On Gilligan's Island.
That's where I'd like to go.
Get away from it all -
visit the wacky world of the island
only without the people.


Leave me with perfect weather, a well-stocked kitchen, a comfortable bed,
no bugs, and plenty of nature - with no dangerous animals....
days of sunshine, cool breezes and dips in the ocean
nights of sitting outside, listening to the ocean, star-gazing and relaxing
in quiet solitude.


I'd need some music - of course, but just uplifting lyrics please.
And a helicopter that would know when to come pick me up.
No, I don't want to stay there always, but for a time, it would be nice.


Social media, people in general (not my people, of course) can be draining.
I think I'm doing so much better on this journey and inevitably that is when I run into a surprise visit of words that shock and dismay, and totally take me off guard.


The cliché "I thought you'd be over it by now," has changed to "I'd think you'd have found peace by now...I'd think you'd have had closure by now- after  all, it's been four years."
Don't ask a Gold Star mom at the birthdate, the death date, or anytime in that time frame how we are doing.
Don't ask how we are during a patriotic event....Veteran's Day, the 4th of July, Memorial Day. Such days are hard.
Recently I was told if such days are difficult, then that's just the devil. Military deaths, disrespect for our flag, our freedoms - well, those shouldn't bother us either - that's just the devil.


Deep breath.


I always think if these people were handed that folded flag, sitting close to that loved one lying in a casket, for the last time - maybe words of pious wisdom wouldn't come flying out.