My Personal Journal

On October 8 it will be one year since Ron began his three years of probation.  He was released from Taft on July 27, but spent close to six weeks in a half way house in San Diego, before officially starting probation.  One year down, two to go.  Actually, when we think about it, the time has gone quickly.  It takes a while for a probation officer to "trust."  Most of the people probation deals with are likely to reoffend.  Even with someone like Ron, it takes time to build trust.  I would say Ron has earned that trust, and on the other hand, his probation officer has earned his respect, as she has always treated him fairly. 

Still, when Friday evening rolls around Ron will say, "Well, I made it through another week."  What he means by that is that he hasn't had a phone call or a visit from his probation officer.  Although he knows he is doing everything right, there is still that bit of anxiety, especially on Fridays (her visiting day), that keep him on edge. 

One of the most difficult aspects of probation is the inability to travel.  Even traveling up to Newport Beach for a few hours is not allowed without prior permission.  I'm not sure why this is so, but it's just one of those things we have to accept and follow.  Ron has recently had a few business meetings that have been out of San Diego County, so he had to apply for permission several weeks in advance.  Just a pain in the neck, but the travel has always been approved.  We also go to Los Angeles on occasion to visit my mom.  That's the only travel we do.  As much as we'd like to go to Colorado to see the kids and grandkids, that will have to wait until the end of probation. 

We're starting year two with optimism.  Ron is working hard at the many different jobs he has, and hopes that something good will develop during year two.  Right now he continues to work for an air conditioning company, umpire baseball, and do some accounting.  I continue to book some travel, write my blog, and look for some writing jobs that actually pay something.  Very hard to find.  It's amazing how we've been able to adjust our way of life, cut back in so many areas, yet still thoroughly enjoy each day.  Over the past ten years I have learned that it's not material wealth and possessions that lead to a happy life, but learning to be happy with yourself that leads to true happiness.  Many of the "things" I used to have may be gone, but years of memories, and the love of a good man cannot be taken from me.