Status Updates From Sea Rose Lane (Hope Harbor,...

Epilogue
4 months later.

Brakes were a valuable asset—on cars and in life. Was it time to put the brakes on a career that had taken on a life of its own, leading him to a destination that no longer held the appeal it once had? Perhaps. (Eric)

Charley ambled over to the turntable and lifted the needle, shutting off the mellow jazz strains of Stan Getz. “Luck is an overrated commodity. I’ll wish you success at finding your destiny instead. Turn off the lights and lock up as usual when you leave.”

And since she was clueless about how to proceed, she’d better put some heavy-duty prayer at the top of her priority list until she got the direction she needed.

Charley as matchmaker …

“Because a man would have to have a powerful reason to rethink the dream of his youth. And there’s nothing as powerful as a human connection.” Charley picked up on his previous comment as if there’d been no gap in the conversation,

“When I came to this town, I did not think life would ever be happy again. I knew no one, and my soul was heavy with grief. That sadness has not gone away, but the kindness you and others have shown me has made it smaller. May God bless you for all you have done to help BJ with her program—and for sharing your home with me.” She nodded, unwilling to trust her voice.

Old houses required constant attention—and more energy than she had these days. The place was getting away from her. But with Luis’s assistance, she ought to be able to stay on top of things. Plus, having someone on hand to fetch and carry and run errands would be a godsend.

She did ask many more questions during the meal, though—and he asked a few of his own. By the time she retrieved a plate of homemade pastelitos for dessert, he had no qualms about signing on for the pilot program BJ wanted to run. [Eleanor’s Cuban dinner = successful ]

After a moment, Eleanor spoke. “Thank you, Lord, for this food and this opportunity for Luis and me to get acquainted. Open our hearts to your will and help us make the right decision about BJ’s proposal. Please bless us with health and abundant grace. Amen.” “Amen.” Luis echoed her as he crossed himself again. “Help yourself. Don’t be shy. There’s enough here to feed an army.”

Once he was in his chair, she folded her hands. “I know we come from different religious backgrounds, but I always pray before meals.” “It is good to give thanks. And while we do not go to the same church, we honor the same God. I do not think he will mind if we share a simple prayer.” He bowed his head and made the sign of the cross.

John 2 Eric
“No one ever said life was easy. Besides, taking the easy route doesn’t always lead to the best views.” “That sounds like something Charley would say.” “I’m flattered. He’s a smart man.”

At least his conversation with Charley had clarified that decision. He did have time for both art and law in his present circumstances, and the two might balance each other.

“That wasn’t a joke. How’s life been since you left those kinds of hours behind?” Better. Happier. More interesting. But he kept that to himself. .. “Then why not work a little law back in? Sounds like this legal job would leave you plenty of time for other pursuits, and it would help keep your skills sharp.” “I’m considering it.” Charley picked up his paintbrush. “Makes sense to me.”

That was Charley to Eric.

“A person can’t paint sixteen hours a day. Not without going crazy. Look what happened to poor Van Gogh. That’s why I have the taco stand. Variety is the spice of life. Too much of anything can warp your viewpoint.” “I practiced law sixteen hours a day in Portland.” “I rest my case.” “Very funny.”

International Favorites Made Easy. That had been a fun book to page through—and Stan had enjoyed the recipes she’d tried from it. He’d always said the dishes made him feel like he was dining in exotic locations without ever leaving the comforts of his home.

But ultimatum or not, he knew as he said good-bye that they would share no more hugs unless he found a long-term-potential way to incorporate her into his life.

Forgive me, Lord, for being afraid of people who are different than me. Help me find the courage to do what the good Samaritan did that day on the roadside. Give me grace and compassion to overcome my narrow-mindedness and bigotry. Help me drive out any feelings of superiority. Let me see everyone as an equal and a worthy brother and sister—and act accordingly.

She had the means to add a touch of joy and comfort to a life sorely in need of it, and to help ensure that BJ’s worthwhile program was given a chance to succeed so others in her situation would be able to stay in the homes they loved.

She had the means to add a touch of joy and comfort to a life sorely in need of it, and to help ensure that BJ’s worthwhile program was given a chance to succeed so others in her situation would be able to stay in the homes they loved.

Shifting his attention to the easel, he examined the composition he’d roughed in yesterday with diluted burnt umber paint. The scene had nothing to do with this cove, which served as studio, not subject—and it was very sketchy. Yet he could see the finished piece in his mind.

From his spot beside the sheer rock face, in the shadow of majestic fir trees, he surveyed the deserted cove that had been his favorite fair-weather painting spot since the day he’d found it as a teen. Although the small, crescent-shaped beach was accessible from Shore Acres State Park, few visitors bothered to hike down and explore it—or dip their toes in the turquoise water. (A while day 2 paint 4 E).

“Belinda June.” “Belinda June.” He said the name slowly, giving it a musical cadence. “Pretty. I like it.” “Sorry. I’m BJ now . . . and for always.”

I assumed we’d pair up same-gender companions—but Luis and Eleanor would both benefit from the arrangement . . . and I can’t see why it wouldn’t work. What do you think?” “I think it’s a brilliant idea.” His smile warmed her all the way to the tips of her toes.

They were both alone—and lonely. And she needed a test case for Helping Hands before the board would approve her companion program. It was a heaven-sent opportunity—but could she convince both parties to give it a shot?

Eleanor needed someone to help her with daily chores. Luis needed to escape from the rat hole he called home.

BJ had never had a pleasant dating experience. In fact, if she’d been heavy most of her life, she may have had very few dating experiences period.

High school prom .. red button 4 BJ (+ me re: mom).

Friends had often picked up an order of tacos for her since she’d become less mobile, and she always asked about him. Why had it never occurred to her to simply invite the man for a visit? She puzzled over that for a few minutes, …. (Nach Charley’s visit)

Charley 2 BJ + Luis
You may be new in town, but you fit right in to the one-for-all mind-set.” He transferred his attention to Luis and began assembling the tacos. “You do too. I’m sure Eleanor was grateful for your expertise.” .. I’m sure Eleanor was grateful for your expertise.” The Cuban immigrant gave him another wary appraisal. “Providing someone with peace of mind is a priceless gift.”