It is with the greatest sorrow that I must announce the passing of my mother and of my cat George.
At the end of February, Dearest Mother succumbed to cancer. A cancer that was diagnosed only at the beginning of January and was quickly determined to be terminal. She left us far faster than any of us imagined.
There are no words to describe the magnitude of the loss. Mom was an amazing woman and an incredible mother. Her quiet courage and unique strength continue to be an inspiration. Her smile lit up every room. The love and support she gave to her family knew no bounds, even if it was sometimes a tough, no-nonsense love. She knew when to kiss it better and when to hand you the bandage to patch it up yourself. We are better people for it.
It was a privilege to care for Mom during her Alzheimer’s and final illness. We are blessed to have had her in our lives. She will be eternally missed.
Best Smile Ever
Ten days after mom’s passing, my dearest George—boon companion, partner-in-crime, and former presidential hopeful—passed away suddenly from a previously unknown genetic issue. His sweet nature, keen intelligence, and panther-like prowess will live on in our memories.
George in a rarely tolerated selfie
Needless to say, these combined losses were almost more than I could bear or process. They made me reconsider nearly everything in my life. Even MATR and my writing in general. But I realized that I still needed an outlet, both for my creativity and my grief. And that in the future I want this outlet to grow into something bigger and better than it is now.
So I hope you will bear with me a little while longer as I acclimate to my new life. As promised last year, I will still be writing about music, history, and genealogy. But some of the shared personal aspects of my life will take a different direction than originally envisioned.
Thank you for your patience during my necessary absence. In the meantime, please be sure to embrace your loved ones and your own life. Both are intrinsically linked and infinitely priceless.
With love and gratitude,
Michelle ♥