A year ago, my husband passed away on November 22nd. Life has not been "normal" ever since. We'd been together for 30 years. That is a lifetime! And missing him is a part of my everyday existence!

I've been quite emotional this month, as can be imagined by anyone who has suffered such a loss. In this year I have gone back to my roots in Jersey with my grown daughter, seen my grown son leave home and get a place of his own, and watched my daughter get married, among other milestones in life, that come whether you're ready or not. I've weathered it all quite well, if I do say so myself, but still in all of it, I miss my Bruce. Of course. That's natural.

Finally most of the renovation is done downstairs and my daughter and her hubby have moved in, so they can save money for a house of their own. They brought with them their two cats, and so far, they've lived downstairs and my cat upstairs, never the twain shall meet. Or maybe they will....we're gonna ease into that one.

I've put in for some time off from work starting the day of the above "anniversary". It was Thanksgiving week. Funny. When he was a kid, he always managed to get injured in some way on Thanksgiving or around Thanksgiving. 'nough said.

I will be taking that entire week off, except the dreaded "Black Friday". In retail, NO one gets off on Black Friday. God forbid! I'm sure I'll have lots of Kidlets in Playland that day. Jeez. The Holidays are upon us! How in the hell did that happen?

Anyway, just wanted to put down a few thoughts on a very touchy subject in my life. I'll keep on pluggin' along, doing art to free my mind and spirit and keep moving forward. It's the only choice.