You just need to be quiet enough to listen.

In October, I made the somewhat radical decision to finish my November shows and take a long term pause after them. Shows are so fun, but I wanted to shift my focus to a different aspect of writing. 

Then November came, and on November 3rd, my mother-in-law passed away.

Not only did I have to cancel my shows, but I had to cancel everything relating to my work.

I was fine. We were not close. Unfortunately, she had been sick for over 3 decades, and by the time I met her, around 15 years or so ago, my husband was already grieving the version of his mother that he knew and loved. 

Grief is a tricky emotion though, and my husband really struggled. I was happy to be his person and be there for him, but it was an all hours kinda thing. There was always something going on needing tending to, and I know he did the best he could while also still providing for our family. It was a rough three weeks, and I don’t wish them on anyone. 

However, sometimes disaster has a way of magnifying the beauty around you. Life was not ideal. It was full of disregulation, but it was also full of our support network. 

People planned dinners for him, for me away from the house, offered to hang out with the kid, and surprised us with thoughtful mementos. It was sweet. We truly felt how lucky we were on several occasions.

The finale of it all has now passed, and Thanksgiving rolled in at full steam. I’m not sure if having 4 days to prep for a holiday we love so much is something we would want to do again, but we did it, and it was a beautiful evening with friends. Being surrounded by your people is so incredibly healing. I wouldn’t trade those moments for the world. 

Now, the funeral is in our rear view mirror as well as Thanksgiving and Black Friday and setting up for Christmas. The weeks ahead promise a slower pace and breathable air. I am eager for it. I’m eager for calm, and peace, and time. 

Fingers crossed. 

OH AND HEY!!!! In all of the hustle and bustle of life, I forgot to
mention that my books had a Black Friday sale and you guys SHOWED UP!! 🤯
I was absolutely blown away by your generosity, and you know what?! You guys gave me a new record!!!!! 🏆🥇
MOXXI SPENT THE SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AFTER THANKSGIVING AT NUMBER ONE!!!! OMG YOU GUYS!!! THANK YOUUUUUUUUU! 😍

What an amazing thing to be thankful for this holiday season! I mean it. Truly. Thank you. 🪶