It was the red roof, the arches, and the loneliness that first caught my attention. What a beautiful abandoned house! I knew I needed to explore.

It was your selflessness, the look in your eyes, and your playfulness that first caught my attention. Such a stunning, strong heart I saw! I knew I could trust you.

We explored that house. You and I.

I will never forget the lack of walls, the broken stairs, the graffiti of dinosaurs. Burned in my memory is the first time I rode in your truck, the meaningless debate over impossible paint that was once in the rusted bucket [checkered, invisible, or rainbow], how you were always ready to catch me when I climbed on something, fragile as I am.

Do you remember my Treasure? The little jar with the rusted lid that you had to open because I'm not that strong? It had seeds inside. It's still sitting on my desk. I smile every time I see it.

I drive past that old house, Marcello, sometimes - just to say hello. I could never have explored it on my own. I wish I could fix it up and fill it with brand new memories. I would paper the walls with laughter and the floors would become best friends with my barefoot patter.

It makes me sad that Marcello is so exposed to the elements - and other trespassers, perhaps not unlike you and I were. I hope someday it will be restored to its former glory.