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A Misdirected Letter From Spain Sparks a Lifelong FriendshipMBy Dr. Sally Kalosonique Wellesley’s friendship with Ana Romero Borrego began quite serendipitously in1989 when Ana, then a young student from Alcala Del Rio, Spain, mistakenly sent a letter intended for someone else to Monique’s address. Curious and kind-hearted, Monique attempted to find the intended recipient and with no luck decided to respond to Ana herself, proposing to become pen pals. This marked the beginning of a profound 40-year friendship. Ana and her husband, Antonio, visited Monique and her husband,Loyd on September 18th for a two-week stay, fulfilling a long-held dream of meeting in person.Ana recalls that her English teacher in Spain encouraged students to acquire pen pals to enhance their English skills. This educational endeavor in 1989 accidentally connected her with Monique, who responded to her misdirected mail with an offer of friendship. Over the years, Ana’s qualities greatly impressed Monique; her integrity, empathy, and meticulous attention to detail in her calligraphy and seamstress skills highlighted her artistic talents and personal character.Monique’s anticipation turned to reality when she saw Ana and Antonio arriving at the airport. Despite never having spoken on the phone or through video calls, their bondwas immediate and strong, highlighted by shared interests and mirrored personalities that made them feel more like family than friends. The visit was a dream come true for Monique, who found Ana even more beautiful in person than in photos.Ana and Antonio’s visit included shopping trips, where even the language barrier couldn’t dampen the spirits of Antonio and Monique’s husband, Loyd, who bonded over their love for tools. The couples enjoyed exploring local attractions, indulging in Tex-Mex cuisine, and hunting for bargains, making the most of their time together in Texas.Ana cherishes the emotional support Monique has provided over the years, noting how she has been present for both joyful celebrations and times of sorrow, such as the loss of Ana’s mother and her cat, Dama. This first trip to the U.S. was not only a significant moment for Ana and Antonio but also a testament to the depth of their friendship with Monique and Loyd, who opened their home and hearts, embracing them as family.Looking forward, they plan to continue nurturing this special bond, with hopes of visiting each other’s countries and creating more memories. Ana’s reflection on the unexpected yet miraculous journey of their friendship underscores the impactL-R Loyd Wellesley, Monique Wellesley, Ana Romero Borrego & Antonio Becerra.of kindness and the enduring nature of connections formed by chance and nurtured with love. Monique sums up their story with a powerful reminder of the far-reaching effects of simple acts of kindness, which started with her decision to respond to a misplaced letter decades ago. Do something for someone else not wanting anything in return and you may be surprised what happens next.Pictured Ana & Antonio.By StaffChristmas Holiday Films The Whole Family Can EnjoyCelebrants owe the joy of the holiday season to various components. Decor and gift-giving go a long way toward making December a joyous time of year. Holiday films also do their part to make the season so special.Many people have their own favorite holiday films, and the following are some that can engage viewers who are young or simply young at heart.“A Christmas Story”Released in 1983, this warmly nostalgic, humorous film is a perennial favorite among families. It follows the story of Ralphie, whohas his heart set on a very specific Christmas present: a Red Rider BB gun. Amidst wintry exploits and family drama, the true spirit of Christmas manages to shine through in this beloved film. Some of the subject matter can be off-color, and there are some bullying scenes. So this is a movie best watched with children who are mature enough to make it through without being scared.“Little Women”Based on the Louisa May Alcott novel of the same name, the 1994 telling of this classic follows the March sisters, who confront financial difficulties, romance and family tragedies in mid-nineteenth century Massachusetts. While it’s not a traditional Christmas movie, the importance of spending time with family around Christmastime is a core theme in this coming-of-age tale.“Klaus”Perhaps not as well-known as other animated holiday flicks, “Klaus,” released in 2019, has a personality all its own. Postman Jesper, who is not making the grade at the postal academy, is sent to work in a frozen town in the North, where he discovers a reclusive toy maker named Klaus. The unlikely duo ultimately team up to make and deliver toys and bring smiles to children’s faces.“Meet Me In St. Louis”“Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas”Though this 1977 Jim Henson production is a television special and not a full-length feature film, Generation X likely remembers the heartfelt tale of a poor otter family who sacrifice prized possessions to have what’s needed to enter a talent contest. The goal is to win the prize money to buy special Christmas presents. Audiences get to enjoy narration by Kermit the Frog.Films are a popular component that help to make the holiday season so special.Starring the irreplaceable Judy Garland, this movie musical focuses on four sisters who are awaiting the 1904 World’s Fair in their hometown, but learn that their father has accepted a new job and the family must move to New York beforehand. A Christmas miracle occurs and all is right in the end. Garland sings a memorable version of“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” in the film, solidifying this as a holiday classic.“The Santa Clause”This Disney film came out in 1994 and remains a family favorite. When divorced dad Scott (Tim Allen) accidentally kills a man in a Santa suit, he magically becomes the next Santa. He must learn to cope with the ways the transformation to the man in red interrupts his normal life, eventually giving over to the magic of Christmas.Fun Ways - continued from page 9“The Grinch,” the 2018 adaptation of the Dr. Seuss book How the Grinch Stole Christmas.• Take a nighttime stroll or drive to see the lights. Lighting displays are another component that makes the holiday season so special. After Christmas Eve dinner, take a stroll through your neighborhood to see the lighting displays or climb into the car to take in a different neighborhood’s offerings if you’re already familiar with those in your own neck of the woods.Christmas Eve is a magical day for youngsters and their parents. Some simple ideas can make the day even more meaningful for children and their families.HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY HALTS INFLAMATION!Inflamation Is The Root CauseOf All IllnessesTHERAPY BENEFITS:• Accelerated Recovery • Enhanced Cognitive Function • Cellular Rejuvenation • Immune Boost • True Anti-Aging • Increased EnergyElena Passarella Greulich Certified HBOT Chamber OperatorElenapg7788@gmail.comCall for aComplimentary Consultation(210) 504-9816 LOCATED IN SPRING BRANCH www.hp4betterlife.com10www.bsbhighlights.comDec. / Jan. 2024-25