I think I could handle the tropics.

My father-in-law died on Jan. 2, 2003, and oh my, how we miss 'grandpa'. My mom has Alzheimers and does not know me. Fortunately, I have a wonderful 88 year old aunt who has stepped in as a 'matriarch' of our family. I do know all these wonderful people, especially those who have passed on, want us to remember the wonderful times we had with them. Never the less, I am so sorry for those who lose loved ones at this time.

Holidays are hard on every one in one way or another. My oldest just broke up a 5 year relationship...darn guy had commitment phobia...she has a biological clock ticking. We know in our family, some one is always hurting, and some are very happy....It is a delicate balance.