Jess left in February and the school went for three months. The first six weeks they were 'nothings,' but the second six weeks they earn a sort-of rank, depending on their performance. Jess was appointed Lt. Colonel, the highest rank in the class. He had no power, just more responsibility. I told you he was a performer. He was very proud and wrote about this honor which might be compared to a report card. His mother didn't see it that way. She went to the local newspaper and gave them the story that her son was a Lt. Col. in the Air Force after only six weeks. Oh well…
I did not save that clipping, and how I wish I had.
Funds to put a roof over my children's heads and feed them lasted the three months, thanks to the income tax refund miraculously arriving at the end of April, the day before the rent (which I didn't have enough money to pay) was due. Was I relieved, or what?
In April Jack celebrated his third birthday, and we had a party. My neighbors were the most wonderful people. Shirley, across the street, had three of the cutest little girls in my boys' age range. We spent many afternoons at her parents farm where we picked field peas, tomatoes, onions and whatever else was ready to eat. Her sister lived with the parents. Poor Mary made a terrible marriage right out of high school. He had enlisted in the Army, and besides being abusive, the guy was a drunk and gambled. Finally her parents went and brought her and her two little boys home. The husband was kicked out of the army. More about her situation on a later day.
Jack's party was a hugh success. Shirley and Mary brought their children. Lotys, another friend, had two little girls and a boy. Everyone was under five years old, and that age is self-entertaining. Every one got a prize for 'winning,' and went home happy.
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