We went to visit Connie today, she asked if Maria was along, but I said Maria was in her studio working on a new quilt idea. She smiled. I told her about our Getaway last night to Vermont, and she smiled. She said it sounded like fun, but I thought she might think me a little mad. She lights up at the sight of Red, and he rushes in to see her. They have a ritual: they touched noses, she rubs his neck, his back, she scratches his side.

He seems to revel in this attention. Sometimes, I just leave these two alone – breaking a firm rule of mine in therapy work – and so sit on a bench in the hallway. I think Connie might sometimes want to feel free to just focus on the dog.

I am thinking of ways to keep the supporters of the Mansion from burning out, and one way is to focus on holidays and other special events. I am thinking about Valentine’s Day, Tuesday, February 14. I think that is a difficult day at the Mansion in many ways, it would be lovely for them to know they also are loved and thought of.

I’m thinking of some dark chocolates, but I think cards and messages and puzzles and games or modest gifts would be welcome. The address at the Mansion is 11 S. Union Avenue, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.