We’d talked about Dana’s last tournament in Florida.  Unfortunately, she had strained her shoulder requiring that she withdraw in the second round. Her disappointment with not being able to compete showing as we talked although not marring her delight for the addition of the offending fruit in the omelettes.  The prognosis was promising for a quick recovery.  Two to three weeks of rest and therapy and she would be back on tour. 

Not one to let gibes go unsaid, Shane teased her about getting the chance to build up her ‘skinny lower half’.  A tickling match ensued although the injured party didn’t stand a chance. 

By then our ‘gourmet’ meal had been consumed signaling the commencement of our friendly game of poker.  Of course, we’d equipped ourselves with chips to make things more interesting with full intent of believing real money was at stake. 

We got comfortable in the living room as Shane assumed her usual role as dealer.  Perfect opportunity to pick her brain about her plans for expanding her clientele.  Dana had commented on her lack of attachment to a salon instead filling in where capacity was required for a number of establishments. 

“Whaaaat,” Shane said somewhat incredulously, “I like not being tied down to a place.” 

Dana tried to get me to chime in support but I didn’t oblige.  Possibly, but not certainly, a year ago I would have encouraged the same permanency in position to fulfill life’s inescapable demands for upkeep. 

Now, my opinion voiced supported Shane’s approach.  “Well Shane should do what makes her happy.  She’s doing fine and makes the best of everything so why not?  She doesn’t have to force attachment to anything,” or anyone  “that doesn’t feel right.”

Dana scoffed quite inelegantly insisting moving around wasn’t all that liberating or comforting.  Without a doubt, she was referencing her own profession that required continuous travel and nimble moods of acceptance and patience. 

The desire to let roots take hold possibly strengthening as time wore on. 

A recent encounter provided the change of subject.  “Dana, you know Richard Thompson was in the gallery the other day for the fundraising dinner.”

As was someone else but they didn’t need to know that right now.

“He hinted the country club was looking for a part-time or full-time pro. Of course I mentioned you were still active on tour but he seemed keen on even just having you on board for name recognition. Sounds like they’d have a good deal for you if you were interested.”  He knew we were friends so thought it more influential for the suggestion to come from me instead of her agent it seemed.