As irrigators lead water where they want, as archers make their arrows straight, as carpenters carve wood, the wise shape their minds.


~The Dhammapada

First of all, let me say Thank you for all the thoughts and hugs.  They are appreciated and they helped me remember I'm not alone.  My family is wonderful and so are all of you.

This has been an interesting week.  I called my HR person on Monday and was told I was entitled to 5 bereavement days and they encouraged me to take them.  So I did.  I have been home all week.  At first, I was reluctant but now I'm glad I did.  I find myself drifting off in the middle of whatever I'm doing and staring into space. 

Today's Buddhist Inspiration seemed apt.  I have been trying to guide my mind (not that I consider myself wise) down soft paths of memories.  And thus the drifting off. 

I've been spinning. The whir whir of the wheel is hypnotic.  I've finished a skein of alpaca and it's pretty good.  It's a little thicker than fingering and that's what I was aiming for.  Since it's for a sweater for Pk, I want it to be thin (since it'll be so warm).  I know it's going to be a challenge to make the plain roll neck stockinette sweater he wants but I'm hoping working with my own handspun will take some of the boredom out of it.

I've finished one Bayerishce sock.  Sorry, no finished sock photo 'cause it's raining here today and I can't get a decent one.  Here it is halfway finished.  I love it.  The yarn makes nice crisp stitches and the color variations are so subtle they let the pattern shine through.  The color is true in this photo so you can see the vividness of the red. 

Today, Kate and El and I are going to go through the photo boxes and albums to put together a collage of photos of my mom.  I've organized a memorial of sorts on Sunday.  My immediate family will all gather at a local diner for brunch and memories and Mary Jane stories. I want to make a photo board to take with us.  Hopefully, the photos will spark some long forgotten memories.  It will give us a chance to say goodbye and offer each other comfort.  Isn't that what families are for?  We will remember her and smile and laugh through the tears.  And we'll find healing.