The People I Have Met

I didn't know very many people in Vernon even though the community was very small and we lived there for 6 years. I don't know why people are afraid to get out and meet their neighbours these days, but they are and I am no exception either. I wish I had more nerve because there are a bunch of young women around here with babies the same age as Rowan who I bet are stuck inside their homes just like I am and who could use something to do too. But, I am a chicken and was never very good at making new friends (at least not as an adult anyway). I wish I could be more like Gerry.

Gerry became my friend the very first week we moved in to our old house. He probably walked right in the front door without knocking in fact. While he almost caught me half naked a few times, I really couldn't complain because he was very good to me. We rarely had to clean our laneway. We never had to mow our lawn. And when I was really down and alone in that big house, he came over to keep me company and to make sure there wasn't anyone hiding in the closet. Even though I have successfully put Vernon behind me, Gerry is still around. He still visits often and still comes flying through the front door (or he would if we didn't lock it). He still takes good care of me too. And now, well-- let's just say he has even more reason to visit. Here he is with Rowan who isn't quite sure what to make of Uncle Gerry's booming voice but Uncle Gerry sure thinks the world of Rowan.