Ben and Karen were in the back seat for a Ben-drive when Ben’s fraternal twin, Jake, sent a picture, displaying both his cast from carpal tunnel surgery (he’s fine), and a new bushy beard, along with his Grandma Bubbe.
This particular photo was chock full of favorite things.
First, he spotted Baskin Robbins and Ben and Jerry, old and beloved friends, just add spoons.
Of course, there was Bubbe, one of his favorite people, in her domain (kitchen), which happens to be Ben’s favorite room in any house, the better to ransack cabinets and refrigerators.
And there was Jake. Even though Jake and Ben have spent very little time together since they were 12 and Ben moved into residential treatment out of state, Ben has absolutely no doubt where Jake fits into his life.
Brother.
Ask Ben who his family is, and he will tell you: Mommy Daddy Jakey Benny.
He means it. The car is the litmus test.
When riding in our car, it’s Dad up front, with various supplies in the passenger seat, like his box of books.
Behind me is Karen, and next to her, Ben.
And that’s the way it is and the world is in proper order.
Unless somebody tries to sit next to me in the front passenger seat.
Oh, no way. NO way. Even if it’s a favorite staff member, or even, believe it or not, Bubbe.
NOBODY.
Except Jake.
To Ben, Jake belongs. Jake and Jake alone. Ben has no qualms about loudly complaining and even pushing out anyone else who attempts to cross the threshold.
Yes, Jake is a primary person in Ben’s exclusive nuclear family unit.
So it was not surprising that he noticed a big change in Jake’s appearance — a very hairy face.
Ben’s not exactly a fashionista, so hair and beard styles don’t usually, or ever, elicit a comment.
But this was an exception.
“Santa!”
