Here I am sitting in front of my John's burial plot-I have just read the words we put on his stone - they are beautiful and truly defined his days on this earth. Today is our 52nd wedding anniversary and that is why I am here. There is no other place I would rather be today. People ask me if I am married- of course I am married, just because John is not here in the living flesh does not change anything. I HATE the word "Widow" but I can handle the word "single" -why? Truthfully - I don't know.
When I sit in front of your grave I actually feel your presence and it comforts me. I was very surprised when I got here today as the vase I'd brought the flowers in last time was still sitting next to your name (of course minus the flowers) but I am puzzled that all the stones (large and small) that were on your plaque and Daniel's were gone. This is the first time this has occurred but that is O.K. because Julie and I brought beautiful small flat oblong stones from her yard.
Julie is sitting next to me reading some of your stories and states she never saw some of them. You have really left a fantastic legacy. I really feel bad that I didn't read all of your stories when you wrote them or maybe I did and now that I am 77 years old and my memory is not as good I can't remember. I am going to put all of your stories in a mammoth book and make copies for our children and grandkids so your legacy can live on FOREVER. It is very hard for me to accept that you are not here with me in the physical sense especially when Julie reads me your stories.
As I sit under this magnificent tree looking at the words on your stone, I remember you picking this spot where there is shade and a slight breeze and giant rock and boulder and a stream behind me. What a wonderful shelter spot. Thank you for being so adamant for picking out this perfect place. Well I have to close this small piece of scribbling as Julie has to go see Ian and give him a book as he started his first day at San Diego State University yesterday.