September 20, 2025
VIEW
The week started off productive, but took a tragic turn almost immediately. On Tuesday, it became apparent that my mother-in-law and fellow artist, Jeanie Myles, would likely not make it through the night. Her grandson and I rushed to Naperville where my wife, her father and many extended family members were gathered in the ICU, supporting her in her wishes, and comforting her in her last moments in this world. Jeanie passed peacefully with dignity at 11:36 pm with her daughter Kimberly (my wife) at her side. She was a talented artist, golfer, and traveler, and I enjoyed hearing her stories about these things. She is missed greatly.
Change is difficult, even as things constantly change around us. We live in a generative world where things are always becoming, leading to the experience of the new. Loss is a part of that constant change, and our family is going through this experience in the most graceful way we can. I find that the grief comes in waves. Being torn between two cities is also adding to the feeling of loss.
September 27, 2025
Facing what seems like an insurmountable list of things needing to be accomplished, my wife, father-in-law, step son, and I were able to flow thru everything with the help of so many kind souls who stepped up and aided in the process of the arrangements. The viewing, mass, and burial were beautiful, and attended by family and friends from near and far.
The grief washes over you when you least expect it to. Even while writing this, the emotional weight becomes unbearable and I need to take breaks. Thank you to everyone who reached out or showed up.
ART
Which leads to one of the most healing activities for me, art. Letting go, finding peace in the momentary flow, pencil to paper, hand to clay, following as much as leading. This activity has always held solace for me. Sometimes line, color, and form are the only way to communicate those internal states. A comfortable old friend, no words needed to explain. Here I currently reside.
MUSIC
The guys and I have been working on individual tracking rather than the usual live rehearsal. It has been great to continue working with the musical part of my soul as well. Good or bad, making something sonic is a grand adventure every time. And invokes flow states which heal us, along with the vibrational healing that is going on.
Even in the lowest of times, we can continue to grow our souls and learn our lessons. I feel so grateful for the chance to express and create each day. Wishing you the same.
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