Ringing in 2009 with just Karina and me

Dad (AKA my father-in-law) has made it to 2009. YAY!

Rick has been at his parents since Monday. Karina and I didn't head up because Dad gets emotional about everybody being there. As he's losing his strength and energy, he's also experiencing his dignity being severely tested.

He doesn't need to feel like he's got an audience. Especially when he goes into memory lapses or starts crying.

Rick has so much to deal with and it was hard for us to mutually decide to be apart right now. I want to be there for him and our family, not for me but for them. (My grieving process is more internal, I prefer to be alone.)

Our love is incredibly secure, so there are no worries or questions.

Ringing in 2009 with Karina showed me how wonderful and strong of a relationship we have. She could have done a dozen other things with other people, but claims she preferred being at home with me.

That's a beautiful way to start the New Year!

The Last of Sheila (Coburn)