If John were still alive there are things he’d really approve of and others he’d probably question.

He’d approve of Sophie. She’d have him wrapped around her paw. He’d have claimed her immediately and she wouldn’t be “mine.”

He’d love the storage area and knowing that I’ll be here in the summer, he would probably approve of the roof over the patio. The mattress would be a yes. The golf cart was too pricey so he’d find that I’d over-spent on it.

He’d wish I was more into exercise classes but he’d definitely approve of my friends: Evie, the Conklins and Irene Goetz. And he’d be glad that I’m volunteering for the Squad.

He’d be disappointed that I’m not closer to the friends we made over our many years here, but I think he’d understand that I’m just in a different social group now.

He’d be glad that I’m not selling this place, and he’d approve of keeping our car and not up-grading.

I think about now he’d think that it’s time to put pavers on the driveway and sidewalk. I haven’t changed the furnishings here, and he’d approve. He’d wonder why I don’t go to the Country Couples dances on Thursday nights, but if he was in my shoes he’d understand.

So I think that all and all, I’m doing things he’d approve of. He will always influence how I do things.