Spoiler alert: YOU will not be getting a car! YOU will not be getting a car! You will ALL NOT be getting a car!
This has been a big year of change for us, so I thought I would record a few things I have been enjoying this year. As you'll see, these are little things I'm personally loving that have nothing to do with the overall well-being of my family. But those punks can get their own blogs if they want to share profound ideas with the world.
And without further ado:
1. Coffee. My love for coffee has continued to grow to the point where I simply can't understand why people live without it. By God's grace, I do have one friend who doesn't drink coffee, but I don't know how to make more. I mean, if we can't drink coffee together, what are we even supposed to do?! (I'll shamelessly plug my non-drinker Andrea here, because she has a lovely blog filled with great tips for any caregiver or parent). Back to coffee. We french press at home every morning, and I started making cold brew last year for an afternoon treat. But the newest addition to my coffee paraphernalia family is this precious little pour over. I love that it's cheap, reusable, easy to clean, and doesn't need any special filters. Need I say more?
2. The Library. Don't laugh. I know the library isn't a new concept, but nonetheless, it took me until this year to figure out how to check out digital books from the local library. As some of you know, I finally switched to a regular kindle for most of my leisure reading, and since then, I have been sifting through all of the free Amazon books to find something I like. This doesn't bother me too much, but it does mean that I read a lot of "Book 1" of a series I will never finish. Additionally, I have to scroll through titles like Her Two Wolves: Menage Werewolf Biker Romance or Tapping the Billionaire before finding something worthwhile. But I let my fear of apps hold me back for too long! I have now tasted the goodness of reading a bestseller for free, and I can never look back (even if I'm frustrated that it takes more than 2 steps to do so).
3. Mom Struggling Well. I am not a big podcast person, but I have listened to a few over the years. So far, I have strictly stuck to podcasts with a simple interview format, and that's exactly what this is. With moving recently and feeling lonely at times, it helps me immensely for my media time to be life-giving rather than completely mind-numbing. Don't get me wrong-- I love to take some time to mentally check out, but sometimes I can tell it's only hurting me rather than helping me to be refreshed. At low points, I may have told Dave once or twice that this podcast is the only thread holding me to Jesus. I know that sounds terrible, but in a drought where I'm not reading the bible regularly or praying deeply, I can listen to the podcast while folding laundry and be encouraged that I am seen and fully known by a God who loves me. Emily Thomas is an awkward, genuine person who always manages to bring the truth of God's word into her interviews, and I always come away encouraged. I laugh a little too, because she's a weirdo (in a good way). Because those are my kind of people.
4. Youtube Beauty Gurus. Y'all, I can't even believe I'm saying this, and I don't even know how it happened. But somehow, I stumbled into the wide world of Youtubers while looking for some sort of skincare review, and now I can't leave. I have never worn a winged eyeliner or tried any contouring in my adult life, and yet I sit and watch girls put on and talk about makeup. There is no good explanation for this. I will say that I have tried to limit myself somewhat (because of the life-giving versus life-sucking ways to spend time), but two channels that I seem to keep watching are Thataylaa and JAMBeauty89. Taylor from Thataylaa has a monotone style that relaxes me for some reason, and she partners with Project Beauty Share, which is a non-profit where you can donate gently used makeup and feminine hygiene products. Jessica from JAMBeauty89 is an endearing teacher who makes frequent trips to Disney with her husband who loves the Golden Girls. What's not to like about these two?
5. When Calls the Heart. Yeah, I said it. I suppose I could call this a guilty pleasure, but I am way past the point of being embarrassed by my television preferences. This year, Dave has traveled a fair amount, and when I'm home alone at night, I don't want to watch anything that can spook me in the slightest. When Calls the Heart is all the cheesy wholesomeness you'd expect from the Hallmark channel. As a bonus for those of you who miss Aunt Becky from Full House, Lori Loughlin is a main character. Seriously, don't watch this with your husband. I 100% guarantee that he will not enjoy it.
6. This Calendar. I technically bought myself this calendar at Half-Priced Books on a whim in 2016 while doing a little retail therapy after Texas lost to Oklahoma. Too much information? Anyway, I prefer a real calendar for my daily life. We still use Google calendars, but my google calendar isn't staring me in the face while I pour my coffee in the morning. This calendar served me well for all of 2017, and alas, I have had to move on to a new year. My favorite features are: the strong magnetic strip that allowed me to hang it on my refrigerator, and the front pocket. That may sound silly, but it enabled me to stick little birthday invitations or info sheets about school events right into the calendar pocket rather than littering the counter with them or sticking 75 separate things on the fridge. It also came with little stickers like "Doctor's Appointment" or "Vacation" that you could use if you're into that kind of thing.
