Here's the funny thing: I've never actually met Lola. Or talked to her for that matter. And no, we're not pen pals. In fact, Lola doesn't even know I exist although our relationship has lasted somewhere in the neighborhood of six months.
Before this begins to sound too much like a riddle, allow me to explain.
Lola has been leaving voice mails on my cell phone during the work day. Because I have my cell on silent during the day, I find out that she has called after the fact through these voice mails. Like I said, this has been going on for quite some time now and I get a voice mail once a week or so.
In my head, this is what Lola looks like. Mrs. Threadgood from Fried Green Tomatoes.
She has a slow Southern accent and I think she's in her seventies or eighties.
"Ruby, this is Loh-lah. I just wanted to let you know that Gee-orge's outta the hosp-ital. The doctors say things are lookin' goo-ud. But I just wanted to let you know 'case you try to come by. Bye-bye now."
"Ruby, I was just calling to let you know that I'm coming by later on Sundy afternoon. This is Loh-lah. Bye-bye now."
"Ruby, just calling about Cousin Bill's visiting. Loh-lah. Bye-bye now."
"Ruby, it's Loh-lah. Talk at'chya soon. Bye-bye now."
I've tried to call Lola several times in the evening after she has left her messages, but I can't ever seem to reach her. I often wonder if she ever gets her feelings hurt that Ruby isn't returning her messages. Do she and Ruby discuss how odd it is that these messages get lost? They probably just dismiss it as you can never trust technology. It's hit or miss.
Determined to catch Lola's call during the day, I've had my phone on loud and clear in hopes of meeting Lola. Unfortunately, this has also led me to have conversations with salesmen and as yet, not my friend Lola.
But can I be honest? I'm not sure I want my friendship with Lola to come to an end. How will I know when George gets out of the hospital? Or when Cousin Bill's in town? How will I know how Lola and Ruby are doing? I like her frequent updates and I feel like I know her. I like being a part of Ruby and Lola's circle. Although, Lola probably wouldn't say the same, I feel like we're friends.
So, I'm not sure what I will say, but I wish there was a way I could keep the conversation going. I think I'll miss it.
Bye-Bye now.
One summer a lady with alzheimers called the office (Papa's office) everyday and talked to me like I was her daughter. It was like I had adopted a new grandmother. She would get very confused on days when I was gone and someone else would answer the phone ~ especially if it was Papa screaming at her "lady - we just don't know anybody by that name".
ReplyDeleteI have a doctor's office that calls my phone during the day looking for "Ashley Wheeler".
Good luck with Lola!
Oh! That's hilarious yet sad all at the same time. Btw, on this note I'm just as bad as the doc's office and it has to do with you. Monday I texted you asking if you were going home on your bday and I got a text back asking 'who is this?'. I was confused but answered back that it was jen. 'He' Kris, texted me back and asked me to send a pic. I used your old number. I'm one to talk...
ReplyDeleteAnd no, I didn't send him a pic if you're wondering ;)
That is hilarious! Thanks for the laugh!
ReplyDelete