Happy New Year to you, too, Joan! I totally get it about downsizing the tree and the ornaments —I’ve done exactly the same thing. We used to have a huge tree and it took a ton of ornaments. Now the tree is much smaller, and I’ve pulled the most special ornaments out of the tubs to use, leaving the rest all packed up. Of course the most special of all are the photo ornaments of all the family pets through the years — they go on first and get the prime spots.

I can easily imagine how your heartstrings were pulled by those images of Lena and Gable alongside the tree. Sweet, sweet memories, indeed. Such sweet Cushbabies, both of them. I’m so sorry that you and they ended up afflicted with this disease. But if there’s any silver lining at all, it’s that they brought you to our family. For that we’re so grateful, for all the help you give us and all the support you give to our members.

You deserve a safe and happy new year, Joan, and I truly hope that’s exactly what you’ll be getting in 2020!