The doctor wanted to see us again in two months. As we were leaving, the receptionist offered us the date of October 29th. Her two-tone hairstyle and youthful detachment lent an “I won’t be working here much longer” air to her demeanor. I asked if she had something on November 5th. She dutifully advised me that two months would be October 29th. I said I wanted November 5th. The receptionist asked me if I really wanted to go longer. I said, “a week longer? As a matter of fact, yes.” Sometimes I feel like I have to explain myself, but this was not one of those times.

I left with an appointment for 11:30 on November 5th.