This first work of the year is a small drawing for my friend
Heather, who died last August.
I always enjoyed listening to descriptions of her visits to
this old neighbourhood laundry on East Hastings. I'd
encourage her to take notes when she was there, to put
together a little journal of sorts describing the character
of the place, the people she encountered there. "You could
develop it into a small book," I would say to her, "and I'll
design the cover." She would always laugh whenever I
suggested this plan.
I miss her laughter, her sense of humour, her intellect, her
perception of things. I've never felt more at ease in someone's
company, and the time we spent together enriched my life. I
think of her nearly every day; and I like to believe that those
thoughts and memories will continue to enrich my life.
