The snow has let up and there is blue sky lighting up a winter wonderland little town. I spent a very long time visiting with Mother Abigail yesterday and here is a summary of my notes.
When I arrived at MA’s home it was lightly snowing and her home could have been out of a movie set, just beautiful and very cozy. MA seemed glad to see me - which put me a bit at ease. My nerves sometimes get a little edgy when I have to interview her. MA is both sweet and accommodating but there is something about her bearing that makes me think of a visit to the principal’s office.
While I made myself comfortable in her den, MA made us tea with cinnamon sticks. The fire was warm and the view out to her backyard was enough to make me feel a bit domestic. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to not have lived the “cowboy” lifestyle - but the feeling always passes when I get on the road.
When MA arrived with the tea set I noticed that her hands are getting a lot worse. She has arthritis in both hands and often her friends help her with things that she cannot do - like open bottle caps.
The fingers next to her thumbs seem to be quite a bit dislocated now with a lot of swelling. It concerned me so I asked about her health.
Q: MA your hands look a bit worse are they bothering you?
MA: They look a lot worse than they feel. It is the dexterity that is such a pill, I have had to get a variety of gadgets to help with activities that once I could easily do with my hands.
Q: Are you on meds?
MA: Oh of course, I now have a monthly infusion and I give myself a shot once a week as well. Not to mention all the pills that I use for maintenance.
Q: How do you manage in such a big house alone?
MA: I have a housekeeper who has been on my staff for twenty years and is an angel for me. Also, with my family living in Reno, I am never without help when I need it.
Q: MA I did’nt, in any way, want to pry into your private life - I was just concerned.
MA: Of course child, I knew that.
Q: MA do you have a cell phone for emergencies?
MA: Well I carry a Blackberry for odds and ends and I never leave home without it in my purse.
Q: Good, I thought you must.
Q: When I write my next piece, should I leave out this discussion about your arthritis?
MA: (Laughing) No, I have very little vanity left at this late stage of the game. You continue to write everything as truthfully as you can.
Q: Thank you.
51 posted on 12/15/2011 4:53:31 AM PST by James Oscar
