It’s been months since I posted as The Permanent Tourist. I haven’t communicated with readers for quite sometime because I’ve always based this blog on positive and happy subjects. 2018 has been a very rough year for my family. First with the loss of my father on February 1 and then my precious husband, known as Mr. T to readers, on May 25th. My mind has been in such a blur I could not have put words together to make even a short post. And it was a very private time for my family. I felt like Tom took part of me with him but, slowly, I’m coming back to life.
We bought a lovely family home in Louisiana and spent as much quality time as we could together before hospice stepped in for both dad and Tom. I cannot say enough about the amazing folks who work with Heart of Hospice. They helped us with care and prepared us as best they could for the inevitable transitions of these two amazing men. I can now say that I understand the term “Widow Brain”. It’s an unbelievable fog that descends on the mind after great loss. Putting one foot or one thought in front of the other seems an impossible task. Losing my sweet husband and my father within months of each other is the most painful thing I have ever survived and, believe me, there have been days when I thought I wouldn’t.
Tom worked right along side me as I began this blog five years ago. He even came up with the name in his creative way. He had that side to him many didn’t know, but I did. He never ceased to inspire and support me.
These two men were my biggest fans. Dad always encouraged me to write and keep this blog going as did Tom. So here I go…..it’s time to get back into the blogging groove! I may not produce daily posts but the ones I do share will be interesting and introduce you to this wonderful place we now call home. Life must go on and joy must replace great sorrow. Join me on all of the new adventures that are beginning to flow into my life now! It’s a time to rediscover joy and happiness, to celebrate love and, hopefully, a local radio station that wants a great new show!
22 Responses
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Harold Michael Harvey Says:
Melissa,
We’ve been with you in spirit during the last illness of your dad and husband.
You and your positive post have been missed. We look forward to reading about your new adventures and life in Louisiana.
Welcome back.
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Melissa Says:
So good to hear from you! I’m going to look forward to that visit from you and your lovely wife!
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Janice Says:
Melissa!!!
So very happy to see you taking this up again! I know that your father and Mr. T are excited and each are taking credit for your talent.
Don’t write your heart out. But DO write out your heart’s feelings. Take it slowly; the right words will come. -
Melissa Says:
You inspire me and show me there is life after loss dear friend! Safe travels!
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Linda O'Mear Says:
We miss & love you here on ST. Simons! I am hurting for you but know you are much stronger than a lot us are….& your abiding faith is keeping you afloat we all know.
Please keep in touch when you can.
Linda O’Meara
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Melissa Says:
Oh Linda…tears came into my eyes as I read your kind words. I always loved your spirit and I miss life on the island! Thank you for your comment!
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Marisa Franca Stewart Says:
Oh, Melissa, I’m so sorry you had to go through what you did. I can’t imagine what type of year you’ve had. I’m having a tough time writing through the tears. I’ve missed your posts but we were advised that you were going through terrible times.
I’m so happy you are back. I’ll look forward to your thoughts and my prayers are still with you.
Marisa -
Melissa Says:
Thank you Marisa! I promise to work on positive posts that will make you smile. But this was a starting point! Would love to see you again!
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Bonnie Del Rosal Says:
So happy to see you coming back! Losing two key people in your life so close together can be devastating…but your faith, spirit and love of life will see you through. I look forward to and feel privileged to follow along in your journey back to joy and happiness!
Love and prayers my friend,
Bonnie -
Melissa Says:
Thank you Bonnie. It is a journey and I truly feel that this sort of life changes us forever and challenges us in ways we never imagined. I am determined to keep going and growing.
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Becky Lynch Says:
The way you are embracing life while grieving is an inspiration to all of us, dear Melissa!
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Melissa Says:
Thank you Becky, I’m doing my best.
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Sally Says:
So happy you are finding your joy again! Much love dear friend!
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Melissa Says:
Thank you dear Sally! And for coming to help me sort things out in my life in June. Going on 46 years of friendship.❤️
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Chris Paleschic Says:
Welcome back! We’ve missed you!!
I will always have fond memories of your father and Tom. I loved them dearly!
Sending hugs and love and I look forward to your posts again!
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Melissa Says:
My dad and Tom dearly loved you as well Chris! I will always smile when I remember the rivalry you and Tom had when college football season came! All in good fun!
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Susan Says:
So sorry for your losses,Melissa. I will be looking for your posts.
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Melissa Says:
Thank you!
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peggy everett Says:
Melissa, sending love and hugs and best wishes for what is coming your way, love, peggy
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Melissa Says:
Thanks so much Peggy! Love to you as well!
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Donna Robinson Says:
Oh, Melissa — I am so very sorry for your loss. I was speaking with a mutual friend of ours from SSI a couple of months ago and had heard the news. I hope that through your blog you will find strength, comfort and inspiration. You, yourself have a wonderful gift for inspiring others……I look forward to seeing them again. Yours truly, Donna R.
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Melissa Says:
Donna, your kind words mean so much. Every day is new and a mixed bag of emotions from deep sadness and loneliness to gratitude that I experienced the amazing love of my dad and Tom. Thank you!
