Have you noticed that I've been writing more lately? I feel my authentic self returning full speed ahead and I like that person. A lot.

I am back from the Hospice in-service meeting. It was like being 'home'. I made the right choice in going back to this particular organization. I walked in and it felt like a huge hug. I know that sounds weird, but that's how it felt.

I'm so excited about being a story-catcher. That's what they're calling our group. Pretty neat, right? The volunteer coordinator, someone I've known for many years, pulled me aside after the meeting and told me that they'd like me to be the person to mentor the other volunteers and let them sit in and watch how I do things until they're comfortable in doing it themselves. I had a good reputation in the bereavement group for being a good listener and I'd take pages and pages of notes. We'll be using a small recorder, making my job a lot easier.

After the meeting I went up to the nook where I used to make calls to the bereaved. I ran my fingers across all the booklets and pamphlets that I've sent to so many people after talking with them, and took a deep breath. I'm so ready to begin, but have to go through training again before I get the reins again.

I don't mind, really. The stories and experiences we hear in training are always amazing. Besides, I can never get enough of playing patient and being rolled around in a wheelchair.