Dear Libby,

The dating pond is a tough place to be and I am happy to be on dry land. Keep your spine and remember not to settle. There is a swimmer out there willing to head to the Couple’s Beach with you but he is a little overwhelmed by all other swimmers as well. I met Gavin when I was your age so do not despair.

This is a brief note; I am working on a cross-stitch project that needs to be completed by December 24th. I am making Gavin a Christmas Stocking with a sleigh on it. It takes a lot of time and attention to ensure each stitch is the correct stitch, color, and in the right place. I made one mistake a few days ago and just discovered it this evening. I had to take out sections of stitches.

I find this entire endeavor therapeutic. Concentrating on…