Picture me (because I didn't get one, sadly), rushing in to pick up Dad. We were in a big hurry, late for stuff..
Me, running in to see Mom, quickly, showing her a decorated cardboard, calendar shaped present from Sandra, (her sister). It was sent to me early. "To Terri, Happy Birthday" is written on it.
In bed, Mom looks up at the package. She looks tired, like she either has a headache, is feeling down or out, or just worn out. She can't tell me of course, and even has very little muscle control in her face, but her feelings show plainly to me.
She looks slightly interested in the package. Suddenly Dad and I decide now is the time to open it, even though her birthday isn't for a couple weeks.
Out comes the calendar in a jacket with a big, wonderful print of the Mona Lisa.
I just wish you could have seen her face (Mom's). She just stared, astonished. I felt astonished.
The tired look was gone. I pulled the calendar out of it's jacket and turned to January where the Mona Lisa was again staring at us with her little smile of content. Mom's eyes moved slowly, but immediately, to the empty space where her calendar is usually hung.
I hung it right up.
It was perfect.
