Wolfy, We lost my sister 3 years ago on 12/13. I know how you must be feeling. <<HUGS>>

DP - I need updates!

:p

Both my dad's parents died in December - conveniently timed so that the funeral would be during the first blizzard of the year. We are nothing if not a thoughtful lot.

It's hard sometimes, because so many of our existing traditions (like specific ornaments or holiday foods) or memories (they used to send a big box o' cow every Christmas, and my grandfather's birthday was Christmas day).

However, as years have gone on, and the pain isn't as sharp, Christmas is a time I always remember them, and what a profound influence they had on my life. Ryan got to meet my grandmother a few months before she died, and I'm so grateful for that.

Heck, whenever I play a Christmas carol on the piano I remember how much my Grandma Edith enjoyed when I used to make her tapes of those carols to send to her, and how much she loved those silly tapes.

Bittersweet, but good memories, and an annual trigger.

Tori wanted me to tell you all thank you, and she can't wait until she's old enough to join the site. :)

Be careful. KB might make one of those tickertape things for his signature.

I've been here for days... reading this thread.... apparently this completes my initiation

Sucker! I mean congratulations! :cheers: :snap:

You actually read the entire "Sooo..." thread? Somebody get this man some bacon and a martini, stat!

So, we knocked on their door last night. They conveniently had all exterior lights turned off, but we could see the TV flickering. They refused to answer.

So, we walked away, talking loudly enough for them to hear.

"Well, I was hoping to thank them for taking care of our trees in the wind, but I guess they really were trying to steal them instead. I sure hope the other two show up by morning, because I'd really hate calling the police department for something so stupid. But, I will if I have to, I guess."

The lemon tree and rosemary bush were outside our garage this morning. ;)