. The only other comfort she had was the pretty rag doll that her mother had made for her. Tucking the doll under her left arm and gathering the coat with the same hand, she stood waiting patiently. Aunt Sally kissed her lightly on the cheek and squeezed Tara gently. "If I have a girl, I hope that she will be as sweet as you," her aunt whispered. Uncle John patted her on the head and said, "Bye Punkin. When that old momma cat has her kittens, I'll give you the pick of the litter."
             This brought a smile to Tara's face and swept away the darkening thoughts of boys.
             Ellen secured her own coat around her and di
             ...