Susie wondered why Britta was asking this just now, of all things, as if it somehow weighed on her. “For one thing, it’s ever so painful—just ain’t the right order of things. Parents aren’t s’posed to outlive their child.” She paused. “I believe Mamma’s still heartbroken.”

Nodding her head sadly, Britta seemed to ponder that. “I think you’re right, and for gut reason.”

“We’ve had losses, jah . . . but many happy moments, too. For one thing, you brought great joy into Mamma’s and my life when ya came along.” Susie put Lucy down gently. “I’m glad we could talk like this.”

“Me too.” Britta smiled.

Gut, at least Britta’s all figured out, Susie thought, going over to the first stall to groom Brambles.

The next morning, while Susie worked in Mamma’s shop, Del Petersheim arrived in his father’s family carriage. He smiled broadly as he entered the shop, looking all scrubbed and smart in his black broadfall trousers and black suspenders against a pressed white long-sleeved shirt. He removed his straw hat and walked directly to the display counter. “Mornin’, Susie.”

“Wie geht’s?” she asked, wondering where he was going, all dressed up.

“I’m just fine. How are you?”

“Doin’ all right.”

Del looked at the jars lined up on the counter. “Well now, first things first,” he said, pointing toward them. “I’ll have some of that grape jelly, please.”

“How many jars?” Susie asked, noticing his frequent glances her way, as if trying to catch her eye.

“Two. That might last for the next couple of weeks.” He chuckled.

Sounds like he plans to be back for more, she thought, amused. She reached beneath the counter for some newspapers to wrap them in, and a sturdy paper bag. She placed the jars carefully in the bag before setting it aside.

“Now, about the family tree.” He pulled a piece of paper from his trousers pocket. “Here are the names of my parents and everyone in the family . . . so far.”

Accepting the paper, Susie could see how neat and methodical he was. “This is helpful. Denki.”

“Look on the back, too, if you’d like a possible idea for the basic layout.”

She turned the paper over and was again impressed with the care and thought he’d put into this. “Do ya want your family tree to look exactly like this?” She tapped the paper.

“It’s just one option.” He shrugged. “Feel free to plan it however you like.”

Nodding, she assured him she would do her best. “Wedding anniversaries are so special,” she added. “I feel honored you picked one of my cross-stitches to be your gift.”