Hi, ladies. How are you? 🙂 I hope everything on your end’s going well and that you had a fun New Year’s.
I know I’ve been MIA for a few days, which is totally unusual. For going on three years now (since Feb. ’07), we’ve chatted at least once a day, so I’m sorry.
Suffice it to say, I’m not quite feeling like my usual self. I haven’t wanted to burden you with it, though, and so I’ve kept quiet.
But I figure that sharing is probably better than just holding it all in, so here goes…
Grief
The death of my friend’s dad hit me hard. It’s a deep and profound sadness, one I’ve never felt before. My heart’s flooded with a sorrow that I’ve so far been unable to handle.
Part of it’s the pain I feel for my friend. We’ve been close since childhood, being there for one another, and because she’s hurting, I am too.
The other part has been the realization that one day I will also mourn the loss of my father.
I keep seeing the image of my friend at the funeral, walking behind the coffin that held her dad, sobbing in her brother’s arms. I keep hearing the sound of her voice as she struggled to sing one last song for him (The Rainbow Connection) at his grave site because he loved the sound of her voice so much.
It’s all weighing down my heart like an anchor…
And the hits keep coming!
Adding to my general malaise, the cough I picked up last week (which I didn’t think worth mentioning) officially turned into a “thing” my doctor calls “reactive airway disease.”
But thanks to two oh-so-sexy inhalers (looking for a cute wristlet in which to carry them), I’m finally getting better.
I pictured animated birds like from Disney’s Cinderella
I woke up to the soothing sound of a light rain outside my window. I listened to it for a while, and then it stopped. Then a brief silence, and then a symphony of birds chirping and singing, “Rise and shine, Karen! It’s time to get up! Come on, let’s go. Get up, get up, get up!”
And so I did. 🙂
Thank you
I’m suddenly reminded of everything good in the world, like you — a kind and generous person who takes time out of your busy day to spend it daydreaming with me about makeup or dinner plans or school or work or life.
Yes, I know this sounds corny, but I want to thank you for being you. Through everything, the good stuff and the bad, you’ve been there for me.
I can feel my joy rising to the surface again… bobbing up and down in a sea of makeup and beauty.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
Michelle says
Karen~ you brighten my day when I read your e-mails! You brought me into the world that is M.A.C. Even though I have never met you in person I feel bonded in that girls with makeup secrets way, you know? Plus, I aspire to be a writer…so I admire you. That and you have AWESOME hair.
I am sorry about your hard time. I can’t offer much else but a quote my mom told me whenever i would get upset thinking she might not make it through her fight with cancer- “I’ve heard there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come froma head and some from behind. But I’ve bought a big bat. I’m all ready you see. Now my troubles are going to have troubles with me!” ~Dr. Seuss
beautylogicblog says
Oh my, I’m so sorry to hear this. I know how hard it is to see a good friend in pain. The best thing you can do is just make sure you are there for her. That will mean more than anything.
anonymous says
Thank you for continuing to post even when your feeling bad. You are a strong, beautiful, smart, and wonderful person don’t forget it. I’m looking forward to many more years of your amazing posts and wishing you a safe, happy, healthy new year!
Anastasia says
I am so sorry for the loss — I have first hand experience in that department and it was THE SINGLE worst day of my life. It was over 14 years ago, and I have still not recovered from my Fathers death….I don’t think one ever CAN…You just have to learn how to go on.
Sending strength to you. Hope you can feel it 🙂
Samantha says
Aww well just know everyone’s here for you. Sometimes knowing you have people everywhere to back you up makes all the difference!
Kellie Butler says
Karen,
You are such a dear person! I am sorry that you have been so down. But I totally understand. And I am sure that many of us are having tough times. Just know that you are loved and appreciated for all of the hard work that you do here and for the kind person that you are. I always come here and get a pick me up from your sweet smile and often hilarious posts. And a few months ago I won a contest. But you sent me a huge package of things. Way more than what I one. It was so kind and generous. Thank you! Feel better. If the inhalers are going to be somewhat permanent look up something called puffapouch. I was recently diagnosed with asthma and I found these. I got a hot pink one o cover my inhaler. Also check Etsy for cute pouches for the inhalers. Good luck! And keep smiling!!Things will get better.
