“Helena that’s really impressive. I’m happy to see that you’re getting on so well.” Bette was sincere in her praise. Peggy always said that Helena was a go-getter when she put her mind to something. Now all she had to do was stick to it.

“Thanks Bette. I also suggested to Oscar that we offer a cooking class at the center once a week. I would facilitate it and I spoke to Lara Perkins about putting me in touch with some of her food distributors to see if we can get food and cookware donated.”

“Really? I didn’t know you cooked.” Which wasn’t surprising since there was much Bette didn’t know about Helena. At least not the good things.

“Actually I am a certified Chef. Cooking is one of my favorite pastimes but I don’t get a chance to do it much. This will keep me in practice.”

“She’s actually very good. You should give Douglas a night off and cook for us dear.” Peggy praised her daughter and couldn’t be happier to see her and Bette getting on so well.

“Mother, you know I’ve tried but he won’t let me near his kitchen. He’s very possessive.” Helena said with a pout.

“I’ll speak to him.” Peggy assured her but knew it wouldn’t be an easy task.

“Bette maybe you’ll come to one of my classes at the center sometime? It won’t be anything too fancy. I just want to give the youngsters some basic skills and also help them to make better nutritional choices instead of always opting for pizza or burgers.”

“I think that’s excellent Helena. Tina’s been helping me at least with the grocery shopping but I can certainly use some lessons on preparation. Let me know when you have things set up.”

“I will.” Helena said rather pleased with herself that there was something she could teach Bette.

“Peggy how’s the reception planning going?” Bette asked as she was going around the table catching up on everyone’s endeavors.

“What reception mother?” Helena asked having not heard about it from Peggy.

“The Peabody grants recipient’s reception. We have an annual reception to recognize the achievements of everyone that has been awarded a corporate or individual grant. Actually Bette I need to talk to you about that. I had lunch with Martha Wentworth this week. We’re considering doing something jointly since we support many of the same organizations. We think it would be prudent to show a united front. What do you think?”