Perhaps the glow from our Jamaican couples massage had not completely faded. Maybe it was the Mimosas and Bloody Marys we enjoyed during Mother’s Day brunch.

Brian had left for work. Alex was still in the house, but occupied elsewhere.

Carol surprised me from behind, her hands delicately grabbing my shoulders. She whispered in my ear, “Do you want to do that thing you do so well?”

“Uh … OK”, I replied. “Are you sure? Alex is still here and the timing’s a bit weird.”

“Please”, she breathed. “I have been waiting so long …”

.

.

.

And that’s how I ended up painting ceilings all Mothers Day afternoon!