This was one of those unexpected weekends, fun and memorable but without any of that sticky goo.
For the first time in months, I had money in my pocket that was already allocated for bills. Granted, it wasn’t a lot, but it was enough to go and buy myself some birthday goodies: Candles, nothing fancy.
But it’s the pokin’ around that takes time, and is the most fun. Pokin’ around in cool, trendy shops with money in my pocket is even more fun. I could buy that, I kept thinking. But I didn’t. I really just wanted some new candles to replace all the ones that have burnt down into blobby slabs encrusted on the hearth.
And I did, AND I got most of them on clearance. I didn’t even spend what I allowed myself to. I’m thriftier than I thought I was. I felt good, and with my multi-scented candles I went home to shower and change and head over to a party.
It’s a yearly event, a neighborhood tradition. It’s HUGE, well-attended and the music (and food) is amazing. Not 10 minutes after I arrive, I’m accosted to purchase raffle tickets… sure, why not? Since I had all that leftover money.
I found my people, rounds of kisses, got me a drink and enjoyed the band. Thankfully I arrived past the halfway point, which makes for interesting people-watching. Lots of dancing, guys threatening to throw girls into the water, people trying to steal the mic from the singer. Good times, good times. Raffle time and I win $50. Cool, huh? So, not only did I save money that day, I MADE money.
Had me a pleasant night’s sleep and awoke to shinning sun and a cool breeze. The humidity has finally broke and for the first time in a week we turned off the a/c and opened up the house. Coffee in the yard watching the birds is waaayy nicer when it’s not a zillion degrees outside. I love Sundays. I had planned on doing a little work, getting some laundry done and do some laying around. But an invite to go boating aboard the Margaritaville came our way and we jumped. Or rather, I jumped, since Dave had to work. Gorgeous day on the bay. Wind and water and sun and salt, a couple of beers and it was all good.
Then, they invite me to stay for dinner. I’m wondering, how does this woman have time to cook when she’s been on the boat all day? Oh…it’s catered. Nice. Sure! I’ll stay. A dozen people from the night before, stuffed clams, bacon-wrapped scallops, meatballs and crab-stuffed mushrooms… ugh. I was stuffed before dinner was even served. Beer was flowing out of the meister and wine from bottles. I was beginning to fill out my chair and found it uneasy to get up. Time to go home.
Another round of kisses, a multitude of thanks, grateful I only had to drive a few blocks. Home is quiet and cool, I do laundry, I light my new candles, I open one last beer before the work week begins.
I say, Good Weekend.
