Trio of Sorrows: Waiting for 2013 to begin

My mother-in-law died late last night in her sleep, and I have little doubt that she’s now back in my father-in-law’s arms — resting, laughing, home, at last. Far too many condolences to count in 2012: when I lost my mother and my father and now Betty, who just amazed me as she quietly inked in crossword puzzles and recognized every single song they played at Regency name-that-tune events. With sadness felt, she’s made it a trio, just months before turning 90.

But wait just a minute,  also on this same dark day, in flew a delicately addressed envelope from Paris — a cheery arrival from a 20 year old family friend who’s spending her junior year abroad and whose amazing grace touched our hearts. Her Christmas card brought in light from so far away.

And how can I forget  how right after my father’s death stole the day, in landed a precious Italian notebook with straw pages from my Pem East chum, also so very  far away.

And just look — there’s my chrysanthemum pillow from the Nashville Quiltary that began lighting up this room, right after my mother stepped aside.

As much as I root for 2012 to end its run, I won’t ever forget how it started out so well, with a letter  proving that real friends — no matter what happens and when — will never be left behind. And that real friendships keep our hearts nourished and young like nothing else can.