Have I Ever Told You About …
She came into the room carrying what looked like a coffee pot from a Mr. Coffee machine. Only this one wasn't filled with coffee. It was filled with hot water and fresh lemon slices. Lots of them. She set the pot on a little hot plate to keep it warm and poured me a cup.
She also brought a small plate of fresh fruit in case I felt well enough to eat something.
I remember her eyes. They were the kindest eyes, and her voice was just as gentle. She spoke to me while I was lying in bed, explaining what I needed to do. She was very sincere and quite determined that I drink the entire pot of lemon water. All eight cups of it!
Have I Ever Told You About…
A small group of young men brought instruments, and suddenly live music erupted. The tunes were spontaneous, joyful, and infectious. Everyone swayed, clapped, or danced along.
I asked a few locals about the scene. Each told me the same thing. This was no festival or planned event. It was simply the first warm sunny day of the season. Spring had arrived, and Galway celebrated in its own way. Jackets, shoes, and socks were peeled off as the day warmed up. Music soared, and laughter echoed across the waterfront.
Have I Ever Told You About…
Jim kept driving, then suddenly swept us up a hillside and pulled over. He jumped out of the car and motioned for us to follow. We stepped out and walked to a railing overlooking the loch.
“This is the best view of the fort since it’s falling down and you can’t get into it anymore,” he said. “Plus, you get a good look at the view. You have a feckin’ better chance to see Nessie.”
Have I Ever Told You About…
So I opened a small savings account just for this goal. I tucked away a few dollars from each paycheck for more than six months. When Christmas rolled around, it was time to start the hunt.
I already knew it would be hard to find one, that I couldn’t be picky, and that if I shopped wisely, I might even afford an extra doll dress or maybe a play stroller.
I’m dating myself here, but back then, Black Friday was truly Black Friday. No online shopping. You watched the ads and hoped the big newspaper stuffed with them landed on your doorstep on Thanksgiving morning.
Have I Ever Told You About…
When I reached the pen, he stood on his hind legs to meet my hand halfway. His tail wagged so fast I thought he might take flight. I bent down to talk to him, and he looked straight at me with those trusting eyes. In that instant, I knew.
Have I Ever Told You About…
I was nervous. I wanted this, but I had no idea how much it would hurt. The artist worked quickly. I sweated like I was in a triathlon. When it was done, I was thrilled. Instructions in hand, I headed home feeling like I had just claimed a little piece of independence.
Have I Ever Told You About…
Suddenly, a couple of young men started singing Rolling Stones songs.
“I can’t get no Satisfaction…”
One by one, people joined in, and soon, the entire train car was filled with people singing along.