Back in the saddle again

After a bit of time away from the writing/editing/publishing/posting/Tweeting etc. scene, I'm back. My mom passed away just after Thanksgiving, and needless to say it's been rough. She was, of course, one of my biggest fans. And not afraid to tell it like it was!
I miss her so much, words escape me at times. She was strong, beautiful and full of life, and she left this world far too soon. This past Thanksgiving I spent by her side in the hospital, watching the parade and what seemed like a never-ending dog show. Christmas Eve, which was always with my mom, sister, and our families, was the worst Christmas ever without her.
I've been going through her things, cleaning up and organizing. I came across some pictures in an album just before I was born. It was Christmas, and my mom had just lost her own mom. There was a hand written note beside the pictures, stating what a sad Christmas it was without Mom. I lost my mom at the same age my mom lost hers.
Life, as they say, goes on. I cherish the pictures and keepsakes that belonged to my mom. I wear her necklace now, almost daily. I have been overwhelmed with heartache and a ridiculous amount of stress. But things are slowly returning to normal. Slowly. I still cry thinking of her, and missing her. Sometimes my tears are at the most inopportune moments- like in the random meeting at work that thankfully no one noticed. (I hope!)
Today I opened my computer and started reading through my BETA reader notes for book three. I had already looked at the first several chapters from this particular BETA reader, but I decided to read through the entire book of notes. And I'm so glad I did! Reading her funny commentary and pet names for some new characters brought back some of my joy and creativity. There's a reason I started this writing journey. I LOVE to write. This is my happy place.
Well, back to editing/writing/tweeting/posting etc. Book three coming very, very soon. I promise!