Dear friends,

Today marks 7 months since we lost our Rita. I've been missing her more than ever. The six month milestone on January 1 was particularly difficult for me. A new year has come, but this one will be wholly without my mom. It has been so disorientating to lose my North Star, and I am still trying to find my way anew. It's not been easy, and I know I have a long grief journey ahead of me. But as much as I can, I am trying to have patience and self-compassion and to view my uncharted new reality with curiosity and hope. It's a practice. (Do you want to talk about or learn about grief?? I'm your gal.)

I have some news to share. We have set a date to mourn our loss and celebrate Rita's life: Sunday, June 2, at the Aspen School District Theatre in the afternoon. Everyone is welcome. More details will be forthcoming, of course.

I also wanted to make sure you knew that we closed mom's PO Box. That address was her portal to many of your lives. It was proof of her 50-year residence in this community which she loved so dearly. Salt on the wound, but it had to be done. We get our mail at 675 Brush Creek Rd., Aspen, CO 81611. I keep trying to muster the courage to cancel the phone service for 923-3327 but I'm just not there yet.

Finally, I am looking for some help. I have not been able to make any progress on a grave marker for Rita. I am not sure how to choose words that will do a life so brilliant and remarkable justice. And because the words will be set to stone for eternity, they must be perfect. So maybe we just crowdsource this and go with what feels the most true to most of us? Will you text or email me words that you think evoke Rita's life and spirit? I can't wait to see what you have to say. Thank you!

Please don't hesitate to reach out. I've realized that without Rita, I have lost a current and vital connection to so many of you. Rita kept me connected to your lives, whether you knew it or not. I miss hearing all the latest news from Lake Wobegon! I also love to hear when you are thinking of Rita, the times and reasons you miss her, a memory that made you smile. I will never ever want to stop talking about her, despite the inevitable tears it brings - they're just proof of my most profound and everlasting love for her. 

Sending love and light to all of you.
Christy