I have very good news to share with you. Paul Reilly and I were married on December 4, 1999 at St. Catherine Church in Connecticut. Our Pastors concelebrated the Nuptial Mass. It was a very unusual December day -temperatures rising into the 70’s. In the holiday rush following our honeymoon trip we didn’t have time to send any Christmas cards. But, I’m back ............

Our first year was full and busy. Paul has four lovely daughters Kathleen Piccard, Anne Urkawich, Elaine Reilly and Karen Reilly, two sons-in-law John Piccard and Jim Urkawich, and a delightful 21 month old grandson, Johnny Piccard. Elaine, a first grade teacher, moved into her own apartment in August, leaving only Karen at home with us. Karen is in advertising with Revlon in New York and loves it. Anne manages a new children’s museum which opened last spring. Kathleen is a happy homemaker and a wonderful Mom.

My parents have had their share of illness this year but recovered remarkably well. They are amazing. Jeanie is now in leading the Nine-O-Clock Players group of the Assistance League of Southern California, which presents two classic plays for children each year. All the actresses are volunteers who love performing live theater for special children and inner-city kids. My niece Kelly is in Boulder, CO where she attends classes and is doing very well working for Banana Republic.

Paul and I have traveled a lot this year, to Colorado, California, Florida and Prince Edward Island. It’s wonderful being really retired.

We wish you a blessed and peaceful Christmas, and a healthy New Year.