Grandma & Dad, the last time I saw her was June 1994.

My paternal grandparent’s health has been on the decline for the past few years and I didn’t realize how serious it was until this weekend. My dad was down in Florida visiting with them and some of my Aunts for the holiday when my grandmother had to be rushed to the hospital late Friday night. On Saturday morning she passed away. As I flew home tonight, half of my extended family was flying south. I want to be down there to support my dad and family. I’m unsure right now whether a flight to Florida is going to happen within the next couple days. What I am sure of is how thankful I am right now for my family and for my friends. And for my health. I hope you are, too.

On a happier note, back in New York and it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Everyone, including my roommate, put out their holiday lights and decorations while I was away.

Thanks to Jeff and Kelly (and Boss) for being so hospitable this weekend. And for letting me "grocery shop" in their kitchen before I left. Eating and sleeping. That’s what it was about. And relaxation. And 21 oz. margaritas to drown out any sorrow. Too bad, Jeff, that you don’t have cable TV or I’d be back to your place in no time! Also, thanks to my Aunt Sue for the refreshing reminder to all of us of what it’s like to be in a major metropolitan area and utilizing mass transit for the first time. I had a great holiday with all of you. You’re some of my most favorite people in the world.