Better

We met for a glass of wine and a long chat after the kids were in bed and the daddies were holding down the forts. Normally, it’s scones and coffee in the morning, but scheduling just didn’t permit this time. And, oh heck…after what we have been through, wine seemed more appropriate. My friend and I are unbelievably, terribly part of the same small but tragic percentage.  Ever since our respective but similar losses last year, we have met to talk. To say things to each other that no one else would possibly understand. To indulge in a yummy treat because we both deserve it. To cry. To understand each other’s feelings in a way very few others can. This week, for the first time, the mutual answer to “How are you doing?” was “Better.” It was a response neither of us could imagine was possible a few months ago. It was so nice to take a minute and appreciate that feeling together.

*Mommies’ night out.  I’m so glad we have each other!

*Free Days at the Field. Ellie and I took advantage of February being free at the Field Museum for all Illinois residence. Ellie had a blast seeing all of the dinosaurs and stuffed animals. And, of course, she wanted me to “make them talk!” She wants us to make EVERYTHING talk these days. Her toys. Her feet. A random stranger at Target. It’s a request I incessantly made as a kid, too, so I guess this is payback.

*The Case of the Missing Watch. This conversation happened at 6AM the other morning as Mike was attempting to leave for work.

Daddy: “Ellie, have you seen Daddy’s watch?”

Ellie (pausing to think): “I was wearing it…”

Daddy (slightly alarmed): “Where did you put it?!”

Ellie (another pause…then, joyfully…): “In the laundry!”

Sure enough, we found Mike’s watch in the hamper.  At least it wasn’t in the trash can.