Kathy liked to act exasperated, but zeitoun's romantic side was central to why she loved him. she knew that any kind of boat reminded him of his childhood. how could she deny him a used canoe? she was fairly certain he would never use it, but having it in the garage, she knew, would mean something to him—a connection to the past, the possibility of adventure. whatever it was, she wouldn't stand in the way. zeitoun is recalling kathy's fondness for adventure. kathy's skepticism about his boating ability. kathy's frustration with his many collections. kathy's reaction when he purchased the canoe.