Full Speed Ahead: My Journey with Kit

Back at the Kittredges’ house, everyone is buzzing with excitement. Mrs. Kittredge thanks us. A young woman called about renting a room, and mentioned that we told her about it. Kit and I exchange a happy glance and say, “Ginger Rogers” in unison.

The young woman doesn’t mind sharing with Kit, or with Buddy, it’s love at first sight between them, and she’ll move in next week. Mr. Kittredge says a new boarder means new income, thanks to us, they’ll make the mortgage this month.

Mrs. Kittredge says I’m welcome to stay as long as I like, and the family is grateful. I thank her and leave them to celebrate. Kit’s attic room is tucked under the eaves with four windows, cozy and airy. Buddy jumps onto the bed and falls asleep immediately, already looking at home.

Family. Kit has taught me a new idea of what family can be: the Kittredges opened their house and hearts to boarders, Buddy, me, and now Ginger Rogers, making the best of their situation together.

What about my own family? It’s just Mom and me, but maybe we could make the best of ours, too, starting with finding things to do together.

A burst of laughter drifts up from downstairs. Buddy wakes and pricks his ears. I tell him it’s time to go home. He’ll be fine here with the Kittredges and Ginger Rogers.

Before I can change my mind, I write Kit a quick note to say thank you and goodbye. Trembling, I pick up the camera, take one last look through the viewfinder at Kit’s attic room, and click the button.

I open my eyes, back on my own bed. The door cracks open; it’s Mom. She asks what’s on my mind, since I look lost in thought. I tell her, “Us.”

Mom sits down and kicks off her heels. I say it’d be fun for just the two of us to go somewhere this weekend. She smiles and asks if I’d really like that. I fling my arms around her neck. Mom laughs. We do have a lot to talk about, like maybe adding another member to the family.

I’m confused and pull back to look at Mom’s face. She clarifies, maybe a small, furry, roly-poly puppy.