It had started out like every other morning this week.  I slept late again (I will tell you these stories tomorrow).  I was bustling around the kitchen getting mother’s breakfast ready, moving to the beat of the big band playing on the radio.  Traffic report – not really paying any attention as my mind was on mom’s eggs and getting things going so I could go get the car.  Traffic was backed up on Buckner Blvd. because of an accident and care-flight was coming in.  We talked about how close that was then went on with our morning routine.    After picking the car up, I had to take Bebo’s cat Buster to the vet, so I had her put the cat in the carrier before we left because I wasn’t chasing him around the house.  I had a wonderful surprise at the garage as the bill was only $339.90 instead of $550.00.  Whoohoo, my luck was changing.  I picked up the cat and headed over to the vets office.  I’ve been going to this clinic since the late 70s.  With as many cats as I have, it’s not just a once a year thing.  No, I’m up there quite often.  They’ve joked about naming one of the exam rooms after me – I am not making this up.  Even the security guy for the building next door knows my car and waves.  But I love going there – the people are so nice, the doctors and staff are very caring – and it doesn’t hurt to have a good relationship with them.  I often don’t even have to have an appointment, just call up and say that I’m on my way.  When my brother died (Bebo’s husband) they sent me a sympathy card.  When my cat Siobhan was put to sleep, they sent a beautiful plaque.  I especially love the receptionists, Theresa and Elaine (pronounced Elena).  I don’t know a lot about Theresa’s family as she’s a little quieter than Elaine.  I know that Elaine has a little boy around 2 years old - such a proud mama.   They would ask about mother, we’d joke around and razz each other.  I felt comfortable there in those familiar surroundings.  Oh, and that car accident?  It was Elaine ... she didn’t make it. 

She had a beautiful and compassionate soul and I will miss her dearly.