August 9th, 1974,

Dear, Diary,

I told myself I would never love again. I guess I lied, because here I was getting ready for my first date since Leo died.

He fought in the war, shame he died. He was so sweet. I swore I would never love again after Leo. He was my whole world, we were going to get married when he came home.

I miss him with all my heart. Yet, here I am, I had to move on at some point I suppose.

I just never thought it'd be so soon, it's only been two years. I wanted to wear my pearl necklace, the one Leo gave me before he left for Vietnam, but my friend, Shannon told me not to.

"It'll bring back too many sad memories for you, Nance. It's not good for a first date." She said. Shannon's three years older than me I usually listen to what she says, and she's right. I shouldn't.

A lot of the stuff I own reminds me of Leo, I had to buy a whole new dress and shoes just because of it.

Too much hassle, if you ask me. But, my mother said I need to get back in the dating pool. "Leo was a great man but you can't just swear off love, Nancy."

I agree but it doesn't feel right too. I made a promise to myself that I would never love again. I don't think I should love again. Yet, here I am. Leaving my house with my brand new dress and brand new heels for my first date in two years since my fiancé died.

Love,

Nancy Woods.