Storytime Tapestry Newsletter

The newsletter devoted to spreading love and cultural awareness throughout the world.

Special Treat – Clara Wersterfer

March 21, 2007

Southern Talk     
 by Clara Wersterfer

 
It is true that people born and raised in the “deep south” have their own language. Most of them

(me included) talk way too much, and don't ask us a question unless you have time to spare.
We cannot answer without telling a story. Example: When my mother was alive and well

she lived in NC. It was my custom to call her a couple of times a week. Our conversation went something like this.

 
Me: Hi Mom, how are you? (Never start talking by asking a question)

Mom: Hi Honey, well bless your heart, I'm glad you asked. I haven't been well
this whole week. Went to the doctor on Tuesday. Nancy took me. It is so hard for her

to take me as she tends to the neighbors daughter after she gets home
from school. I am usually able to make my appointment around her schedule.
She works it out someway, bless her heart. Dr. Hapke is very busy, but Lois
was able to get me in. Lois is so good. You know she has worked for Dr. for
fifteen years and raised her three children by herself after her husband
died. One of the kids is in college. She has done a fine job with them, bless her
heart.

Me: Mom, what did the doctor say about you?

Mom: Well, I had to wait an hour past my appointment time. They don't have any

decent magazines to read. I have told them I don't like Field and Stream or the

Farmers Almanac, but does no good. Dr. Hapke must have gotten a free lifetime
subscription to both of them, bless her heart. I am going to take my old
Readers Digests in the next time I go and leave them so others can read them.

Nancy takes a puzzle book or the newspaper to read. You never know how long it takes.

Sometimes it is longer than others.

Me: But Mom, what did Dr Hapke say is wrong with you?

Mom: You know how Dr Hapke is. Talks in riddles, takes a little blood, makes an
x ray and says I'll get back to you with the results. I worked with Dr.
Hapke over ten years at the VA hospital. We were the best of friends and
went to lunch together at least once a week. She is just the same now as she was then.

Acts like everything is a secret. Oh, I think she is a good doctor, but never gives you a

straight answer. Writes another prescription and tells you to call if you need her. I think she
is wanting to retire and open a bed and breakfast. Seems to be tired of doctoring, bless

her heart.

Me: Mom I will call you later this week after you hear from your tests. Okay?

Mom: Well, okay if you have to go now. Remind me the next time we talk to tell
you a funny story about the preacher and his wife. They are the cutest couple

and the little girls are so sweet. He tries to stop by here on his way home now and
then and we enjoy his visits so much.Seems as if you never tell me anything.
Are you doing all right and how are those precious dogs and the family?
Tell them all I love them and take care, bless their hearts.
Me: I love you too. Bye now.
Feb 2007

Clara Wersterfer

cbWEST@webtv.net