Semper Paratus, Dear Bryan

I cannot even write this without weeping. I have not been present here at Belle, Book, and Candle due to the death a week ago of my 30-year old nephew Bryan. He was killed in an automobile accident in Charlotte, North Carolina where he lived with his parents (my brother and his wife) while he finished up his college education.

After high school, Bryan served four years with the U.S. Coast Guard and then joined the Air National Guard. He was extremely proud of his military service.

He loved movies and would watch his favorites over and over. He often entertained me by quoting entire scenes of dialogue and one-line zingers from so many films. He enjoyed music and had been in his high school chorus. One year he performed with the group in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade.  His fondness for animals led to his bringing home many stray cats to care for...often to the chagrin of his parents.

As you might imagine, this has been an extremely difficult and heartbreaking time for those of us who knew and loved Bryan.

This week, I am spending private time in New Harmony, Indiana. Last month, I had arranged to rent a cottage in this historic place that is hardly more than a village. It was founded as a Utopian community in the early 1800s. There are many quiet gardens and spots to rest and reflect here.

All I hear from my seat on the cottage's screened in porch are birdsong and the soothing sound of a nearby church bell chiming the hours away.

It is the perfect place to try and begin life again without our sweet, sweet Bryan.