Dear FM,

I get back after months away and you left today. So you are finally taking a proper vacation, ten days away; I am happy for you. I've known you for six-plus years and you have done taken 1-4 day off, and they were for conferences, family business, and a funeral. I remember when you first went away for four days and I asked you to send me a postcard, it was about a year after we terminated. You said you would try your best, and you did despite the lousy postal service there. I got the postcard five days after you returned. Now, I am 41/2 years post therapy and I am happy for you and your family. I wonder if we were still doing therapy if I would have different feelings and such as that frantic child feeling. I didn't when you were away for the 4 days.

We will do breakfast/lunch as soon as you get back so I can share my future plans with you. I was avoiding the topic yesterday after you asked me because I wanted to share the news in context and there was no time to have a good conversation.

I spoke to MLK about telling you and we both spoke about how my momentary protest to life may be connected to you. That last puzzle piece is ready to be fitted but the five-year-old is holding out. Yes, I know this is more about my parents and how I fit into the world, but by finishing this piece then I have no claim to staying on my couch, day after day, and turn from the world like I did for so many years. I want my sofa!...I think.

Thank you for joining me at the musical, one of my favorites. I enjoyed looking over at you and your kid to see your faces when you were laughing. Glad to know this play is on your list of favorite musicals. I will miss our outings and introducing you to new things.

Love,
AesB