Often the best bits a writer gets are gifts from strangers. Eavesdropping has provided many ideas and themes to explore. Yesterday's seaside brunch was no exception. Three elegantly dressed women are celebrating Mama's birthday. Mama excuses herself and leaves the table. The younger sister speaks...
"Sissy, will you watch Mama? See where she puts that gift card, you know next week she will call me and say, Dolores, Sissy brought us all a lovely brunch, and it was lovely, Sissy. And then she'll ask me how come I forgot...
Oh? You're not buying my brunch?
Looks like with tax I'm going to have to owe you owe you $46.95. And then she'll ask me, did I forget her birthday...because you didn't watch where she put that gift card.
Oh, the tip? Well Sissy, I did get Mama that gift card. Will you watch Mama so that she doesn't lose it and then call me...What? Oh, yes I have that gift card you gave me last year. I keep it in the refrigerator with all my important papers...Here's Mama..."
Photo: The Astronomical Clock in Prague's Old Town Square by Suzanne-Claire Williams