Chapter 4

Dear Leon,

I am so excited to be able to tell you this! You'll never guess what has happened! My mom received a promotion and we're moving back to your area! She's taking a job at the Wyomissing Office, which she tells me is right outside of Reading. We're moving into our new house on October fourth, and I'm starting school about a week after that. Unfortunately, I won't be returning to your school. But at least we're still able to see each other.

Does your school have any dances? I thought that if it had a Halloween dance or something ... maybe we could go together. Would that be ok? I've really missed you. You're the only true friend I've made in the five times we've moved in the past two years. I never really know how long we're going to remain in a certain place, so I try not to become too attached to people in that area. It gets really lonely most of the time.

I didn't want to become attached to anybody in your area either when I lived there last. But now, as I look back on it, I don't think there was anything to be done that could've prevented us from becoming friends. We haven't talked face- to-face in what seems like ages. We'll have to plan a day to just hang out and catch up.

I've probably changed so much since last time you seen me. My hair is long now, half way down my back.

My mom got me glasses a while ago, but now I wear contacts. I grew up a little; I'm now 4'5"! I hope i get

To be at least 5'3" then I'd be taller then mom!!

I got your last letter. I'm really sorry that you got in trouble. But was the Super Glue really necessary?

I mean, you could've just used Elmer's Glue. It probably would've had the same effect without all the extra problems.

Well, I should be going. Please write back as soon as you get this. I really enjoy reading and replying to your letters. I hope to hear from you soon and I hope to see you right away after I move back.

Goodbye for now.

Your friend,

Hope M. Cartwell

"I remember that letter like I received it yesterday. I must have read it 100's of times between hopes birthday in June and the day she moved back in October."