To Whom It May Concern:
I left New York City without saying goodbye to those whom I have shared a lifetime of memories and incredible experiences. I feel sad that we couldn’t have a last face to face thank you and bon voyage. The climate of our lives and world has created a separation due to health restrictions and regulations which I too take very seriously. But since my Mother passed in November of 2018 I have felt separate from the world trying to mourn her loss and celebrate her victory in life. Then as I was about to come to terms with these realities a series of life changing events thrust themselves into my life. I was again isolated in order to focus on supporting life and a future full of uncertainty. I lost, but I gained a renewed faith in how life can evolve in a way I had not conceived of it previously. This viral pandemic not only changed our lives but it opened the door for the fear of the unforeseen. The Ghost of IXMAS Future is real and walking amongst us. We can be saved by our humanity, or friendship and our wonderful memories of triumph in our relationships personal and professional.
It is the triumph, the memories, the bonds of friendship that forever link us together. Let no one or nothing take this away from us. We laughed, we were sad, we had fun; we worked hard side by side to create a more ideal place. A place of comfort emotionally and visually. I say to you my friends, students whom I had the pleasure of guiding and colleagues at work; thank you AWL for your rich collaboration and generosity. My journey, although continues in a new place, has been wonderful; I have learned so much from you and from myself.
It would take me a very long time to sit and write a personal note, in length, to you AWL. I do hope this in some way is sufficient and explanatory. Melissa and I enjoy our new home and focus. Although I could use a bit more riding time, but that will come. "M" still needs my assistance and I am also ambivalent about letting her fly out of the nest right now with a cane in hand and still not totally stable. She is more relaxed, more retrospective and very witty these days. A side of a person I thought I had seen AWL the acts, but this one is new and very entertaining. We both kept each other alive during her hospital and rehab term. Even into some dark days of late last Summer when the bonds seemed to be falling off the Ix Family clan. WE drove to Florida and back and then down finally to live during a crazy time in life. And I am happy to say that "M" currently has a win streak of 8 games to my 4 in Scrabble. We sit and watch the sunset as much as we can; our home/lanai faces west, we toast it with a glass of Prosecco. Little Nina Bell seems to enjoy her new digs. She went from the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri to Spring Lake NJ & NYC, not bad for a little shy rescue. WE often speak of our little Cairo, she would have loved the AC AWL the time in Florida. She was special, I miss her so.
I won't bore you anymore. I enjoy writing these entries. It is therapy for me and I need to heal also in some way. I don't put myself before other's needs though, unless Double Dark Chocolate Milano's are the prize--WATCHOUT! So when this world is righted, like a turtle on its back shell who needs assistance so he/she can go on its way, you are welcome to our little [peace] of heaven. Feel free to pass this on to others. I may miss someone who might want to know where WE are and so on.... Don't be surprised that you may receive a handwritten note from me, I love to send cards and notes.
God (or whatever you believe in or put your faith, I am with ya) Bless you AWL. Now say GOOD NIGHT Mrs. Calabash wherever you are!
