The waitress came around and Bette ordered: One Roy Rogers for the young man, one draft domestic light beer for our matriarch, And four vodka and tonics in a tall glass, not much ice and only a half-shot of vodka in each. The waitress smiled and scurried away.

Suzanne: How long have you and Miss Tina been together?

Bette:  We have been together with the exception of some bumpy periods for twenty-four years and a few months. But we have only been married for some 10 years.

Daniel: So, you got married when you adopted me?

Tina: We got married right after we moved to New York City. And yes, you were born about six months after we were married. You were born technically the next year. Even then, same sex marriage was not allowed in New York so we had to go to Connecticut to get married. Our friends, Peggy and Marilyn then kept Angie while we went on our honeymoon.

Angie: And where did you go on your honeymoon?

The waitress brought the drinks around and served them. Bette indicated she should run a tab.

Bette:  Tahiti for 12 days of sun, sea and sex. And the food wasn’t bad either.

Tina: We had a glorious time. We have not had that much time alone together since.

Bette: We can do something about that you know. Kit and Sonny would be glad to keep Daniel and now that Angie is in college; she’ll be able to wing it on her own. Just say the word, I will make it happen Sweetheart – just when and where would you like to go and for how long.

Tina: Well, we have had a several weekends and private times together. And this summer we have been together almost 24/7. And I don’t remember a more enjoyable summer.

Bette:  You know, I think I love you more now than I did when we went on our honeymoon. Every year with you and I fall more in love with you.

Angie:  Okay, you two. Suzanne may not be accustomed to such public displays of affection.

Suzanne: I’m just amazed. I’m not sure I have ever heard my parents express love for each other ever. Once in a while they might kiss each other. But they never say words with those kisses. And I have never seen my parents hold each other’s hand for any reason. And yet, today, almost everywhere you two go, you are holding hands. I think it’s fantastic.