Max + Martha

Lucerne

Written on a bit of stationery from the Seebistro Luz.

Dear Olivia,

Don't panic. We're still alive. See attached picture for proof of life. It took us ten tries to get the lighting and the view of the lake just right.

We made it to Lucerne in one piece, after Prague. The air here is so crisp and clean that I actually feel like running to the hills like Sister Maria, with my arms out and singing. Martha's a little wary about drinking the fountain water, but hey, I'm still alive.

Martha is suddenly very aware that we haven't bought pasalubong for anyone yet, when I very unhelpfully informed her that we were more than halfway into our trip. Martha in full-organization mode is a little scary, you should have seen the way the sea of Chinese tourists parted when she and I walked down the main shopping avenue of Lucerne in search of a cow bell to give Tita Fauna. I've never seen her so terrifying, and so happy when she finally found the perfect cow bell.

Fuck. I love her so much sometimes I can't breathe, just thinking about it. And SHE LOVES ME. HOW CRAZY IS THAT.

Thank you for suggesting we stop by Lucerne, by the way. The city is small and lovely, and everything, as you promised is in walkable distance. On my part, I thought it would mean that I would have a lot of time to sit around and read. But, sadly, Fire and Fury has been replaced by the list of things we still have to buy. You like the white chocolate and raspberry bark from Läderach, I right? I vaguely remember you telling me about it.

I don't mind. I'm happy having a list of people to buy things for. I realize this is what you and I missed, growing up in America the way we did. We were always a little lonely, like a part of our lives was missing. Who would have known that we were missing crazy relatives to buy gifts for?

Maybe this is just the sausage and mashed potato talking (god I am sick of the food here), but it's a nice thought. This is the best dumb idea I've ever had.

Your favorite,

Max