Thank you to those of you who are the new replies.
Some new news that helps ameliorate matters a bit, looks like the trip and funeral will have to be delayed until after the holidays after all, as the offices that handle the international stuff will be closed. So on a bright note (perhaps because of all of your kind well wishes
), the family will be having Christmas together after all. In fact, we will even have some guests as well.
Looks like your thoughts and prayers are already helping
