Day After.

Thank you all for your kind words, thoughts, and prayers for me and my family. I've learned a lot this week. And felt/reflected a lot this week also. Nothing prepares you for the loss of a parent, but hearing from many of you through email or a phone call was comforting.

The day after is weird. From the time you learn to the time of the final goodbye, you're surrounded by people 24/7, have what seems like a million decisions to make, and a ton of papers to sign. My dad, fortunately, kept his papers pretty organized, easy to find, and user friendly, so to speak, so our decisions were not too difficult. That helps a lot. But today, now that the goodbyes are done and ceremony over, it's back to us. We slept in past seven for a change. So eerily quiet in the house. I guess that's how it should be.

On a similar note, I know it's not the funnest dinnertime conversation, but it might be worth talking with your parents or siblings or significant other about their wishes, their papers, and what they'd expect... or even if they've already paid for, or are considering paying/planning in advance for, their final arrangements. It can make things so much easier for everyone involved. Like I said, not the typical fireplace discussion, but something worth considering before you're there.

Thank you all again. I'll be writing again soon about books, my writing, hot spots, and all the other things I normally get your advice and thoughts on.

Peace be with you all.
fs