Surprises

I wanted to write a piece on this, and for a few hours I thought about what to write. Now I know that a lifelong family friend, Helen M, has died. How long did we know one another? I was born in the same hospital she died in, just the other day. Our thoughts and prayers are with an educated, talented loving wife and mother and grandmother who taught me about Italy and Italian food. While I don’t make pastries (you know I don’t bake) the tastes and ethos of Italy were transported to me through Helen.

Yes, there were other surprises to share with you but that will have to go to tomorrow’s post. I knew Helen every day of my life and I’m old. Helen had a je ne sais quois that few people have. It was a treat to meet her, spend weekends at her home with all the cuckoo clocks, and as a child I lived in their pool.

My Aunt and J just got back from a trip and visited the memorials they made to my late mother. They will drive half a day and attend the funeral. I hope Mom and Helen get together and dish and share recipes. That is my wish.

Here’s to Helen’s family and to strong women everywhere. Helen, you will be missed. Dee