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Morphiophelius (a.k.a. Chuck)'s avatar

Kristie,

I have to tell you, reading your words felt like sitting by a warm fire with a good cup of something strong and sweet—comforting, grounding, and filled with hope.

Your reflections are the kind of thing that stick with a person, making them pause, nod, and maybe even mutter, "Well, Mahan’s pink panties, that’s exactly what I needed to hear."

You hit the nail on the head about control.

Life has a way of reminding us we’re not the ones steering the whole ship, no matter how much we tighten our grip.

But it’s in how we meet the storms, as you said, that we find our footing—and sometimes even a little grace.

You’ve got a knack for putting life’s messy truths into words that make sense and leave the reader a little braver for having read them.

Now, about your village—and Becky’s reminder that it takes two to make one? That’s the kind of truth that’d make Wendell pause mid-sandwich to smile.

(And you know how much that boy loves his sandwiches.)

Whether our villages are big, small, close, or stretched across miles, it’s the heart that makes them work. And your heart? It’s gold, Kristie.

Speaking of hearts—and since we’re on the topic of families—can I just say how proud I am of Jules and Lucas? I hear they’re fans of the Wanted Hero comics and Wendell’s adventures, and let me tell you, that makes my old bones downright giddy. Those two are sharp, kind, and clearly have impeccable taste (though I may be biased).

Jules, Jaime tells me you’ve got a spark that lights up every room you step into, and Lucas, your curiosity and courage remind me of Wendell himself. Keep dreaming big, both of you—you’re going to make this world better just by being in it.

Big hugs right back at you, Kristie.

You’ve got an incredible family, and I’m honored to know all of you are part of this space. Here’s to a 2025 filled with balance, joy, and plenty of unexpected blessings in creative packages.

With gratitude and a grin,

Chuck

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Kristie Alers's avatar

Chuck,

Your words made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside while also chuckling out loud—COL 🤭 (Mahan’s pink panties—I mean, come on!). 😆

You’re absolutely right about control. But you also reminded me that grace often shows up in those moments of surrender, and that’s an observation I’ll tuck away for when the next storm rolls in. Thanks.

And Wendell pausing mid-sandwich? Ha!I could see him now. 😊

You’re spot on—it’s not about the size of the village or the distance between its members; it’s about the heart that keeps it all connected. Thank you for seeing that heart in mine—it means more than I can say.

Now, about Jules and Lucas—you absolutely made my day. You’ve captured them both so beautifully. Jules does light up every room she steps into, and Lucas? That boy’s curiosity and courage run deep. Sometimes I wish he’d be a little less courageous so we wouldn’t have to tend to the wounds of his battles so often. 😂 But I guess that’s a mother’s perspective. His father would be proud. And to hear them compared to Wendell feels like such a gift (and yes, they’re both big fans of his adventures!).

Thank you for your time, kindness, humor, and wisdom.

With gratitude and a big smile,

Kristie

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Morphiophelius (a.k.a. Chuck)'s avatar

Kristie,

Thank you for your kind words—reading your reply felt like a hug wrapped in sunshine (and maybe a bit of well-timed laughter). 😊

I’ve got to say, Lucas sounds like a chip off the old Wendell block—courageous to a fault, with a touch of wild determination. Just tell him Wendell recommends padding—makes all those tumbles a little easier to manage!

And Jules? What a treasure she must be, spreading warmth and light wherever she goes. You’ve clearly done an incredible job raising them both, and it’s a joy to hear about them.

You and your family remind me that it’s the heart that holds a village together, no matter the distance.

And Kristie, your heart shines. You’ve got a strength and grace that make the world brighter for everyone lucky enough to be in your orbit.

Here’s to more laughter, adventure, and moments of grace in the coming year. You’ve made my day with your reply, and I’m grateful to know you’re part of this journey.

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