Last December, I bought cards and was determined to send them, … but I couldn’t. ... Anne always did that. 

This year I again decided not to send cards. The decision was a combination of a rebellion against commercialism and because I still didn't feel up to it.  But,  ... I received a card from Donnamay Wagner, Anne’s cousin, now living in Florida. In her note she said, “Hope you stay in the family, we love you.”

Donnamay will get a card because the last thing I want to do is have her think that I have forgotten her. She always had a special place in Anne's heart and mine. She also said that she has been praying for me. I needed that and I thank her. 

I have misplaced the cards I received last Christmas but as I receive cards this year, they are being answered in kind. I do not want to sever connections to the people Anne and I loved. Sending the cards has become a thing of joy, not a difficult task. (I'm still looking for the stack of card from last year and Anne's old card list.)

Don

p.s. God bless Donnamay. She put the spirit of Christmas in my heart.