Extended Absence Greeting: On

Between the loss of my grandfather, and now my Father-in-Law's illness, I just don't have the heart to write in this blog. I plan to be back, but... you know.

Whatever happens, I will let you all in on my plans. It's just that this has been a really, really rough year for me and my family, and I really, really need to focus on them, and on me.

I have a two year old daughter who will need to learn that things are different with her Papa, now. I have a husband whose heart is breaking, as he looks at his father, a man who has always been so hearty, lying so helplessly in a hospital bed; looking fragile for the first time in his life. My Sister-in-Law is beside herself, trying to get our Mom, one of the world's strongest women, to take care of herself; to eat, rest, shower, and breathe some outside air. I have my Mother-in-Law, who properly refuses to leave her husband's side, and who is screaming and crying inside. You just have to look in her eyes to see it. I also need to consider my SIL's husband and son, who are being rather shorted while she focuses on our parents. (If I can get there, and relieve her, then those good lads will get more time with her.)

They need me. And I need to be there with them.

I promise that I shall do my best to make sure that I don't tap myself dry. I'll be sure to play with my baby, rest my head on my husband's chest, take a hot bath at the end of the day, eat right, and take my paper journal with me. I'll be finishing my needlework, too.

So, don't feel that you, my dear readers, are unimportant to me. I love that you take time out of your day to stop by and read my little rants. I love writing, and truth to tell, my muse never really leaves me alone. It's when I'm ready to hang it all up that the fickle bitch starts hanging out by my bedside, waking me in the night with thoughts and inspiration.

All I have to say is that my particular demi-goddess of inspiration had better bring the Good-Luck and Smiling-Fortune Fairy with her when she stops by, or I'll be posting pictures of my brand-new muse-skin coat.

Merry Christmas with much love,
Linda

posted by Linda on December 16, 2004 06:39 PM
Comments

Linda, everyone has priorities in life, and most peoples' are seriously fucked up. Your priorities, I am thankful to say, are not. Family always comes first. We aren't going anywhere and I would have to say with certainty that most of us are hoping that the Good-Luck and Smiling-Fortune Fairies are on their way soon. Remember too to take care of yourself in the process of being there for everyone else. I am sending all the love and virtual hugs I can in your family’s direction. (And I am serious when I say I am here if you need anything… You have my number, don’t be afraid to use it, even if all you need is a sympathic ear.

Posted by: Ethne at December 16, 2004 10:54 PM

Linda. I admire your strength and determination to do what you need to do by putting your family first. You take care and keep that prayer hotline open. I will continue to pray for ALL of you touched by BK's health situation... -Love, Jason

Posted by: Jason at December 16, 2004 11:13 PM

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and yours-- Tend to your loved ones--we'll be here when you get back!

Posted by: Tony Iovino at December 17, 2004 02:39 AM