Elise just called to wish my mother a happy birthday. I picked up the phone. She could not call earlier because of laryngitis. Her voice was completely gone, she explained. She is fine now. She sounded good, too. Before I passed the receiver to my mother, we exchanged a few words. This was our first contact since Lauren fell out with her a year-and-a-half ago. Elise understands why I have not been in touch. A question of loyalty. Whenever I wish to get in touch with her, though, I will be welcome. She misses our contact. I told her she had been a good girl all this time. Not a single call, letter, electronic-mail message since August 1999. We both used words of endearment when referring to each other. I told her I missed being in touch with her, as well. We were both elated to be talking again. I did not tell her I was not with Lauren any longer, but I hinted that the communication ban is about to be lifted. Miraculously. Indeed, I will write to her soon, perhaps even this week. To hell with silly loyalty!