“Not so fast, Layla. Let’s get your mommy and daddy in here first!” Mama said. “Hurry up, you two!” She continued, “Layla’s surprise is in the back room!”

We all made our way into the back kitchen and small living quarters that Mama used for guests and personal visitors. It was the same area where she did her card readings and gave her counseling sessions.

As we gathered around the table Mama asked us to sit down, and as we did Layla excitedly blurted out, “Is it a doggie, Mama?! Is my surprise my new doggie?”

Mama and Maggie laughed and Mama said, “You’re something else, child, you really are!” And she disappeared into the little bedroom.

Layla was on full alert and Maggie was smiling ear to ear.

In a few seconds Mama came out of the back room holding a small blue blanket in her arms, and as she walked over to us Layla leapt out of my lap and ran over to Mama, who had kneeled down on her knee while she cradled something that was wrapped in her arms.

Layla stood in front of Mama in rapt attention as Mama said, “Layla, meet Buddy!”