Kassi Garmley, the Mansion Director, sent me this photo she took yesterday of Ellen, a Manson resident, and me touching hands on either side of the glass. I am not allowed in the Mansion right now, and Ellen and I miss each other.

Maria and I went to the Mansion yesterday to hang up our Rainbow Connection flag, so the residents will understand they are in our hearts and not forgotten.

At Bingo, Ellen, who is competent, gave me a wicked evil eye when she didn’t get the numbers she wanted. I’ve supplied her with realistic baby dolls, blankets for them, and clothes for herself.

We often and talked about her life and worries.  Ellen has a dry sense of humor and a fierce curiosity.

We both lit up when we saw each other and rushed to the glass to press our hands out. This is a hard time for the residents – no visitors, no outings, no walks outside.

I’m glad she saw me, and perhaps understands she hasn’t been abandoned. She looked pretty happy, as did I.