Being down here is so surreal. It is stressful and overwhelming, but at the same time, I have nothing to do. I don't have to go to work. I left all of my responsibilities up north.

I had saved a message on my answering maching from my stepdad. He had left it on my birthday (Dec. 6). Before coming down, I recorded it onto a CD for my mom. I told Matthew that I couldn't explain why, but I knew she'd love it. She was so moved. I am happy to have been able to give her something so important.