Leaving for Portugal soon. Who knew this would be our ritual several times a year? I am grateful for the unexpected turns that life gives us. “Turn a different corner, and we never would have met,” croons George Michael.

I woke up with that melancholy song in my head. Missing my mother-in-law Anne, who is still alive at 90 but in the grips of later-stage Alzheimer’s disease. I miss her stories, her laugh, the way she championed everyone around her. It’s nice to have someone in your corner. 

What if Mark and I had passed each other by at Florida State and I had never met his big, wonderful family? In the same friend group since 1988, we started dating in 1990. We’d drive around in his Datsun, listening to his favorite cassettes (Bruce, Meatloaf, Depeche Mode, George Michael). One time on his way to visit his parents in Orlando, Mark’s car broke down outside of Gainesville. It was the first time his parents and my parents met – and I wasn’t there to witness it!

Four years ago this spring we were celebrating the life of Mark’s father, Tony. The whole family gathered in Albany. This morning I had that feeling of, “where did the time go?” Do we all still feel young in our hearts? Do familial memories float up for Anne, even though she can no longer communicate them?

Today I send out love to all that we hold dear, despite the years and miles between us. And to those who have left us, including a couple of friends in Portugal who have passed away, we hold you with us always. 💗

Another melancholy song comes to mind (one of my favorites that Blossom Dearie sings):

Pretending that we’ll meet
Each time I turn a corner
I walk a little faster

Pretending life is sweet
‘Cause love’s around the corner
I walk a little faster

And thinking you’ll be there
I walk a little faster

Thank goodness for melancholy songs. They help us see the light! 🤩

Here’s my own melancholy tune, sending out to you. It’s amazing what a few rays can do.