Day After The Night Before

by Pat Antonopoulos

Four Ordinary Women is on my desk. Next to it, a vase of beautiful 'Tim & Sally' roses. Reminders.

Rainy Day hosted an author event. Books were sold. Autographs were written. Gentle smiles and supportive words exchanged. Vivien, Roger and staff were there to offer experience and expertise.

Much more happened.
Family came. Bob and Barbara, Kristi and Sally, Susan and Erin, Terri and Amy, Janelle, Dan and Frank...you are so appreciated.
Family closing ranks to support and validate.

Friendships with amazing women were renewed. Rita, Peggy, Joanne, Jane, Connie, Marilyn and Cynthia...colleagues from whom I learned and who are such an important part of my life. Sharon, a friend from elementary school and high school was another wonderful surprise. And Nancy came. She walked the miles with us, sharing her wit and grace.

Rachel, who wrote our story for the Kansas City Star, left a long day of work to offer her support and that beautiful smile.

A Fairway Road 'family', Bob, Melanie, Erin and her beautiful young daughter...past and cherished memories revisited.
Dena with her ageless beauty and talk of Daniel...deep and lasting connections from so many years ago.
Tory found the time to purchase our book for Lindsay who lives states away and still remembers.
Caitlin, with her darling face, reminding me of her diligence in mastering so many of those first grade spelling lists.
And Jimmy, grown to competent and caring young man, sharing stories of his life and of his mother, Linda.

So many other women and men came. Family. neighbors and friends of Patti, Shawna and Jo Ann, shared the evening as did new friends, Gentle Readers, who knew our book was to be a part of their permanent collection.

Four Ordinary Women had a most extra ordinary experience.