I’ve reached the six-month point. Life feels like it’s established a normal rhythm, but then it doesn’t. Sometimes things go smoothly for a while, then something will remind me that it isn’t. There are just a few things left to close out the estate — changing property deeds over to my name and paying taxes. I still have a whole lot more to do, but I can manage it in my own time.

The second property has been sold, and the proceeds have been distributed to the beneficiaries. The final portion of Alan’s retirement account still needs to be distributed. I have no say in that, but I’m monitoring it as a loose end. I had an unexpected opportunity for someone locally to pick up electronics recycling from the shop, so a lot of that task was taken care of sooner than I had planned.

I have estimates for the first two house projects — renovation of the porches and completing the driveway sills for the gates. I forgot to check the start dates for these projects, but the process is moving forward.

To help me design my new life, I’m re-auditing the Masker Key Experience class this year. It helps me focus on the good in life and how my new life is going to be going forward. I’m grateful to friends who continue to make this process seem effortless.