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I've been getting behind on the inditement of these "Thoughts," lately; given what I wrote last week, this should be understandable, though. I do, however, intend to catch up . . . right after I get caught up on my studies.

It's hard to write without being alone awhile, and lonely I'm not. Julie hasn't even vaguely abandoned me -- for which I am grateful -- and between school, the band, Butch and my dear friend, Audy, I've hardly been wanting for company. Don't get me wrong, though, I'm not complaining; I'm simply explaining the slack in my promulgations.

Julie has always taken exceptional care of me -- too good, in fact. I'd go so far as to say she's spoiled me, and yet she continues to see to my creature comforts even after our separation. From cleaning what is now my apartment to shopping and managing my accounts, she's been there for me; yet, she's stayed away and given me space when I have visitors --but not before preparing enough lasagna for me and my ten closest friends.

One very special visitor, the friend that I went to visit in New Orleans after my vocational emancipation, Audy, came back to Wausau to take care of some personal business. While his troubles and the impending breakup of my marriage put a pall over the visit, it was great to have him here. I was there with him when his wife left him in ruins and I watched him rebuild a life from the remains. He never forgot that, and although he had bigger problems with which to deal, I appreciated his council no less than he mine. Who else but your friend is going to tell you what you refuse to see, and make you laugh about what you can't change.

One night, when Butch came over to entertain us, Audy accused him of eating Mr. Klouie's cat food. Louie, as I call him, was pestering us for food even though he still had some in his bowl. I told Butch to mix it up for him so he'd eat it. As Butch knelt over the bowl with a knife, Audy came out of the bathroom, which he was using as a phone booth. He told his wife, Tab, who he was talking to on the phone, that Butch was eating the cat's food. By now, half of New Orleans believes it's true.

While I didn't skip any classes last week, I did let my lab exercises slide a bit. Next week I'll be busy catching up, but it shouldn't be a problem. I've got two very good tutors, eager to help me succeed, and I'm not really too far behind, anyway.

Audy stayed with me for four days and kept me well supplied with beer -- he even took all the empties out to the recycle bin. I wanted for nothing while he was here and he even did the dishes before leaving on Thursday. For a man who has, in the last few years, lost his eyesight, his job, and his wife, I must say: I've got it pretty good right now.