New Tradition

A new chapter, or maybe tradition, has been placed before us to either continue on with, or simple let pass. I felt like taking hold of that tradition and carry it forward. See, Shawn lost his dad, Charlie, 17 years ago. Every year, Shawn's mom, like clock work, would place a wreath at Charlie's headstone for Christmas. Since she is now in a nursing home, someone needed to do it. Like a school girl waving her hand with excitement, I wanted Shawn and I to be the ones to do it.

From the store to home, the smell of cedar and fir engulfed my car. Goose bumps ran up my back at the thought of this wreath going to its final placement, taking the same path Charlie did. It road in the back seat of my car, from LaGrange to Smithfield. Strong and beautiful.

A cold, dreary December day has been turned into one filled with warm thoughts and love....meant to be carried on....

Charlie,

I am told many stories about you. Some crazy and wild, but all of them nice. I think we would have gotten along very well had we met. You would be very proud of everything Shawn has accomplished, and even more proud of the way he does what's right even when it's hard. I look forward to that day when I can hug you and say, "Thank you for raising a good man!"

Merry Christmas, Charlie.

Your daughter-in-law,
Sarah