"Not over-extending. A good gift," they say with a little smile. The way she looks and sounds make them think they're right, and it is a good gift. Misty doesn't get enough hugs. (Neither do we, pal. If I thought we could handle it, sure.)

But for Misty's birthday, today, they know they can do it. Maybe not for multiple minutes, or anything, but hugs don't have to last that long. They offer her one hand, the flesh one since that's softer. "C'mon."