Tomatoes

They are growing really well this year, Dad. I have high hopes. The herb garden is going wild, and I still have peaches growing on my tree (praying for them to get ripe and be delicious).

Summer feels pretty tough without you. We went to Port Jeff for Father's Day and had a BBQ. It was hard to get the BBQ started, it took Mom, Marc, and Idriss, a group effort. Mom said she really missed you - it doesn't exactly feel like summer without you manning the cooking efforts on the deck.

The pool isn't open - is it possible that I had my last swim in it without knowing it was my last swim, as you didn't know either? The closed pool is imbued with way too much power and symbolism in my mind. So bleak and sad to see.

Golfers are out in full force, and yesterday I took a detour because of traffic and drove by a crowded course, then had to pull over because it was so upsetting for you to not be out there, starting the holiday weekend with nine holes. Or something like that.

 I don't know Dad. It's been six months. I don't miss you any less. And every sunny day I resent that you aren't here to enjoy it, too. Not fair, not fair, not fair, is the refrain in my mind.

Also, I got laid off last week. I have 90 days to work still, and I'm fine. I wish I could speak with you though, about my future plans. Right now I'm focused on getting some ripe tomatoes and peaches. I just wish I could share them with you.

Love M