Papa started talking and worrying about Grandpa Thad. "Nannie, I do wish Pa had come. He would've enjoyed it."
"I tried to persuade him, Jodie. But 'course he felt like he had to stay with your ma."
"I reckon so."
"Guess who did come in a few minutes ago?" Now Mama was talking louder, and like she was happy.
"Who?"
"Lida Belle and Wes Bailey. They're sitting back yonder on the last bench."
"I saw their rip-snorting boys ride past the store. Wes'd better watch out. Them boys will run his bays to death."
"They passed us just a-galloping. You know, Jodie. I don't reckon Lida Belle and Wes have been to a tree in this church in ten years—oh, longer than that. Wonder what's come over them."
"Funny thing. Wes Bailey came into the store day before yesterday and bought an expensive blue silk tie. Said it was for the tree."
"I helped Vic put on the toys for Ophelia's young'uns and looked at all the presents, but I didn't notice whose name was on that blue tie."