7 months today.
Every time I make it to a significant date I am amazed that the days have gone by without Justin. It is still so hard to imagine life without him here for the holidays, ready to do some crazy run with me, or even his voice on the phone… checking in or wanting to tell me something amazing.
The void…
is unimaginable.
I have been quiet on this blog as of late. There are many days where just keeping my mind busy by doing projects and yard work or keeping up with friends and family fill up the time and before I know it, when I meant to post… I never did. I still have reviews to write, and admittedly I have missed blog tours I should have been a part of.
I am not giving up on Book Journey as I enjoy this outlet for thought and updates and book chats. I think of Book Journey often and how much history is here in the 6+ years I have gathered up book thoughts and happenings… and even shared part of my life here, even times with Justin which I know I could go through the amazing happenings tab through the years and find us both at a mud run or on an obstacle course…. or certainly at Harry Potter World in Orlando.
I totally digress from what I planned to say today….
basically… I am still here. I returned from Arizona last night where my friend Amy and I went over the dates I would normally be with Justin. It was crazy hard in an unnoticable-to-the-naked-eye kind of way. Each morning I had to just breathe and say out loud that this was for him. I hated doing it without him and at the same time.., I had no choice.
Hopefully the rest of this week will consist of writing reviews and sharing some fun bookish happenings. I like the sound of that. Enjoy your morning… I am due for some COFFEE about now. 🙂
Book Journey 
I think of you all the time, Sheila. Tears here as I was reading your post.
HUGS.
Arizona is a place I love to go to retreat…and meditate. There is something about it…I especially love Sedona, where I have spent time alone or with family. Keep focusing on balance, and continue to do what you love.
Justin was so proud of you and your blog. I know he’s proud of you now. I continue to pray for strength for you and your family.
It was good that you did what you did…
So glad you went to Arizona. Camelback is an amazing climb, so rejuvenating. I know what you are going through, as I remember the dread of that first Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, birthday, and on and on. Yes, this whole holiday season will be incredibly hard, but there are so many who surround you with their love, thoughts, and prayers, and this will help you through the worst of it. I know this is cliche, but it is the truth – Justin would never wish this insurmountable grief upon you. Take a moment each day to feel his hugs, as they have not ceased. The love of a mother and son is not erased by death. My heart aches for you, my dear friend. Sending you my love, strength, and big hugs.
I think it’s awesome that you were able to make the Arizona trip. I also love that you share your adventures with us all. I am not that adventurous. Mainly, due to lack of time but I love to read about trips that other people take. I guess I am an armchair traveler!
Hard to know what to say that isn’t a cliche or somehow sounds patronising. Good to have family and friends friends around at times like these, I’m sure you’ll see each other through one day at a time.
I admire your strength and your ability to continue to move forward.
Sheila, I also keep you close in my prayers. Have a good week.
Sending you lots of love, Sheila.
I was in AZ this weekend too and I thought of you often (I knew you were there because of Facebook). I drove on Camelback road! LOL Wasn’t the weather beautiful? I can only imagine how hard it is to go on without your son—-you are strong and brave and wonderful. Your son knew that and he would want you to go on being who you are. Prayers always.
Lots of love and prayers for your and your family, Sheila…
Sheila, this is a stunning picture of the two of you! And, you know, you need to let life flow as you need it to flow. Things DO change and I’m glad for you that, just as it is with the writing process, you seem to be working out what it is in your life that needs revision oxox
I can’t even imagine what you’re going through but still recall the year of ‘firsts’ after my dad died. First Father’s Day without him, first Christmas, first anniversary etc….
We just passed the fourth anniversary of his death. It was still very hard, but easier now to think of the good times and not just of our loss.
xxxx
Always so good to see your blog pop up in my reader 🙂
Love following your blog. This will be my first year of holidays without my grandmother, my great grandmother, and the second without my dad. I wish I could say more helpful and eloquent things to comfort you, but I’m fresh out. Just know you’re in my hear and in my thoughts!! Sending you comfort and healing.