Sonja says
We’re here for you Karen!!! And don’t forget that throughout all the bad things we experience in our daily life, your blog has always been something that puts a smile back on our faces.
Make up and benevolence are universal, you’ve got people from all around the world to back you up girl!!
Tiffany says
Aww, Karen, I hope you’re feeling better soon. We all have these rough patches and just remember that things will get better. I am so so sorry for your friend and her loss, and you and your grief.
Beth says
I’m so sorry to hear you’re having a tough time and my heart goes out to
both you and your friend. My dad is my best friend and I can’t imagine him nit being around. I hope everything starts to look a little brighter soon.
I’m pretty sure ELF have got some cute metallic wristlets that could be just what you’re looking for to carry your inhalers, hopefully you won’t have to carry them permanently!
I’m sending lots of positive vibes/thoughts your way and we’ll all be here when you’re ready to come back xx
.-= Beth’s last blog post… New Years Resolutions 2010 =-.
Janet says
I hope you feel better, Karen. Your readers love you and we’re here for you! 🙂 <3
lesley says
Karen, like all your other readers, I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve been in such grief this whole time. I do hope you feel better soon and I’m glad that you’re soon seeing the silver lining.
Keep your chin up, we’re all routing for you 🙂
Best wishes to you and yours. <3
CC says
Thank you so much for sharing all of your thoughts throughout the year, Karen! I’m sorry you’re going through such a rough spot right now. I’ve been there before. It will be tough, but expressing yourself and sharing your grief with others is a positive step. Take your time – don’t try to rush yourself through anything – that’s what I’ve learned. That, and the scientific fact that sunshine is fantastic for cheering you up naturally! (Really!!)
I hope everything looks up for you soon. You’re definitely a bright spot in my day :), as I’m sure you are for many others, so brace yourself for an overwhelming wave of positive energy coming from every which way of the world! 🙂
Jen says
*cyberhugs* I hope you feel better. I love reading your blog; it helps me escape for a little while from the insanity that threatens to take over my life. Keep on truckin’! It’s a new year!
Tali says
Unfortunately death is a part of life..
There are no rules to follow.. unfortunately the young die too. My aunt died at 50, my brother has cancer at 40… and I lost my best friend who was 24. None of them follow what we consider the time frame. Dont feel too sad and spend too much time thinking of morality. Its sad to say but we can not predict what comes our way or when.. it is something we probably will never fully make peace with.
One thing is certain we will all have to bury the ones we love and in time they will have to do that for us. But what is imortant are the memories we keep and the quality of the time we spend together.
Hope you are ok and taking the time you need to feel and process these emotions. We are all here for you! xxx
DonnaN says
(((Karen)))
Thank you for sharing with us all that is going on. We are all here for you…..to support, listen and lift you up! I hope your health improves and your spirits are lifted soon.
Donna
Stacie says
Oh, Karen, I am so sorry. You’ve had a rough few weeks, haven’t you? Those are troubling thoughts, but Tali is right–you’ll drive yourself insane thinking about mortality and the uncertainty of life. There are no guarantees in life, and all we can do is make the most of the time given to us. But I empathize–my parents are both older, and the fact is I will have to face their loss in the next few years. Just try to keep moving forward, Karen. That’s all any of us can do. And I have to agree with what a few others have said–you are a bright spot in my day! You allow me to escape from the hustle and bustle for a few minutes, and for that I thank you.
Gracie says
Hey Karen! I’m very sorry about you and your friend’s loss, and I know that being at a funeral is one of the most heartbreaking yet thought provoking things you could experience in your life. I know it seems hard at first, but you’ll start to feel like your old self again. I would say that instead of worrying about who you’re going to lose, live your life to the fullest with those people and use the time you have together to create beautiful memories you can remember long after their gone. This seems like a very negative thing, but remember, it’s still positive! That’s what you have to remember in life.
