I don't know how to start or what to say that won't violate ita's privacy. Or to even appear to make this all about me, or appear to be an attention whore of some kind. I haven't been here in so long.

I hope, since she hadn't expressed as much where I could hear, that she hadn't given much thought to her privacy under these circumstances. She did, however, care a lot about not burdening people. She wouldn't want you to be overburdened for her sake.

Allyson, anything we can do to help, asking us is a gift to us. Anything you can share is a gift to us. Do not feel selfish or wrong for either.

Absolutely this.

Oh, Allyson. Bev is wise, and we are here to help each other.

And in a completely separate post: msbelle birthday! May the coming year treat you kindly and gently.

bon is wise.

Happy birthday, msbelle. I hope today is filled with peace and love for you.

Happy birthday, msbelle. May this be a bright spot in your week.

I mentioned it on FB, but figured I'd pop in here as well—I'm going up to Vancouver this weekend for a ballroom competition. I'll be wearing a pink gown (no gingham, however), the shoes will be stilettos, not stompy boots, and it'll be waltzes and foxtrots, not krav, but you bet your ass the attitude I go out on the floor with will be fierce as hell.

I'll be thinking of ita as I dance and of course, all of you.

Allyson, unburden as much as you feel necessary, as everyone else said.

ita chose you because you are strong, but she also chose you because you have support here, I think.

That's great Barb.

Thanks, belle—and while I think Bev put it most beautifully, let me add my wishes for the best for you in the next year.