The wet bird flies at midnight

The memorial service for Maurice last night was, without a doubt, one of the funniest, most loving, most life-affirming events I've ever attended. There was grief, yes, but so many wonderful stories about Maurice, from his escapades as a child to his achievements as an adult. Phred had put together a slide show of his photographs and ceramic work, and once again I was struck not only by his talent, but how diverse that talent was. He was making jokes with his last strength, and learning until the end.

And Yolanda - ! She not only was there, she led the celebration, with stories and readings and pictures. If anyone has the heart of a lion, it is her. Never have I seen such such strength in the face of loss. May I someday achieve a fraction of her grace and courage.

The gloom that had descended on this holiday season has lifted somewhat because of them. May his light continue to shine, and may she find some peace in knowing how deeply they both are loved.

Et in perpetuum, frater, ave atque vale.


I walked out

To do list

Today:

- Laundry

- Figure out why Barnes & Noble !#!$ up ONE of my four Nook orders the other night.

- Buy final gift, wrap the rest.

- See if Una and her mother are up to visitors tonight, and if not, make arrangements for tomorrow.

- Buy cat food before Siren, who is feeling *much* better and is in fine voice, screams the house down around my ears.

- Buy groceries so I can, y'know, eat this week.


Tomorrow:

- Catsit for Todd and Barbara.

- Watch the Doctor Who Christmas special with Una if her cold has abated enough for visitors to be welcome.

- Order Chinese food from somewhere because nothing else will be open.


The rest of the first real true vacation I've had since 2008:

- Clean the house before Shelob, Aragog, and all their charming little children turn the Shack into an homage to Miss Havisham's dining room.

- Visit xrian during her visit to Boston.

- Go to the Museum of Fine Arts down in Springfield to see the SAQA quilt exhibit.

- Sew for Wistariahurst.

- Give platelets.

- Sleep.

- Knit.

- Work on the first raffle quilt.

- Contemplate how very lucky I am, and what wonderful friends I have.

- Do my best to add to the love in the world.

Holiday greetings to one and all

Whether you celebrate the Solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or even Festivus, may this holiday season bring you joy, peace, and love.