Oh, and I’m also really sorry you have to use an inhaler, that’s a bummer! Just feel better soon, and I know you will because you are a smart, brave, and beautiful person. Remember we all love you here and you brighten our day every post!
Love, Gracie.
Shannon Steele says
It is these lonely confusing times when we can actually feel ourselves changing and growing. I’m sorry for your pain.
Marce says
Karen, there’s no need to thank us. From the bottom of my heart, I’d like you to know that reading your posts always brings a smile to my face or makes me laugh out loud, and I look forward to hearing from you every time. =)
A loss is really difficult, of course, our time on earth is limited and that’s why we are so shocked when someone passes away physically. But they’ll always be there for us in our hearts – sounds cheesy, yah, but that’s what I think. Let’s make our time worth it! Put a smile on your face, give Tabs a hug and kiss El Hub, go out for a walk, take time out with your friend, let her know you’re there for her, and remember to cease the day.
Hugs and kisses, and a big tub of Dulce de Leche 😉
.-= Marce’s last blog post… Pretty Please Look – MAC Love Lace Collection =-.
Fatemeh Mir says
hey Girl.. I am sorry that you’re going through these things.. I gotta say, I was feeling quite down yesterday, I didn’t pass an exam from my first degree, so now I don`t get a degree in psych for now.. plus I’ve just started this august on special pedagogic, and tried to do both things this past semester… I cried yesterday, feeling almost dumb for not passing.. I feel a bit better today… but my point was that, for us readers, its a joy coming to your blog, and kinda escape our problems, even for a minute or two.. so thanks for that, Karen.. seriously.. we all will be praying for you, I’m sure…
Kaitlin says
I’m so sorry for your loss, my dog died on tuesday and he was my best friend. The house seems so empty now without him and it seems like I’ll never be happy again. I know that it just takes time to heal something to painful but it still hurts like hell.
Sherry says
Karen,
I’ve been a long time reader of your blog, but I’ve never commented until now. I’ve always enjoyed your insights, tips, and stories. I too recently had a loss. My uncle (mother’s brother) passed away about a week before Christmas. I also came to the realization that someday I may be burying my parents. The thought alone hurts me. I can only imagine how I’ll be when the day comes. I’m so sorry for you and your friend’s loss. I hope you are ok. I hope you don’t mind, but I’ll be praying for you and your friend’s family. Take care.
Katie & Zena says
Karen,
It’s hard to lose somebody dear to you. I wasn’t myself for a week after each of my pets passed away. They’re the closest things to me and so I was really out of sorts. Grief isn’t one of those emotions that you wake up the next day or weeks later and say, “Okay, I’m done! Grief go bye-bye! Hello, sunshine!!!” Grief is, unfortunately, one of those processes that can never resolve itself truly. Are there days when I still grieve for Kimo? Yes, and she passed away two-and-a-half years ago.
What I do notice is little by little the pain goes away and your heart mends itself as best as it can. You can never truly mend your heart completely or what transpired would have never happened; there’s always a scar left behind. Not a physical scar, but a spiritual scar.
Yikes, inhalers for someone who doesn’t have asthma usually means bronchitis, pertussis or pneumonia. I feel for you. I get a wicked cough every time I’m sick. It stinks.
Feel better soon, Karen, in every respect. Zena sends buckets of doggy kisses to soothe you!
Steph B says
So sorry to hear you’ve hit such a rough patch. Sometimes, you just gotta feel it for a while. I’m also in sort of a rough patch and please know how much I enjoy being able to escape to the web and read a little about things that might make me feel a little better about myself, perk up my look when I definitely don’t feel so perky, or make it easier to take care of myself (still thank you each time I reach for my Sheer Infusions lotion).
Mimi S says
I just turned 21, and i have older parents. I’m coming to the realization that someday they will die. It’s a terrifying thought. But there is also some comfort in the fact that it’s the natural order of things. People have children whom they take care of, then the children grow up, the parents get older and need to be taken care of, and someday the children lay them to rest. The most bittersweet thing about loving others is knowing that someday they will be gone. I think about pets, too, because their lifespans are so much shorter than ours. But that’s the way things work, and it makes the time we have even sweeter against the pain.
