turps

Man, my grandma used to do the same stuff, so annoying. She just was raised in the depression, and had such different values, which made getting along difficult sometimes.

One year, while I was in college, I found a beautiful, beautiful, black, floor-length Saks Fifth Avenue 50's wool coat, so Audrey Hepburn, so warm, and I loved it so much. Secondhand, of course. I told grandma about it and showed it off, and her response? Was to send me a check a week later for $100 and tell me to get a real coat.

grrrrr. I almost sent the money back, I was so mad, but I was also so broke. After lots of ragey coversations with friends, I ended up buying a jacket, which I did need, and spending the rest on rent. And sent her a nice thank you letter, saying that I had a real coat, but I did need a jacket, thank you, etc.

But man. She had a way of making the gifts she gave you so loaded with bad juju that you didn't want to take them. She WAS bitter, very bitter (long story), and I think you're right, and my poor unhappy grandma was a perfect example of why you shouldn't let things you're unhappy about make you bitter.

*hugs* And, not that you need any more advice, but if you're sure the training company is reputable and above board, and you can possibly scrape it together, it sounds like an excellent investment in your future...