Mrs. Venation is a gentle and generous woman.

[bertha katzenengel]

She astounds me with her acts of generosity. She comes up with these ideas that just blow me away.

When her niece graduated high school, she was going to buy her a computer. But then her brother called her one day for help in finding sources of college funding, and Mrs. V. decided (after discussing it w/ me) that we would be the source.

In the last two months, she has purchased new computers for both my sisters, whose own were both in the final throes of frustrating death.

We're not rich. We struggle. But when we have good times she finds ways to make sure others do, too.

We had two cars; she gave one to a friend of mine at work when her boyfriend totaled hers. Ahem - excuse me, sold it to her - for a dollar.

She gives so much - House of Ruth, ASPCA, our county humane society, Food for Friends, Best Friends, her folks' church's food pantry, etc., etc. Not to mention cash to anyone in need - homeless, friends at work who are short, whomever.

Mrs. V. is also one of the tenderest women I know. She doesn't wear her emotions on her sleeve (like her other half), but she is deeply and easily moved by sorrow. This morning I walked into the office to find her crying. She'd read the obituary of one of her momma's neighbors. She'd already sent flowers to his daughter.

Thank you, God, Karma, cosmos, whatever, for bringing this woman into my life.

[auntAgonist]

1. The world

needs more MrsV's. Seriously though, you are so fortunate to have found each other. She must see in you, many of the same things you see in her. You're both generous, loving and kind. May you always be happy together, may your paths be smooth. May love and prosperity surround you in the new year!

:loveya:

kesha.

[Catshrink]

2. Thank you for that wonderful tribute...

It's so heartwarming to read about wonderful people like Mrs. V. Happy New Year to you both and to your many critters.

[LaurenG]

3. She is a wonderful woman isn't she

She picked you so she must be. I think you must have a tender heart yourself, after all look at the wondrous things you do for our little 4 legged people! Happy New Year, I have enjoyed spending time reading your words and this is a wonderful tribute to your love.:hug:

[Heidi]

4. It's the same here, bertha.

I think you've found a beautiful and precious balance, as have I, as has Call Me Wesley. When I count my blessings and lucky stars, I count Call Me Wesley, and you, and Mrs. V, and soooooooo many others who contribute to the balance of the Universe. :hug:

[Midlodemocrat]

5. Wow. You are one lucky person, Bertha.

What a kind and wonderful woman Mrs. V is. I hope to meet you both in 2006.

May 2006 bring you much happiness, prosperity, peace and health.

:hug:

[necso]

6. It's wise and perceptive of you to

recognize virtue in the character of others. (And this kind of clarity can be more difficult when "examining" those that we are close to.)

For virtue that is a natural part of character is all the more certain in its expression.

And people of good natural character are the most precious jewel that we have... or ever will.

You are a fortunate person.