Dear Thom, Rod and I are so very sorry to hear about Sally's passing. As we are not in Laramie any more (we live in Spearfish, SD), we didn't hear about her death until now (Nov. 9). Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Sandy and Rod Garnett

I don't eat beef or hot dogs, but I would maybe try a zinfandel. It is impossible to determine what you are going through, and I suspect the anguish will be there for some time. It sounds like Liz and Erik are amazing lifeboats, and are getting you to the shore. If you ever want to talk to an old stiff geologist, I am here.

Thom, thank you as always for sharing in your very special way. What you may or may not know, is how you are helping all of us heal by your lovely entries...memories, plans, changes in plans, all the stuff of life...so thank you and keep writing!! And I'm with Pat...just have a beer :)

Thanks for sharing this!!

First, I'd say definitely Merlot. I'll bring the bottle when we see you in Somerville.
Second, thanks so much for sharing. You're bringing me back to working through my mother's death 15 years ago, and maybe helping the process along a bit. Sharing is caring with these things....

Thom, you are a good writer. Thank you for sharing. Sounds like you're very good at knowing your limitations but not trapped by them. Grief doesn't seem to ever leave us; we can manage it in a positive way, though - kuddos to you. Mountains, streams, sky, reflection, socializing, music, spending time with family - all good things!
Hot dogs and beer together for me!

Thom, not sure about the wine -- I tend to drink bubbly with everything! What beautiful reflections. Tears do come at the strangest times. I remember not long after Jim died bursting into tears eating lunch in Culvers. I was facing a TV screen when the Weather Channel came on, and it reminded me of how Jim and I used to joke about watching our "romantic Weather Channel." It will get better, my friend, I promise. It sounds to me like you are taking intentional actions to cope, but not overloading yourself. Good for you.

Mark and I think about you daily. Our lovely mountains are the perfect place for reflection. As for the wine? I vote for merlot!

Beautiful Thom. I think of you often, hoping you are keeping it together. The camping trip sounds like a perfect place to be alone and reflect. Good to also see you are able to spend time with the kids. As for hot dogs, what ever your pleasure is at the time. Or set up a row of your favorite beverages and sip from all of them!

No I think the true answer is one of the popular wines from the 70s. Tyrolia or bonesberry wine or the like