April 6, 2012:   So many things I love
about living in a small town!  Most of the time,
the advantages far outweigh the fewer
choices that are available.

When we moved here in '87, there was one
ophthalmologist -Dr. Tom Leenhouts- and he
was outstanding. After he retired in '96,
it took a long time to find an eye doctor
who even came close.

Dr. Renee McCoy is that rare gem – a
glaucoma specialist, extremely competent, full
of integrity and kindness; with long-time,
devoted staff who work together as a team.
Certain eye concerns have required my seeing
her every three months, for a long time. Today,
I learned she is closing her practice here,
to join one in Phoenix.

Bereft, I reached for my pencils.

Like comfort food, they were the first things
I ever drew with...and, like an old friend,
helped me process this new (and huge) loss.