Whatever became of you, Dee Dee Kubishak? It’s been almost 30 years since our whirlwind romance. It seemed like we would be together forever.

And then your family moved. I don’t remember if I ever knew where. You could have said Cloquet or Argentina and it would have meant the same thing to me.

Life goes on, doesn’t it? So many things have happened since you left. Did you know they built a new bridge to Superior?

Mr. Bordwell cut down his trees and planted new ones. When I was in sixth grade I could still jump over them. I think they’re 20 feet tall now.

Your old house by the railroad tracks is still there. It doesn’t look abandoned, but I haven’t seen anyone go in or out since you left it.

Mikie died a few months ago. His mother sent me a card and told me to share it with the other kids from the neighborhood. I wish I could share it with you.

Dee Dee, my life has been blessed with so much love and friendship. I hope yours has, too. And I hope you remember me once in a while.

I’m still right where you left me, standing by the evergreens with my hands in my pockets, probably fresh from some strange mischief.