Mom’s advice
I snuck out to Jazz Fest late this afternoon to catch Randy Newman and some more jama jama. T was at the airport in DC on her way home. My mom called and left a message saying, “I can’t believe you are out at Jazz Fest when Tatjana is almost here and you are supposed to be there picking her up.” I called my mom as I headed back home and said, I’m picking her up but she’s not in for another hour or so. And this is what my mother said, “Honey, I almost drove by to leave your birthday present at your house. I wanted to buy you a dogwood tree but a) it wouldn’t fit through your mail slot and b) I couldn’t find one. I might have to just go dig one up in the woods. So I got you a present that will fit through the slot but then I didn’t get over there. But I was thinking honey, and I wanted to tell you something. You have always been someone who gave to everyone. I think you are now really about to begin your life in earnest and it is time you allowed others to give to you. Please accept the gifts that others have to give you.” I said, “yes mam.”