JillyB says
I’m so sorry about your friend’s father Karen. Being so close to her, you must have known him well too. Your heart will be heavy for a while, but it’s good to hear that the birds singing made you feel better. Sometimes it just takes something small. My prayers go out to you, your friend and her family.
Yours was one of the first makeup blogs I started reading and I’ve been reading you every day for over a year now. Or more. Thank you for being there for us and sharing your life with us. And Tabs. And the beautiful pictures you post of the Bay Area. Thank you.
I hope 2010 is a wonderful year for you.
Shonoif says
We all love you very much Karen. Thank ((((((((YOU))))))))) for always being here for us!
Anh says
I’m sorry to hear that Karen! You are usually so upbeat. I hope you feel better soon. We all deal with grief in different ways and if it gives you some relief to write about your feelings, we’ll be here listening/reading. *cyber support group* =)
Arianne says
*hugs*
I’m glad that you took a few days to yourself, Karen. You shouldn’t feel the need to apologize for your absence. 🙂
I hope everything is looking up on your end… my kitty Ming Ming and I send our love! She even sends cookies. 😛
.-= Arianne’s last blog post… New Year’s Eve FOTD: Bold Red Lips! =-.
Ellie says
Hi Karen- I’m sorry to hear about the troubles. My thoughts are with you and your friend. You’re wonderful and I’m sure that your friend is super-grateful to have someone as kind as you. For both of you, I hope things will feel better and hope you’ll think about the amount of love alongside the grief. That’s what kept me going after a recent funeral.
Hope you feel better soon!
Niki says
Aww, you’ve no need to be sorry for anything, and for some reason, I thought you were away over the holidays, so I didn’t know anything was wrong. It’s hard to even offer comfort during a time like this, you never know what to say that will be just right, but I wish you peace, and many blessings. I hope too that you feel better physically soon.
.-= Niki’s last blog post… GUESS THE TOTAL WINNER! =-.
Courtney L says
Goodness. I hope you feel better, I’m so sorry about that. I’m really young, but one of my parents is pretty old, and he likes joking about how one day he’ll be gone, and I can’t help but tear up. So I feel your pain, as we all do.
You don’t need to apologize about missing a day or two of blogging- that’s SO MUCH BETTER than most bloggers, who often only post once a month. We’re lucky to hear from you at all. You’ve made a difference to a lot of us, I bet.
Vanessa H says
Hi Karen,
I’m so sorry for your friend’s loss, she’s lucky to have someone like you in her life. You know a true friend when they understand your sorrow and do everything they can to be your support. I hope you’re feeling better and that you keep letting the sun back into your heart, because you bring that sunshine back to all of your readers every day. Time and good friends heal all wounds, keep your head up!
Laurie says
It’s hard for me to wrap my head around the mortality of any member of my family – so painful. I think that’s a natural way to feel and I’m sorry to hear of your loss, and for your friend. I respect how you put your feelings out there and you are an amazing blogger – don’t apologize to us! Hope the days keep getting brighter.
All Women Stalker says
Sorry about your dad’s friend, Karen. No need to apologize for going MIA.
2010 is a great year! And yay, for Disney imagery. 🙂
K says
Oh goodness. I am so sorry for your loss, Karen. One of my grandfather’s friends recently passed away, and it felt like I had lost my grandpa all over again. I hope that your sorrow and pain heals and that you are able to find comfort. Take care!
.-= K’s last blog post… Hello Rodarte! =-.
Stef says
Oh Karen, this post made me cry! Just thinking about the words to The Rainbow Connection got me. I dread the day that I have to go through this myself. And watching a close friend go through the same thing must be devastating. But thanks for sharing your pain with us. Sometimes just talking about things can really help.
I’m so sorry you’re feeling down, it’s totally understandable. And if there’s one good thing to come out of all this, my god-look how loved you are! Your readers (me included) just adore you.
Go kiss that chubby kitty and feel better soon. XO.
