We returned from Monett via State Highway H –> I-44 –> State Highway 5 –> State Highway 54 –> State Highway 63. Don’t ask me why I had to map that out–maybe it’s “COVID Mind.” We drove non-stop, which was easy, as we were listening to Octavia Butler’s mesmerizing short story collection Bloodchild and Other Stories. Nicole had not experienced Butler’s work before, and I do believe she may be hooked.
I guess we’re still adjusting to our dog being gone; it’s strange returning home from a trip and having cats in your face instead. The hurt caused by Louis’ absence was assuaged by a wonderful sympathy card from his clinic, All Creatures, that was signed by purt-near everyone, including a former student of mine who has been his favorite over there for quite awhile. They also sent along a nice card with The Kid’s pawprint–we’ll frame it, because that’s how we roll.
The dirty martini also played a role in the assuaging.
Streaming for Survivors:
When The Ruler returned…
The Overeem Farewell Tour: Dispatches from the Public School Trenches 