Growing up on Centennial Street with the Smiths... - Laughter from their house ALL the time - Jim's car(s) needing a jump start, and usually shortly after he had to yell at one of us for screwing up - Nat giving music lessons and creating beautiful art -Wondering what the heck they were adding on to that house now?!? - Me and my brothers and Timmy Dean being forced to watch yet another 'musical performance' by Tracy, Karen, Jennifer, and Nancy Dean - The Blizzard of '78 and riding it out at our house for a couple of days - The special feeling that our families forged a lifelong connection without even knowing it As we all know, life happens and we tend to not see each other as much as we'd like. Added to that, we moved out of state a while ago and therefore see 'our peeps' even less. However, bonds are made on quality not quantity, and seeing Karen's beautiful picture this morning in the paper and here online simply made me smile, as she always did. It was as if I'd seen her yesterday, and it was wonderful remembering her personality and warmth. That's what special people do to you, and Karen was certainly very special. Gordie and kids, I'm very sorry for your loss. Rely on friends and family, and each other, to get through this. And remember, loved ones leave but their love doesn't. She loves you all the same today as she did last week/month/year, and always will. Tracy and Nat - I don't really know what to say other than I'll give you both a huge hug when I get up there, and can't wait to see you. Nat - as soon as I saw K's picture I thought "wow - she is really looking like Nat and those beautiful Jodice women!" Something in that water... Take care of each other, and Gordie and the kids. See you soon. DD