No gray clouds could take away the great afternoon I have had. A cup of coffee at Lorraine’s home made the day feel oh so special. Lorraine worked for me years ago and left the employment to be a stay at home mom for their two adopted daughters.
Lorraine continued to stay at home to care for the infant granddaughter, Peggy, so the eldest daughter, Louise, could finish high school.
Over time, Lorraine lost the youngest of her adopted daughters, Tammy, to an illness. Lorraine’s husband passed away right after he reached retirement age. This last May, Lorraine lost the second of two granddaughters, Kathy, to cancer.
Lorraine lives in a two bedroom apartment in one of the apartment houses here in St. James. She is a very private individual. I am so privileged to call her my friend. Though not many people visit her home, the ambiance that met me today was astounding. Every nook of the home was filled with evidence of how much Christmas means to Lorraine. The small village that was set up exuded the same warmth that I felt the moment I stepped into her home. I had to ask if it would be okay to peek into every corner and then marvel. I could tell that Lorraine so enjoyed sharing with me how each and every aspect of her bounty came to be. More than I could count, were hand quilted lovelies.
The coffee was served with goodies, as Lorraine loves to bake, but does not have many to bake for. The plate of goodies that was sent home with me will not be ignored by Dennis, I can tell you that for sure.
Two cups of coffee and some date bread made me feel so full of the joy in knowing this wonderful person. Just priceless.