Friday

My best friend departs for the farmlands of Southern California, where she will join her family to celebrate her sister’s 50^th birthday in their hometown. On their agenda: attending a local rodeo.

My husband and teen daughter drive to Twin Cities Con, where husband is excited to see G.I. Joe author Larry Hama, and teen daughter is on the hunt for merch of Squirrel Girl and other favorite superheroes.

Saturday

From the rodeo, best friend texts “Should I get this hat?” with a photo of her wearing a striking burgundy cowboy hat. She looks gorgeous in it, but I agree with her followup note that it’s sort of impractical.

Husband also texts from the bustling con. He hopes to see a panel featuring Mick Foley, aka Mankind, of wrestling fame. “The line is pretty long,” he worries.

Later, best friend texts a beaming selfie from the rodeo stands. She is now the proud owner of the burgundy hat: “My sister surprised me with it!” It really does suit her.

Later still, husband texts a photo of Mick Foley from crowded hotel conference room: “Saw Mankind!” I am happy for him, thinking back to many viewings of Monday Night Raw, back before WWF became WWE.

Sunday

I giggle at best friend’s early morning text: “Hat won’t fit in suitcase. I guess I’m wearing it on the plane?”

Soon, husband and daughter arrive home and share their con stories. Husband is especially impressed by Mick Foley. “He’s a great storyteller. Seemed super friendly.”

It’s getting late, and I figure I’ll hear from best friend tomorrow. Before bed, I see her text: “I’m home. The funniest thing happened at MSP. I met Mick Foley from WWE! I guess he was in town for a comic con. He was super friendly. I wouldn’t have bothered him, but I was at the gate, and I heard someone say: Now that’s a great hat.”