Dear Maria in Alabama, I know you had a full day today, working at the Gee’s Bend Quilting Collective, I know you are going to choir practice tonight – now I am truly jealous, I doubt we will be able to speak tonight. Forgive the flatness of the message, I am pretty tired. I suspect you will see the blog before we get to talk.

I’ve been spending a lot of time out with Ma in the pole barn, I called for help, the vet is coming in the morning – there are just too many emergencies tonight, I didn’t push it. Ma is struggling – heavy breathing, severe limping, discharge through the nose and uterus. She began labor this morning, is getting nowhere, not pushing at all.

She just doesn’t look good to me. I know that isn’t a certain measure, but it’s enough to call for help. I might have to make some complex decisions in the morning, if so, I am glad you are not here. I am also glad you are coming home tomorrow.

I have friends all around me, every time I turn around somebody is asking me if I need help or if they can help. Deb Foster saw my bent over back and she isn’t asking, she just comes by and is helping. I appreciate it. Pulling Pumpkin out did it for me.  Jack is standing by and Scott will be here in the morning, Rod if I need more help.

Once I get a medical reading, I’ll know exactly what to do, to proceed with the labor or end it. It will be clear in the morning. I will do everything to make Ma comfortable and bring out the babies, but I won’t spend hundreds of dollars or approve of elaborate medical procedures to do it.

Apart from the money,  I don’t think it’s right. I remember we both saw that moment with Tess when it revealed itself to us. I believe perspective is important, I don’t want to lose it in the emotions of the moment. I would love to be a hero here, but that is about me, not Ma.

Liam is the Prince Of Bedlam Farm, he is taking over the pasture, greeting everybody, racing around. When you get back, we’ll get the wrap off of him, he is growing rapidly. I took Lenore and Red for a walk this afternoon, Frieda wasn’t up for it, and I was shocked to see Lenore actually flush a rabbit and give chase, she tore after him right up Macmillan road and into the woods. I can’t imagine what she would have done if she had actually caught him.

I am so happy to hear the enthusiasm, excitement and confidence in your voice. What a creative journey, I can’t wait to see what you start making once you digest it all (no pressure.) I called your mother and told her what a great time you are having, she is happy for you. This is such a wonderful trip for you, I can’t wait to hear about it. I’ll be picking you up tomorrow night around ll p.m. when your plane gets in, I’ll have Red in the car, some water and cheese puffs.

The donkeys are quite irritated at being locked up in the pasture, I am plying them with carrots.

I am looking ahead to New York and the meeting with Chief Arvol Looking Horse Sunday, and Monday I’m having lunch with my new editor to talk about my next book. So many good things are happening to us, I can’t wait to see you. I’m out of gas so I’ll say good night and there is an ocean of love waiting for you when you come back to me. I expect a funky gift from Gee’s Bend.