Struggling, from the very bottom of my soul.
Ovarian cancer stole Mrs. Elk away in January, on my birthday.
I was her caregiver along every grueling step of the way, as cancer progressed throughout her lymph system and up her spine ultimately canceling every one of our plans for the future. No one could pull me away from my soulmate. Many tried, worried that I would “burnout” before the end; she needed me more than ever in our 40 years, and I need her then and now more than I can describe.
During much of that time, I could not find cohesive thoughts to write on this blog nor the other magazine articles I was supposed to write. The editors have been very understanding, and I have resumed working on those pieces along with fresh posts on this blog.
Thank you for continuing to read and comment on charlie elk’s musings.
FirstBubba says
My deepest condolences Charlie!
Knew you were having problems but wasn’t aware how far things had advanced.
Lost my only grandchild in 2007. Spent many hours in the woods sitting, thinking, crying, praying….anything to soften the blow and come to terms.
Peace comes with the passage of time, Charlie Elk!
In the meantime, chat with God when it feels right.
Trust me! Head butting trees IS NOT the answer!
God bless!
Charlie says
Not to worry my friend I’ll not be intentionally head butting any trees. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.
FirstBubba says
Figuratively, not literally.
Although, a time or two, it sure was tempting as nothing else made any sense.
Charlie says
I took it figuratively; literally, I’ve been spending a lot more time at the gun range. A man seeks his therapy where he can find it. 🙂
FirstBubba says
Charlie!
We need a place to post a “sit rep”!
Zone 1 is looking hot for OK’s opening Apr 6th!
Charlie says
Good Idea! Here it is.
WRC says
Sorry it took me so long to get back in touch with you Charlie, Rooster had called to let me know, but I knew what you were going through, and what need to be done, that and the time you need to be alone and get things going straight again. No need to worry, we’ll get together again this fall to give ol’ Vic a workout, who I’m sure has also been a big help to ya.
Glad to see you back up and going again, and looking forward to see more posts on different things. Take care buddy, talk to ya later.
Charlie says
Thanks, WRC no need to worry been wandering the state checking out the turkeys while trying to heal. I’ll be seeing Rooster in a couple of weeks.
WRC says
Your more than welcome to join us at the trailer turkey camp for the 5th season hunt. Give you a chance to try the pines area in the spring. Me, Randy and a couple of young hunters still trying to get their first turkey, is all that will be there.
N.C.L.W. says
No words… Yet at least nothing takes away all the great memories of many decades. Plus more to come! My most sincere, and best, regards.
I hope you continue to acclimate to your new life as best as can be and certainly do look forward to reading much more from yourself in the future, Sir.
Charlie says
Thanks for your thoughts. I’m working hard at dealing with grief.
Nate R says
Sorry for your loss, Charlie.
Looking forward to seeing more from you in the future.
Charlie says
Thanks for you support Nate. Always so appreciated.
huntfishtrap says
I can only imagine what you’ve been going through these past months, so take all the time you need to get back on your feet, Charlie. We’ll all be here when you do. Take care of yourself first.
Charlie says
The bereavement counselor suggested I get back to writing as an outlet. I’ve been very hesitant to write publically on any forum for fear I would take out my grief as anger directed at someone for no reason. At least if I do that here, I control the edit and delete buttons.