Grief has been creeping up on me at unexpected times lately. Not that I’ve been hiding or avoiding it on purpose. I don’t know why I’m surprised at how sudden it comes, many times after a happy memory pops up. I get now why some who have lost a loved one can’t bear to look at photos of said loved one – the happy memory no longer remains a joyful one. It always pairs with a painful reminder of what was lost. I’m not purposefully avoiding photos of Dad or my cousin, both of whom passed away this year. I seek them out sometimes and I’m happy, then suddenly sad. When will I be able to look at them or remember them without feeling so damn sad?