As of last Friday, my father and my stepmother have separated. They were married elven years, and together for 12.

What this means is that the woman who was as close to a healthy mother figure as I had growing up is no longer going to be in my life. Also, a large chunk of extended family is gone. My stepsiblings still want contact, so that, at least, will be fine. The closest thing I had to a stable, functioning home is also gone.

My father is (obviously) very upset, and so is my sister, who has been having problems with my mother and now her dad is not dealing so well, and needs to take care of himself. I'm attempting to be there for both of them right now, because my sister and I are all my dad has and my sister is really hurting for an elder figure in her life.

The divorce doesn't officially start until next year.

I tell you all of this so that you know that if I seem solemn, or serious, or tired, it's probably family or financial stuff, and isn't your fault. I'm dealing with the loss of one of my parents and the fragmenting of my family. If I seem off, or I lean on you more than usual this coming school year, that's why.