It's The Little Things

Dear Joe,

Did I ever tell you that I loved smelling your hair?
You used Pert Plus shampoo
and I loved inhaling its smell
as I kissed the top of your head

I would have used it as well
(not just for the scent, but for the ease)
but it never untangled my tangles

After you died
I couldn't bear the thought
of throwing certain things away

Your pills stayed in the medicine cabinet
Your suits stayed in the closet
Your shoes stayed under the bed
and your shampoo stayed in the shower

It's the little things like those
that have kept you
a part of our home

For over two years now
I have sniffed at the bottle of shampoo
and felt your presence around me

On occasion
I've even washed the boys' hair with it
and held them close to me
afterwards

Tonight something bad happened
The boys were playing in the bath
and of them (I'm not sure which, but it doesn't really matter)
got a hold of the Pert Plus

The cap came off
the bottle was placed under the running water
and just like that

It was gone

I know some will say I can replace the bottle
but
That was your last bottle
that was irreplaceable

One more thing
gone before I could stop it

It's the little things

You understand I'm sure
you always did

Love,
b