That's it for 2017. I know your life is changed! Cheers to a New Year.
(Note: Any link shown is not an affiliate link of any kind. We all know I'm not responsible enough to figure out how to make any money by blogging).
Sunday, December 31, 2017
Friday, December 15, 2017
A Livingston Christmas through the Ages
Let's pretend that I'm not making a new blog post whilst slacking on Myla's birthday letter. It is what it is. (Note to Self: This should be the title of my memoir).
I have this thing where I love Christmas, but I was thrown so quickly into home ownership and adulthood, that I never mastered seasonal decorating. (Or decorating of any kind, really). I can no longer use my youth as an excuse for my lack of commitment to Christmas decor, but let's just say my particular combination of frugality and laziness has kept me stunted in the decorating department.
It all started 7 years ago...
On our first Christmas as a married couple, Dave and I were about to celebrate our first anniversary. Oh, and we had a two-week-old baby. We found a janky three-foot tree in my parent's garage, and voila! 'Tis the season. Our tree topper was a piece of cardboard cut into the shape of a star, covered in foil, and clipped to the tree with a bag clip.
We clearly took the time in 2010 to put this wee one into a basket and attempt some themed photos.
If you'll notice here, our wonky tree is decorated with a few real ornaments as well as pieces of ribbon that I probably took from baby shower gifts. Because you know, reduce/reuse/recycle.
And shockingly, we took the time to make this lady a hilarious shirt that she actually wore unabashedly out in public. This is why we love her.
Perhaps the sweetest gift of all was when Grandma Sue gave us a solution to our "small house" problem. (Note: our first house wasn't really that small, but it didn't have a great place to put any kind of tree).
Enter: beautiful tree quilt decorated with foam dollar store ornaments by this proud little lady!
I have this thing where I love Christmas, but I was thrown so quickly into home ownership and adulthood, that I never mastered seasonal decorating. (Or decorating of any kind, really). I can no longer use my youth as an excuse for my lack of commitment to Christmas decor, but let's just say my particular combination of frugality and laziness has kept me stunted in the decorating department.
It all started 7 years ago...
On our first Christmas as a married couple, Dave and I were about to celebrate our first anniversary. Oh, and we had a two-week-old baby. We found a janky three-foot tree in my parent's garage, and voila! 'Tis the season. Our tree topper was a piece of cardboard cut into the shape of a star, covered in foil, and clipped to the tree with a bag clip.
We clearly took the time in 2010 to put this wee one into a basket and attempt some themed photos.
Another one of the unconventional ornaments that our tree proudly carried were these little mittens, whom some of you may remember as a Starbucks gift card holder from years gone by.
Through the next couple of years, we added some kids but apparently added no personal motivation. We continued to rock the wonky little tree, and although generous grandparents gave us a few real ornaments to work with, the girls enjoyed adding their personal flair.
Enter: beautiful tree quilt decorated with foam dollar store ornaments by this proud little lady!
Fast forward to today. We ended up buying a couple of artificial trees on clearance last January, and when we pulled them out, the kids were thrilled! They each have a tree of their own, and Jon David is still rocking the orphaned garage tree. Since we haven't set any decorating precedent, they took it upon themselves to design their trees, and I never want to forget this preciousness that surrounds me right now.
Exhibit A: Piper's homemade horse ornament
Stock photo Santa baby. (Myla's baby hand print is actually on the other side, but she chose to display this kid).
Myla's tree topper solution
JD's much-loved tree
This is clearly an Astros baseball cap ornament.
More homemade goodness
Thanks to preschool last year, Piper has a real ornament!
Let's not forget the dollar store additions.
One year, my friend had pity on me and gave us a box of Christmas decorations. She had already reached the point of needing to pare down. So now we have this lovely wooden reindeer who gallantly watches over Piper's tree at night.
Can we all just take a moment to see what happens when the teacher tries to take a photo of Piper? This is hanging in the hallway at school.
Finally, Myla and Jon decided to make a paper chain (modeled after a school project of Piper's). They spent quite a while working together and tearing strips of paper to make this.
So, as the sign says, I bid you all a "Mary Crismas!"
Wednesday, December 6, 2017
Jon David is THREE!
