Another loss

Jan

Just a few weeks after my mom died, my aunt, Jan Knutson, died suddenly of a heart attack Dec. 1. She was at my mom's funeral in Milwaukee, and it is hard to believe that she is gone. She was in her mid-70s, but, look at her, she could pass for 50. She was always that way -- youthful and sharp.

We're going to Olympia, Washington, for the funeral, which will be Sunday. My Uncle Mark, who has had health challenges, including a heart attack years ago that he survived, lives near his kids, which is a blessing.

It's been a tough year all around.

I've been working on my mom's estate for many weeks. Crazy how much time it takes. Almost done now. When it's over, I've made a firm plan to sit at my desk and stare out the window.