I am planning to sell my home down here in Mesa this year. Hope to come up there as soon as it sells…maybe by fall. If you hear of anyone who wants a good deal on a nice home in a senior neighborhood in the Valley of the Sun, let me know. I so miss my friends and family in the Emerald City.

I didn’t get where I am today on illusions. Well, not many anyway. Finding a place to live in expensive Seattle is daunting. I may be looking for an independent living facility that takes Medicaid. That may be tough also. I know I will need to visit and figure it all out. I am looking forward to the challenge.

I am not willing to be a caregiver for Don much longer. His mind is failing; and I am ill. He will be able to get good care down here. And I must take care of myself.

I treasure the kind encouragement I’ve gotten from you, my friends, and family in Seattle; most precious when the inevitable doubts intrude.

I’ve moved tens of times in my life, and it never gets easier. Perhaps this can be the last time.

Melba Walton is an avid writer and poet, making the move from Mesa, AZ, to Seattle.

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