January has been a tough month. My birthday passed smoothly enough, but I’ve apparently decided to do some post-birthday life evaluation. I haven’t figured out how to give that evaluation a positive result. No, that’s when I let Ms. Negativity out to play.

Plus, I’m grieving. Heath Ledger’s death hit me hard, even though I don’t think I’ve seen any of his movies. I think it’s horribly sad for anyone to die so young. From what I know, he was wonderfully talented. And he leaves behind a two-year-old daughter . . .

Another man I don’t actually know died over the weekend. He lived a long life, and I think he would say it was a good one. And, really, isn’t that all that anyone can hope for? His death wasn’t really unexpected, but I’m still affected by it.

Eventually I’ll get past it all. For now, though, I’ll let myself grieve. And be glad that tomorrow is a new month. I’m ready for it.