Birthday 11

Leaving behind all the suitcases and detritus for our upcoming staycation, we head north for a few hours.  It’s Zoe’s birthday, and her mom promised her a party at ChuckECheese.  We got there at nine to find they are not open.  A multi-layered, multi-timed, movable birthday party begins.

We gather next at a McDonald’s garish and cold Play Room.  Really cold.  Ugly green and grey, with pink and black accent colors echo much as a child’s nursery in the old USSR would.  Great tubes of colored plastic filled the overhead space.  Margot shuttled in guests, a cake, presents, and ice cream.  Friends and kids had a grand time.

Suddenly, I spilled my entire cup of coffee all over George.  We stayed long enough to see the clothes, toys, music, and doll things unwrapped before leaving.  A frantic mopping began as the presents appeared.  A custodian helped for which I am forever grateful.

As we drove home to put George into the shower and the clothes into the wash, Margot moved the party to ChuckECheese.  A promise is a promise…no matter what.

Photo: M Hawkins.

---

                                                                    

Himself:  Gym then the first of three days of work left.  He’s ready to go NOW.  Lost another pound.

Herself:  Groceries for our time here plus breakfasts there.  Lost another pound too.

Reading:  Stories from Sector General.  Ordered three more Longmire books.

Gratitudes:  That I am able to get into a smaller swim suit comfortable.