My mother, Betty Dooley, had a fan club of men. There was her neighbor Vito who came to her house every night and watched Jeopardy with her. They loved root beer floats. My mom kept frosted mugs in her freezer. He brought her the newspaper every morning. There also we another man who lived behind her for awhile and who brought her fancy eyeglasses. I can't remember all the men who my mom had as friends but there were quite a few.
The irony to me was that my mom seemed to have a negative opinion of men..This may have something to do with my dad. (nuff said)
I just thought..oh my God...I am my mom. I have so many wonderful men in my life now.
Of course Tom was the best. You all know that.
Camping with Tom and Roberto
But just this morning my neighbor Tom said he wanted to come clean my gutters..He and Tom used to do that. Tom is the most wonderful man. He is such a cheerful soul, and so helpful. I miss him when he and his equally nice wife travel.
This morning my new friend Michael asked me to coffee. When I got to Roosevelt Market he walked in with a loaf a bread he made. He was a chef and makes incredible bread. His husband is also Michael and is a urologist. I met Michael while I was sitting in the spot where Tom died (please don't say "passed away") We walked together and became special friends. He lives close.
Then there is Roberto. When I was caring for Tom I wanted to go to visit my sister in Hawaii. I didn't know who would care for Tom. Roberto made up a story that his kitchen was being repaired and he needed a place to stay. Tom was cool with this and he stayed a week with Tom. The crazy thing is that his kitchen really did spring a leak after his lie and needed repairs. So it was true after all. He stops by and I count him among my special friends
My cousin Steve stops by often and tells me jokes. He is going to go with me to my brother's memorial in a few weeks so I don't have to go alone.
I am fortunate to have so many lovely men in my life.
