Blessedly,

If there are ever any questions,

A history can be found on two shelves in the small room now called bedroom, office, and closet.

The upper shelf belongs to him, because he was the major part of my life, the moments, days, years, turmoil we shared wrapped in love.

The four pictures range from his youth, when I had not met the young warrior pictured in the Marine uniform.

However, the two pictures embracing him are the years. we shared; first as young lovers then as parents on a Vermont vacation.

The last is at the final wedding he so valiantly attended before saying his final adieu to the family he loved so dearly.

The shelf below is my high school picture, innocent or naive, both words applicable to the young girl with more hair than wisdom.

She was virtually unknown in the school she had attended for three years, and uneasy about where the road would soon lead her. Her lack of confidence is apparent with the half smile and forced facial expression,

Directly below are the Fabulous Four; each an incredible gift never anticipated by the young couple.

Included, of course, is the first son God sent and now her lost sheep, forever beloved.

The picture reminds her daily there were years they shared as well as the Biblical parable she was forced to understand when they ended without explanation or accusation.

The largest picture is a slowly fading oil painting of the home where she grew up. There are many windows dark on the crowded street, yet always comfort in the the familiar one lit.

The memory serves as a constant reminder of the lessons taught in that home long ago.

Once there was a place named Hells Kitchen by folks who never lived there.

However, those who did, understood they were fortunate sharing a memorable time and place.

And blessedly, I was one.