Most people own many things, some more than others. As life changes for us, so do our “things.” We collect them, share them, give them away, and hopefully, forever keep the intangible ones! For me, over the years the term “things” has changed in more ways than I can count.

Thanksgiving has come and gone. I wonder if there could ever be a way to keep Thanksgiving in our hearts and lives year-round.

I often pause to think about anniversaries of specific dates in my life. Some bring joy and gratitude while others bring sorrow and sadness.

Last Monday was my mother’s birthday. She turned 82. To my knowledge, she continues to be lucid and in relatively good health. She also continues to be unkind and cynical. She was my abuser.

This is not an ordinary blog post, nor is it what you might expect to hear associated with a rooster. But we’re not talking about any ordinary rooster. We’re talking about Mr. Fancypants.

Yesterday a sweet friend said goodbye. Sometimes it’s so hard to accept the changes life brings.

No more running into her at all the familiar places: carpool lines, back-to-school nights and the neighborhood walks you loved. No more meeting for coffee and catching up on life. No more of all the wisdom and humor she brought to those she loved and those who loved her. She’s gone.

Our poor girl. I thought you were okay. We all did.