Such tender moments

I've just now finished opening the condolence cards and have loved some of the sentiments.  I notice I'm more intrigued by the cards that weren't sold as "sympathy" cards--I like the ones people just grab on which they've written something of their own design. And the messages have been wonderful and especially sweet.  The messages come from some people I know well and from others who are complete strangers to me, but not to Pete.  There's the 93 year old gal who was one of Pete's swimming girls at the Y.  He'd always say, "Good morning, gorgeous," to her.  And if her friend Cora left her car running (again), Pete would always shut it off for her while she was in class.  And there were former students who loved him as a teacher  and coach, and others who knew him well and loved him as a kid at Luther.  A whole new side of Pete for me to discover.

And now I'm responding to those who sent memorials--think I have about 200 or so to write.  But I'm going to take my time and enjoy each person's card/memorial and respond with a heartfelt message rather than a simple quip.

I have zinnias on the table, wine or coffee in my glass, and I'm going for it...may take time, but at times I'm reliving a bit I'd never known before.  What a rascal.