Somehow I always cry on planes.
Picked out of the hustle and shot up into thin air—it is here my heart can hear.
My Aunt Patti died this past fall.
And it may seem ordinary and inevitable except she was my hero. She taught me grace, how to hold myself as a woman and in a prominent family with compassion. She taught me style. How to wear a scarf or diamonds with ease, with flair.
At Christmas, every room in her house had a tree.
Even the bathrooms—and that influenced me. Taught me to understand the importance ambiance and home. When my sister almost died, she’d invite me to her kitchen and make me a salad with bacon bits, and tell me stories of when my divorced parents were in love.
And now how time flies, and so much uncertainty lies in the faces of those in the grocery lines. How short people seem with one another, out of fear and stress for their families. How the receptionist at the eye doctor spoke about being so sick of eating only chicken salad and how those you think are fine, are not.
Where can the light be these holidays…? How to tend the fire, and not give up hope.
I’ll turn to Patti—
Who had countless hardships in her life, although most only noticed her Mercedes or perfect jawline. We are all suffering. We all need more love, more resources to remind us to keep the lights twinkling—even in your bathroom.
And not let the darkness overcome.
Happy Solstice Rising + A Merry Christmas,
Hi Emily! I’m so sorry to hear about your aunt Patty. I remember how much she meant to you. My condolences.
I love when your emails pop into my inbox. I truly wish we could reconnect again some day. Your friendship meant so much to me. Lots of love! Kelly
Merry Christmas, Kelly! You’re so sweet to remember her… I am sure we’ll meet again. So many dang memories…:) All My Love, Emily
Dear Emily, Sorry for your loss of Aunt Patty, but I love how you are keeping the memory of her alive through sharing her with all of us. What great images ~ you’re such a great writer. Thanks for helping me keep as bright as I can be in these dark times.
Love, Em
Thanks Em! And for reading… yes, hang in there. Our Solstice is almost here…and this year especially– I wish you Light. Love, Em
When is your next performance?
Ellen Fox– this Wednesday Dec 17th at el Rey Court 8-10pm. Christmas classic with a jazz twist and torch songs. Please come!