Mom explained that Tuesday night was New Year’s Eve and the Wednesday is the start of a new year. To be honest, I don’t really care. I know that each day will be different than the days before Dad died. I know Mom has a whole new list of things she wants or needs to do. My job is to help her take care of herself. I’m selfish that way. What would happen to us if something happens to her? Miko, Missy and I try to snuggle even closer to her at night. For the next few weeks, it looks like the nights will be colder. We want to make sure she is warmed by our love. Of course, Missy disrupts us when she scratches, but she is just a dog.

Mom and a friend went for something called “1st Day Hike” at the state park. In past years, she has taken Missy. I offered to go until I learned it would be 1 1/2 miles. I like to go for walks, but 1 1/2 Blocks would be more than enough. The sun was shining, so I’m sure it was good for Mom to get out. I’ll encourage Mom to do more hikes even if she does take Missy. For now I’ll help her clean and organize things here at home. I do what I can.