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Dear Friends,

The beginning of this New Year has been an excursion in which I was led by circumstances that have caused great misery and deep sadness. From the start of this month I suffered a bout of food poisoning and when this malady began to dissipate, my defenses were attacked by the onset of the flu. This flu was the worst I have ever had in my entire life, as in the back of my mind I thought I would be called Home. Through all of this, I was deeply saddened as one of the most beloved friends that I've known and loved for over 20 + years, passed away just this last Friday, January 11th.

 Jouan 'Jo' Mastricola lived a wonderful life of 97 years full of faith and devotion for our Lord, while everyone she encountered was spiritually enlightened by her presence. Her beloved family and friends are reminiscing of the immense character Jo manifested in her life. She had an intriguing wit, and was very direct in her ability to measure any situation that involved a decision in which one's path in life was to be righteously determined. In this day and age when trust in others and one's integrity is questioned, Jo never had these challenges as the truth surrounded her magnificent existence.

Jo left 'a special prayer for my dear ones.' We need to be reminded that our lives have immense substance, as the fulfillment of God's plan and will for our lives will be known at a time we will truly recognize.

"Fill not your hearts with pain and sorrow, but remember me in every tomorrow. Remember the joy, the laughter, the smiles, I've only gone to rest a little while. Although my leaving causes pain and grief, my going has eased my hurt and given me relief. So dry your eyes and remember me, not as I am now, but as I used to be. Because, I will remember you all and look on with a smile. Understand, in your hearts, I've only gone to rest a little while. As long as I have the love of each of you, I can live my life in the hearts of all of you."

Jo will always live in our hearts. We will see Jo in person, when the Good Lord calls us Home.

Thanks again for your continuous support.