And The Vault Came Tumbling Down

Dear John,

 

The bronchitis went away quietly. While I was sick, I took a break from the computer. I hadn't even checked Pinterest until tonight. I've been keeping up with Facebook on my phone and have only been on the laptop to pay bills. It's been restful. But now I'm back with lots of news for you.

 

The weather has been lovely. It's November, and it was 72 today. The windows are open tonight, of course - after all, it is me we're talking about. A cool-down is expected over the weekend and these may be our last 70s for the year. But it's been one of the most beautiful falls I've ever seen. Remember how long fall lasted in Durham? It's been a bit like that. And the trees have changed slowly and the color has lasted a long time.

 

The demolition of the old bank building was more complicated than expected. It turns out that the vault was encased in concrete that had 3/4-inch rebar in a 5-inch grid all around it. They've spend the last two weeks trying to take it out. Today they used a hydraulic circular saw with a two-foot-diameter blade and cut the thing in half. There was running water and lots of sparks flying, and the entire downtown vibrated. Finally there was a thump and the thing broke in half and fell over. It looked like there had been and accident at Stonehenge. People kept suggesting using explosives, but it was right up against the wall of the pharmacy. And we like the pharmacy and don't want to blow it up.

 

The other big news is that we have a new roof. I mean us - our house. It turns out that Margaret's son has a roofing business. So I got an estimate from him, which was much lower than any other I'd gotten. And he could start on it right away, so it's all done. It isn't metal - I couldn't afford metal after paying $3000 to find out that I don't have breast cancer. But he used Owens Corning shingles that have a thirty-year warranty, and I don't expect to be here worrying about my roof in thirty years. It looks great.

 

So come and look at the roof! And while you're in town, stop by and see the new bank and the pieces of the old vault. And, of course, come and see me and your little family. You really need to meet your cats. Come cuddle with me and tell me all about your life now. I miss you lots and lots.

 

Adore you,

Joan.