This Old Home

Letter 9 December 1st

I can’t believe it. I cannot believe that Sally passed away last night. She was just talking about all your plans for Christmas. I thought that she would outlive me! I am so sorry for your loss. She was one of my best friends here at home. Gretchen came in and sat me down and we cried together. Sally was like a star in the middle of the big black darkness of space, burning brightly and putting a glimmer of hope in everyone’s hearts.

I didn’t think that you would come today, to pick up her belongings, but you did. You looked so regal and delicate at the same time. Like you were a peacock feather, standing there, but the slightest breeze would blow you away. I am so sorry that your aunt Sally passed away. I wish that this had not happened when it did. Sally was telling me that she was so excited to add another grand baby to her Christmas shopping list.

I told Gretchen where the kids’ gifts were in Sally’s room as we had been giggling about it and had wrapped everything up together. She still had 2 items on back order that Gretchen demanded the company either deliver in the next 3 days or make a full refund. I’ve never seen her so angry before, even with that lazy boyfriend of hers. I told Gretchen that no matter what, I needed to go to the funeral, as she was my best friend, and this nursing home can go to hell if they think they’re going to keep me here.

When you and Gretchen hugged, I could see all your pain fighting to come out. I understand though, that you must keep it together for those babies of yours. They need their mama to be strong. That was the hardest thing for my family, I was always the soldier, with no one to comfort me. I will write to you again soon dear; these tears of mine are making it difficult to see again.

Yours truly,

Gertrude Reynolds