My Classmate

passed away early Wednesday morning.

I've just returned from a two-day trip home. It's an eight hour drive, one way, and to say I'm physically whipped is an understatement.

It was a lovely service, as those things go. So many of our classmates came, and that was most touching.

I spent Thursday and Friday night with another classmate who's been battling her own troubles-cancer, being hit from behind by a drunk driver, family issues, you name it.

Yet she opened her home to me, someone she hasn't seen or talked to in almost twenty years. I felt at home, immediately felt a part of the family. That's really precious to me.

The funeral was Friday morning, and Friday afternoon was spent sharing wine and memories and catching up with several classmates, including a fellow who was really my best friend in high school. I've always been a little in love with him, in the most innocent way.

He's still a sweetheart. I hadn't realized just how much I've missed him over the years.

I'm fixing to watch Carolina play Florida, mostly through my eyelids I imagine.

Be gentle with one another.