“What is this, Layla’s coming out party or is it Mama’s birthday?” I said with a tinge of cynicism.

“Jim, what’s going on with you? Who cares? It’s going to be fun and we’re going. It starts at 6pm at the recreation hall where Mama goes to church.”

“Mama goes to church?” I asked.

“Apparently yes, so we’re going, okay?”

Maggie was tapping her foot and that was my cue. “Uh, yes. Sure, it’s okay,” I said.

Feeling a bit cautious after my last encounter with Mama, I didn’t even want to talk about the dream again.

We spent the rest of the day hanging out at the house, taking turns with Layla. We even got in a nap, and before we knew it it was time to get ready for Mama’s party.

“What do you think we ought to wear to this shindig?” I asked.

“Oh, Jim, it’s Mama Vermillion. Just wear something comfortable and let’s get going. I looked up the church and it’s within walking distance. Let’s put Layla in the stroller and walk over there. It will be good to get some exercise.”