Hi Everyone,

It has been a while since I have been here, but with mom, dad, work and stupid
computer troubles I just don't have the time or energy to spend on the computer
much.  Especially with my having to work until 2am sometimes.  And those high
school graduation night parties...ugh! until 5am in the morning.

This past Monday (November 1) mom started having trouble breathing.  It was
around 3 or 4pm.  She went from the nursing home to a hospital.  She was
transfered about an hour or so later to a hospital closer to our house.  Around
8pm she finally passed on.  Her family was with her at the time.  She was at
peace and didn't appear to be in any pain.  Pretty sure she wasn't even aware
of her surroundings.  We talked to her, the usual I love you mom stuff, but she
never responded and we understood.

At present time it looks like pneumonia was the cause, but it's not offical
yet.  We saw her the Saturday before her death and she seemed okay.  At least
we couldn't detect any signs of anything wrong.

We're all hanging in there pretty well.  Dad is doing better than I thought he
would but I guess having his children with him right now helps.  We just have
to take it one day at a time.  I'm still living with him and will until his
passing which I hope is none to soon.  He was diagnosed with congestive heart
failure and as long as he takes his medications he will be doing well.  He
looks better than he has in a long time since getting proper treatment.  On the
12th of this month he will be 83.

On another note, I have a cousin who has had some sadness in her life (she's a
widdow) but now is finding happiness by getting married this Saturday to a
wonderful guy.  Of course we all agreed it is better for us to not attend as it
would detract from her special day and we want the day to be all about her.

Since we are doing the cremation thing it will allow us some time to put
together a memorial for mom a few weeks after my cousins wedding.

Even though she is gone I will try to stay in contact here.  When I need a good
cry or to vent this place has always been the best for me.  Any help I can lend
will be a good reason to stick around as well.  It will be a couple of months
until I get a new computer so who knows how long before I pop in again.  I do
lurk when time allows and my computer lets me.

I wish only the wellness of others here and that when it's time to go it is as
quiet, peaceful and quick as my mothers was.

The best to everyone.

              __O
mo who _-\<,_ for the health of it!
          (_)/  (_)