During a quick visit to the local mall, I was tempted to sit on the Easter Bunny's lap to have my picture taken, but remembered if Sargie were here, she'd probably not have encouraged me. 

March 26, 2017 - Sunday

57 degrees/cloudy/calm winds

Terre Haute, Indiana

It appears that today will be Independence Day for Mama. She spent all of yesterday sitting in a chair, went for a walk or two, and navigated her way to heed nature's call when needed. The biggest obstacles to her mobility seem to be the persistent IV tube and wires that connect her to a heart monitor. When Mom asked if they could be removed, the nurse said that since she was on the cardio unit, those will be the last things to go before she walks out the door.

There was initially some question as to whether Mom might come home yesterday, but one doctor couldn't make it for a final consult. He's to conduct his rounds this morning at 7 AM and after final orders, meds are discussed, and all those end of the stay things, Mom will be wheeled out a free woman.

My sister and her husband, both in the medical profession, are currently at the hospital talking with the doctor. I told them to call me when it's time to move Mom and I'd drive her car over to bring home the flowers and whatever else. Maybe I'll luck out and even get to transport Mom.

I did spend some time yesterday at the local mall. Sargie would have been so proud of me. She's trained me well.

I walked into Carson's, a Yonkers/Kohl's/Macy's type department store. 

Sniff... sniff

What's that? My nose was leading me to the women's department. A clearance rack? Look at those blouses, sweaters, and tops! OMG! Sargie would think she died and went to Heaven.

Let's see, 75% off the original price, then another 35% clearance markdown, and if one had a used article of clothing for Good Will, another 20% off of that.

After six years, I have a good idea of Sargie's preferences in clothing. She's also taught me how to find a good bargain.

I chose one top after another. If Sargie were here, we'd have to rent a U Haul truck to bring all the treasures home. 

My arm was about ready to break under the weight of all the shirts, blouses, and sweaters. It was time to check out.

The young clerk, probably a local university student, was very nice and when she asked if I had a Good Will coupon, I explained that I was from out of town and if I had some good piece of used clothing, I'd gladly donate it.

She smiled and shrugged her shoulders and began to ring up the purchases.

"Wait!" I said, "I have a newer pair of underwear that have a lot of good left in them. Let me grab those!"

She wasn't sure whether to laugh or close her eyes, so she took the safe route and said she'd give me the additional 20% discount just the same.

The total came to around $30. I smiled and as I removed a debit card from my wallet and explained that really, Carson's owed me money.

"How do you figure?" she asked. 

These young kids, little common sense, no mental math abilities. I sighed and put on my best professor's face as I began to explain. 

"Pay attention," I told her. "There could be a quiz after."

Originally, 75% was discounted from the original price, then another 35% for clearance. On top of that, an additional 20% is subtracted for the Goodwill discount. That adds up to... 130% discount. Seems you owe me around $10 for removing this clothing from your store."

Her face got that blank look that only those who are highly confused get.

"You're lucky," I continued, "that my wife doesn't have a larger closet. It could have been much much more."

The blank look became profound as she attempted to do the mental math. The lights were on, but no one was home.

"OK, look," I said, "You seem to be a nice girl. I'm going to do you a favor. I won't charge you anything for taking these tops. No need to do the math."

The poor coed's brain was already in overdrive. Lacking any common sense and obviously, fewer mathematical skills, I burst out laughing and gave her my debit card.

"Just ring it up," I said. "Take two aspirin and call me in the morning. You'll be okay."

Now's when I could launch into my "we don't teach common sense or practical math in today's classroom" lecture, but I don't have the time.

The rest of the day was spent with Mom. We talked and I'd occasionally bop out of the room while she did whatever it is Mom's do when boys leave a hospital room.

I kissed her goodbye last night saying we'd keep our fingers crossed that today, Sunday, we could break her out of the Big House and she might come home.

In other news:

Congratulations to Coleman for wrestling his way to 4th place in the state of Maine.

Coleman with his back to the camera

He's had a great season, his first.

Cousin Emmie brought her daddy, Matt, and both were there to cheer Coleman to victory.

Shirley Temple, reincarnated?

It's time to end this and get the show on the road. My sister just called, saying that they are doing some last minute blood work to check Mom's something or the other and that she should be ready to come home a bit later today. Once at the complex, we're going to attempt to sneak her into the elevator and up to her apartment before her girl gang discovers she's home. I imagine the trip alone might make her tired.

Emmie LOVES her Uncle Luke

Let's see, the throw rugs are picked up. Check.

Mom's goodies needed to come home. Check.

Evidence of this past week's parties gone. Check.

Time to get my mama home!

After all, a man's work is never done.

So are the tales from Pentoga Road... by way of Terre Haute, Indiana...

Wouldn't Sargie and I look good bopping around the UP in one of these?!
I tried talking the Honda salesman into the same 130% discount as Carson's. It didn't work. At least I don't have to figure out how to fasten it to the top of the Kia for the trip home.