JUST BREATHE

November 29, 2022

Lee’s body was cremated. I picked up the ashes last week and now the box sits on his chair next to his computer. Seems an appropriate place for it until I decide what to do with the ashes.  I have closure on this chapter of my life with Lee. I know where he is and I know he is happy and I know one day I will see him again

.Wednesday (Nov 23) we had 2-3” of snow. Using the directions, I started the snow blower. It ran a short while, then died. My neighbor was kind enough to clear my driveway and sidewalk. Later a friend came over to see what happened. Turns out I skipped a step -- an important step. I forgot to turn on the gas flow to the engine. Once he figured it out, the snow blower started right up.

I got to use the snow blower again yesterday and today, three times so far, and it works fine. We had over 10” of snow in 24 hours. More is expected tonight through Thursday. We could have another 16” of snow, or more. Only this time, instead of beautiful powder snow, it will be heavy and wet as the temperature is expected to rise to freezing or slightly above. Snow blowing wet snow is like snow blowing soft ice cream.

I talk to God a lot. I’m constantly thanking Him for not giving me more than I can handle. I thank Him for the snow blower and me being able to use it. I thank Him for the kindness of my friends and family, those nearby and those who call to check in on me. I thank Him for my safety as I walk or drive. And I thank him for Ofelia. When I’m not talking to God, I talk to her. She is sometimes a good listener…

I got a letter from the Office of Personnel Management yesterday. In it was a form to complete, plus another form that says Lee’s dad is the beneficiary. His dad has been dead since 2002! Lee was a meticulous, detail-oriented person. How could his dad be on the form? I have to submit both Lee’s death certificate and his dad’s death certificate. Trouble is, I don’t have his dad’s death certificate. Thankfully Lee’s brother and wife were able to get a copy. I am so grateful. I was just a little frustrated by it. In addition I am dealing with two life insurance companies, one I knew nothing about. I wonder who the beneficiary is on those policies?

I know this will all work out and one day I will look back on this episode, thankful to see it in my rear view.

Speaking of rear views… This was taken October 18 on the freeway coming back home from Renton (Week 12).

Ofelia and I got to spend Thanksgiving with family. Kathy was my maid of honor at our wedding 47 years ago. We were with them as their children grew up. Kathy and Art moved to Idaho one year after we did and live just a few miles north. I got to walk in fresh powder snow, eat tender moist turkey with all the trimmings and have wonderful conversations. Ofelia had a good time too, getting more attention than she gets with me.

Over the next couple days I’ll be busy keeping up with the falling snow. Shoveling and running the snow blower is such good exercise! I’d be happy to share the experience if you’re interested!