Tickled Pink

Oh, and honestly, Mom, the reason that I look thinner is because I'm working out again. I found a good gym near the office and stop by there most mornings. I'm getting plenty to eat, otherwise, though, I promise you. Hannah and I switch off cooking meals, and only eat out on Fridays. She really is a wonderful cook, Mother. I know you didn't try much of her turkey (I didn't think the brining made it taste too salty at all, I'm sorry you felt it tasted too much like ham!) but her asparagus was amazing, wasn't it? Did you try any of that? I'm sorry, but she didn't know you were allergic to sourdough bread, or I know she wouldn't have put it into the stuffing. Is that a recent development?

I really am sorry that your back was bothering you so much. Honestly, you could have used my bed, or Hannah's, either of us would have been happy to take the guest room. And I do apologize that Felix got sick all over the bed in the middle of the night We usually don't allow him on the furniture. He sleeps in his cage at night. How did he get in there, anyway? It was an awful mess, I think that comforter will have to be thrown out. I'm sure he must have gotten a few too many leftovers offered to him, that's all. He does have a sensitive stomach for a golden retriever.

Oh, and thank you for all the wonderful gifts you brought. How did you manage to get all of it into the cab? Didn't the bus company have a maximum luggage limit? I don't think I'll have to buy clothes again for a year! Three new coats, and all those gloves and mufflers! I'll be warm all winter, and for many to come, I'm sure!

It was nice of you to bring Hannah those different little shampoos, they'll be perfect for when she travels. You certainly surprised her with all those cleaning supplies! And here I didn't even know McDonald's sold $5 gift certificates. Anyway, thank you for everything, Mother. I know Hannah's already flipped through one of the two books you bought about finding Jesus, although she hasn't gotten to the 6-video compilation of his life, yet. The "Jesus Saves" calendar will ring in 1977 with us, though, thank you!

I do apologize about the perfume Hannah bought. I thought for sure it was your favorite!? When did you develop all these new allergies? You really should get to a doctor, Mother. I think they have pills for that, now. I am glad you liked the earrings and the jacket I bought for you, though. I know I only got you each two gifts, but remember, that's what we agreed on at Thanksgiving? I didn't expect you to be so generous this year, after what we'd discussed! And I apologize that you liked Hannah's jacket better than yours. When did black become your favorite color?

Oh, by the way, I did look into that little house you saw down the street, like you asked me to, but the agent says it already sold, they just haven't had time to put the sign out front, because of the holidays and all that. I guess the houses around here sell pretty quickly. I doubt you'll find one that doesn't sell within a few weeks. It's a hard neighborhood to buy in. I really love it here, though.

Anyway, thank you again for coming. We really appreciated having you here for the holidays. I know you mentioned doing Easter at your place. I think that's fine. I don't think Hannah is up for cooking another holiday meal so soon. Since she doesn't have family here, though, you won't mind if I bring her with me, will you? It's hard to know that your roommate will be all alone on a holiday, when you're off to a family dinner, you know? I know you understand, Mom.

Oh, and Hannah mentioned… her mother's little silver serving tray is missing?

The one that she had all those little chocolates on? I wouldn't have mentioned it, but since her parents have passed, those things are important to her. Did you happen to see it? I hope cousin David didn't take off with it. He got sick again, and I think it was from all that candy.

Have a good New Year, Mother!

Your son,

John

* * * *

January 12, 1977

My darling only son,

It was so good to see you over the holidays. I thought I would never make it, with all the stuff I had to carry. I wish someone had offered to pick me up from the bus stop!

That nice cab driver really helped me get it all into the car, though, so it turned out all right, after all.

I'm glad you liked the clothes. It's so hard to shop for you, since I don't see often enough, and never know what size to buy. I'm glad I bought belts with all the pants, though, it looks like you're going to need them! I don't care what you say, you're too skinny, and after seeing your cupboards, it's no wonder! You need to start eating real food, not all that processed boxed stuff, John!

Is that what she buys? Do you eat Pop Tarts for breakfast? You know I never would have allowed that, when you were living here. My boy should be eating a big, healthy, hot breakfast. It's the most important meal of the day!