SWEET INNOCENCE

 SWEET INNOCENCE

We found it by chance

the little diner

that served grilled pecan rolls

on Sunday morning

we went there after Mass

enjoyed the coffee and the rolls

but mainly each other’s company—

our own special time

in our own special place

two kids from the U. P.

newly in love

with everything

bright and shiny.

Time was forever then

we had each other

and needed nothing more.

Now our secret rendezvous

is a bed and breakfast

I pass by it often

pecan rolls just a memory

yet I feel such softness in my heart

remembering how everything fit

all was perfect as could be

we had each other

wanted for nothing. 

John A. Bayerl, December 22, 2011

I've been having particularly poignant memories of Gwen tonight.  In a good way.  I think she loves the little Christmas Tree that Nick, Izzy and Brooke decorated.  Ginette gave me the idea of putting baby's breath on it, and a long time ago Gwen wanted to put red ribbons on our tree, but somehow we never got around to it. Tonight we did.  

Tomorrow will be Christmas Eve; we'll celebrate at Terri's house first, and then at home with the whole family gathered around.  I will set an empty plate at the table when we eat, and we'll drink a toast of Bailey's Irish Cream, Gwen's favorite when she made her famous "I should drink more" statement.  

How could I not think of you tonight, Dear,  with tears in my eyes and a lump in my throat as your grandchildren made an ordinary miniature evergreen into a thing of beauty?   As you are reflected in them, so are you also in the tree--a comforting thought.