Anthony: I thought we weren’t going to have these talks any more.
Me: You sound hurt.
Anthony: Not hurt exactly, more nonplussed.
Me: It is all the details of death that prevent any finality and, yeah, that dreadful word, closure.
Anthony: Like what?
Me: Like the stupid Probate thing – registering – via our lawyer, your Will to the Supreme Court – to prove that I am your beneficiary, executor, wife etc.
Anthony: So how are your inherited paddocks?
Me: Oh, swimmingly, Ants – the rain has been relentless! Anyway, I need some photo ID of you for this probate process and all I can find is a very scary portrait of you on an out-dated passport.
Anthony: Why is it scary?
Me: You look like a thug!
Anthony: So what happens next?
Me: Apparently, once we get past this probate thing, I will become officially entitled to everything – the house, land, your shares, your holiday house in Bermuda – everything!
Anthony: I thought you thought sarcasm was the lowest form of wit, Jules.
Me: And I thought death was simple, Ants. How could I have possibly anticipated the amount of red tape that would surround your death, or the length of time if would take for this probate thing?
Anthony: I am so sorry, Jules!
Me: Why? Not your fault but I tell you what, Ants, I am getting things clearly written and legal-easy for Ming in case I die sooner rather than later. You never know.
Anthony: You never know what is around the corner.
Me: You used to say that to me all the time in a funny way!
Anthony: Jules?
Me: Yes, oh wise one?
Anthony: Tell Ming that it is all going to be splendid.
Me: Okay. I will. And if it is all right with you, I would like to continue these conversations every now and then, for awhile.
Anthony: Good idea and I am relieved..
Me: Me too, Ants. I love you so much!
Anthony: And the whole of Heaven heaves for you too, Jules.
Me: Bleah!
Photo taken before Ants got really sick – maybe 2007?
jmgoyder 
That’s a great photograph, thanks for including it.
You remind me to to try to get things in order. I know that I should but it is hard to think about it.
LOVE Ming’s hair! And, that you will talk to Anthony when ever you need/want to. 🙂