In the meantime

My whole life didn't revolve around Ray, but don't tell him that. I did do other things, I was a "functioning addict". Like I said before I volunteered as a firefighter and an EMT, and I also had a job. I loved my job. I was good at my job, and it was a wonderful escape. At work I was smart, and strong and competent. I was an electrical apprentice. All I ever wanted to do was follow in my Dad's footsteps and become a Union Electrician. By the time I left Ray it was 1996 and I was a second year apprentice, and my journeyman loved me. He was like a second dad to me and he took me under his wing and taught me so much. I will always have a huge spot in my heart for Tommy. I see him every now and again, and I know he won't be around forever, so I always thank him for having so much confidence in me when I had none of my own.

It was time for my annual two week vacation and I was so happy to be getting away. I needed to get far away from temptation and go visit my big sister Rene' in Florida. I was so looking forward to driving to Pensacola by way of New Orleans. A friend of mine was coming along and we were two young girls on their first road trip without "adult" supervision, watch out.