“There’s my beautiful baby! How’s my little angel?” she said. With a squeal of pure joy, Layla reached out for Maggie and as I passed her to her mother Maggie said, “Hey baby, sorry I’m late. What have you and Mama been up to?”

Before I could say a word, Mama walked over to Layla and kissing her on the cheek she said, “Oh, me and Mr. Jim, we’ve been having lots of fun. I’ve got to be gettin’ home now, but I’m sure you two will be havin’ lots to talk about tonight!” She let herself out and we could hear her singing all the way down the stairs.

“What was all that about?” Maggie asked.

“Well, I’m not sure where to begin,” I said, “but first I’m going to have a beer.”

Perplexed, Maggie took a deep breath as I hightailed it into the kitchen, making my way to the refrigerator. Maggie followed me, cradling Layla in her arms, and said, “A beer? Aren’t you hungry? Let’s eat some supper first, babe.”

“Oh, did I say A beer? I think I’m going to have some beers for supper, yes, beer for supper tonight sounds pretty much perfect to me.”