It’s the ninth anniversary of Susie’s death and I still expect her to call. I want to walk into my apartment and hear her voice on my answering machine, “Hey, Mom, it’s Susie” That’s not going to happen this day or any other, so I keep busy March 21st. Planting a tree is the best busyness that I can think of because I feel her there and know she approves. It was a misty tree planting and the Scarlet Oak is hanging on to its brown, lifeless leaves, but I could still feel its autumn brightness. I will make a special trip to Minnehaha Park next fall to enjoy that color. Here’s to you, Susie! We miss you!