I wrote my introduction some ten years ago, with good intentions for a blog. But I never could seem to find my way across the river to that wonderful, flat, spacious rock where I knew I would find the inspiration to continue writing.

Just over seven months ago, I stepped onto a rock that not only wobbled, it flipped over and dumped me into deep waters. Just over seven months ago, Faith Arlene Brown, my beloved life partner of almost 25 years, passed away from sudden and unexpected heart failure.

The water was deep, the current was strong, and I have been buffeted from rock to rock, struggling to keep my head above water. I am not done; it will be an arduous task finding my way back to the shore. But for now I have washed up against a safe and stable rock mid-stream, and there I found my muse waiting for me.

Over the course of the summer I have received my first tattoo, discovered some wonderful new (old!) friends, learned how to befriend my grief and more. I’ll tell you about all of that later on.

For now, though, if you would accompany me on this journey, steel yourself. I’m just getting started!