Joining the Club — Susan McGeown

My name is Elaine. Talk to my daughter Olivia and she'll mention my lousy maternal instincts, blatant favoritism towards her sister, one-sided loyalties, and convenient memories regarding my personal disasters. My friend Callie will tell you I have a wonderful relationship with my daughter Erin and a spectacular relationship with my grandson. She's quick to point out that I'm "strong, capable, and resilient." Then there's Alec. He says I'm the toughest woman he's ever dealt with. He says that I'm smart and sharp and not at all shy or hesitant about speaking my mind. And he's also quite certain that I've eviscerated lesser men. Actually, I'm a moderately capable, semi-competent, usually reliable, vaguely lonely and uniquely insecure. Best served up in small, carefully managed dosages for the most successful result. Like strong cough syrup. Or Milk of Magnesia. Not intended for small children, not to be taken regularly, and never to be mixed with alcohol.