Stockings For Mary * Chapter 2 'Hotdogs and Cocoa'

What we know so far is that Mary has lost her dwelling and has gone hunting for a new one in a better part of the city.  Her spirits are high on this day...let us continue.

***

Another hour ticked by, and, yet another...still no sign of anything that would provide shelter for Mary.  As the noon hour approached, she started making her way back toward the city.  Mary had managed to scrape up $1.79 from the streets and alleyways as she walked, and was looking forward to visiting her favorite hot dog vendor, Eddie.  She could get a nice plump hot dog with all the trimmings, and a hot cup of cocoa for $1.45 from Eddie's wagon.  And, Eddie always had some juicy news of happenings within the city...maybe he could help her find shelter for the night!

Just then, Mary heard a soft voice behind her, calling her name.  "Mary? Mary Tidwell?  Is that you, Mary?" She turned her head back just slightly and saw a lovely woman-a familiar face, though she couldn't place it just right off.  Once again, the lady who looked to be in her 40's, called out.

  "Mary, it's me, your Aunt Sophie.  Don't you remember me?  I know it's been a long time, but surely you remember me, your mother's sister.  Please stop, I've been looking for you these past few months."

Mary slowed her pace and finally stopped walking.  She turned around to get a better look, and, yes she did recognize her Aunt Sophie.  Sophie reached out to hug Mary, but, Mary pulled away, showing no emotion.  "Please Mary, can you forgive me?  What you must have been going through!  I am so sorry.  When your parents were killed I was out of the country, unable to acquire passage back in order to attend the funeral.  I, then, was so ashamed, I just couldn't show my face, having left you alone to fend for yourself.  My shame has gotten the best of me, and I knew I must find you and try to make amends.  Mary, we need each other.  Please-say something."  Mary's eyes welled up with tears, and she reached for her aunt with open arms.  It was the first hug Mary had felt in the years since her parents' passing, and, darned if it didn't feel good!  Sophie and Mary hugged more, and they cried and they laughed as they walked along.  Sophie offered to take Mary for a nice dinner in a lovely restaurant, but Mary insisted on taking Aunt Sophie to meet Eddie, the hot dog vendor.  "He makes the best hot dogs in town, and the warmest, creamiest hot cocoa ever", Mary bragged. 

They talked as they ate, and shared their life experiences from the last few years.  Then Mary tried to excuse herself...she had confided to Aunt Sophie that she lives on the streets, and, having lost her shelter, was alley-shopping around for another one.

"That is entirely out of the question!" Sophie exclaimed.  "Mary, I have taken a nice little apartment just a few miles from here with a beautiful view of the city.  I have an extra bedroom, and...I plan to stay.  You MUST come live with me and start a new life.  You can resume your education, and do the things you've only dreamed of.  Please say yes!"  Mary was so filled with joy, yet, tried to remain cool before she answered.  And, answer, she did!  "Are you certain you want a roommate Aunt Sophie?  I'll try not to be too much trouble.  I can cook only a little, but, I can sweep floors and wash dishes with the best of them.  Of course, I'd love to live with you! I've been so lonely and my feet are always cold out here.  Thank you so much for finding me, Aunt Sophie!  When I awoke this morning, I knew this day would be a good one!  And, look...the sun is shining even brighter now that you're here!"

With that settled, Aunt Sophie and Mary hooked arms, and headed toward the city, singing happily,

'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.'

***

Hello, dear ones.  Now I know you think this is the last of it...but, beware!  I've become long-winded in my old (scratch that)  age, and, there are a few things I just can't leave unattended.  Can you handle one more chapter in a few days?  I've almost got it finished.

***

We've got a couple of birthdays-two of my favorite entertainers.  I just have to make mention of them, and wish them well!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Who is this handsome devil?

Keith Richards * December 18, 1943

One of the best guitarists and songwriters of all time!
This guy still rocks!

And, this lovely lady?

Miss Barbara Mandrell * December 25, 1948

A multi-talented, singer/entertainer and musician

The first, and only female to win the Country Music Assocation

'Entertainer of the Year Award' twice...

until Taylor Swift equaled her.

***

And, while I've got you here, that is, if you get the chance-stop by Karo's new blog.  He decided to give it a go with his 'Rockabilly' interests.  You can find him on my sidebar as:

Rock A Billy Rock.

Thank you:
Google
Yahoo
Wikipedia
Keith Richards
Barbara Mandrell

And, thank you dear readers for coming by.  I love to see you! The final chapter of 'Stockings for Mary' will be posted soon.  Have a safe and joyous holiday!

And beware of the Grinch!  hehe!