Some of you might know that one of my four brothers died on 12-12-12. I got the call that evening and was shocked beyond comprehension. Youngish, sturdy and strong, with a heart as big as Texas, Jeff succumbed to complications from a surgery that should have been routine. I miss him terribly; his gruff southern accent, his very amusing and philosophical views on the world, and the way we laughed to tears at jokes that only a brother and sister could think were funny!
My heart broken, I travelled home to bury him and to be with my family. I just returned two nights ago. Needless to say our Christmas celebrations have been almost nonexistent.
But today our small west coast family gathered for Boxing Day and opening presents. I found great solace in taking a little time to create a small celebration, including a real southern menu for dinner and decorating the table with simple things like a manzanita branch and old family things. I just wish Jeff were here to celebrate with us; but I know that he is somewhere with a great big set of new angel wings growing out of his back, and will probably swoop down for a peek. He had no end of fascination with the way his sister fussed around with things.
Simply done, and the best I could muster under the circumstances. The evening brought a measure of cheer and comfort to those of us mourning his loss. We had a quiet, peaceful time together.
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| simple bay leaves are pretty against the silver charger and shell plates; different patterns of silverware and heirloom glass plates are part of the simple holiday setting |
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| that's a manzanita branch standing in for extemporaneous centerpiece surrounded by votives and some greenery from the garden |
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| pretty vintage glass plates for bread and butter |
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| the manzanita is topped by a Monrovian star that my grandmother Amie brought back from her travels to Turkey in the 1920's |
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| the soft glow of candlelight is irresistible |
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| the sideboard with angels marching across |
hoping this season finds you happy and warm
and in the heart of your family
with love from Kit
