This special day began typically for March in Ohio, gray with blowing rain against the window panes.  How I wished the sun would pop out from behind the clouds.

Today is the occasion for honoring a good friend and mentor for many of the musicians in our city.  Our friend Harriet Green, who came to town almost 40 years ago, is moving to Florida to be with her daughter Teddy and family.  For our music organizations Harriet has been a dedicated leader and fine pianist in many venues.  To realize she will no longer be close enough to go to coffee or out to lunch is not easily processed.  However, her health issues precipitate the move.  And today is our opportunity to come together to let her know just how much we love her and hold her in regard.

Her close friend Jerrie Cribb has offered to host the party in her home.  It is my job to bring extra chairs and some lemonade.  No fuss, each attendee is bringing a sandwich along with one to share.  (A good thing for me since I forgot mine!)

Somehow I got the car packed and arrived with a half hour to spare to help get set for the first guests.  A few minutes after 11:00 the doorbell began to ring.  From this moment on it was as though time stopped for the 35 of us as we reminisced through good times gone by.  Food became an afterthought as we each took turns recalling a special event or occasion in which our esteemed friend and music colleague was a part.

The first tribute came as an email from Elva Michal, who had moved to Texas a decade ago.  The next was the presentation of a pencil sketch by Vivian Ripley, who is both a pianist and talented painter.  Eventually everyone present who desired to speak had their turn toasting our friend.