From the journal, Thursday, 1/20/2022 - 9:49AM…

‘…A couple of mornings ago (in the wee hours), I was working in my trusty chair and upstairs came the sweetest sound. ‘Daddy’. Not in alarm. I waited to see if it would repeat. A dream perhaps or possibly awake and seeking a response. Nothing but silence…and I smiled tearfully thinking that was/is everything. Another thought…about last night at indoor soccer. Mom and Dad came. I haven’t seen Dad for a couple of weeks. They were waiting in the parking lot and I surprised them with a loud knock on the window — which makes me laugh even now. Dad got out and I immediately noticed a tired look in his eyes. A sense of becoming more fragile. Pain. Discomfort. When we went inside I could sense that he sensed my observations and our eyes avoided contact…as if doing so would provide confirmation. My guts were instantly sad and I knew he knew. I wear my heart on my sleeve. I’m abundantly aware of these limited times. I’m grateful to have them…’