I've taken several days since my last post to think about this one. And it's been a long, draining, exhausting several days.

Today -- we buried our mayor. Today -- we watched through the lens of TV a family's grief. We listened to their stories. Heard their cries. Shared their pain. And tried to imagine their loss.

I can't.

I've tried, but I just can't wrap my arms around it.

If there is truly a point to death -- if there truly is a plan -- if there really is a reason for suffering and loss and grief -- then perhaps the message to the living is this: Be more forgiving. Less critical. More loving. Less spiteful. More supportive. Less angry. More real. Less plastic. Be thankful for what you have. Not wishful of what you don't.

Easier said than done, too often.

I went home tonight to sit down with my family for dinner. Never a quiet time in my household, but so important to me. Especially as a working mom. Each night -- we sit down together. Ryan is screaming. Mike and Jack are fighting. Joe shows up late. I'm rushing to get back to work. The boys are complaining about the menu. Really relaxing, right? But as I caught up with the kids about their day today (Jack wet the bed, Mike forgot his homework, Ryan was teething...) I had to count my very real, sweet blessings. Happy children. Loving husband. Ample food. Rewarding work. Remarkable in-laws. Healthy parents. True friends.

Bob O'Connor wanted the best for Pittsburgh. I truly believe that. Was he the smartest man? The best politician? The savviest guy in the world? No. But he was simple. Simple...and kind. I liked him. And this town won't be as special without him.

Rest in peace, Bob.

Thank you for the smiles, the kisses, the will-do attitude, the true love of this wonderful town.

I will miss you.