Monday, June 15, 2009

Ah, that's better!


That was just the breather I needed. Amazing how much easier life is without those two beautiful demanding kids around.

My parents took Anna and Colin for Wednesday-Saturday last week. And although I worked, we were on easy street here, and managed to go out EVERY NIGHT while they were gone. Hey, why not, we had child care covered, and it was exhilarating rather than exhausting. The first night we went to a MOVIE - this is a big deal around these parts, as Anthony's tendency towards vertigo means we usually only see one movie per year, and lately its been Cars, or Ratatouille, or some such Pixar picture with the kids at the Tinseltown. I suggested we see TERMINATOR SALVATION, a kind of throw back since Anthony eagerly anticipated T2 while we were dating, and indoctrinated me to the franchise. Anthony also hates the theatre because he'd rather be in the comfort of his own home... so of course I made sure we went to the Alamo Drafthouse. If you are not fortunate enough to be near one of these theaters, I am sorry, because they serve good local draft beer and wines even a snob could love (during the show!), as well as tasty gourmet foods, all for about the same price as a coke and popcorn at the mega-plex. "That seat was very comfortable," Anth said as we left. "We'll have to do that again." Yippee!

We also went to a wine tasting and a fancy dinner for an early birthday celebration for Anthony, which would have been quite impossible with children. Also! the house stayed miraculously clean and uncluttered. So refreshing, just like when my mom did all the kids' laundry while we were in Chicago. Life is so much easier when you only have to take care of yourself!

It also was way too quiet. Francesca didn't like it because we left her home alone all the time. And we did miss and think about the kids all the time. The tight enthusiastic hugs we got on Saturday when we picked them up in Brenham were priceless. Thanks again, Nana and Grandad!

Summer is in full tilt here - over 100 degrees every day now, and the birds are still singing when the kids go to bed. Removing school from the equation is making life easier - now its just swim team, piano, and ballet. Swim team will be over in 3 weeks.

Unfortunately now it is so hot every time I go outside it gives me a head ache. My book tells me that we people with migraines have sensitive brains, and so many triggers will give me a headache - lack of sleep, lots of screaming children, drinking super cold liquids, exertion in the heat, lack of caffeine, dehydration, super-sugary foods (don't even let me look at a doughnut) -- enough triggers in one day will give me a migraine. Some days, its like walking a tightrope. At least now I feel like I've caught my breath, and I'm ready for T2....

9 comments:

get2eric said...

We loved it as I said earlier.

Nice picture.

You are welcome.

I missed Colin and Anna today.

Anonymous said...

It was great having Anna & Colin because they were so sweet and we are thrilled you enjoyed your time alone together. We are here whenever you need a weekend alone -- just call. Brenham is an easy meeting point.
Love you, M

peevish said...

Sounds like you got just the mini-vacation you needed. I'm sure the kids had a lovely time with their Grands.
And we sorely miss the Alamo Drafthouse. I love that Wild at Artichoke Heart pizza.

Laura said...

Ah, the life of a DINK. Funny, I don't think of it as easy street. Guess it's all about perspective.

About the migraines: I take it they're new for you? If so you'll learn your triggers or trigger combos. They can still seem tocome from nowhere, but some will be avoidable. I use Excedrin on days when I feel especially sensitive. Works for me.

Emily said...

It sounded like it was a great visit for all involved - Anna, Colin, Nana, Grandad and the parents left alone at home!

I agree, your life is so hectic, I don't know how you do it all. I have enough just managing my crazy schedule.

Unknown said...

I would rather babysit several ill-behaved, screaming kids in the migraine-triggering heat than watch any terminator movie, but I'm glad you found it refreshing. Now come join me on the beach. My toes and nose were COLD today and the air is fresh and crisp.

Anonymous said...

Jennifer...sounds like you and Anthony need to do that more often! and Nana and Grandad enjoy it too :)

Aunty Norma. x

aussiechic said...

oh for 100 degrees - please send us some heat because here in NJ we are freezing and drowning - the weather does nothing but rain and we are excited if it gets to 75.....seriously.....we have been duped....summer had forgotten us.......I need summer.....btw love the sound of the wine tasting thingy..........

Krispy said...

Even Barton Springs hasn't been cold enough to beat the walk back to the car. whew! why couldn't we have hitched with Sinda to the land where Hazel was last seen wearing long sleeves, jeans AND a vest?!

happy movie-ing!