Hues of blue is a collection of poems written after my oldest son committed suicide. Joey was just 31 with a bright future as a teacher in California. After a series of losses, he came back home to Milwaukie, OR to gather his bearings and start a new chapter. We tried everything but Joey just couldn't see his way out of his pain, ending his life April 25, 2025.

Needless to say, Joey's death rocked his parents' world as well as his brothers'. In my darkest hour, I knew I had to get back to my writing. I had started writing poetry at the start of Covid, making observations of those around me navigating this new reality. Death is never easy, but losing a child to suicide is the most difficult reality we have ever had to bare. There are so many emotions attacking you from all sides.

My wish for you, my readers, is that you find a path towards healing. The grieving will never end, but I can tell you that your life can become a tapestry of sadness, love and, in time, peace. I hope you find comfort in my words.

Blessings to you all.