Chapter 6, Waves of Truth, and Chapter 7, Silent Seas, Silent Nights Summary

Joan liked to spend her early mornings simply, sitting next to her wood-burning stove thinking, while she waited for her water to boil for coffee. She reminisced about past Christmases, which she was always in charge of making into lively affairs. She thought about how stressful it always was, and looked forward to a relaxing Christmas, determined to see to her own happiness for once. Nervous, she avoided the loudness and flashing lights of a commercialized Christmas, not even wanting to go to the fish market Christmas party. The market closed for the season, and Joan tried to find something to wear to the party. She panicked when she realized that she had gained weight, and many of her clothes no longer fit. When she...