Long Ago But Not So Far Away

This photo was taken in the late 80s. From the top left, Patrick, Laura, Steve and his wife Panda, in some apartment pool (mine, probably).

Together

Sometimes we are together, sometimes apart, but we always care ... people are sometimes surprised how close our family is, because it is a closeness that is not dependent upon physical proximity. Our extended family is always in touch.
Now, Steve is in another country we call the land of the dead, but he knows it will only be a moment before we are together again, and next time around on earth, we will do things better. We learned a lot this time.

Charming

I bought three charms in Williamsburg, Virginia between Christmas and New Year's, a horse, to represent my son Patrick, who was born in the year of the Horse, a fan, for my daughter Laura, who is very feminine, and a tricorne hat, for my friend Osprey, who wears a tricorne in Second Life as her usual costume. As you may observe, the moonstone has fallen out of my central star charm :(.

Bluejay from B Squared

Botz sent me this bluejay ornament ... I had told her that "I see dead people" as bluejays. My departed loved ones' spirits come to me and insist on letting me know they are doing well. For whatever reason, they appear as bluejays, which I love anyway.

LOVE this gift! Thank you Botz, very very thoughtful gift.