Hi Everyone,

Well these are exciting days at SAM. White Tail Lodge is finally

completed and open. We have our first guests registered and are

looking forward to helping them deal with their grief.

The weather here has definitely turned colder. I’m just excited

that the sun is shining today. We’ve been having rain, rain, and

more rain for the past two weeks. We are thankful it hasn’t been

snow!

Speaking of thanks - Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and as

care-givers to people who are grieving the loss of a child, we realize

the “holiday” season can be one of the toughest emotional times for

moms and dads and surviving siblings. With this in mind, Judy and I

would like to share just a couple thoughts on how you can help someone

who has had a child die during the holiday season.

First, let your friends know you are thinking of them in a personal way.

Drop a card via snail mail letting them know they are in your thoughts

and prayers. By the way, it doesn’t really matter how long it’s been since

the parent’s child has died - a card is always welcome.

Next, think of a way you could make a special memory for them. If you

are part of the extended family, or a close friend, chances are you may

have a picture or two of the child who died. If you do, why not have that

picture printed and simply write a note about the picture and drop it in

the mail. We had someone do that for us some time after Mickey died and

it meant so much to us. It also brought a smile as we saw Mickey enjoying

life.

Another thing to remember is that you can’t force a grieving person to

be “happy.” There are SO many emotions bubbling to the surface during

the holiday season. So many memories, both good and sometimes bad.

So give your friend space and time to grieve as they need to, not as you

would like them to.

There are many other things we could share about this issue. And I think

we will in the days ahead. In the mean time, get out that card and drop a

note to someone in need. Thanks for caring, and remember, Judy and I

love you guys. God bless - Pat