ETA: I took stuff down...maybe too much candor, maybe completely the wrong sort--I'm not sure. But there are all sorts of mourning, is all, and mine's not going super-great, though Mom would have me note that I am Managing but that's mostly not about me but that her high-school Managing team almost went to Mexico City in'68.(They almost raised their fists, too, but then turned around and started folding laundry because someone had to do it) Your awkward stage isn't supposed to go on for decades, though, is it? And, even though we mostly don't do that, and I may have to bend him over a patrol car afterward to feel like myself.... {{{Hecubus and fam}}}

The loss does not make me darker or more bitter, but more open, more attentive, more appreciative, kinder. Just trying to love and support as many people as I can during our short little mayfly lives.

In the decades following Steve's loss, I have not only become more appreciative, but also unshakable. No matter what life throws at me, and it certainly has tried a number of times, it will never be as traumatic and life-changing as that experience.

Right now, I am dealing with my sisters being non-stop critical of my brother's ex-wife, who has been taking care of him through his illness. They don't get it. They never took care of a terminally ill loved one. I hope they never have to experience it. They were non-stop critical of my beloved step-dad, whose loving care probably extended my mom's life by decades. I'm bracing myself, but fear I am going to have to battle with them again. She is battling bureaucracy, tending to his physical and emotional needs, and I am so grateful he has her by his side.

But there are all sorts of mourning, is all, and mine's not going super-great

Mourning has no rules. None of it is super-great for sure. Also, not too much candor. Once again, grateful that this place is here for us.

Shooting at an Austin Target. Bennet is Austin adjacent, yes? And Nora yes?

I'm fine - I live about 100 miles from Austin and almost never go over there these days. But I do still have friends there and am seriously fed up with Texas' attitude towards guns.

Thank you for posting. And hi.