Dear Maurine, My heart aches for your sister-in-law in the tragic loss of her precious son. No one should have to suffer that pain.

Dear Lily of the Valley, My heartfelt sympathy to your sister in the loss of her darling daughter.

There is no greater pain. As I read this poem, tears ran down my face. In sympathy for all those lost. Our granddaughter lost her only son, 19 years old, in a horrific accident, on April 3, 2006. Five weeks later on May 8th, our grandson and his wife lost their newborn - perfect in every apparent way - no reason for the death, according to the doctor. They are buried side by side. It is so difficult to understand why someone so young should be taken. The hopes and dreams unfulfilled. There is no way to express the sorrow, the emptiness. The saving grace for our family is that we are christians and we believe in eternal life through Jesus Christ. It’s the only way possible for us to carry on. My heart aches for every person who has ever lost a child. It is the hardest thing required in life.

Mugsy, We visited Italy, too. Can’t say that I was impressed with the cleanliness of the ancient city of Naples, but I was impressed with some of the geographical splendor and with the people. Unforgettable.

Kelly Kelly, Loved your post. Bet you were the cutest thing around.

I’ve been swept away at those sales a few times but now I have a rule that I live by: If I don’t love it, don’t buy it. It works for me. Enjoyed the story.

Mai Veide - How about a little sensitivity of your own?

I love to cook and bake but my favorite thing is “Reservations Out”.

My husband has a terrific sense of humor and makes me laugh all the time. He makes words up - like cul de sac is a cuddlesack and a dollop of whipped cream is a dolly pop. He’s hard of hearing now and frequently misunderstands what I say. His translation is truly hilarious at times. I am blessed. A merry heart doeth good like a medicine. All this after 61 years!!! Peg o my heart - I enjoyed your sister’s poetry. Worthy of a hoot!!!

Phyllis - Gone With the Wind is my all time favorite, too. Others on my list would include Thornbirds, North and South and another that I continue to watch over and over is Anne of Green Gables. I have a love affair going with all of these.

If my house caught on fire or a flood was imminent, I would save my prized possession: My Family Tree books. I have been doing geneaology since 1978. Included therein are photos, marriage licenses, death certificates, baptisms, original stories - our whole family history. My father’s side of the family is traced back to the 1500’s and has been published; my Mom’s is traced to pre-Civil War era. Everything is documented.

GT, Suzanne de Cornelia recently recommended “Seabiscuit” as a favorite book. I received the movie and book a few years ago. Enjoyed the movie a couple of times, but never got around to reading the book until this weekend. It’s a new understanding of everything involved with horse racing. A great book. Congratulations on your beautiful mare and the joy she brought you. Thanks to Suzanne, too, for suggesting “Seabiscuit”.

Bonnie, your true-life story was very touching and heartwarming. Thanks for sharing. I have tears in my eyes.

I enjoyed re-reading each post. Simply marvelous. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent and personal experiences with us.

Doll lady, you will see on my post that I also chose the Bible. Was fascinated by the Left Behind series and could not wait for the next book to hit the stores. You would probably enjoy anything written by Francine Rivers. She’s an outstanding author.