Dear Jar Star,
The month of November feels like it just flew by! There was so much activity, but I did not have much time on the computer at all. How are you doing? Last Monday I returned from Florida where I visited my family for an early Thanksgiving. I traveled down on November 20th, the eighth anniversary of my Mom's passing, with the intention of visiting her grave while I was down there ~ something I have not done since the burial. I was also to be reunited with people I hadn't seen for a long time. I had some apprehension before I left, since I had not been in the same space with so many members of my family at the same time in years. I don't know why families create such a strong emotional effect, but they do.
My time in Florida was absolutely wonderful. Whatever trepidation I felt before I left melted instantly when I got there. It was really good to see everyone, and a whole lot of healing took place that weekend. I was reunited with my brother, my former sister-in-law, and their two daughters, although not all at once. Many apologies were made, many tears shed, many souls cleansed. We all left feeling renewed, and ready to make a new start. I am ever-so-grateful for having had the opportunity to play mediator and accept my role as the matriarch of the family. What a concept! That entailed a lot of growing up on my part over these past years, but I think I managed to pull it off.
Back at home a couple of days later, we took the four hour drive to Massachusetts to see my mother-in-law, who is not in the best of health these days. We checked into a hotel in Cambridge, home of Harvard University, and wandered about the city enjoying all the sights. At one time I lived there - in fact it is where I met my dear husband twenty-nine years ago. We drove past my old apartment, which back then was rent-controlled. I shared that apartment with another woman, and we paid a total of $150. rent per month! I wonder if it is still the same now.
The three of us later ate at a wonderful Indian restaurant, and we felt so good to be having a good meal in a good city and having good memories as well as making new ones. Going back there with our daughter was a special treat for all of us.
So, here we are in December already! I am wishing you Happy Holidays in advance! Another year is about to close and we will soon be standing on the threshold of yet another horizon to explore. Let’s go for it! I wish you and yours many bright and beautiful blessings, and may all those who read this have peace and joy in their hearts, minds and lives. J
Love, JEM