Her home is lovely, though one thing I find quite odd is that there is not a single picture of Henry in the place. Not on display at least. It is as if he never existed. My photos of you are jammed so tight on the mantle above the fire. I must admit though, for months I would pass your face and have to close my eyes. Maybe she simply has them in her bedroom, so she is surrounded by him during those dark, lonely hours that, for me at least, are still so terribly hard to endure.

No doubt Joan Wetherby will express her ideas for the fundraiser at the next meeting. When I suggested we could make the Spring Dance our fundraising event she shouted at me. Actually raised her voice in front of everyone there and accused me of selfish motives. What selfish motives could I possibly have?

I have asked Father Anthony’s wife, Peggy, to sit on the committee. I believe she will add some much needed temperance to the discussions. Joan would never upset her publicly, though what she says behind her back is downright sinful. Is it unchristian of me to use the innocent wife of our beloved spiritual leader for my own means?

William Tucker has decided to take a wife. Do you remember young Iris Telford? She was an ungainly, tall, thin stick of a teenager when you left. Well, she has grown into her looks quite stylishly, I must say, and William is smitten beyond words. She is warm and caring and perfectly suited to his quiet nature.

The entire town is abuzz with excitement. Something so lovely to look forward to. Iris has asked Mrs Li to make her wedding dress, which upset Joan. The spiteful woman took it upon herself to speak to Grandma Telford about the ‘unseemly matter’, not for a moment considering that the Matriarch would actually approve of the arrangement. Joan forgets that the Telfords are the Telfords for a reason and they are astute business people with tight purse strings. Mrs Li’s work is impeccable and she charges only what she must.

Why Joan would want to destroy this joyous occasion, I do not know. Perhaps she simply cannot stand to see others happy. Do you remember the kerfuffle she created right before our wedding? Of course you do – it almost ruined our beautiful day. I will not allow her to interfere in these nuptials.

William smiles constantly nowadays. It is a nice change to see him happy. I believe he carries the burden of being our only returned soldier quite heavily around his heart.

I must to bed, my dearest. I would ask you to wish me dreams of inspiring fundraising events, but I only ever dream of you.

Forever yours,

Ivy