Going to Thunder Bay
As we were driving to our friend's house for dinner last evening, I got a call from my friend in Thunder Bay. I grew up there and have several lifelong friends who still live there, many in the same neighbourhood. The call was to tell me that Art, my friend Diane's husband passed away. Both Diane and Art are very dear to me. In fact Art lived across the road.
After dinner we came home and Joe booked flights so I can go to the funeral.
Thunder Bay is where my sister and her family live. This is the family that is fractured. If you go back, I think I have journaled about them. I will be happy to see my sister Liz. Apparently she is much better but her dementia is progressing.
So I am packed and leave in 3 hours.
This is the second unexpected trip in a month. The last was to Ottawa to help with child care. I am hoping our next flight is in January - to Puerto Vallarta to visit our friend!
Lisa: I miss you always and love you forever, Mummy
Replies
I am sooo sorry about Art, I know life gets hard the older we get. I lost a great friend last week he is only 2 yrs older than I am. He introduced Mike and I.
I hope all goes well with family. Sending you strength for your journey
Penny
So very sorry about your dear friend, Art, and understand how much being at the funeral will mean to you. Hoping all goes well with your travel and with your family.
I suspect you never have your suitcase too far away dearest Marlene and do hope that January trip happens as getting away from the cold will feel wonderful in January.
Be well and looking forward to hearing how you are doing and feeling.
Loving care to Lisa's mummy from Douglas and me.
XO Joanie
I am so sorry to hear of your old friend's passing. I have lost a few friends in the last few years and their absence is still felt, as I know this will be for you.
Safe travels and hope your visit with family is gentle and loving.
Mexico in January...ahhhh, I know that you both will enjoy that...will be good for the ol' bones!
Gentle care,
Ann
Sorry about your old friend’s passing. How do you feel about your sister’s dementia. Are you frightened of it? I am, most certainly. What a way to live. Totally dependent. Hope her family is good to her. Saw a good movie on HBO, last night: Game Night. Finally, a good comedy. Do try to catch it. Love you and yours,
My condolences regarding the loss of your friend. I am wishing you safe travels with a minimum of frustration. I hope your visit with your family is meaningful. I also hope that when you arrive home you get to stay home and relish being in that familiar place until you are ready for more travels. Above all, take care of yourself and Joe.
I'm so sorry Marlene. It's always so hard to lose a dear friend. My thoughts are with you, Diane and all who know and love Art. Prayers also for your sister Liz, and for the family dynamics to be more peaceful for each of you.
Hugs,
Teri
Hello Marlene, I'm so sorry for the passing of your dear friend, Art. Gentle hugs to you, Joe and Art's family.
May your visit with Liz be a wonderful time of connection. Love and peace to all, Linda
So sorry for the loss of your good friend. Safe travels and I hope you have a good visit with your sister.
I am now in Thunder Bay. The funeral is tomorrow. In the meantime, I am with another lifelong friend who is the best hostess ever.
I sort of dread going to see my sister, not because I don't know how she is going to react, but because a couple of her children have issues and are not afraid of causing a scene. My favourite niece and I will see her on Wednesday evening. Will keep you posted re our family drama. These are the times I really miss Lisa = she was much more adept than me when dealing with family dynamics.
Okay, I miss her all the time but especially at times like these.
Thank you all for your kind words. It helps to know that you understand and care.
I am thinking of you dearest Marlene, and hope that the family drama and dynamics can be kept at bay. I'm sure times such as this do make you long for your Lisa. Deepest of sighs.
I know that the funeral is today and funerals are such tender times aren't they? May you feel surrounded in loving care and light.
Hand in hand, Heart to heart always.
XO Joanie
So sorry to hear this Marlene! It is hard to lose someone so dear and close to you. I am glad you were able to go!
Love you Marlene
Hi, Marlene. I havn't been on DS for awhile, so am just catching up on journals. I turned 72 in September, so it seems that I am losing more and more friends . They say the same thing, but it doesn't make it any easier. I am glad you went to the funeral and hope the family drama wasn't too bad. (((((HUGS))))), Julia