Saw Jean this week in Ottawa.  Went by train.  The best idea really for getting up and walking, using the washroom, getting food come to you, and then of course having the view of a passing landscape.

Jean was magnificent. Propped up in her bed, body gone but extremely present in mind and intent.  Waving her arms to draw in others and bring attention to the things she needed or want to say.  She was elegant in her words and deeds, ensuring each person she met heard her feeling toward them.  A procession of friends scheduled in by Karen and Kim.  Family took priority and I was brought into this fold. "Jean sees you as family." were Kim's words.  Kim picked me up at the train station and both she and Karen had me stay with them in Karen's bed because of my back.  Karen took the matress in the living room, cuttling up with Elise once she arrived from New Zealand that night.

I didn't have much to say to Jean.  She had more words than I.  I had more small talk, telling her the story of my trip to Winnipeg.  She enjoyed the margaritas I served to her, Kim, Linda and I.  She had said we would go out for margaritas next time I saw her, after she heard about my cancer.  So I found a Margarita pre-mix and brought it to the hospital.  She loved it. Kim stole some salt from the Second cup so we could coat our styrofoam cup lips with it, and I had crushed ice from the floor's ice dispenser.  It made her smile.  We all did.

Good bye Jean.  I don't feel you leaving.  You are always here.