I've been talking with my mother a lot lately because I'm going to be seeing her next week for Christmas. We've been making plans, discussing things she'd like me to pick up in the city while I'm on my way to Westchester, errands which need to be run, chores to be taken care of. The list mostly consists of me picking up Junior's cheesecake and fresh-roasted coffee from Zabar's, so I'm totally okay with all of it.

It is usual conversation for us, and it generally ends with her telling me to text her when I'm on the Metro North so she can pick me up at the station.

I know from years and years and years of experience that I should check the weather to make sure I'll be dressed properly for our meeting on the 23rd. The place where she picks me up is outdoors...

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