Whimpering came from Barry’s side of the closet and there stood the two rescue dogs saved to live with them a few years ago; the sweet pit bull Tommy moved closer to his best pal, Gracie, a chocolate Lab Setter, both sensitive to what went on in the house. Sharon patted the bed to allow them to climb up for comfort knowing Barry didn’t care anymore
Early the next morning, Jeff called to say he and Inge would land at LaGuardia in the evening and they arranged for a driver to bring them home to her. “One more thing, Mom, before I hang up so listen carefully and consider my advice; I’m the younger son, I’ve made a success in business and marriage but I’m sorry to say, Fred, on the other hand, is not to be trusted and I’ve learned his business is in bankruptcy; you and Dad built a successful business with a reputation for quality service but beware and know Fred will take advantage saying he wants to help and bring in that wife of his yet he knows nothing of business and he’ll rob you, Mom, I just feel it. See you soon, Inge sends her love.
Troubled, Sharon made a plan, her first attempt on her own; she called George Ferguson at the funeral home followed by showering, selecting a gray dress and Barry’s favorite dark blue velour warm-ups, then gathering marriage pictures, baby pics and so many happy memories and she knew tomorrow would be the end of Act One of her life.
So accurate that animals always know when someone needs comfort.
Yes, with all the animals in our home, they give comfort in the sweetest way.
It must have been hard to hear that one son was less than honest.Especially at a time like this.
Animals do know our emotions, huh? I have two Cockers sleeping at my feet as I type. They are such wonderful companions.
Families are supposed to love each other but that’s not the way it goes. A mother bears the brunt most of the time.
Thanks for coming to the rescue, dear friend.
So sad that relatives turn a time of loss and sorrow into an opportunity to take advantage of that natural weakness . . . but very true. Great scene, Charmaine.
Thanks, Nancy. That’s an awful yet true picture. I’ve been there. We move on, no matter what happens.
Families don’t always get along and worse, sometimes do pretty bad things to each other. I’ve always loved the realism aspect of your writing, Charmaine. It’s impossible NOT to be drawn into your stories!
Marcia, I’ve missed you and appreciate your wonderful comment.
The pets do always know when something is amiss. Sad but true the family members often start jockeying for advantage even before the mourning is underway which is one more stress the grieving widow doesn’t need. HUGS to you, my friend!
We know how it works, Veronica. The story thickens. Thanks for always being here for me.
This was a very telling phrase: ‘Sharon made a plan, her first attempt on her own’.
This reminded me of my mother when my father passed away. They’d been married 35 years and she was only 63. She’d never driven in her life and the year following Dad’s death she got her driver’s license, bought a car – yet never drove it. All us kids knew it was important for her to establish her ability to DO things on her own.
You caught that sentiment.
,Sue, your mom and I have much in common. My husband died suddenly at 66, the boss of our small business while I was his assistant. I had to learn to take charge and work alone while tending to our kids. A major change in my life but we survive and somehow thrive. Many of my books deal with loss and finally stand up on our own. You need humor to begin again. My best to your mom.
I see it as a positive sign that she’s thinking of her married life as “Act 1”. That means she’s preparing for a new life, not thinking the best days are over.
Act I comes from my years as an actor. When I wrote this book, that expression came to me. Thanks, Alexis.
Harsh news about her son, but it sounds like she’s pulling herself together.
Christina, once the good son leaves, Sharon has a tough road ahead but she’ll find her way and lots of good things happen before long.. My best to you always, my friend.
You hit the nail on the head about pet intuition. Very nice snippet, Charmaine.
Thanks,Jess. I knew you’d understand about the pets.
And thus the poison of sibling issues arises so very quickly.
Good son knows all about his older brother and it’s his job to warn his mom. Enjoy the way the story evolves. Thanks, Ed.
So much truth in this snippet, my friend. The end of Act One indeed. Looking forward to Act Two of her life!
Thanks, dear friend. I’m so proud of what you’ve accomplished the past few years and I’m looking forward to your book in print soon. Let me know where and when. Hugs, Charmaine
Just tried to comment and got an error message. Will try again.
Weird, it worked that time. The two dogs in your snippet brought back a memory of when my first husband died suddenly, aged 35. We’d been married ten years. The night after his death my dear little rescue beagle Hans, jumped on my bed and gave me comfort that somehow no human could. These so called ‘dumb’ animals have a way of reaching into our hearts and touching our souls with their silent understanding.
As for the other son, I’ve seen this happen in real life too, when a family member tries to take advantage of a tragic situation for their own benefit. This scene you share is so touching and true to life.
Sounds like she’s got some trouble ahead! Also, dogs are the best.
Amy, you’re a peach. Thanks for your comment. As for me, we have 3 dogs, four cats and 3 chickens. Nothing can touch the sweetness of dogs; big, little, they are all sensitive to my needs.
Hywela, we have so much in common. I always look forward to your comments.
I think this was a poignant snippet.
Hi Elaine. Poignant indeed. Thanks for your comment.
I know why people don’t let pets on their beds… but still, I doubt I’ll ever be one of them! Cuddles are the best.
Wow, Fred is really a terrible son if his brother is right. Who steals from their grieving mother? o.O
Cuddles are perfect, especially when there is a loss. This story has a lot of truth in it. Been there, done that..
Pets give the best comfort, but they grieve as well. It sounds like the dogs will miss Barry too. It is harsh that the one son has to tell her to beware of the other one, but she had best be forewarned. She’s not going to be in a good place for quite a while.
Jenna, Your comment is so on target. Jeff had to forewarn his mom since he lives so far away. My story, in many ways, comes from my life. Dreadful time for Sharon.
My dog always knows when I need some lovin’.
Bless the pooches. We also have 4 cats and the youngest one is a cuddler so dear.