Beach

You know when I don't post, I'm either busy or sick.  Thankfully, most of it has been "busy having fun"!

Went to my annual two week beach trip with friends and family.  This was our 33rd year together in the same place at Atlantic Beach.  Hard to believe it has been that long.  But it has.  Our children are all grown now and all of them working and embracing jobs they enjoy.....and with benefits.  Who would have thought that would mean so much?

But, back to the beach, did I say I had fun?  Well, I did.  But how can you not have fun when you are surrounded by people you love and who love you?

Beach 2011

This was our group photo....and yes, all those wonderful people were housed in the cottage you see behind us.  (Well, a few of them stayed across the street.) We do play well together. That's me on the right with the Segway.  The Club Colony July 4th Parade had just marched past and I was decorated and ready.  From the local talk, it is my understanding I was the first Segway entry in the parade.....ever.  I'll take that.  Love breaking new barriers.

I'll post more about the beach.  Just wanted to let everyone know I am okay.  Hot...but okay.

Wagon still rolling.

PCQ

Strong Presence

I was reading a story recently about a family that was struggling with the death of their son.  "He had a 'strong presence' and it feels like he is still here with us," the father said.

The words resonated in my soul.  That's how I feel about John....he had a very 'strong presence' then and now, and though I know he is gone, I feel him in everything I do and everywhere I go.  Sometimes it even feels like a dream.  I'm going to wake up and everything will be be all normal again.  Not sure how long this lasts.  I know there are stages for grief and everyone progresses through those stages at their own pace.  We are all different but sometimes so much alike.

I like to smile, it hides the pain. And I read that smiling tricks your body into "thinking" you are happy, just by using those muscles.  I do know it makes other people feel better and that in turn helps me.  So, I'll keep smiling and hope it is true.  But that "strong presence" may never go away.  And I don't know if I want it to.

PCQ