The holidays are stressful enough but when you add in grief it becomes a whole new challenge. This is a repeat post but one that has helped previously. Here are some things to think about as we approach the holidays. 1) Remember that your loved one wants you to be happy. Acknowledge your pain and then put your energy into honoring his or her memory. 2) Make your own memories.The holidays are often difficult, stressful, and sad even for those not grieving. It isn't about the

I am in the midst of moving from a leased house to a newly purchased one. All of the boxes we didn't go through for the past several years while waiting to buy are now being tackled one at a time. Ugh. Many have revealed items that trigger memories. Some good and many sad ones. I have gone through boxes with my son's books, birthday cards from my mother, and notes from my dear friend Alycia Long Allen. My heart has taken a beating these past three and a half weeks but it h

Grief never leaves you - you change over time as you adjust to the empty spaces. Looking at a calm sea is rather like the face you show the world when a loved one dies. But, under the sea, there is a whole other reality with sea life, plants, and currents. Under the calm exterior, we remember. It has been two years since my brother Bobby died. I can't believe how fast the time has flown by. I can't believe he is not still alive and well. I can't believe how painful it is whe