Requiem

This was supposed to be an update to recap SDCC and about things going on and contests starting and whatnot. But it's not going to be that thing after all.

R.I.P. Beth, you are & will be missed

We lost a Member of the Alien Collective in Very Good Standing, Elizabeth "Beth" Vrabel, last night to a sudden, unexpected, massive heart attack. She was in her late 40's, making this loss even more shocking. Her best friend, Tera Ireland, has shared what happened on Facebook if you want the full details.

Beth has been a part of the Alien Collective for so long that I can't remember when she joined up -- in my memory, she's just always been there, being cool and fun and encouraging. We talked all the time on Facebook and in emails, she was part of Team Tuckerization because she was always supporting any Kickstarter I was in, and she was looking into coming to Westercon 70 next year so we could finally meet in person. And now that will never be.

Beth was a fun, cool, funny, and loving person, and she will be greatly missed. She loved many things, but animals -- her cats in particular -- were number one. If you'd like to make a donation in her name (since she was clear that she didn't want flowers or similar), please consider one of her favorites, the Odd Cat Out Sanctuary or any no kill shelter, animal rescue, or wildlife fund you personally support.

Also, if you're in the Portland, Oregon area, Beth's three cats are currently with Tera but will need to be re-homed as Tera's cats are indoor/outdoor and Beth's are indoor only. If you are able to take one or (hopefully) all 3 of them, please keep a lookout -- Tera will be handling their placement, probably starting next week (and I'll send out that information as I get it). Right now, things are too raw and she doesn't want to do something out of grief that might not be best for Beth's beloved furbabies who are all very confused and missing their Furmom.

Hug the people you love and like, call those you can't hug in person, don't put off until tomorrow sharing what someone means to you. In case all y'all weren't sure, I love and appreciate each and every one of you and am glad you're in my life in whatever way you are. Stay you, stay strong, stay together.

Peace out, my li'l gangstas, and I'll catch you on the flip side.

Love,
Gini