Yesterday I drove to Philadelphia to be with my mom as it seemed like my stepfather, Ralph, was close to death. He passed this morning with his daughters, my mom, and me with him. I’m glad I followed what felt right to my body to come out yesterday.
Ralph was a part of my life since I turned 11. He and I did not always have the easiest time together because we both really wanted to do things our way, but we also loved each other, and I know he adored Carl, Sarah, and Amy. Carl was one of his favorite people to talk to at any gathering, and he liked to tell everyone about his granddaughters and what they were doing.
We liked to say that Pop-Pop’s super power was connecting with anyone anywhere and finding that somehow they had something in common going back many years. He was an extrovert extraordinaire. I’m sure wherever he is now he is making new connections. While it is sad that he is gone and the house doesn’t quite feel the same without him, it is a relief that his time of dealing with cancer is over. He made it to 91 and had a big party for his 90th birthday. It is amazing how much can change in a year.
We started 2026 with Sarah and Amy having six grandparents. Now they are down by two grandfathers, but I like to think that they have two extra people watching over them.
Love to all of you.
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