It's been a strange few days. The other half and I were to begin our road trip back to Chicago; yesterday. It has been a wonderful, restful vacation. We saw many tourist traps; shopped; viewed the fireworks @ Mt. Rushmore; and spent a great deal of quality time with my family (including heart-warming, soul-refreshing time with my two nieces...quite frankly, I'm completely in love with them). Friday morning brought a great shock; which is why we are still here this afternoon. My father passed away. All of the things leading up to this situation; were no coincidence. I don't think I'll go into the strange details leading up to his death (at least not now), but my inner clock and my emotions are all out of whack right now. The other half and I have already contacted our perspective employers; and have gotten the okay to stay here another week. The funeral's set for Thursday; and we made the final arrangements last night. It's all quite surreal. I don't think it's quite hit me completely, but I have noticed over the past few days that I feel quite tired; even after a full night's sleep. There are so many things we have to accomplish over the next week. There's even talk between the other half and myself about staying an additional week. The main reason; is that my mother is now a widow. We've got to get her moved and get her set up to start this latest chapter in her life. No small task. This, added to the grieving process; makes for a lot of drama and no-nonsense reality checks; left and right. So much stuff.

All in the timing. Time is of the essence. Cliches, but so prevalent now.

I know this is going to be a major life change for my mother; as well as the rest of my family. I really feel strange. This time w/ my family and not following my regular schedule @ work and in Chicago; have led me to some deep thoughts. I feel like changes are underway. I also feel sad to leave my family behind. I always thought I was pretty comfortable not seeing them frequently, but I now know that's not the case. I guess it's not that I must move back home and devote my life to my family...it's a matter of seeing them more frequently. Five years between visits is now quite obviously, not the way to do it. I don't feel like I want to return to Chicago right now. I don't want to return to my job. I feel tired. I guess the best thing to do right now; is to take a nap.