A Starling's Awakening

The Return

Christmas had fallen in the middle of the week, so the entire family drove out to visit us on Christmas day. It was a joy filled visit if entirely too brief. They brought food, paper plates, plastic cups, and plastic flatware. They had decided we would have a full blown family gathering and feast when Bret and I moved back home.

The move home on Saturday was a caravan much like the move out had been. Mark rented another moving van. The bed we had been sleeping on the past couple months was still in like-new condition, but it was not as comfortable for me as Bret's old bed. Mark said he knew of another young couple who were just starting out who would be beyond grateful if they could have it.

We unloaded everything at home. Raina started our laundry for us. Audrey, Ruby, and Helen had stayed at our home, cooking up a storm. It was one of those smoked elk roasts that I like so much.

The next day at noon, the whole family went to the National Guard office. Bret's group had a stand-down ceremony. His time of training away from home was officially over, at least for the time being.

Monday, mid-morning, I had another doctor's appointment, and a sonogram. Everything was still going well.

"Doc, I feel like I have a house in front of me."

"That's a good way of looking at it. It is your son's current abode."

Bret and I took Tuesday off. We slept in and spent the day cuddling on the sofa. It was annoying how often I had to use the restroom. My OB-GYN told me that it was normal, and might get worse. Joy. Bret and I did manage to watch one old movie. I nibbled on a small tub of frosting.

When Bret was recruited, he was offered a twenty-five thousand dollar signing bonus. That check arrived in the mail shortly before Christmas, and was waiting on our bed when we returned home. Wednesday we decided to go to the bank and deposit it. Bret wanted to get a full-size SUV to use as a family vehicle.

"Isn't your sedan good enough?"

"To start with. But once Paul gets a little bigger and starts wanting to play sports, it won't be. Besides, I may need a truck to get to job sites, or haul tools."

"I'll still have my car. Do we really need a third vehicle?"

That afternoon, we went out to Robert and Helen's. I had stored my little German coupe in their garage while we were gone.

I tried to get behind the wheel. I had to move the seat all the way back. Once I was seated, I moved it forward, but my belly hit the steering wheel before my feet could reach the pedals. I tried leaning back the seat while inching it forward.

By the time I could reach the pedals without the wheel pushing into my belly, I was leaning back so far I couldn't see out. Oh I sobbed hard. I could have died from the embarrassment. I loved my little car. It was so cute, and it had been with me since I'd earned my learner's permit. I'd passed my driving test in it. Now I was too big to fit.

Bret and Robert helped me get out. Helen drove it home for me. At least I fit in the front passenger seat. Bret was right that it's not very practical, especially for a young family. There is not much leg room in the back seat, and the trunk is tiny. When we got home, Bret had to help me get out, again.

"Honey, if I get an SUV, you will be able to get in and out without help."

"I won't say no, but I am not selling my car." He hugged me, and gave me one of those kisses that reassures me everything will turn out fine. Barney took him car shopping. He bought an SUV that has steps on the sides, and grab handles inside. I was able to get in and out without help.