Well, I am finally back from visiting with my family. It felt so good to hug my grandparents, brother, sister, and my cousin and her kids.

I am feeling better today. It hurts, but at least I didn't cry today. I had so many people to see today, I just didn't have time to be sad. Also, I had both of my best friends with me most of the day, so they helped me get through it.

I am so glad I finally got to see my other grandmother again. I was able to give her a pep talk about getting better from her back pain. Also, I had lunch with her and Granpop. I tell ya one thing I miss about not living down there is Granpop's pierogies.

My family all seem to be holding up well. The general feeling seems to be upset at the initial news, but I think everybody is happy for her that it was not a terribly long and lingering illness. I mean, they had just started Granma Dwyer on the morphine on Tuesday for the pain and she was gone by lunchtime on Friday. Also, she had told us that she was prepared to die, that she had made her peace with God and that she was happy that she would be able to see my Grandfather, aunt and uncle (her children) again.

Most of my memories of her centered around the kitchen. She made the best cookies and the best lasagna. She always had a very merry sort of laugh. She laughed a lot. She was my inspiration to start journaling and writing short stories, as that was what she did in her spare time. I wish she could've taught me to sew, she was so wonderful at that. She also taught me the card game Gin Rummy. I used to love listening to her stories about growing up in the Virginia countryside. She sent me a nice letter a couple of months ago saying how happy she was I married Brian and marriage advice about love and communication. She was so happy for us that we adopted two beautiful doggies.

Anyway, sorry to be rambling on like this. I just have to say, I am really understanding now how people say PT people are like family. You have all been wonderful with your thoughts and prayers for my family and I. I wish I could take one huge road trip and come around to hug each of you in person. Thank you so much for your support, it really does help.