Dear Jon David,
If you measure my love for you based on the amount of photographs I take rather than my blogging punctuality, we will be fine. (Actually, I've procrastinated with all of your birthday posts the past couple of years, so the good news is that I care or don't care about you all equally).
Bub, you are showered with more love and affection than any child I know. I don't understand how you became so spoiled, but it happened. Let's all just move on. On a typical day, Myla gets you dressed and ready, and I can't even muster up any guilt over that. Every time we drop your sisters off at school, you tell me, "Mommy, I miss the girls. Can we go to school?" You love going to school with me whenever we help the teachers, and you find it imperative that we pack you a backpack and a lunch box so you can be like everyone else. I'm not sure how I will be able to keep you happy at home for the next 2.5 years. You're ready to be in the mix.
This year, we have spent a lot of time at the park. You're weirdly strong and coordinated. You must get that from me.
With you, I have finally found a willing pho companion, so we go out to lunch almost weekly. Nothing fills you with more pride than using kiddie chopsticks. And nothing fills your clothes with more noodles. Ah well.
By the way, I take pictures of you when you sleep. Parents love their children more when they are asleep. It's science.
We have been attending Yoga Storytime at the library, because apparently that exists. It's a normal story time with fun poses mixed in. You're a fan.
How do you know when it's time to leave the park? Answer:
Sometimes, I'll go out to the backyard only to find something like this. These are the moments that I'm just glad we're in our own yard. Suffice it to say, you're the first of my children to ride the balance bike in the nude.
We watched a lot of baseball this year, because WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS, BABY!
We love you, Jon David! I'm going to smoosh your face and kiss you right on the mouth for as long as you'll let me.
Love,
Mom
If you measure my love for you based on the amount of photographs I take rather than my blogging punctuality, we will be fine. (Actually, I've procrastinated with all of your birthday posts the past couple of years, so the good news is that I care or don't care about you all equally).
Bub, you are showered with more love and affection than any child I know. I don't understand how you became so spoiled, but it happened. Let's all just move on. On a typical day, Myla gets you dressed and ready, and I can't even muster up any guilt over that. Every time we drop your sisters off at school, you tell me, "Mommy, I miss the girls. Can we go to school?" You love going to school with me whenever we help the teachers, and you find it imperative that we pack you a backpack and a lunch box so you can be like everyone else. I'm not sure how I will be able to keep you happy at home for the next 2.5 years. You're ready to be in the mix.
This year, we have spent a lot of time at the park. You're weirdly strong and coordinated. You must get that from me.
With you, I have finally found a willing pho companion, so we go out to lunch almost weekly. Nothing fills you with more pride than using kiddie chopsticks. And nothing fills your clothes with more noodles. Ah well.
By the way, I take pictures of you when you sleep. Parents love their children more when they are asleep. It's science.
We have been attending Yoga Storytime at the library, because apparently that exists. It's a normal story time with fun poses mixed in. You're a fan.
How do you know when it's time to leave the park? Answer:
Sometimes, I'll go out to the backyard only to find something like this. These are the moments that I'm just glad we're in our own yard. Suffice it to say, you're the first of my children to ride the balance bike in the nude.
We watched a lot of baseball this year, because WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS, BABY!
We love you, Jon David! I'm going to smoosh your face and kiss you right on the mouth for as long as you'll let me.
Love,
Mom
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Here I Raise my Ebenezer
Last year, I was wondering how and where to start volunteering, and lo and behold, I read that my former roommate co-founded The Way Home Adoption. When Ashley, the co-founder and volunteer coordinator called me with a potential case of 3 little girls aged 5, 6, and 7, I felt a sense of relief and agreed right away. This type of case is a rarity at The Way Home, as they focus mainly on teenagers at risk of ageing out of the system. Ashley decided to make the leap since these little ladies had already been in foster care for quite a while. I thought this would be a good starter case for me. Younger kids, less nerves. (My general philosophy is that kids are weirdos, so you can't be that fearful of looking dumb around them. They don't care!)
My first meeting with the girls occurred in October of 2016. Little did I know that Dave would be laid off that week. His final day in the office would be at the end of November, and we had no idea where we would end up after that. I confessed my concerns to Ashley, and we decided that I would continue with the girls as long as possible and keep her posted on our plans. The possibility that I would have to move away with this unfinished business ate away at me, though.
About the girls: they are spunky and wild and beautiful. The first time Ashley and I met them, one of them looked at me, paused, and very innocently asked, "Are you white?" I was a little taken aback, but answered, "Yes, I am." Right after that, she curiously asked me, "What did they teach you in white school?" You guys, this was 15 minutes from my house. Culture shock is right outside your door. The best part about it, though, is that kids are honest. They ask, you answer, and we learn from each other.
