Jan. 31, 2012
My dearest granddaughter, Taylor,
I am sitting at the oncology center getting some fluids to help me stay hydrated. I thought it would be a good time to tell you a few things I have had on my mind.
You’ll probably laugh after you read all this but I just wanted you to know about my proposition—
I think I have mentioned to you that I’d love for you to take the black ‘family’ bed for your home one of these days. (the one upstairs at my house) Probably you will get an apartment at Clemson soon after your first year. If you want it for your place—you can get it. Papa and I have discussed it. If you don’t want it at all—it is okay! We understand each other and there will be no hard feelings—trust me!
You can paint it—do whatever you like with it.
I realize you and Leslie are more into the modern and contemporary look—but maybe you could have one room—‘ole timey’.
We have so much traditional hand made furniture that we don’t know what to do with. It will work out.
I wanted to give you a little background on the black bed. My father, Ernest Mitchell, had that bed when he and my mother, Mary Mitchell, married. I wish I knew how he became owner of it but I don’t. Anyway, that was their bed throughout their marriage. The county doctor, Dr. Ryals, delivered me and Mary Ann on that bed. See why I want to keep it in our family? Mom passed it on to me when we moved to Columbia years ago.
I will not pester you about an answer. I just wanted you to know it is available and as I said, if you do not want to go this route—it is okay! You will still be my girl.
We probably would put a NEW mattress on it if you take it.
Are you laughing yet? I thought since I am confined to this chair for a while—I would write you instead of calling.
Papa and I love you so very much. I know you are going to have a wonderful life and you know we are always here for you!!!!
All our love,
Betty Jo and Papa
