[Your address] 29 Shady Birch Way Cleveland, OH 44118 [Date] June 19, 2019 [Casual greeting] Dearest Christina, [Acknowledge your friend] I hope this letter finds you well! [Main points] I’m writing to let you know how grateful I am to have you in my life. I’ve been making a lot of healthy changes recently, and I know you planted the seeds within me for that to happen. I got a new job working as a writing tutor at the local community college and I love it! It feels great to help people shape their ideas and put them down on paper (much like you taught me to do). So thank you for inspiring me and my heart’s work. :) I recently took a trip to Montreal and thought of you quite often, especially while visiting the grave of Leonard Cohen. I’ll never forget that one time we just sat in my car and listened to his entire album. That’s when I knew we’d be friends for life. While I was there, I also got to explore some lovely old cathedrals and met some really kind, generous people. Oh, and poutine! Next time you visit Cleveland, I’m going to have to round up some ingredients and try to recreate it for you! We’ll have a chill dinner party and movie night just like we used to do. As for my love life (because I know you’ll ask me about it in your next letter—haha!), I’ve met this new guy that I think I could get along with for the long term. We’re friends for now, of course, but there’s definitely that spark going. We’re taking it slow and seeing where it goes. Oh, and since you asked about my Father, he’s doing well. Healthier than ever after the surgery. It was a pain for me to drive so many hours each weekend to see him, but I made it work and now we’re closer than ever. [Address their life] In response to your last letter, I’m so glad to hear that you and Bart took that much-needed vacation to São Paulo and I can’t wait to hear about all the beautiful sites you saw (and the incredible food you ate). And I hope you guys danced some tango—the two of you steam up the dancefloor like nobody’s business! [Ask open questions] How is your family? I know Maria got married because I saw the beautiful photos she posted! By the way, that dress you wore was absolutely stunning! I’m still bummed I had to miss out. How does it feel to have a son-in-law? Do they plan to start a family soon? I think you’d be a great “Gwamma Cwistina”! Any updates on your sister? I remember you saying she was struggling to get through physical therapy, but is she able to take care of herself again? Also, have you read Mary Karr’s latest book of poems? You were the one who got me into her writing (thank you!) and I think you would really love this compilation. If not, what are you reading right now? Any recommendations? [Reference your friendship and correspondence] I’m so glad we decided to swap the emails for real pen and paper! Let me know next time you’re in “the C-land” and we’ll get lunch. [Casual salutation] Love and hugs, [Your name (signed by hand for a thoughtful touch)] Ann Barrington