Monthly Archives: February 2018

Odyssey 2018

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I confess it makes me sad to look at all our past Odysseys in the category list and see the gaping hole that was 2017. Twenty-seventeen was a sad year, and I’ll always view it that way. I’m starting to become accustomed to the notion that I will never “get over” the Thriller not being with me; rather, I’ll just learn to deal with it better. And I’m all right with that, because I know that’s what he’d want from me.

He also wanted me to take this upcoming trip for years. So I’m doing it.

Odyssey 2018: The Pilgrimage.

Fully 40 years in the making, it’s going to be quite the reward for my outrageous fandom. I will try to not act like a giddy fool.

Now, to those who know me and my issues with aeroplanes, you know this is a big deal. And not only am I flying to UK this summer, I’m also flying out to Sacramento to visit Kay. Whaddya think of that noise? Me and my Valium will get a major workout on the runways.

My sister Vicki and sister-in-law (also Vicki, and a native of Manchester UK) have been super helpful with the details of what to do in Liverpool, and where to go, how to get there, and what to do stateside to prepare to leave. I’ve also done some research on good tips for women traveling alone, and I must say I’m really looking forward to it. Super huge thanks to my sister Mavis, who will take great care of my pups so I don’t have to worry at all. (Fellow pet people know what I’m talking about.)

Super-coolest detail, though: if the planets align and she can swing it, my dear fiend and fellow RtB citizen Suzanne will hop a plane from her home near Amsterdam to join me for a couple of days on the London leg of my trip. How fun is that?

So, come 10 June, I’m traveling to northern Illinois to visit with my four fabulous, crazy aunts, stay the night, and then drive to Chicago to jump on the plane to Manchester (if I must fly, I prefer direct flights and don’t mind driving a bit to grab one — and the price was right this time). From Manchester airport, I’ll get on the train to Liverpool to relax for a bit at the Nadler, then start my wanderings. Can’t wait.

Are you doing something fun or outrageous this summer? If so, do tell — I don’t want to feel like the Lone Ranger here.

Love to all.

New and new

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Fiends:

I wrote not a single word to you in January, letting an entire month go by while the dust bunnies gathered here (only the second time that’s happened since I started this little circus way back when). It wasn’t on purpose, but I guess it was meant to be. I suppose I just didn’t have much to say.

But life indeed does go on, and I’ve experienced some beautiful joy amidst the heartache. My family and friends have been constant sources of comfort. My fears about intense loneliness have been calmed by activity and new adventures. I’m grateful to my wonderful Thriller for being so attentive to detail so that this transition could be as minimally painful as possible.

I’m thankful to — and this will surprise some, I’m sure — the Social Security Administration, the VA, and the Navy for processing Michael’s information so quickly. They took care of me within a week of my submitting documentation. They made it easy for me to tie up loose ends, enabling the Texas loved ones to make plans to travel north in April for his memorial.

Christmas Eve seems forever ago. There’s still a big hole in the house and my heart and life, but from everything I’ve heard and read, that’s to be expected. I know he wouldn’t want me to mope around; I’m working on that with some success lately. Lots of new feelings and experiences.

Do you believe RtB will be starting a new decade this month? Holy cats. I must come up with something fun to celebrate my 10th birthday. Maybe a neat giveaway or a contest. Or I’ll mail you all a pony. So many possibilities.

But now, alas…the shower, the road, and the school house. Back at it. Much love to you all this first day of RtB’s birthday month. Finkuary. ;-)

RF