My time on their case has mostly consisted of meeting regularly with them to chat, taking them on a few small outings, and reading their social work file (all in order to help find them a permanent home). As an aside, this short experience has made me confront my feelings and my stance on the value of life. When I see or hear people talk about "unwanted children" being better off aborted than to suffer in this world, I think of these little girls. They live in this broken world and have experienced things that no child should EVER have to experience. Despite all of that, they are vibrant, rambunctious, and full of life. Could I look one of them in the face and say, "You never should have been born?" No, I can't.
Anyway, I began to pray that God would take care of these girls and that we would find a family for them. I chatted with them about what they like to do and found out they spent a lot of time at church with their foster mom. They seemed to like music, so I asked about the songs they sing at church. I rattled off a few worship songs to see if I could guess one they they liked, and somehow found out they sing "Break Every Chain" a lot. That became my prayer for them this year. I just prayed that God would break every chain in their lives.
It became clear that we would be moving somewhere (though we still didn't know where, exactly) around June. I really didn't want to be another person who came into the girls' lives only to turn around and leave. But we carried on through the unknown. I received a completely unexpected email in March that a potential adoptive family was found. The general steps would be: parents read the case file and decide whether to proceed or not. That would move on to short visits (like to McDonald's), then on to overnight visits. Ashley estimated about a 50% chance of whether parents would proceed after reading the file. Two families had already stopped after this point, and I can honestly understand why. I just prayed.
Then I received the message that the family was choosing to continue the process, and if all went well, the girls would be placed in June. Y'all, I had nothing to do with the recruitment of this family. Yes, I wanted to be the person to find them a family, but I wasn't. And that's ok. God showed me that he was taking care of it all.
The girls are currently living with their adoptive parents in another town, so they didn't experience me leaving them. Best case scenario, their adoption will be finalized in the fall. Will it be all roses and sunshine at that point? No. But I my prayer for them is that they will learn the meaning of family, and they will be be known and truly loved.
"The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy!" Psalm 126:3
My first meeting with the girls occurred in October of 2016. Little did I know that Dave would be laid off that week. His final day in the office would be at the end of November, and we had no idea where we would end up after that. I confessed my concerns to Ashley, and we decided that I would continue with the girls as long as possible and keep her posted on our plans. The possibility that I would have to move away with this unfinished business ate away at me, though.
About the girls: they are spunky and wild and beautiful. The first time Ashley and I met them, one of them looked at me, paused, and very innocently asked, "Are you white?" I was a little taken aback, but answered, "Yes, I am." Right after that, she curiously asked me, "What did they teach you in white school?" You guys, this was 15 minutes from my house. Culture shock is right outside your door. The best part about it, though, is that kids are honest. They ask, you answer, and we learn from each other.
My time on their case has mostly consisted of meeting regularly with them to chat, taking them on a few small outings, and reading their social work file (all in order to help find them a permanent home). As an aside, this short experience has made me confront my feelings and my stance on the value of life. When I see or hear people talk about "unwanted children" being better off aborted than to suffer in this world, I think of these little girls. They live in this broken world and have experienced things that no child should EVER have to experience. Despite all of that, they are vibrant, rambunctious, and full of life. Could I look one of them in the face and say, "You never should have been born?" No, I can't.
Anyway, I began to pray that God would take care of these girls and that we would find a family for them. I chatted with them about what they like to do and found out they spent a lot of time at church with their foster mom. They seemed to like music, so I asked about the songs they sing at church. I rattled off a few worship songs to see if I could guess one they they liked, and somehow found out they sing "Break Every Chain" a lot. That became my prayer for them this year. I just prayed that God would break every chain in their lives.
It became clear that we would be moving somewhere (though we still didn't know where, exactly) around June. I really didn't want to be another person who came into the girls' lives only to turn around and leave. But we carried on through the unknown. I received a completely unexpected email in March that a potential adoptive family was found. The general steps would be: parents read the case file and decide whether to proceed or not. That would move on to short visits (like to McDonald's), then on to overnight visits. Ashley estimated about a 50% chance of whether parents would proceed after reading the file. Two families had already stopped after this point, and I can honestly understand why. I just prayed.
Then I received the message that the family was choosing to continue the process, and if all went well, the girls would be placed in June. Y'all, I had nothing to do with the recruitment of this family. Yes, I wanted to be the person to find them a family, but I wasn't. And that's ok. God showed me that he was taking care of it all.
