Maternal Eternal

As Fiorella was putting away groceries, she picked up a ten pound bag of birdseed and automatically cradled it in her arms to distribute the weight. Immediately a pang of longing raced through her.

The birdseed felt exactly like a baby in her arms. It's a wonder she didn't start lactating.

Now you know her secret. Fiorella adores babies. She always has, which is a little odd because her mother didn't. "I prefer children when they're older and you can teach them things," Mater explained.

Now Fio likes older children too and thinks teaching them things is nice, but she likes cuddling best. She loves the feel, the warmth, the smell of children in her arms or on her lap or by her side. Physical closeness is just her thing. And what can one do with babies but hold them close?

Fio's children are grown now, but not reproducing; thus Fio is bablyless. So please don't raise your eyebrows if, the next time you're in HEB, you see her pick up a ten-pound bag of birdseed, lift it lovingly to her bosom, and maybe give it a little kiss.