A 2-Hour Exercise in Futility

Dear John,

 

I've had a busy day. Work was a little crazy and Kathy and I both needed some therapy by the end of the day, so she asked me to stay for brownies and the first part of Pride and Prejudice. It was just what I needed, and you'd love it. It's typical Jane Austin, but a bit lighter and funnier than Sense and Sensibility. I have to see if it's on Netflix so I can watch the other five parts of it.

 

I've been looking at the living room for a few days and wanting to try rearranging the furniture. For some reason I decided that it had to be tonight. Don't ask why - you just have to do these things when inspiration strikes. I moved everything all over the place for two hours - the piano, too - and concluded that what I started with was best. So all that came out of the endeavor was a good, thorough cleaning and lots of sweat.

 

I discovered something in the process. I'm not ready to have it different from the way it was when you were here. I know we've had it other ways, but it's been this way for at least ten years. When I look over at your recliner or at the other end of the couch, I can see you sitting there. Those are good memories that are comforting to me. It wasn't comfortable having the furniture any other way. It really didn't work anyway - we didn't have the cat tower when we had things the other way. But I don't think I could have changed the room even if it had worked. I want to be able to see you sitting here.

 

I think it's bedtime now. While I was moving furniture, the cats hid and the dog stayed in my way as much as possible. So Jethro's sleepy and the cats are rested. They can run around all they want while the dog and I sleep. I can sleep in tomorrow, and I'll welcome it. Sleep well tonight! And know that you can come visit, and I haven't moved the furniture!

 

Love you with all my heart,

Joan.