My boss responded to my blog today. I belive she gets it, how cool!

Wow. I'm so sorry to read about the passing of your brother. I can't imagine what it must have been like being unable to track him down and then finding out that he was gone. I can't say that I know exactly what you're going through because I know my experiences with my brother aren't the same as yours (and we didn't get to share as much life together), but my brother also lived a tortured life and succumbed to his demons a few years ago. I don't know if what you need is time to grieve or to stay busy, but whatever it is, feel free to take it (as far as work is concerned). Personally, I think writing is a great way to process things and it only makes sense to express it the same way you feel it, regardless of how raw it is. I think if I had a blog, I would treat it like a private journal (even if public) because it's not my responsibility to decide for others what they choose to read. If they don't like it, they don't have to read it! I myself enjoy/appreciate getting an authentic glimpse into someone else's thoughts and feelings. Next time I see you, I wouldn't mind hearing more about your camping story (unless there is nothing more to tell). I've heard two similar stories...

And I wrote back: You write well. You need a blog. One day I visited my brothers house in Sacramento, CA. He was just coming back from an extra-terrestrial visit and his wife said he was laying unconscious for three days. His first words to me were, "You wouldn't believe the places I've seen!" I have no doubt that this is real!