The girls are currently living with their adoptive parents in another town, so they didn't experience me leaving them. Best case scenario, their adoption will be finalized in the fall. Will it be all roses and sunshine at that point? No. But I my prayer for them is that they will learn the meaning of family, and they will be be known and truly loved.
"The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy!" Psalm 126:3
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Dear Piper,
You turned five...a MONTH ago. I'm really sorry that I can't get it together enough to blog on time, but please don't estimate my love for you based upon my promptness.
Per usual, it's been a crazy ride this year with you. I dedicated one of the country singles on the radio to you this summer, so whenever it comes on, I crank the volume up and sing it for you. It goes like this:
Then you rolled in with your hair in the wind
Baby, without warning
I was doing alright
But just your sight had my heart storming
The moon went hiding, stars quit shining
Rain was driving, thunder, lightning
You wrecked my whole world when you came
And hit me like a hurricane
Hit me like a hurricane
Just imagine me shout-singing it in a thick, redneck accent. (The redneck accent part is important). It accurately describes certain times in my parenting journey with you. Because baby girl, I am winging it so hard.
Anyway, Nana and Paw Paw bought you this Astros hat, and have you ever seen a more natural bad-ass? I doubt it.
Piper, I have seen more and more this year your compassionate heart and your craving for love and affection. When I explained to you guys that your daddy lost his job, your first reaction was, "But he won't get to see his fwends anymoh!" Another time, I told you a little story about how I tripped at my preschool graduation and accidentally flashed my chili pepper-embroidered bloomers to the crowd, so everyone laughed at me. You told me, "Mom, if I was there, I wouldn't have waughed at you."
Animals are your current love. We just finished reading Charlotte's Web together (one motherhood goal: achieved!), and you took to it more than anyone. Though I think you just love snuggling up for 15 minutes before bedtime, this has been a sweet new routine for us, and I am so grateful. We have been bouncing back and forth between houses this summer, and during one trip to Kristen and Alan's, I realized I had forgotten to pack the book. I told you guys we could just skip reading tonight, and I'll figure something out for tomorrow. "No, we have to read! Turn around! Let's go back and get it!" I was so touched that I bat-turned into the Half-Priced Books parking lot and bought a second copy to keep at Kristen's. Worth it.
You are starting Kindergarten this year (what?!), and to be honest, you are pretty nervous. I don't know how to navigate this with you just yet, since you have always been so fearless. I'm just being positive. I'm guessing that you'll never look back once you get started into the big-kid stuff like school.
Piper, you are a cool kid. I pray that one day you will use your powers for good. I pray that one day, you will fiercely love and defend others who need unconditional support. I pray that Jesus will fill in the gaps (sooo many gaps) where I am lacking.
I love you BIG.
Love,
Mom
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
On Turning 30 and Being Socially Awkward
Yea, I know. I turned thirty almost exactly one year ago, but I'm just now getting around to writing this story. One name has been changed to protect the innocent. I asked for permission to use the other names.
One year ago, my friend Erik and I turned thirty. His birthday is the day before mine, so I always wish him a "Happy Katy's Birthday Eve." After 15 years, he stillthinks I'm hilarious puts up with me. Anyway, Erik planned his birthday party for the night of January 22. For reference, to celebrate my birthday, I invited some ladies over on a Tuesday night to eat and play Pictionary. Everyone left by 9:00. Erik's party would start at 9:00 at Under the Volcano (a bar) in Houston. (Bedtime, *gasp*!)
[Here is our little eclectic group at the party. Friends since high school! When I see this picture of myself, all I can think of is this:]
Dave and I decided that he would just stay home with the kids because we're too cheap to hire babysitters, and this didn't sound like his cup of tea anyway. Works for me.
Earlier that week, my friend Casey called to ask, "Don't you think we can just skip this and take Erik to lunch or something? It's so annoying to try and talk to people in a bar where you can't even hear anything."
"No," I told her, "it's just one night. It's Erik's birthday. We can do this!" (i.e. I will rope you into this so I don't back out of it myself).
On the night of the party, I drove to pick up Casey because she doesn't enjoy driving at night. (I can't make this stuff up, people). On the way, "When We Were Young" played on the radio, and I sang at the top of my lungs with Adele while pondering the mysteries of getting older.
That's when the evening changed from a coming-of-age film into a comedy. There were about five people there when we first arrived, so we all sat around a table shouting greetings to each other. Thankfully, I'm not as shy as I used to be, so I introduced myself to the one person I didn't recognize: Steve*.
