It’s fun to remember special times and special people. Fran was one of those special people. This is a look back at six years ago and Fran’s St. Pat’s Day lunch.
Fran’s luncheons were always a treat and the March get-together was no exception. St. Patrick’s Day was the theme so tables were decked in green with here and there, a ceramic leprechaun to keep an eye on things. 
My sister-in-law Linda drove over from Tahlequah. Jane, Linda, and I went to Fran’s together, arriving at the same time as Cozy Critter Judy who will soon be leaving to make her home in Texas.
Fran keeps an evergreen tree in her foyer year round. It holds seasonal decorations and yesterday, St. Pat’s Day cards nestled among the branches.
Salads, soups, desserts all were a treat to the eye as well as the taste buds. Chatter and laughter flowed as we sat around the table. 
Nancy, Peg, as well as Judy, Jane and I represented the Cozy Critters who were present.
My niece Missy sent a beautiful version of an eighth century Irish hymn, “Be Thou My Vision”.
Since St. Pat’s Day is tomorrow, I thought you might enjoy listening to it. It has been one of my favorites for many years.https://youtu.be/aAW_h3Dobj8. I shared it with Fran and she found other versions of that lovely song. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=jIMhshpf0Y4 and also https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gdRs9osxAkg.
Of course, all this leads my thoughts back to the Emerald Isle. I was blessed to visit it several years ago. Ireland has a long, sometimes tragic, but always enchanting and courageous history. I’ll carry a bit of Ireland in my heart always. 
Top o’ the morning to you, dear Blanche…and all who read!
What an Irish blessing to have this be the first thing I read today!
How I miss all of you sitting around my table! You’ve just given me such joy in remembering all those times, Blanche!
Everybody’s life has been disrupted these past few years, but memories of joyful times give joy and comfort..and hope for better times again!
I’m not able to stay in contact or continue lunches or retreats here, but I just finished writing out an email/snail mail retreat I’m ready to send to whoever would like! I’ve enjoyed putting it together because it’s made me feel close to you all as I’ve been “Remembering the Evidence of the Goodness of God All Over Your Life” ..I can definitely say that’s what you all are to me! Thank you, for this true blessing, Blanche!
I love being back home in Idaho with such a busy life, Jim and I are doing fine, such fun to have family near finally…but I’ll always miss my life and friends in Arkansas! Thank you again for this blessing, Blanche!
Thanks for writing, Fran. I hope all goes well for you and your family. I have many fond memories of your time with us and I’m grateful I got to know you.