Monique

8/8/18

Added 2018-08-08 12:21:49 +0000 UTC

Just want to preface this by acknowledging you all, and expressing my deepest appreciation for your support.

This has been a very challenging summer, as most of my time in between my local gigs (especially in recent weeks) has been spent jumping through bureaucratic hoops with insurance companies, battling with the social worker and administrators at the facility where my grandfather has been receiving care. The unfortunate thing is that I wish I could be giving all that time directly to my grandfather.

However, although I have been overwhelmed, my grandfather has been holding steady enough, and I'm so fortunate for what time I do have with him. Additionally, I got to spend time with my sisters this month, as well as a couple of my closest friends. I made some time to be outside, in the ocean and in the woods, which is always rejuvenating.

My grandfather's brother, Dionysios (or Denny) surprised with a visit. My grandpa hasn't seen Denny in quite a few years, and he was absolutely overjoyed. I had never met Denny, so it was a pleasant surprise for me too, albeit, a short visit.

Seeing the two side by side is quite a reality check, however. They look very much alike, and my grandfather is undeniably diminishing. This experience of life transition has been humbling for all of us.

I will be sharing some of these personal experiences in the coming days, on Tumblr.