Stillmeadow Friends

Dear Susan...

As the holidays come to a close this year it occurs to me that we tuck our memories away like much loved treasures.  In the years that pass they will resemble the village scene above...a soft and perhaps slightly faded memory of the event yet in our eyes just as lovely as that first time. 

This Christmas was a busy one at our home.  Erik and I and the girls hosted the day and we were joined by Mimi (Erik's sister) and Robert and their girls Sophie and Juliet and Neal and Karen and their new baby girl, Samantha Gail (wonderful friends).  It took two tables to seat all of us and a 22 lb turkey to FEED all of us!!

Scooter was a perfect host and quite comfortable with everyone.  It was only after we realized that Robert was feeding him bacon from the bird thus making him feel quite comfortable indeed!!  It brought a smile to my face despite the fact that I was certain that he ate more bacon than any three cats need!!

Christmas ended all too soon and I kept thinking to myself what a lot of work for just one day.  I quickly decided though that it was time well spent as I love Christmas so. 

My wonderful friend...it's been so long since we've written to one another and I realize that we've both had so much happen in our lives.  As you know, I lost my Mom at the end of October.  Following a very long battle with Alzheimers my Mom was "tired" and could endure no more.  Losing her was a heartbreak to be sure and I know that you understand that feeling all too well, having lost your own Mum.

I suppose that it's at such holidays that our loved ones that are now gone from us are missed the most.  All through the day I kept feeling that I should be calling her and wishing her a Merry Christmas.  It was a most unsettling feeling.  When I spoke with my Aunt, Ginger she said that it felt a little like a sentence that was missing a word.  It was a very apt description of how I was feeling as well. 

As we face a brand new year it's only natural to hope for brighter and happier days.  I'm so thankful for the blessings of the past year and I look forward to this new year wondering what G-d has in store for us. 

Lots of Love,

Shelley in New York