On Friday, I had to make a surprise visit home. My grandma had been afflicted with lung cancer for months and things were looking bad. Then, yesterday, she passed away beside my dad and his two brothers. I'm certainly upset about it, but having five months to think about this day has made it easier. Also, I think it will be much more difficult as the holidays start arriving. Passover will never be the same.

What's worse, is my great uncle, who was diagnosed with cancer the same week as my grandma, passed away last Wednesday. I wasn't nearly as close with him, but I feel bad as he definitely suffered more. Mostly, I feel bad for my dad and grandpa. He lost his twin brother and ex-wife (or uncle and mother) in the same week.

My grandma lived life on her own terms and was darn smart. More importantly, she cared incredibly deeply about her family and friends, which is what I'll miss most. Thankfully, she passed down her selflessness in my dad and I'd like to think I've picked some of it up myself. Thanks gramma. I love you and I'll miss you.

Hopefully this means I've gotten all the rough stuff out of the way and the rest of 2006 will be great. I'll keep you posted.