My Davey,
Hanukkah Sameach, boychic. I hope by the time you read this, you will have been to Temple- Nicky says he'll take me in the car so I don't have to get the bus. It's such a comfort one of you lives so near.
I saw you on the TV yesterday coming out of court. Such dark circles round your eyes, and Kenny looks dreadful. So pale! So thin! What is Captain Dobey thinking, making him go back to work - he should still be in bed. I'd like a word with that man. And with Kenny's mother too - him so sick and her not even... But I've spoken before - and nothing good came of it, so I'll hold my tongue. She knows he can't fly yet but are her feet nailed down that she can't get on a plane at Christmas? Her loss, our gain.
You said you and Kenny would be spending the evening together- no Abby and no - well, a different name every week and you not getting any younger - so I've sent just the one parcel to save on carriage. Express costs an arm and a leg! The packages in green paper are for him. All his favorites- and extra applesauce. He loves my applesauce. Tell him some of the latkes have different vegetables this year, zucchini, and beetroot and arugula. Sarah's mother suggested it, and I think he'll like them. Nicky complains that they aren't traditional- but sometimes tradition needs a good shake. You remember Sarah? You were such friends - her mother and I once thought...But God had other plans. Don't worry, i packed your favorites too- the red box has honey balls. Don"t eat too many, though, you could maybe lose a few pounds. Your jeans- well, I could never imagine your father wearing pants like that to work. And on TV as well! And Kenny always so smart.
Tell Kenny that when I come for Christmas, he's not to lift a finger. I know he likes to cook, but this year you can both rest and I'll take care of everything - there are times that need a woman's touch. Such a shame about Abby, they were so beautiful together . But there. Not everyone can be a policeman's wife - who knows that better than me? You've had such worries, my Davey, and you must be worn out. You're very like your father- he was also a man who knew how to love and care - perhaps sometimes too much for his own good. But when I come I can look after you for a while.
I must sign off. Nicky will be here soon to take this to the post for me. He and Ruth are talking about having a baby - from their mouths to God's ear. I think you should let Kenny light the first candle. I know he's not Jewish and you're younger, but he's been so sick. You can teach him the blessing- I'm sure he's a quick study. I hope you remember the words but I've put a copy in the box. God helps the prepared, as Rabbi Samuel used to say.
I love you, my firstborn. You're a good boy and life has not always been kind to you. I'm very pr...oh, that must be Nicky at the door.
Your loving Mother.
PS. It wasn't Nicky, it was the mail man - Nicky's running a little late. He's working so hard at the moment. I forgot to say that I am sending you the old dreidel your father made when you were small. We had fun with it, didn't we? Nicky wanted to save it for his baby, but I said he always tried to cheat, and you always let him, so I was going to give it to you. I know you'll take care of it, and it will do you and Kenny good to play a little. There is plenty of gelt at the bottom of the box. Kenny is sure to eat it if he wins it! Mx
PPS. I'm sometimes a silly old woman, Davey, but I see further through a brick wall than most people. If you have things to tell me, I'll be very happy to listen. Mxx
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