I appreciate your response. I finally have come to terms with it. I bought a white noise machine at night because that is when it reaches it's higest cresendo. I had a ton of ear infections as a kid (I didn't mention that!) and I think that maybe my ears are just damaged by so many sources. At least I have my hearing for now. Even though every time my husband speaks I say "What?"....but after 24 years I think it's less my hearing...well I'm sure you know what I mean?
You know what? Even without an exam, it's sort of a relief to hear someone say that I just need to live with it. So I appreciate your honesty.
I bought your books. I like your style. Can't wait to read them.