Its been almost 8 weeks since I became identified as 19677-026. I have been fairly content since I started this journey. A big part is my belief that in the near future these days will be behind me. I have received numerous cards asking me what life at Carswell is like? how do you adjust? programming etc? So let me begin! First of all Texas is HOT!!! When I first came my ankles begin to swell and swell. In my mind I started to think about every condition know to mankind that could cause ankle swelling! Needless to say that caused a lot of anxiety and I just had to pray!!! I begin to elevate my legs at night and the swelling would subside only to swell again for two whole weeks. I came to the conclusion that the culprit was only the sweltering HEAT and I just had to deal with it. Next, I seemed to constantly suffer with sneezing, coughing, watery eyes and hoarseness. Once again I felt my anxiety creeping up on me but decided that I could NOT go there. I had purchased allergy pills from the commissary and began to treat myself. After a few days all the symptoms subsided and I was as good new. I had a hard time sleeping on the 6 inch mattress! I could and still can feel every spring poking my back. I dare not complain because prison is NOT meant to provide 5 star comfort like home!! I have learned to take my cover and fold it on the mattress to circumvent the springs poking me. The food is ok a big CHANGE from what I'm used to but this is prison so be happy you've got a meal.
I knew when I came here that I DID not want to do hard labor! Kitchen, bathrooms, garbage, outdoor landscaping or maintenance. I knew that I was NOT built for manual labor. Soooo, before I had medical clearance, I found me a job in the indoor recreational center. The "indoor rec" as we call it is AIR CONDITIONED! It is extremely clean (they use fabulosa)! Indoor rec has all of the workout equipment, games, pool tables, table top games and arts and craft classes. This scene was perfect for me. No one could believe how quickly I landed that job. I make 12 cents per hour so really I am volunteering my services! I love indoor rec.
Carswell has several educational programming opportunities. GED, adult continuing educational courses, culinary program, cosmetology program, cna program and several other programs. My suggestion to anyone facing incarceration is to get and STAY busy!! I attend church every sunday, I sing and attend sunday school. I involve myself with any and all things that will make my time count. Of course with the good there is always the dark side. The same thing that people involve themselves with on the "outside" they can find that darkness on the inside. I would strongly encourge anyone to follow the rules, respect those in the petition of authority and stay out of mess!! Exercising wisdom, listening more than talking and keeping your opinions to yourself will serve you well on this journey. Thank God, I have never been one for drama!! So all in all my experience thus far has been peaceful, eye opening and educational.
Life, situation, challenges and crises are what you make them. You must have faith and believe that nothing is too hard for God. Always remember after night comes light and this too shall pass!
Hi Roxy
Thanks for staying in touch. See you soon.