Thank you, Chuck, for the update. I have thought of Sue over the last few weeks. We always remember those that are missing at this time of year, at least I do. I hope that you and your family can find joy in the memories that you will always have. Have a blessed Christmas.

I have been sitting here trying to think of what someone could have said to me that first Christmas that would have helped. And the answer is nothing. There is a vacancy that cannot be filled. I think you just have to muddle through it and experience the range of emotions that bubble up. It did help me to change the traditions we had developed over the years a bit, because I found if I tried to do everything the same it felt hollow - someone was missing. It is hard and you can get through it one step at a time. Grief is simply the price we pay for being willing to allow so much love into our lives. Merry Christmas, Chuck.

Thanks for the update, Chuck. I have thought of you guys, but did not pick up the phone and call. The grieving process is different for everyone so I won't say I know how you feel. I do know "firsts" are always very hard. Christmas can be the worst. You just need to do what makes YOU feel better. I'm glad you're going south this winter. I hope you come back feeling somewhat healed. Surround yourself with friends and family whenever possible and talk about Sue as much as you can handle. Soon you will be able to talk about the fun times and say her name without tears if you haven't yet. My prayers are with you and your family.

Thanks for your update, Chuck. I was always amazed at the many and different things that triggered my tears after my mother died. I pray that your tears bring warm memories. I have so often thought of Sue and Kathy Wolf these past few months and of the fun we had with Scouts and other kid activities. I am so proud of Kathy and her current work with the Girl Scouts and the GS leaders. So like her mother! We will continue to keep your whole family in our prayers during this holiday season as we know how difficult Christmas will be without Sue. We will appreciate the hugs that come our way--as advised!

Chuck thanks for the update on how life is going without your love. Every time I walk by the lab window I think of your smiling wife. Keep up the cooking,and remember that's why grocery stores have deli take out. Prayers and a few smiles to you and your family as you celebrate this Christmas. Enjoy your adventures down south.

Thanks so much for sharing. You and your family are still in our prayers and thoughts. Sue was such an amazing woman, the empty pit you feel must be unbearable at times. Feel a warm hug coming your way. I pray for strength and comfort for you just as much now as before. I wish you a Christmas filled with that hope that is only there because of the true meaning of Christmas. Enjoy your family two-fold, for you and Sue. All our love.

You know we think of you all the time! Suz was more than one of my cousins, she was a sister I never had! I know what you mean about people not wanting to bring up her name. For us that have lost someone so dear, we want to talk about them and our memories all the time. It's our way of not forgetting them and how special they were and are! Always remember, she loved you and yours so much! She is watching over you in peace and with so much pride! Take care and wishing you 'enough'! Love to you and knowing how holidays can hurt! May smiles with your tears come often!

Keep remembering and talking about her - the good feelings come mixed with the bad, but the light that she brought to your lives will find a way to peek through in those moments. I bet it's great when those grandkids talk about her and remember her as you guys form new memories together. Today was one of the first days that I saw a picture of mom and felt happy instead of sad - 3 long years! I hope you all find what happiness you can out of Christmas this year.

I think of u often Chuck, so glad to hear from you. I hope u and your family have a Merry Christmas. Say hello to everyone.

Chuck-
I worked with Sue at Ridgeview and like many others have said she was so dear to me. The words you have shared are so familiar to me. I lost my mom 1 1/2 years ago, and my Dads journey has been so very similar to yours. They were also early in retirement. But a year and a half later he is still plugging along. And guess what? He just headed south and is enjoying it! Yes- we miss her terribly especially this time of year as she too enjoyed all the activities that go with Christmas but she would want us to keep moving on as would Sue. Hang in there Allison family- time has a way of healing and there are many prayers being sent your way.

Alycia Rosenlund