Sad news.

Every now and then, tragedy injects itself into life in such a way that you can't keep it even from a blog intended to showcase the positive attributes of your travel experiences. The UAH shooting was one of them, and this is another.

My grandmother, Nancy Cooper, passed away yesterday due to complications with dialysis and low blood pressure medicine. She wasn't alone; she was surrounded by her close family, all of whom love her dearly, and I know that she knew I was thinking of her every day over here in Oslo. I got the phone call from my mother, first to let me know that she was going, and then to let me know when she was gone. It was, understandably, an emotionally painful night for me.

As soon as I know the funeral arrangements, I will book a flight back to Huntsville and will return long enough to attend the service. I've emailed my professors to give them a heads-up already.

Thanks to everyone who has already given me so much support since I received this news. I love you all.