Mail is not always the bearer of glad tidings. Usually the mail box is crammed with catalogs, pleas for donations, bills and other junk mail. Not to mention the ubiquitous mailing labels. Today, Happy Birthday card arrived for my huband from the Claremont School of Theology. Addressed to Dr. Doyle Shields. I considered forwarding it to heaven, but I might get it back with 'insufficient postage.'
No need to remind me that his birthday on July 24th is one of the many 'firsts' survivors traverse on the path to the new normal. He would have been 88. A good run for a sickly child with low expectations for a long, productive life. Lucky me he landed in Ventura County where we met in July and ended up married in November. What a crazy impetuous, joyful decision that was in 1971. Who said it wouldn't last?
I write this in my new office in the room that was his old office. No resemblance to each other. My cats have made adjustments to my new digs as well. When Des held court in this room, the cats sat wherever they decided to perch. If it was on a pile of papers Des needed, he just sat back patiently until they moved on.
As for me, when Murphi nuzzles my hand clutching the mouse (not real), interfering with words of wisdom, I move him off my knuckles and finally show him the door. Not to worry about his wounded psyche. He'll be back.
Since I am not in a celebratory mood this month, A new life is about to emerge next month. Another great grandchild for Suzanne and Ryan. somewhere in mid-August, Matthew Ryan Jaeger, will join their family. .Big brother Lucas and Nathan can't wait. Life does go on. And we are grateful.
So says Sassy
