When I think back on each Thanksgiving and Christmas - I think of the elaborate holiday meals Mom prepared for us and the elaborate decorations she would put out.

Not only were they a source of comfort and tradition...but they’re a reminder of the many sacrifices she made for our family. 

Mom didn’t really didn’t like to cook, but every year she would begin cooking in the morning hours cutting veggies, prepping meats, polishing silverware etc.  She would cook through the remainder of the afternoon to have a meal ready by dinner time—only sporadically accepting help from family when they offered a hand, always encouraging them to just relax and enjoy the holiday.  

Just one of thousands of things she did for others, not for herself.  I hope she knows how much she was, and always will be, appreciated and loved. 

As we approach Christmas I was remembering one Christmas Eve Day when she drove up in that big green Jag, got out with a grin on her face and handed me a beautifully wrapped package.   Inside it were  4 padded black and pink clothes hangars with the funniest sayings embroidered on them.  Every time I pull a piece of clothes off one I smile and think of Lynn. She was such a special friend in my life

Who - Lynn

What - Goosed me!!

Where - Belgrade Lake, Maine

When - Family Wedding

Why - I am still trying to figure that out?

How-   Her hand found my buttocks.

I had not known Lynn for that long, which makes the incident even more amazing.  her sister, CIndy, often recall the event with laughter.  Needless to say, Lynn and I bonded afterwards.  I will always remember this and other memories.  She was a special woman and I will miss her.