It is mid-December and the end of 2013 is only weeks away. So many people are still rushing around, making last minute trip preparations, fixing the holiday menus or getting gifts for those you love. This year I find myself just so grateful to have my Dad still with us, after suffering a huge illness and operation. My mother has stayed by his side, sleeping in chairs and wherever possible, in the hospital or rehab center. For all their years together this has been the most they have ever been apart. And now Dad is back home where he belongs, just in time for the holidays and his birthday. Never have I felt so happy to be able to write those words. Dad’s recovery and homecoming are all that I or anyone in my family want or need for Christmas. We have been given the best gift of all and we know it. And are so grateful.
But there are so many others out there right now that need our thoughts, and if you are religious, our prayers for them and their loved ones. And maybe something more, a little assistance if you are able. LGBTQ Youth Shelters need our financial assistance, especially in the winter, when the cold drives so many inside in need of beds, food, and emotional support.
And if you love or have been touched by the books of Eric Arvin or TJ Klune or the men themselves, you may not be aware that Eric is ill and they could use our help and thoughts. There is a fund set up to help Eric and his family offset the cost of his medical bills. That is listed below as well as the links to the LGBTQ Youth Shelters. The holidays are a time of love and giving, to all of those we are connected to by blood and by choice, and by need:
- Eric Arvin Support Fund: https://www.youcaring.com/getbettereric
- Homeless Youth Alliance in San Francisco is in financial crisis: Donate at homelessyouthalliance.org
- The Ali Forney Center in New York
- Lost-n-Found Youth, Inc. in Atlanta, GA
And now for the week ahead in reviews:
Monday, Dec. 16 Christmas Serendipity by Liam Livings
Tuesday, Dec. 17: The Brothers Grime: Eddie by Z.A. Maxfield
Wed., Dec. 18: Model Love by S.J. Frost
Thurs, Dec. 19: Kick Start by Josh Lanyon
Friday, Dec. 20: Christmas Guest Blog at Andrew Q. Gordon’s
Sat., Dec. 21: Oceans Apart by Laura Harner
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words 