Well, the holidays are over. I haven't posted for awhile. It isn't because I don't miss Mom and Dad every day--I do. For Thanksgiving this year, we made a little turkey in the crock pot and had John up for dinner. Joe, Judy, Jeff and John were here for Christmas--on Dec. 23. We didn't do gifts or anything. We had pizza and watched a movie. Joe made oyster soup. Dad used to make that sometimes on Christmas Eve. It was a much better time than last year. We're getting there. I missed watching football with Dad on New Year's Day.

Jonna had her baby on Nov. 30th. Elenna Ruth. Another great-granddaughter for Mom and Dad. They would've loved that.

We sold our house in Oolitic--the closing was on Dec. 29th. It is weird how you think about things. I wanted to share the news with Mom and Dad--but then, I wouldn't even be selling the house if they hadn't died. We are SO lucky to have sold this house in this market, this time of year, etc. It was really only on the market for about 3 months. I thank God for this--I believe it was divine intervention of some sort. Maybe Mom and Dad helped or something. We buried Saint Joseph in the front yard. He helped, too.

Mary Jo Drehobl passed away on Dec. 21st. She was Bud's (Mom's brother's) wife. Bob and I went to the viewing in Indianapolis on Dec. 26th.

At this time I am experiencing some depression. Maybe it is the time of year. I don't know. I'm just down about stuff--life in general. I still have this huge hole in my heart and a feeling of emptiness. I don't think the holidays will ever mean the same to me again. I'm just glad it is all over. I hope 2009 is a better year.

I miss you Mom and Dad.

Love, Susie