest attributes, imo, is how you take nothing for granted. If anything, you inventory and even re-inventory your existence as though in search of loose ends you might have overlooked. I think this is part of why you are shocked by your employer's goodness. There's a downside to enormous sensitivities: pain when we grieve over loss.

You mention preparing for older age? I never got into that. I just did the best I could, figuring I'd fill in the empty spots when they surfaced, leaving no choice but to repair or be replaced. lol

You work so hard, you don't seem to realize your value---even at your full time job! You suffer the loss of your family pet but we all know love doesn't come cheap and you're paying the price now as you have no choice but to let go of all but the memories. That dog changed you for the better and you now continue, albeit improved.

Life is definitely not all about money, at least not for all of us. For some, though, it may be just that and I feel for them because I could wish their lives had more substance.

Yes, you are blessed---by family, friends, values and your hard-earned estate. But don't overlook the simple fact that your life is a reflection of all that you've cherished, built, and shared.