July 12th

Another hazy gray one.
Despite the heat, the first of Collette’s orange roses had decided to bloom in full that morning, having first opened two or three days ago.

Bluebell’s party had seemed to be a success. She was presented with her memory book, compiled from 96+ students and parents, and an original piece of art painted for her by one of her favorite artists.
There had been barbecue and two large cakes.
OLeif returned close to nine, and the rain had never arrived.

Meanwhile, everyone scattered for church in their usual four groups, between the hours of eight o’clock and twelve-thirty. They returned for ciabatta with butter spread and taco salad, and drumstick ice creams, just as a large thunderstorm ripped through the trees.
Somewhere toward the end of the meal, Mom, Carrie-Bri, and Rose recalled an old Bing English original lyrics with a tune:

When you’re feelin’ lonely,
Or when you’re feelin’ sad,
You can think of the happy times,
And then you don’t feel so bad.

Come afternoon, the rain was still falling, and Rose called for a trip to World Market. Mom, Collette, and Joe joined her, where she came away with a tiny curled-up cat for her desk, a coin dish, and a small sparkling cider.
“I will have this with soup for my lunch tomorrow,” she said happily.