How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Grandma came to the depot with us on the day we were going home. But she wasn't there to see us off. She was there to meet Mrs. Effie Wilcox, who was coming home to her house. (6.153)
Grandma Dowdel is ready and waiting to welcome Mrs. Wilcox home when she gets her house back. She may not throw her a surprise party or bake her a cake, but she's there to help out when it counts.
Quote #8
But then somehow Mary Alice and I and our suitcase were on board, and Mrs. Wilcox was on the platform, and the Blue Bird was pulling out. Grandma didn't wave. Mrs. Wilcox was telling her something. (6.155)
It's obvious as the kids take off on the train that Grandma Dowdel and Mrs. Wilcox are totally happy to be reunited. They didn't want to spend the rest of their old age apart, forced to live in different towns.
Quote #9
Grandma turned to the other rocker. "Can I borrow Uncle Grady for the day on Saturday, Aunt Mae?" she howled.
"You sure can, honey," Aunt Mae said. "In fact, you can keep him!" She'd heard every word and grinned broadly. (7.136-137)
Growing up in a small town means that Grandma knows just about everyone and has long-established friendships with them. She even knows all the old people who haven't left their own homes in decades.