The last four weeks have been filled with fears and questions, loss and heartbreak, sleepless nights and living nightmares, finality and unwelcome new beginnings.

There has been time to question, to reflect, to talk, to grieve, to be lonely, to begin healing.

The seemingly endless tears have surprisingly dried and life, indeed, goes on. Remaining are beautiful memories, abundant laughter, new perspectives, future plans.

I have grown, am stronger, appreciate and love more deeply but no one will ever fill the empty seat at the breakfast table.