In unravelling this story, I’m remembering the small things, the details of who she was - before she became medication, sleepless nights, and nightmare days. I try to keep these rememberings to myself but they rush out of my mouth at unexpected times, at inopportune times. I find myself blurting out the story of her funeral to friends on road trips. And afterwards I sit awkward and silent, trying to trace the thought process that led me back to her.

I find myself repeating the things she believed, dolling out her superstitions to friends as if they were advice. I don’t know if they are of any interest to anyone but me. I recall rolling my eyes whenever she repeated herself for the hundredth time. The things she believed seemed so old-fashioned, like relics from another time. I know now that she was leaving me with things to remember, compiling my inheritance, giving me all that remains when the person themselves is gone. She was writing the story for me. Putting it together, neatly in chapters. Whimsy amongst the tragedy, fairytales amongst the bitterness. She gave me this story and all I have to do is remember it.

Never leave your wardrobe doors open at night. Keep them closed for good luck.

If you pass someone a bar of soap, an argument will follow. Place the soap on a surface between you and allow them to pick it up themselves.

Always turn your shoes right side up for good luck.

A case of the hiccups means the one you desire is thinking of you.

To cure the hiccups take nine small sips of water and then drain the glass. All whilst holding your breath.

If you are having a run of bad luck, collect some coins, wrap them in some pretty fabric and loosely tie the bundle with a ribbon. At 12.00 noon on a Friday leave the parcel in the middle of a crossroad. Whoever finds and unties it will also free your good luck.

Avoid kissing your loved ones on the eyelids. Arguments may follow.

A bubble floating on the top of your coffee indicates jealousy.

A ritual for when you are missing loved ones who have died: On a Saturday morning collect a candle, a few flowers and your favourite incense. Place the flowers near a photo of your loved one, light the candle and burn the incense. Talk to them if you want to. Allow the candle to burn itself out.

If you dream of being sick, good luck is coming your way.

If you dream of someone you love dying, they will have a long and healthy life.

If you dream of water and the water is clear all will go well. If you dream of rough seas, there are hard times ahead. If you dream of calm seas, contentment is around the corner.

Don’t let your lover into your head. Your lover’s intimate knowledge of you should start at the nape of your neck.

If you ask for forgiveness, wholeheartedly, you will find it. Within yourself.