My husband, Bill, died on April 11, 1996, three months after having been diagnosed with brain cancer which had metastasized from an earlier Melanoma (the doctors think!) He was a vital, strong and life-loving man, and had been feeling ill and very weak for a couple of weeks. Having just gotten over a bad flu, we both thought it was just recurring. When he could hardly get out of bed one morning, I took him to the emergency room, where X-Rays were taken (they suspected a stroke) which revealed two large tumors in his brain.

 He died within three months...during which time I quit my job (realtor) and stayed with him for every available moment. I was lucky to be able to care for him at home. We relived every wonderful moment of our marriage (only 9 years...we'd both been married before) It was a terrifying, but in some ways also a very sweet time.

 I'm doing much better lately, having found a measure of peace and contentment alone. Still miss him dreadfully, but am coming to terms with my new life, as he would wish me to do. 

I live on a little over an acre in Southern Oregon, love it here, and keep busy (sometimes too busy) taking care of this place, reading, playing the piano, find a lot of joy in my garden, plants and animals, have a few good friends, and a very supportive family - all in other states. I love the country life (we moved here from Reno in 87) and although it does get pretty solitary, I couldn't imagine ever again being in the city other than to visit.

 I am definitely "moving on," loving life again, and looking forward to more get togethers and the chance to meet ALL of you, eventually.

Love to all,

Betty