What is that? May I see it?
Sure. It's a card for Daddy's birthday. He said it's a big birthday this year so I started early.
This is really cool, Henry. Daddy will love it.
He likes everything I make. I could do a bad job and he'll still tell me it's the best.
Because it is. Just because you made it for him. That's special in itself.
Do you think he's going to have a good birthday? He told me he's not going anywhere, that he wants to make some plans here and spend it at home.
Isn't it better if he's home?
If he wants to be.
Maybe you can spend the day with him.
He said the four of us would do something special.
Did he?
Yeah but he didn't say what.
I see.
Is it okay if we do that?
Of course it is. We're a family too.
Like a family within a family.
Exactly.
I want it to be a really great birthday for him. He seems really sad lately.
Does he?
I think he's lonely. You don't work there anymore so he's by himself a lot.
Henry..did he tell you to tell me that?
No. Do you think he'll be mad that I did?
Not at all. I just wondered if he told you directly.
No, I just feel it. Sometimes I feel what people are going through before they say anything.
I know you do. It's hard, isn't it. You get that from your father. He can do that too. So can I.
Can Ruth?
Not really, Ruth is a little more cut and dried.
What does that mean?
She doesn't put much value in feelings? That's not exactly what I mean though. She waits for confirmation of how people feel.
She's logical. Like Lochan is.
Yes.
Which do you like better? My way or hers?
Oh, that's not fair. I like all of it equally because it's what makes you you and it makes Ruth who she is.
What a diplomatic answer, Mommy.
Gee, thanks, buddy. I do my best.