.-= Stef’s last blog post… we really heart this – Stef’s beauty picks of ‘09 =-.
amy says
My condolences to you and your friend’s family. No need to apologize for your absence. A blog is suppose to be fun and you can post whenever you want, but your postings does cheer me up after a long day.
.-= amy’s last blog post… Frankenpolish Bling Tar NOTD OPI Suede Suzi Skis in Pyreness + Sephora OPI Untarnished Image =-.
ParisB says
Karen, thank you for sharing. I’m sorry to hear of your friend’s loss and of your affliction. I hope you get well soon. Incidentally I’m nursing a cough too. I hope it doesn’t turn nasty on me. Take care.
.-= ParisB’s last blog post… Green Cotton Organic Natural Cotton Shop @ Amarin Plaza Bangkok =-.
Yvette says
I look forward to these blog posts. Hope the well wishes from all of your readers continue to bring you smiles during this difficult time.
Mrs. Schwartz says
Karen, I’m so sorry!!! Hang in there!!!
My bestest friend in the whole wide world (since the 2nd grade – um, 28 yrs ago…) is going through a terribly painful divorce and it has been soooooo hard to see her so hurt.
I hate it.
So I’m sorry… I know where you are. My thoughts and prayers are with your friend, her family and you!
🙂
Thank you for your blog! We love it and need it!
Rae says
You and I both know that I’m terrible at saying the right thing, so instead I’ll say this: I am so, so sorry that 2009 has been so hard on you. My condolences are with you, and all we can hope for is a better 2010 — and I know that if you want to surface again this year, with all the might you had before, you WILL be able to do it. You’re one of the strongest, most amazing women I know, and if you put your mind to it nothing will stop you!
<3
.-= Rae's last blog post… Results: Best of 2009! Part One =-.
Glosslizard says
I may be a little late in chiming in, but I’m here for you!
A few years ago, a friend of mine that I loved and admired lost his 15-month-old son to SIDS. I thought I would die of grief seeing him and his wife walking down a church aisle behind the tiny little coffin, and along with that was a deep sense of guilt that this wasn’t even my burden and I had no business feeling so bad! I’ve since come to terms with mourning over someone else’s loss — after all, part of being a friend is sharing the joy and the grief — and I have since felt less of an immediate impact from the sorrow, but that experience deeply impacted my life and I truly believe that I’ll never be the same as before!
The point of all that is, yes, it hurts! All we can offer is that we’re out here and we love and support you and your friend! Just take time and be kind to yourself!
Audrey says
Hi Karen, I’m so sorry to hear about your friend’s loss. I will keep you both in my thoughts. Take whatever time you need – you know we’ll be here waiting and ready to give you whatever support you need.
*Hugs*
AndreaMarie says
Karen, so sorry you have been having such a rough time. We are here, and we are pulling for you!
Lisa says
I’m a bit late in reading this, but since I started reading this blog a few months ago I feel as
if I’ve gotten to know a little bit of Karen.
I’ve been on the internet since it was just text files and a couple of blinking eye .gifs and I’ve made close friends and many, acquaintances. I know even though none of us really “knows” each other that we are still “there” for each other. So I’m sending healing thoughts and cyber hugs to you Karen.
Cindi says
Grief is a process and I feel that one is changed forever. Life will go on, but you will never forget the people you lose in your life. I lost my only brother and mother four months apart in 2000,
I miss them terribly, but the memories I have, nothing can take from me.
Take care, Cindi
phoi says
Hi Karen. I’m so sorry you’re going through a rough time right now. However, I’m glad you are able to reach out to us. We are here for you whenever you need the support. Thank you for continuing to be an inspiration and please take care of yourself.
L says
Aww, Karen! I’m so sorry, sweetie. It always seems like bad things pile up on top of each other at the same time. I try to remind myself that it’s best that the bad things all seem to occur at once: it means that I get to be happy almost all the time. If shitty things happened one by one, I’d always be mildly peeved, and that would be unfortunate.
I know things are hard, but your readers are here for you if you ever need to vent or are looking for some encouragement. We love you!
