So what was it all about? God was acknowledged when things went well and ignored or denied when they did not? Hannah envied people whose faith led them to simply trust, regardless of how good or bad things were. Still! Sitting back in her chair, Hannah crossed her arms over her chest and smiled at Tyler. He was a sweet young man growing up in a troubled world with issues like terrorists, fast foods destroying the health of Americans, and global warming.

“Life is hard. It can be sad and lonely, as you know,” she said. “I believe there is a God, and that we turn to him for help and comfort, and that no matter when we turn to him, he’s there for us.”

Tyler leaned across the table, his face animated, his eyes bright. “Yes, you’re probably right about God, and as Dad says, there are just some things like Mom’s dying that we can’t understand. Dad says it’s all about love. We have to treasure family and stay true to one another.” He blushed and looked away, then back at her. “I consider you and Aunt Amelia, and Granny Grace, of course, my family. So I’m lucky we all live near one another. As for God, I intend to ask him to let this kite win the contest.”

And what, Hannah wondered, if he does not win? A great weariness came over her. She was exhausted, had probably been on her feet too long, and wanted to lie down, to be alone. She was relieved when the front door opened and Grace swept into the house, all smiles and carrying a bag of groceries.

“Well, have you heard the news?” Grace set the bag on the kitchen counter. She stopped. “Come over here, Tyler. You’re not too big or too old to give me a hug.”

He complied, smiling, obviously happy to see her. “Aunt Hannah and I built a grand kite. It’s in the dining room. You must see it.”

“I will. I will, in a minute. First, I have to tell you and Aunt Hannah the news.”

“Out with it, then,” Hannah said. “I must lie down. What’s the news?”

“That man Ben, from the photo workshop that Amelia and Miriam went to in New Mexico, is coming to visit. He phoned Miriam. He was going to stay at the motel in Mars Hill, but Amelia invited him to stay in our guest room, that is, after you’re back upstairs, Hannah.”

“And when is he coming?”

“Who are you talking about, Granny Grace?” Tyler asked.

Grace answered Hannah’s question first. “He’s coming in two weeks.”

“Oh, surely I’ll be up in my own room by then,” Hannah said.

“Who is the man and why is he coming?” Tyler asked.