{{{{snap}}}}

I know what you're going through. It's one year ago today that my grandfather passed away in a hospice facility. Peacefully, and with my grandmother by his side, holding his hand.

And a year ago November that I went to my father's house for his final transition, too. That took a week. He had at-home, round-the-clock hospice care. Those nurses were amazing.

You're absolutely right to take some time off. I will tell you, though, that there may be times that you really need to take a break -- a mental one -- from the bedside care. I did a lot of paper grading while I was at my dad's house and he was sleeping, then comatose, and the rest of us were just waiting for the inevitable. If you can do work at home, you might welcome the diversion.

You take your time and give yourself some space to grieve. And I think if you're financially set for retirement, go ahead and take it. Your boss has no right to expect you to focus on work when your family needs you like they'll need you these next few days.

Much, much love you to and your family.

Roxy