Many people that I know claim that 2016 has not been a good year… and I’ve heard many folks say that the are looking forward to 2017 thinking “things couldn’t get worse.” This is a terrible thing to say as things can ALWAYS get worse… as this children’s book by Margot Zemach clearly illustrates.
A pie in progress for Angelina and Josephine.
On a personal level, the year has been challenging for me in several respects. First, there was the loss of my Dad this spring. He was such a fixture in my life and moving on after that loss has not been easy because, unfortunately, grief has a way of taking its’ own sweet time.
Another event has also left a scar. A few months ago, I was betrayed by a person that I loved and trusted. This news came as quite a shock to me and realizing that someone that I cared about could hurt me in such a profound way has left me questioning everything.
A pie for Charles on his birthday.
For most of my life, I have tried to believe that the world was a good place and that we should treat others as we would want to be treated. Now that I have been faced with this situation, I find myself wondering if I’ll be able to do that anymore. The short answer is, I truly hope so, however, I am sure that this incident will bring a transformation of some kind.
On a positive note, after a short time, I found myself baking pies once again. That is a good sign for sure! This pie baking “thing” really seems to help me be the person that I want to be…. kind, caring, and perhaps even a little bit vulnerable.
On Christmas Day, I watched “It’s a Wonderful Life” with my kids, Alex and Coco. At the end of the movie, my daughter asked, “Did Mr. Potter ever give the money back to George Bailey?” I said, “I I don’t think so. But it really doesn’t matter because George didn’t need the money… the people that he had helped all his life came to help him in his hour of need.” George truly was “the richest man in town” because he had so many people that loved him. My wish for you, is that when you are in need, that you are as lucky, and as loved, as George Bailey.
My very best wishes to everyone for a very Happy New Year!
“Betray a friend and you will often find that you have ruined yourself.” Aesop, Aesop’s Fables
Pie a Day Give Away 
Beautifully written Karen. My heart is sad because you were hurt so badly. My heart rejoices tho in knowing all the happiness and smiles you have brought to others. Hang in there brave and thoughtful woman.
I think the love others have for you equals or exceeds George Bailey’s. Sometimes we know less about ourselves and how we touch others than we will ever know. Trust in the love in your heart and all will work out.
Thank you Donna… so much.
Happy new year and sending you big hugs during these challenging times ❤️
Thank you Arianna! xxoo
Karen something positive that came from your fathers passing was the ability to reconnect with people you haven’t seen for a while. You are a beautiful person with a loving heart. Their should be more people like you in this world. It would be a much better place. I myself believe that everything happens for a reason and that their is a master plan. Always look forward to good things ahead. Happy and healthy new year to you and your family and hope to see you again soon!
Thank you Valarie! It was good to see your Mom and Dad this week. I appreciate your positive spin on things! xxoo Happy New Year!
Wishing a new year of healing and growth for us all!
Safe travels, & see you soon.
Ellen
Amen sister! xxoo
You are an incredible person and do not change a thing! We can not control what those do around us or too us but we can control our response! Just continue to be the loving caring person you are!!! 😘❤️ Looking forward to spending some quality time with you soon!!
Connie, cooking with you would be a blast. Let me know when works… Happy New Year! and hugs to you and Mark!
Karen, you are a talented, loving, beautiful person who is all about giving. It’s wonderful that you are once again baking, which is your lovely way of sharing your gifts. I know you will never let outside circumstances take away your inner beauty. You go girl!
Hope to see you soon.
Many hugs……..
Dear Sandy, I will get in touch soon about lunch/coffee or whatever. Thank you for being there. xxoo
Thank you for being such a bright light in this world. Wishing you and your family a sweet 2017. Hugs, Chris
You are sweet to say this Chris! Happy New Year to you and Vicki!
Karen, may 2017 bring you the joy and happiness you deserve.
Thank you Gary! I’ve been thinking of you and wanting to trade “food” for business advice. Interested?