Have a happy eternity, Cousin V

I'm sad but I'm happy.

I'm happy but I'm sad.

How can this be?

I'm in a fog and on the edge of tears. I'm having trouble concentrating on my work today. My head's in Ohio even though my body's in Florida.

Last night I read a Facebook entry from my cousin informing me that her mother had died earlier that day.

I loved her mother, V, but we haven't remained particularly close. We exchange Christmas cards and visit when I go home to Ohio.

So I'm sad for all of them and honestly, a bit for me, too. The older generation in my family is disappearing. Left now are my father, one uncle, two aunts, and another cousin I call "aunt". They're all in their 80s and 90s.

I'm happy because this week I received a good review for my latest book release "Simon Says" and also because royalties were good enough this month I can visit Ohio soon. I really need to see my dad and other family. I wish I could see them a lot more. The last time I saw him was a year ago in June. I saw my aunt and uncle in May.

It feels strange to be happy on one level and sad on another. I suppose this is the human condition. Life marches on through the good and bad.

If my cousins read this, please know you're in my prayers and I'm hugging you from down here.

Have a happy eternity, Cousin V.