It's tough. That emptiness will always be with me, and cause me to have my moments here and there. But, I will regroup as much as possible. It will just be baby steps again, and take a little longer than before. Other than that part of my life, school on Monday (the last semester for my Bachelors) and work (they made me join a union to keep my job- I'm so upset with that).
I doubt that. The theme of the classes hasn't changed, no matter which area I'm in. Once you get it, you got it. The rest just reenforces it. That means we're all equally educated in that area.
Sheldon ??? You changed schools? God bless you Carol! What are you studying now? BJJ/grappling? (I take it that's what you meant about getting on the mat more?)
If in NH and want FMA/Silat stuff google or check for Guy Chase. I believe he is or was in Nashua. I've seen vid's of his and met with some of his students. Looked and sounded good.