Lily was One and we went to visit Mom Mom & Pop Pop

Mom Mom was teaching Lily how to play Piano (the right way)

Oh my gosh this memory of Joan always makes me laugh, I had spent Christmas with the family as I was a good friend of Dian’s and for whatever reason I wanted to skip just one Christmas in Alabama, my home state.  You would too, Its often too warm and the citizens of the state mostly discuss the Crimson Tide at every turn!

Joe was driving us to Linda’s on either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day  , I was wearing this fleece jacket in the car,  Joan turned around and pretty much quoted the number of Coke a Cola bottles it took to make my jacket from recycled materials  ! I didn’t laugh of course but wanted to, I thanked her for the information but I’ve always thought the comment so funny and of course highly informed like she was on probably everything!

Joan and Joe always welcomed me with the most lovely of open arms. Huge smiles upon arrival always. 

I remember too once in Joan’s garden  in the thick of summer, the height of her zinnias was awarding winning. I passed by every plant with her , she had something to comment on with each one.

My favorite talk with her was about the sculpture she made that was placed in the front lawn, I don’t remember the exact content of the talk but I listened carefully as she walked me through the characteristics of the piece.  

The week before Joan died I thought of her and the family daily. I keep thinking , no , it’s too early for her to go. 

I was wrong. I guess I was just in denial that Joan would leave so soon.

I truly admire the life she led, a master at seemingly everything she undertook.

I have such fun and heartfelt memories with all the Needham’s!  Linda’s hummus is unbeatable, Leslie’s spare room in CA served as home base 11 years ago, Lisa’s home in Park City provided a weekend place to escape to when I worked in Brigham City, Utah, The Cape with Chris was a big favorite too. I remember being at the hockey rink with Scott and his family watching Spencer play  

Dian has been the truest of friends since we met in 1995. The gratitude is endless with her. 

Words cannot express my thankfulness for all of you being in my life.  

I pray a lot for Joe especially.

Xox,

Sarah