8.23.16

Maga: How’s work?

Me: Crazy busy. And I could do with a little less drama.

Maga: Don’t you publish books?

Me: Yes, but I have to deal with people to get those books made.

Maga: Oh, well, that could make things difficult. How’s the weather where you are?

Me: Today’s forecast was ‘sunny and delightful’ and you know what? That was spot on.

Maga: It was cloudy where I am today. But I guess it’s a changeable time of year.

The cooling temperatures. The evening hours creeping closer every day. And yet, it always feels like time for a fresh beginning.

Maga: Look at that man. He sort of blew up over the lake.

Me: What are you watching?

Maga: Channel 4.

Me: Oh. Okay. Did you watch the Olympics?

Maga: Yes! I loved them. What was your favorite sport?

Me: Gymnastics.

Maga: Aren’t all those young people so impressive?

Me: Totally. It sort of makes me feel like I need to do more with my life.

Maga: Oh, I think you’ve done quite a bit with yours.

Me: Well, thanks.

Maga: It’s not quite as colorful now that the Olympics are over.

Me: True. But the trees outside will be changing color soon. So there’s that.

Maga: And your mother is coming to visit me.

Me: What’s your favorite thing about her?

Maga: She’s so dependable and you can ask her things and she gives you a good answer. She just has good sense. She knows what’s what. I appreciate that very much. I guess anyone would. You’ve known her a long time. You must understand all this by now.

Me: I do. Very well. I’m lucky to have known her my whole life.

Maga: You’re such a dear to call. I love to hear your cheery voice. And sometimes you surprise me because I forget it’s Tuesday.

It is a changeable time of year after all, but our Tuesday phone calls are consistent. Two ladies each wishing they had more company than the newspaper, a book, the TV, memories of days previously sunny and delightful. But our blood connects us and the telephone ties us together and we move forward one season at a time.