Well, not really. August has been very difficult for me this year. It's all been about dealing with transition: Wife going back to work full time, boy back in school, girl starting new school, playing baseball, coaching football, learning piano, preparing for handbells, learning about liturgical music, meeting Filipinos, reaching out to the community. All of it is a step in the right direction, but it definitely takes a great deal of adjustment.
Then, the loss of a loved one put me into a glazed-over state. I really miss Nana, but I know she is happier now than any of us can imagine. Still, the transition to life without being able to speak with her on the phone or spend time with her is one for which I never really prepared.
She did give me one great gift though - her passing allowed me to spend some time with my own thoughts and gave me a chance to reflect on the things that are really important. Every thing I do has a purpose whether I know it or not. I just need to stay the path with my eyes and ears open.