Now even more than usual is a good time to do the things you love. Also, snuggle up to Tabs. I’ve always found that being with my kitties puts me in a better mood. Make sure to get lots of sleep and feel better!
Shiny says
I have a lot to say on this topic, I’ve recently experienced something along the same lines – but I know nothing can be said that will may you feel better. You need time to heal, and it’ll be hard since you have to support your friend while mourning alongside. Sending you good wishes, I hope you both can get through this together. <3
Catherine Shi says
Oh no… my condolences to your friend. And … *hugs* we’re all here for you. <3
.-= Catherine Shi's last blog post… Collective Christmas Gifts =-.
veronica says
Feel better, seems like you’re going through a lot all at once! Your friend is very lucky to have someone like you in her life, and I’m sure she knows it!
The inhalers are fun, aren’t they? /sarcasm. Glad you caught it before it got much worse, those coughs are never good to leave alone!
.-= veronica’s last blog post… An Interview with Jim Donnelly (from The Internet) =-.
Alison says
Hi Karen,
I am so sorry for your loss, all your faithful followers hearts are with you at this difficult time. I hope you feel better soon my thoughts are with you and your friend and her family.
Your posts brighten my day everyday which is a great help to me at the moment as I too have been having a difficult time over the past couple of days. My cousin who is 27 and who I am really close to has just been diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time. It’s really hit me hard again and being able to escape to your blog for a little humour and some new makeup talk is wonderful. Thankyou.
Karen & Charlie says
Hi Karen
I’m so sorry you’ve had a bad time recently. I know exactly how you feel about your best friends father and that one day you will have to mourn the loss of your own. My dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer for the 2nd time and he is really poorly at the moment. But you have to remember that every day they are still with us is a blessing and to cherish the time you have with them.
Hope you are feeling better soon – I really look forward to reading your posts as you are so witty and you have so much fantastic knowledge that you work so hard to share with us all.
Give Tabs a big hug!
Take care,
Karen (from England)
Sarah says
I’m so sorry you’ve been going through such a hard time!
And I would not worry about not posting as often – life gets in the way! Its also given me time to find more blogs, which is never bad!
I can’t understand what you’re going through but you have all my sympathy.
Solé says
Hi Karen,
Among the many amazing things to admire about you is your ability to be so open. Being a rather guarded person myself, I find inspiration in your ability to share so much of your life, of yourself with us, your faithful readers. This is why at a time like this, so many of us want you to know that we are there for you, as you are for us on a regular basis through your writing. Your uplifting sense of humor, amazing crativity, and unflinching ability to be really damn entertaining at all times have kept me reading for over a year (even though my makeup budget has been drastically reduced in that same amount of time), it is your way of making your readers feel like we really know you, that we are important to you, that keeps us all coming back. Just a few weeks ago I remember thinking how brave you were for posting about your mini-meltdown and then posting some makeup tricks for camouflaging puffy eyes. You inspire me to share more of myself, not only with those I love, but with the people I encounter on a daily basis. Life is short, and if we can bring joy to others, even fleetingly, it has all been worthwhile.
Joan says
Hi Karen, I hope you feel better soon! I just wanted to say that I look forward to hearing from you and Tabs every day. There’s nothing in the world that cheers me up more than makeup and ofcourse the BF! Thank you!!! Xoxo Joan
gabs says
i like to think death is just change and whomever you lose you´ll see again
hang in there karen youre awesome
Dana Jae says
Hi Babe,
I’m really glad to hear you are starting to feel a bit better. Sounds like you are going through a lot, and it’s probably a really good thing you decided to share it with us. If nothing else we can offer some online words of encouragement.
Death is awful, that’s all there is to it and the fact that it really does start to make you think of the people closest to you makes it even worse, but that’s why you need live everyday like it’s your last one and never walk out the door or go to bed angry. Death also makes you appreciate life.
I also saw the part about you need a new wristlet and I just ordered one the other day and i’m really excited about it’s arrival, so I thought I’d share it with you. You may already know about Nahui Ollin but if not take a look.
http://www.juteandjackfruit.com/Nahui_Ollin_Handbags_s/12.htm
Keep your chin up!
