Really, I’d forgotten. I mean, I did get a lovely card from your sister, but I know how busy you are, what, with whatever it is you do down in the basement. It’s enough that you thought to bring me these flowers that you picked from the front yard. Ooh, look this one still has the roots attached. I’ll just go put it in the garden; the hole is probability still there and judging by the muddy patch in the kitchen the soil is good and moist.

Speaking of mud, I was doing laundry last Sunday (what do you do with all those socks?) when your brother called. We had a nice long talk; it was just wonderful for him to take the time. I know how busy he must be, being a doctor and a father. Just hearing those lovely grandchildren over the phone makes me well up a bit. Anyway, your brother bought me a long weekend at the spa. Not to worry, I’ll make some dinners and put them in the fridge. All you’ll have to do is heat them up. It’s funny, you were such a slender finicky child; I used to call you my little sparrow. Now look at you, you’re a big man, like a big round teddy bear full of jelly. Do remember to eat some veggies dear-heart; it will help with potty-time.

Oh, look at the time. You know, I used to think that once I reached mandatory retirement that my life would be one long lazy afternoon full of lemonade and gardening. Look at me now; I just got a 15-cent raise over at the Wall-Mart. I do love spending 60 hours a week just meeting people at the door with a smile, although sometimes my feet ache awfully. Mr. Ramirez, my manager, said that he might be able to take you on part time. You would still have plenty of time to dust all those toys, excuse me “collectable figurines” that I know are so valuable. Well, I’m off to work, (Mr. Ramirez doesn’t like me to be late) thank you again for these lovely flowers, I know that they will look just right in front of the house, at least I know they did yesterday.