Novembering

At this time of year, I start sinking into despondency, and it always catches me off guard.

Then I remember: November.

Of course, this is the month of American Thanksgiving and NaNoWriMo, two occasions that can be joyful and fulfilling.

But for me, it’s also the month when I lost my partner of 34 years and my sweet 15 1/2-year-old dog, Betty.

It’s the month…