Better be alone than in bad company." Thomas Fuller

I had breaks with the same bunch of girls for years. In the beginning we used to laugh a lot , talk about many things ,not much work, and recipes. One of the girls found out she couldn't have kids so we rallied around her. We were less reluctant to talk about our kids . As time went on she became more bitter and negative. We would try to cheer her to steer the conversation in another direction but she would have none of it.

A couple of years ago she got a dog and seemed much happier. But every time I tried to tell her how my son got an A. She would interrupt me with the dogs bathroom schedule , where she walked him how long etc. She would ask did you watch this show, it wouldn't matter if the answer was yes or no. She would tell us every thing that happened on the cake decorating show or ax men. We couldn't get a word in.

Then she bought a camper for nascar shows and camping, we would hear three months in advance that she was going on vacation. Then we would hear about what she was going to bring in detail , including food and what she planned to do. When she got back we would hear it all again.

This began to drive me insane I started to hate to go to break. I would show up later but she would just stay later. If I went to break earlier she would find out. I was driving my family crazy with my complaints. One day my husband said It looks like Cathy is ruining all your days and I am sick of hearing it.

So one day I just blew up at her and told her I was sick of hearing about her darn dog and I wanted to have some fun in my life. Wrong way to go about the situation but the right thing to do was to make a break. So now I go to break alone. Just me myself and I . I go when I want, I don't have to listen about stupid shows or a stupid dog 24-7. I read my book am calm and reflect and my family has noticed a big difference in me also.

My husband and kids found out that I am more positive and less stressed. So if you find yourself being held hostage by a negative ninnie , Or if shackled to all about me , Betsey , step away get some fresh air and live the good life. Your physical and mental health depend on it. Hugs.