Don’t fret about those ol’ wet days. Just pop open an umbrella, grab a cup of coffee and watch the clouds pass by.

And, when rain slows to a drizzle, fold up the brolly and jump out into the refreshed, glistening day….Watch out for the puddles!

-v.

Life is like a jigsaw puzzle—

One usually selects a puzzle by first looking at the picture on the outside the box…seeing the end result before they even get started. When they get home, they begin by working from the outside frame to the inside body.

If only life was so easy.

Instead, we gather bits and pieces here and there along the way; working from the inside, out—the picture revealed only after the last piece falls into place.

It’s then that we can see the picture of who we are. Remnants of our choices, yearnings and dreams. Fragmented memories of faces and places. A picture of our lives, and how we came to be.

-v.

A day before their anniversary, Edna heard a knock at the front door. With a twist of the knob and a few creaks of the hinges, she greeted a young man standing in the rain holding a bouquet. A bouquet of her favorite flowers—the exact same she had received every year.

Today was her first anniversary without Ken. And while she would love for him to be there by her side, she focused on the practical comfort; finding peace in knowing his eternal days were carefree and without pain.

She closed the door behind her and carried the cluster of fragrant petals to the kitchen table. She sat staring, wiping her tears, almost afraid of opening the note. Oh how she wished they could be from him, but reality told her they were from the kids… so she waited, drinking her tea, allowing her wishful thoughts to linger just a little longer.

This anniversary would be their 48th, when they had hoped to be traveling through Europe. It was originally planned for their 50th, but they decided to move it forward due to Ken’s illness. They both thought they had time…until the clock suddenly stopped. And while she refused to curse his “homecoming”, she couldn’t help but sometimes question “why”.

It was time. Refreshing her tea and grabbing the box of tissues, she finally surrendered. She took in a slow deep breath and eased the note from its envelope. It was handwritten. It was familiar. It was Ken.

After ten brave months of guarded emotions, the dam finally broke. She hated feeling that out of control; so lost and alone. But, she knew it had to be—and as the rain fell, her soul poured out.

The tears finally slowed to a sprinkle. It was then she began to read. His every word carried his voice—

My Love,

These flowers come to you a day early because I just couldn’t wait any longer to tell you how much I love you.

I can’t imagine your heartache, Edie, or what you must be going through. I’ve always been there to wipe your tears; except for now. So, today, I have one last thing up my sleeve that I hope will dry those beautiful eyes…

With the help of our two wonderful children, you are being whisked away on our European excursion. Your things are packed. All you have to do is grab your bags and passport, and meet them in the limo outside the house in the morning.

My sweet girl, enjoy our trip. Carry us through the countryside. Let us enjoy the beauty nestled in the winding paths and find joy along the bustling streets. Remember to raise a glass and make a toast to you and me… during the first sunset and the last sunrise, to celebrate our memories—“to the old and the new.”

After we get home, unpack your things and those must-have souvenirs. Then, let’s find a quiet moment, so we say goodbye. Cast me out amongst the stars where I belong—where I’ll be waiting for you; on the front porch of our forever home.

Until then, keep our memories and promise to be happy.

Happy Anniversary, Edie. I love you.

Ken

Her tears turned into a cleansing deluge. The tissues, piled high, cascaded onto the floor. “That crazy ol’ fool stole my heart,” she said. She knew she would somehow find a way to keep her promise to the man lingering in the stars. But, she also knew it would be awhile before the light would resuscitate her spirit; for the clock to tick again.

Closing the note, Edna softly pressed it against her lips; one last anniversary kiss for her beloved Ken.

“Happy anniversary, my love,” she said. “I’ll see you in Europe.”

–v.

Wednesday is just a day away—

Be sure y’all stop by for tomorrow’s story, “The Last Drop”…. A love story: From a simple knock at the door, to the last kiss.

Have a great day. Be blessed🌼

-v.