Samain                                                           Moving Moon

On the first day of packing the Woollies gave to me, not a partridge, but themselves. Meeting at the Nicollet Island Inn close by the Mississippi River Tom, Bill, Frank, Stefan, Charlie H., Warren, Bill, and Mark sat around a festive table and shared stories.

Mark spoke of Bobby Tuff, the woodworking sensei who reappeared in his life, bringing life lessons with a table saw and exotic woods. Frank, Warren and Tom had been sick: Warren after Disney World and a cruise, Tom after multiple family holiday dinners and Frank after visiting grandchildren. Stefan has been caring for Lonnie, flew out to LA to spend time with Taylor. Scott saw Heather and Lila. He also recovered territory in his home. Warren wants to do the same in his.

Ode takes off for France in January. Charlie leaves for Bisbee, AZ on Feb. 15th.

Charlie and Ode collaborated on a book of Charlie’s poetry which we each got as presents. Ode gave us the cutting boards made of beautiful woods that he learned to fashion with Bobby.

Tom’s generosity paid for the meal and his heartfelt remarks echoed a slightly teary tone around the table. May old acquaintance not be forgot and always brought to mind.

I will miss these guys. 27 years together. And still discovering new things about each other. A holiseason miracle.