Luv Dana Jae
scarlettholly says
you have one of the brightest, warmest voices in blogging I have come across, and I love your approach to life. Heartfelt and can do. Losing someone is an awful thing to go through and what seems like a terrible aching pain now will deaden. Be there for your friend as she works through the loss like the great friend that you are. And we’ll always be here for you as well. Thanks you.
.-= scarlettholly’s last blog post… Commenting Issue =-.
Suzanne says
I’m very sorry for all the bad things that are ruining the new year for you. I hope you & your friend will feel better in time, as time ‘heales’ wounds. I know for your friend they’ll never heal completly but I hope her loss will someday be bearable.
I really enjoy following your blog, and I hope you’ll find the motivitation to continu with it.
Remember, someone is never really dead untill they’re forgotten.
.-= Suzanne’s last blog post… DDD: Win Rituals Super Shine lipgloss! =-.
Eva says
Karen, I am so sorry to hear that..
My heart goes out to your friend, her family and to you. *e-hugs*
I always love reading your blog and I hope you´ll get back to your “sunny self” soon…
Get better soon!!
ritadebora says
Karen, I lost my brother who was younger than me. I know at this moment there’s nothing I can say to make you feel better. Everything is up to you, but just want to add this: yes, we are still here and looking forward for your next post on this blog.
7deadlycyns says
Hi Karen,
I got that “reactive airway” thing last year too, when a leftover cough from a bad cold just lingered on (and on, and on, and on…). The doctor prescribed me inhalers, which did help, and the cough/wheeze finally went away after about another 2 weeks. Those inhalers are totally not something you want to randomly fall out of your purse, though. The clutch idea is great! I just used a makeup bonus-bag I already had, and here I could have used it as an excuse to shop! Oh well.
Hope you feel better soon.
Kizzy says
After reading this I felt like giving you a big hug. Unfortunately there is still not a way to do that over the internet…I hope you’ll feel better soon though!!!
.-= Kizzy’s last blog post… Alicia Keys to start off the new year! =-.
Wendy says
Awww Karen! Your postings really brighten up my day but it’s nice to know that when you have problems you can tell all of us whats going on, I have dealt with some heavy stuff this last year and I’m just glad that 2010 is looking s bit better, hope all gets well with time.
Happy New Year Everyone!
Kat says
Karen,
I’m so sorry to hear about your friend’s dad. That is so sad. It is quite a blow, and it will hurt for a long time but I’m glad that you have the strength to keep going. My bff lost her dad when she was 13, then I lost mine when I was 16. Its so hard, esp. when you think how young they were (my dad was only 44, died of a heart attack). You just have to be grateful for every day and every opportunity, and really cherish the moments you have to spend with your loved ones. As sad as losing people you love is, many many years later I’m able to recognize I took something positive out of the situation: I never waste a moment. Many people might think I rush into things (marriage, having children, etc.) but I *know* that life can be cut short too soon so I never want to waste any time.
You’ll get through it, and so will your friend. I know you’ll be there for her!
Your blog always makes me smile! I don’t have too many girlfriends so no I’ve got no one to give me make up/beauty tips! So thank you for that.
Stef says
One of my best friend’s dad’s passed away almost 10 years ago. He was like a second father to me. It took me two weeks to be able to go to bed without crying myself to sleep. A few weeks ago I had a dream about him, and in it I knew he was no longer living, but we talked and hugged and I didn’t want to let go. I woke up with his voice in my ear and the feel of his arms still holding onto me. I sobbed and sobbed that day, because I knew it was a dream and he was still gone. My heart breaks for your friend, make sure that you talk to her about her Dad. Tell her stories you may have of him, share photos, all of these things are important! They keep him real. And just because he’s no longer here in a physical sense, does not mean that he is no longer here.
Christy says
I hope you feel better soon. Cherish every moment you can with those you love because tomorrow they may be gone.
.-= Christy’s last blog post… MAC Love Lace Review & Swatches =-.
