A date with Jeanne

[LongTomH]

June 30 was the 2nd anniversary of the death of my sweetheart and lover, Mary Jeanne Brady: 1943 - 2006. We were never married (which I regret now!), and never lived together; but, Jeanne was and always will be the great love of my life.

Jeanne,

Sunday, I went to take flowers to your grave. I also put up a little spinner and banner that you would have liked.

Then I took a walk through that little park we loved to walk in, either with your grandkids or alone. And you were there. Summer was your season, love. I saw the rocks where the kids played, jumping from rock to rock, and the bench where we sat.

I remember...........

I remember your touch, and holding you in the night.

I remember dancing with you, holding you tight, whether it was at a parish dance or charity ball, or in your kitchen. I even remember the song that time; it was Donovan's Jennifer Juniper on CD.

I remember all the music we loved and shared, whether it was live or on CD. All the Jazz in the Woods concerts, the little clubs, the summer outdoor concerts. You taught me to love jazz and blues. And you listened to music I loved, my Donovan, Moody Blues and Celtic.

I remember sharing books and movies. I remember watching "A Beautiful Mind" with you. You were so moved you had to sit on a bench in the lobby and discuss it afterwards.

I remember so many discussions; especially after Sept 11, 2001. You talked about your discussions with the Peace and Justice person at the Archdiocese, who expressed a hope that we wouldn't react with violence. I wish America had listened to people like you and the Good Sister.

So many special moments: A peaceful afternoon in the Botanic Garden where I wrote you a poem. Seeing you posing at the foot of the statue of your patron: Saint Joan. A sand castle on a beach in California and our shadows on the sand. Riding those little streetcars in New Orleans.

Thank you for sharing, my love. Thank you for sharing those times with your wonderful family, and your friends. I really need to get back in touch; I didn't mean to let so much time go by.

Thank you for taking the time to get to get to know my friends, even my crazy friends in SF fandom.

I remember your wonderful Mardi Gras and Lundi Gras parties, with your friends and mine.

I'm going to have to finish this tonight!