Whatever Happiness We Have Is Pure Gravy!

Saturday, Jan. 7, 1989

Dear Family: ...

What a wonderful start to a wonderful life: Thoughtful gifts from our near and dear: Since I know it's difficult to buy for the retired couple, I'll forgive the "flute", "the word game that will only lead to divorce" and "one Acrostic-puzzle book guaranteed to drive me up the wall". We thank you for slippers, bath-robes, blazers, Cross-word puzzles, casual jacket, books, magazines, all of which will enhance our lives.

It was fun to share this Christmas with Lynn, John and their two boys, Johnny and Mikey. They liked the freedom of the Annex and we could be with them when they wanted us or vice versa. The toys came in a million parts, with or without batteries...

It's been very nostalgic, taking down Frank's Christmas tree (a tall artificial one that has earned its rest). We've saved some ornaments that we'd like to keep; Lynn took some that had meaning for her and the rest will grace the Salvation Army. In fact, we are getting more organized about dismantling the Annex in order to sell it in the next six months. We have to make the guest room here into a den so that we can spread out the Navy, the records of many years, all the things Frank shouldn't have to part with. ...

This has been a great year for us, the courtship, the questions, the culmination of discovering each other's attributes, caring and sharing qualities.... and love. And, how very special that our kids like not only us, but each other. At this stage in our lives, whatever happiness we have, is "pure gravy"!

Hope everything is diving in '89.

Love,

Mom

All I can add is AMEN!

Frank