Mia says
I am so sorry for your loss. Loosing someone you love is always so hard. Take care.
noemii says
i am so sorry for your friends loss .
I remember it being months after my grandpa died that i actually talked about it with my bff . it’s the strangest thing as her grandpa had died as well the same year . we were both able to empathize with one another’s feelings . but it made her so sad she actually cried [for?] me . [i’m not going to share death stories cause it seems wrong to me to ‘exchange’ stories . though some people may find it helpful..]
after a death occurs, many of us have a tendency to think (i would actually say Overthink) about life, and how short it is and just how much the people in our lives mean to us . there is nothing bad with it, rather it seems to be an integral part of the “coping process” if you will .
death is the harshest of wakeup calls that yes, life is short and death is unpredictable and we do take everything for granted .
telling someone to appreciate every second is impracticable [so i won’t] because we will have those days when we just hate the world and everything in it but it’s just like those incredible days when everything is perfect . i don’t think life or death is as life changing as we like to believe because it’s an inevitable occurrence but we just have to keep moving forward and live & not just breathe !
after a death, we need to feel sorry about ourselves and then we just have to move on .. just don’t force yourself to feel happy or sad if you’re not ! i hope this doesn’t read as blase or mean … just delete it if it does & i’m sorry, i’m just rambling on .
air hugs to you & your friend !
also, know that there are soo many readers out there that do appreciate what you do with this blog of yours ..especially during evil finals & procrastinating sessions & insomnia 😀
boo for inhalers .
Ebru says
Karen, no need for apology. Sometimes you need some time off from everything around you. I am so sorry to hear your loss and I can only imagine how you feel. Unfortunately life is not always peachy and it is sad 🙁 Hope your day goes better and hope 2010 will bring you lots of love, happiness, good luck, health and friendship! You deserve the best of everything 🙂
Samantha says
I’m very sorry for your friend’s loss, and the pain that you feel because of it. It’s always a rough reminder that life is fleeting when you or one of your loved ones loses someone they care for. The best thing anyone can really do is spend time with the ones they love, cherish the memories they make and have made, and live life like they’ll never see another sunrise. My friend’s father passed away about a year and a half ago, and it still makes me sad to think about it. I smile, though, when I remember all of the good things about him, and also when I remember that I still have a plate of his that my mom borrowed years ago and forgot to return [it has been dubbed the “Walter” plate].
I had reactive airway disease when I was a child, and I’ve been told that I’ve since grown out of it [I’m 19 now, and the closest thing I’ve experienced to it recently was an upper respiratory infection a year or so ago and my everyday allergies, no wheezing]. It’s no fun at all, but you’ll be okay, and I wish you all the best of luck in getting through everything.
Makeup and a cat always helps. Oh, and hot tea.
Bobbie Sue says
Oh Karen, I truly am so sorry for you and your best friends loss. Losing a parent is horrible and I want to send you both my condolences.
My best friend lost her Mom in July of 2007 and I know that feeling of being lost and hurt. When she called with the news my heart sank in my chest and I would have done anything in my power to take all the pain away.
I hope you both are able to find the support you need and again I am very sorry to the both of you for your loss!
Bobbie Sue
.-= Bobbie Sue’s last blog post… Time flies!!! =-.
Suji says
Hey Karen, stay strong! I’ve always admired your postive attitude from reading your posts. You have a very good heart. The hard times and sadness will pass, hang in there! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
Sarah says
I’m so sorry about your friends lost. I relate so much to how you are in pain hugely for your friend. I’m very empathetic in that way as well, I teared up just reading this. Sending positive thoughts your way and to your friends family.
xoxox Sarah
.-= Sarah’s last blog post… Only Great Moment on LOlcats =-.
Malvidia says
A big hug for you Karen |_____O_____| and remember that even while we’re sad for losing someone, we should still be glad we had them in our life.
Judy says
Karen, you are such a positive person with such a happy way of looking at life ! It’s hard to face death but you have to know that your friend’s dad is in a much better place..his “perpetual Hawaii”. Time will heal and you will feel like yourself soon enough but you will always keep him in your heart. Stay strong!