bittersweet day

My day began with great excitement. I was asked to contribute several photographs and layouts for inclusion in an upcoming book about faith scrapbooking. The author of this work interviewed me last summer related to this, and she had two of my layouts already. I was thrilled that she wanted to include more. I immediately cleared the decks for the next few days to work on these so that I could get them sent to her by early next week.

Late this morning, however, I had a call from my mother to let me know that my sister-in-law's mother died this morning. Only a few days ago we learned of her diagnosis of leukemia, and last night Mom called to let me know that Elaine had taken a turn for the worst. Tomorrow I will head to Connecticut to be with my family during these sad and difficult days.

When I return, it will be time to drive north to Elkhart, Indiana, to attend the ordination of my last student. From there, I come back for my diocese's annual convention. I will come home at the conclusion of that event.

I have a few hours to pull together the layouts that I can, but I won't be able to send what I had planned. Though it's disappointing not to be able to do all that I had hoped, my priorities are clear.

This is a sad time for my family. My sister-in-law lost her only brother to heart failure a few years ago. Her father died shortly before that. Her mother's brother was diagnosed recently with pancreatic cancer, and her step-father is ailing as well. It's a lot to contend with, and a heavy sadness to bear.

I'll be in touch when I can. My love to you all.