Dealing With the Loss of Good Friends
How can I sum up 2024? Well, it was bittersweet. I lost some close friends.
Mary Shurtleff is one of my best friends and business partners. She was so vibrant and full of life. Her home was my sanctuary, beautiful and peaceful. She was a feng shui master, and it showed. We worked together in business for years. In fact, I met her when she needed some business cards. Eventually, I did her website and graphics, and we wrote a book together. She has written several books on her own. She was an expert on auras – energies – feng shui – the four pillars of the Chinese zodiac, and much more.
Then, my friend Joe and I met years ago and had some great parties. He was unique and quirky, and I loved him. He and his wife moved to Oregon because it improved his health. My friend and I visited them for a few days, which was terrific. This year, I talked to him about the fact he didn’t have long to live, and we planned for me to come up. But because of my Kidney transplant, I couldn’t travel right away. Before I did get a chance to go see him, he passed away. It made me so sad.
Best Year of the last ten years
A New Kidney
On the other hand, I had the best year of my life in many respects. I am better than the last ten years! In the previous ten years, I dealt with a sick husband who passed away and was sued by his kids for five years (that was finished this year!) I ended up with kidney failure and dialysis, and this year, in February, I did get a call and a miracle of miracles. A live kidney donor whom I don’t know gave me a kidney. Though it was rough at first with all the medications – and some side effects, I feel better today than I have in years after only 11 months out.
A Man in My Life
I met a man whom I have been dating for 2+ years. He went through all the medical problems with me. Moved in when I did get my transplant to help out. Along with my daughter, who was indispensable.
We are so compatible – totally different, but he is easygoing and funny. This year, he asked me to marry him. I thought I didn’t ever want to get married again – guess what? I am engaged.
Traveling and enjoying things in life I could not have given myself, I have a new lease on life and I am so happy.
I never could have imagined I would feel this way.
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