~ Bouchard~

Hope Valley

December 26, 1918

Dear Lucas and Elizabeth,

I can't tell you how much your father and I have enjoyed this holiday visit. Until you are married, I suppose that one would write a thank you to each of you separately, but I write to you together as we already think of you, Elizabeth, like our daughter. It was clear to anyone with eyes that you two are in love and devoted to one another. Just based on all the planning, organization, and execution of the holiday gatherings, you are the perfect team. You have great instincts for what each other is feeling and thinking; it is clear that the foundation for a wonderful marriage is there. Plus, you have each learned through experience that life is fleeting and that relationships need to be nurtured. So, we see a bright and beautiful life for you two and for your children.

Speaking of children, it was so wonderful to see Jack again, he is growing up so fast. He seemed to take to your father right from the first. I think he felt and saw the similarities with Lucas who certainly is his idol. Lucas, we watched the interaction with Jack and can see that the love comes from both of you. You will make a wonderful father, and I can see that despite how you've grown into an accomplished and well-respected adult, you've kept the child within you so that you can truly share it with Jack. Elizabeth, we already know that you are a great mother to have raised such a wonderful little boy on your own, help or no help. And you are the most caring, sweet, and thoughtful friend anyone could have…. Spoken as your future mother-in-law…. not as your editor; don't expect to earn any leniency in the writing department!

I so enjoyed meeting the Thatcher's, as a matter of fact, Grace and I are enjoying an early morning cup of tea while we write our thank you letters. They seem like a wonderful family; Julie and Elizabeth are very devoted sisters and both William and Grace are such a delight. We look forward to perhaps traveling to Montreal sometime this year for a visit.

Thank you for organizing all the activities for us. The Christmas festival was so much fun. It reminded me of the ones we went to in Europe, and in particular, Munich, when you were young Lucas. And I understand that the lantern display that you recreated from your memories in Singapore is now a Hope Valley tradition. It was so spectacular, just as I remember. The food and entertainment were great throughout. We have written a thank you together (Grace and me) to Gustave for all his wonderful meals and Rosemary for her decorating. The community dinner/ball and engagement party were astounding. They really went above and beyond. It is clear that they love you two.

Lucas, as you know we were hoping to have you come down to San Francisco early in the New Year and to bring Elizabeth and Jack if possible. Although a tiny bit disappointed, we understand that you want to help support Elizabeth as much as you can during wedding preparations. With the school year starting up again it will be hard for her to find time as it is, and to have you gone would add to her load. I know you want to be there with Jack as your bond is getting stronger and stronger, but he might not understand if you left him now. And you will be able to help with babysitting him while Elizabeth and Rosemary are working through the wedding plans. Your priorities are exactly right.

I know that a date isn't set yet but the sense I got is that it is going to be sooner rather than later. We are expecting to travel back by mid-February but will be happy to adjust our plans if you decide on an earlier date. If you plan to hold off until later, say Spring or Summer then we will travel back your way from Montreal. There is no way that we miss the happiest event in our son's life.

We wish you and all in Hope Valley a very Happy New Year. We look forward to hearing when the wedding will occur and look forward to being back to share that wonderful day with you and all those who love you best.

Yours,

Mother and Father