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Show - 141 - sofa and chairs were decorated with little lacy doilies and the lamps covered with chintz shades made by Maddie. Plump pillows with fringes were scattered over the chairs. The walls were literally covered with family pictures; round, square and oblong frames, all containing the faces of Tom's and Maddie's progeny, living and dead. They had not been blessed with children of their own, but there were numerous relatives; nieces, nephews, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles and little children with round cherubic faces, rosey cheeks and curly hair, all living in Ireland, but very much a part of these good people's lives. wood The kitchen was a homey and cozy room. Over the top of the stove was a shelf lined with copper pots which shone from Maddie's constant polishing. She had sewed bright curtains for the windows and it seemed to the girls that everywhere they looked were potted plants. On the window above the kitchen sink, on the drain . board, and little shelves on the walls were crowded with flower pots. Tom's green thumb was also evident in the flower boxes outside the windows which were filled with clay pots containing Geraniums, Nastursiums, Sveet Peas and other brightly colored blooms. In the center of the room was a round wooden table with four chairs, and covering it was a gaily patterned table cloth. Their gracious hospitality was always quick to surface. With quick little movements, Maddie went to the China closet and took out her best cups and prepared hot chocolate. She had just taken out a batch of newly baked cookies and they were warm and tasty. Her gestures and happy countenance were always a joy to behold. The girls sat down and Vicky looked askance at her sister. She wasn't sure if Penny was going to take it upon herself to request their help in some outlandish scheme, but she certainly wasn't going to be a willing cohort. She was certain that Penny had some thing on her mind. After a few moments, Penny said in a matter of fact voice, at least she hoped it sounded that way. |