I think not. in A small but passable life.

Saturday the high temp here was 46 degrees. Today it is above 80 degrees.

I’m making progress with the sorting and packing. I zipped up the big check-in suitcase and dragged it downstairs to put it on the bathroom scale. 23.4 pounds! I’ve got a max of forty pounds and I’ve got maybe 90% of everything in there. And some of what’s in there could go into the knapsack I’m using for my carry-on so all is well and good.

I just realized that it will be exactly 360 days that I left Mom on her own. May 5, 2016 to April 30, 2017. I really did worry when I left her that I’d be returning in a couple or a few months.

And of course, I’m unable to tell by just talking to her on the phone if I’m really needed right now. But I’ll go. And like the last four times, I’ll be prepared to stay as long as needed. Only this time I’ll be more prepared.

I’m really going to miss this attic room. These past nearly two years, minus those four months or so at Mom’s, were the first time in nearly twenty years that I’ve had my own bedroom. Sure, I had a bed in a closet for nine years, but I only slept in there.

And for the last 355 days I’ve rarely left this room. I’ve found it most comforting and peaceful. Quiet. A mattress on the floor, a lawn chair and camp table, a lamp, and a footstool. Is any more really needed? I think not.

Last updated April 26, 2017