Slice of Life Always With Me

       I'm slicing with the Two Writing Teachers community today. It's always a pleasure to read what everyone writes about their lives.

Happy Election Day!

         Yes, I'm happy. It's been a long and rocky road to this day, and I will be celebrating when it's over. I want to move on to help our country do better!

        

          First, best wishes to Betsy Hubbard and her family for every part of your recovery from the fire to go smoothly with the best possible outcome. 

         This is a little bit of a sad post, too, because often for reasons small and big, I miss my husband, Arvie. And much of what I miss is sharing words. The fall that he passed, three years ago this past September, I wrote a poem that expresses these thoughts. You can read it here, and I imagine some of you remember it. It begins "And I would show you. . ."

        Lately, there is much I want to share, like about my visit to see Nathan, Barb and Carter, and how proud he would be to see the wonderful young man Carter has become.  And I know that he would love spending time with Sarah and Dave and seeing these growing up little girls that are the sweetest granddaughters. 

        However, most recently, I miss talking with him about this election and wonder what he would be saying tonight. I know that we would have already voted, and already done what we could to support our candidate. But I also know he would be embarrassed and sad about the words said during the campaign. I miss our conversations that I'm sure a lot of times would be me storming around saying things like "How could this be!" or "This has to change!" A lot of emotional outbursts really, but Arvie listened, and then he would say: "It'll all work out." or "We'll be fine. Good people are out there, and around us. Don't worry!" 

        When the Democratic Convention was held here in 2008, we were both so excited that President Barack Obama  was nominated. History was made right here in our city. There were many booths and political people handing out buttons, protesting, talking about "their" candidate. Arvie went downtown with me and my class so we could participate in this festive time. My students talked with those who shared opposing viewpoints. They loved it! And it was calm and exciting all at the same time. It is a good memory. Despite the fact that I miss him and miss talking about so many things, I have become okay with it, and talk to Arvie in my thoughts. I'm thankful that we were married so many years that I can imagine his words, and that helps a lot. I miss him, and will have lots to say too on Wednesday!

         When that earlier convention was here there was a mock-up of Air Force One and you could have your picture taken there. Here's our pic!