The First Visit

Dear Lloyd, I am so blessed. Jeff and Lena came for a visit and we have spent nearly their entire vacation this week rebuilding the shed you and I were supposed to rebuild this summer. Jeff said that he promised you on your deathbed that he would always do his best to see that I was taken care of and had what I needed. I think his goodness must have seeped in from living with you. I fear I am not so giving and kind.
I feel guilty about their sacrifice, but I also feel proud that we raised a child who became such a kind and talented young man. And I hope Lena's parents know what a gem they raised. Never once has she begrudged me Jeff's help and has chipped in and done more than her share. Amazingly, she looks beautiful even in my work clothes which dwarf her, but then perhaps it is her inside goodness shining through.

I now understand why you put the shed together with screws instead of nails. I remember you said Randall laughed at you because of it and I think how much Randy must miss your company. I can still hear him on the phone asking for "George Albert" and I was always glad you men shared a hobby that brought you together periodically.
We found the sword Jeff constructed as a child nailed inside, a remembrance and tribute to youth and memories. I sobbed and sobbed because I miss you so, but somehow I felt closer to you. One thing I miss is sharing the memories we had created together, those things you remember and know that the other person remembers as well without even talking, and this was like sharing a memory in some ways.
My back is sore and I am feeling very tired and very old, but we are near completion, and I guess the older I get the closer I am to being with you again, love, because I have heard you laughing as we worked together, making mistakes but making progress. Until then, love, I wish you peace and no more pain.