This one time I wanted Mommy to come outside and see me because I learned how to skate backwards (my friend BeBe taught me). She wouldn’t come because Deven said she was sleeping, and she didn’t want me to wake her up. So, I was sad, but Deven said she would come outside and watch me, and she did! She was clapping for me and told me that even though I wasn’t the best skater, she was still so happy for me because I had learned how to skate backwards. She even tried to show me how to do a little trick while I was skating but then I messed up and I fell and scraped my elbow. I was crying but she took me in the house and got me a band aid. It wasn’t a lot of blood, but it still hurt and Deven told me that her daddy told her that we can’t be too sensitive and when we fall, we have to always get back up. Even if we have some cuts and blood. That made me feel better.

That’s why I’m lucky. Deven always knows how to make things right. And her daddy is really nice to me too. For a while it was just me, mommy, and Deven. And Deven’s daddy, Daddy Jamie, would come visit a lot because Deven said her parents were trying to get back together (I asked if Mommy would try to get back with my daddy and Deven said hell no, I was crazy if I thought that would ever happen. I can’t believe she actually cussed). Anyway, she was right. Her parents got back together because Daddy Jamie moved in with us last summer. But I don’t mind because he is fun, and he makes Mommy happy. Plus, my sister is so happy that they can be a family again.

Chapter Six

Chapter Six

Blessed Haven Assisted Living was reminiscent of an 1800s-style plantation. The property was located outside of the city limits, nestled on about ten acres of farmland with its own private lake. It was a picturesque estate with its antebellum architecture, ornamental pillars and wrap-around porches. A first impression made it easy to see the basis for that $5200 a month they charged. But after twenty-two months, Deven had to admit it was well worth every penny.