As far as the future goals, which ones are the most immediate to you when you think about it? Are there any resources that you know of at the moment that would allow you to start getting info on any of them NOW? If you had to list them in categories of 1st Thing(s) To Start On ASAP and then 2nd thing(s) to work on/make happen, etc....how would it go? As in looking at them from importance? Ill respond more about this post in my next letter so that this response wont be too long. Haha. Seriously, cos theres alot to say about the list you wrote that I can advise on in at least some way that will be helpful! And I am glad to be helpful at something! (smile) Ill also see what else I can send your way/figure out for you in addition to what Ive already thought up from my own past or advice from others who have been there more than once themselves in my family! To be honest, their biggest obstacle is usually the place to live as our fam is not that large and we are so scattered throughout the state and other states nearby. Public transporation may be used until you figure out a better way for that one. (I have ideas on that too- and will elaborate in a letter) College grants and high scores on the SAT or ACT entry exam(s) can pay for college for you, and I learned alot during my time going about how to afford the other essentials. Ive got you covered on advice about that for SURE. Phone- got you covered, will explain in 2nd letter or soon. Clothing- got several options on that as well, and since you have some time to work with here you can make all of this happen just in time, looking at it from even a laid back take it easy perspective which is good news, huh? So dont stress! You will be surprised what you can make happen in the next few years, and proud of yourself for caring enough TO DO IT AHEAD OF TIME TOO! Im proud of you for that more than ever, you have no idea. Youve no idea how important that is, that you WANT to care NOW. Some of these things can even be STARTED ON now, and the others can at least be looked into and decisions start being made, etc. I think youll have to decide first of all WHERE you think youll end up living when you get out, such as in Wisconsin or not. The state matters when it comes to the info I find for you. Plus, as long as you DONT return to where the crazy times went down you can avoid being around the wrong crowd. Trust me, youll be much too busy and happy with your new life to think of that. You will see. I promise. And I dont make many promises lightheartedly to friends either!! (smile) Keep hangin in there, I truly believe the outlook for the future equals very good for you! No joke and not just being kind/nice either. Its true. Ive heard way too many people say IF ONLY ID WORRIED/THOUGHT ABOUT THIS A YEAR AGO INSTEAD OF A MONTH BEFOREHAND ETC ETC ETC way too much so I know you are gonna get by just fine! Ill advise with all that I possibly can and dont be afraid to ask for HELP!! -CC