Condolence: Dear Annette and Paul, Even for someone whose career is spent with words, sometimes it's impossible to find just the right ones to convey feelings. That's where I find myself now. On Sunday, the world lost a special soul, and I lost a godmother, someone whom I have loved dearly for many years--even though time and distance kept us somewhat separated. I've spent the last few days reflecting and remembering, and I'd like to share a few of my thought and memories with you with the hope that some will bring a smile. Mae's quick laugh, contagious smile, and quiet, unassuming demeanor helped an introverted little girl feel safe and loved in her presence. I remember spending hours playing "Pop goes the weasel" with the little knickknacks from the kitchen and sitting on the porch reading, chatting, and working on the produce from the huge gardens that my pipere and Jimmy planted each year. I will always remember the bountiful "year of zucchini", when my mimere put shredded zucchini in everything from cookies to cakes. Who knew there were so many ways to use that vegetable? I have also thought about Mae's gentle love of animals--all of them--even the bunnies that liked to enjoy the veggies in the garden, which caused great consternation for the gardeners sometimes. Her kindness toward God's creatures was a passion that we shared, and even now I think of her when I feed the birds in my own feeders or overlook it when the chipmunks steal my flower bulbs. But, the biggest influence Mae may have had on my little girl days revolved around books. I loved books, as did she, and I carry her words about reading in my heart and have shared them liberally with others. She told me that books were a blessing ... that in their words you could go anywhere, be anything, and always find friends. And she was right. When I lose myself in the words of book, somehow, I think she will always be there next to me. I will miss Mae, and I will always treasure her memory. I hope that my life reflects some of her qualities, and I find some peace in the image of her and Jimmy, Aunt Gert and Uncle Art, Mimere and Pipere, Aunt Rose, and Aunt Evelyn and Uncle Merrill enjoying their shenanigans in heaven. Much love and many prayers for you in this time of loss. Erica

Condolence: Dear Annette & Paul, So many memories but the things I will remember most about my dear cousin were her sweet smile and the twinkle in her eye when she laughed, which was often. In the last few years, we visited each time we were in North Adams and always spent the afternoon reminiscing, many times about my father and I am truly thankful for the stories she shared which I otherwise would never have known. We will miss our visits with her. Please know our prayers are with you during this difficult time.