“Uncle Phil!” she squealed, as though she hadn’t seen him in years. She threw her arms around his neck, and he leaned down, hugging her. “How’s my sunshine?” She let go, stepping back, then twirled about to model her long floral skirt, blond hair fanning out around her shoulders. “What do you think? I made it without any help from Mom.” “Wow, is this the sewing project you told me about?” He eyed the new skirt. “So … along with your other talents, you’re a seamstress, too.” Kari beamed, still posing a few feet from the arched entrance to the dining room, where the table was set with Janice’s best dishes and tall white tapers, already lit for supper. Kari had chosen the perfect backdrop to show off her newly acquired domestic skill. “Hey, wait a minute. I think I may be underdressed for this occasion.” He unbuttoned his overcoat, pulling it open slightly to gaze down comically at his own clothing—dress slacks and a sweater. Kari giggled at his antics, her blue eyes twinkling.