"How do you know Erik?" I asked. We exchanged stories of how we met our mutual friend, then Steve said, "You know what? You look like you need another drink."
"That's ok, I'm driving." I told him.
"I'm going to buy you a drink and come over there where we can hear each other better."
Casey looked at me and said "Well that escalated quickly..." We all had a good laugh at my expense while I tried to figure out how I let this happen. My wedding rings aren't exactly Kardashian-sized, and I did come alone, so I can't fault Steve for not realizing my relationship status.
But, WHAT DO I DO NOW???
Our friend Susan, somehow not realizing what was going on, saw Steve at the bar and told him he should buy me a drink, because she probably thought, "Free drink!"
Next thing I know, Steve sits down next to me with a fresh drink, and I assume my classic smiling-yet-terrified face. I'm pretty sure the expression has looked the same for at least my entire life. I think it looks something like this:
Since I am awkward and it seemed presumptuous to announce my wife-hood, I made small talk with Steve and asked him what was the funniest or most interesting thing that has happened during one of his court cases. (He and Erik are both attorneys, and I remember Erik telling me once that he prosecuted a guy who stole 37 boxes of Crest White Strips. I'm guessing lawyers are storehouses for quirky stories, but I don't remember what he said because I was contemplating how this all would end).
Then he asked the big question: "So what do you do?"
Me: (Terrified Pause).
"Like, what would you say your life is all about?"
And I wanted to shout, "JESUS! My life is about Him!" (But I didn't, because that seemed like it would increase the level of awkwardness exponentially, and Katy, why did you even think this? It couldn't have gotten that much weirder).
But instead I said, "I stay home with my kids." (Insert awkward smile).
"Oh, really? How many kids do you have?"
"Three." (Now I saw the flash of fear in Steve's eyes).
"So, you're doing it all on your own, huh?"
"Well, actually, my husband is an engineer, and I stay home with our kids..."
And with that, Steve moonwalked away. Not really, but praise the Lord, an old friend happened to walk up and start chatting with me at that point. Steve disappeared into the crowd, and I never saw him again.
When I arrived home that night, I woke Dave up and recounted the story of my evening. Dave patted me and groggily said, "You've still got it, Babe."
A few days later, when I told my Dad about it, he responded, "It's like I always say: I can't blame the guy for having good taste."
With those two in my corner, being awkward didn't seem so bad anymore. But just to play it safe, I'm back to my old stomping grounds.
One year ago, my friend Erik and I turned thirty. His birthday is the day before mine, so I always wish him a "Happy Katy's Birthday Eve." After 15 years, he still
[Here is our little eclectic group at the party. Friends since high school! When I see this picture of myself, all I can think of is this:] 
Dave and I decided that he would just stay home with the kids because we're too cheap to hire babysitters, and this didn't sound like his cup of tea anyway. Works for me.
Earlier that week, my friend Casey called to ask, "Don't you think we can just skip this and take Erik to lunch or something? It's so annoying to try and talk to people in a bar where you can't even hear anything."
"No," I told her, "it's just one night. It's Erik's birthday. We can do this!" (i.e. I will rope you into this so I don't back out of it myself).
On the night of the party, I drove to pick up Casey because she doesn't enjoy driving at night. (I can't make this stuff up, people). On the way, "When We Were Young" played on the radio, and I sang at the top of my lungs with Adele while pondering the mysteries of getting older.
That's when the evening changed from a coming-of-age film into a comedy. There were about five people there when we first arrived, so we all sat around a table shouting greetings to each other. Thankfully, I'm not as shy as I used to be, so I introduced myself to the one person I didn't recognize: Steve*.
"How do you know Erik?" I asked. We exchanged stories of how we met our mutual friend, then Steve said, "You know what? You look like you need another drink."
"That's ok, I'm driving." I told him.
"I'm going to buy you a drink and come over there where we can hear each other better."
Casey looked at me and said "Well that escalated quickly..." We all had a good laugh at my expense while I tried to figure out how I let this happen. My wedding rings aren't exactly Kardashian-sized, and I did come alone, so I can't fault Steve for not realizing my relationship status.
But, WHAT DO I DO NOW???
Our friend Susan, somehow not realizing what was going on, saw Steve at the bar and told him he should buy me a drink, because she probably thought, "Free drink!"
Next thing I know, Steve sits down next to me with a fresh drink, and I assume my classic smiling-yet-terrified face. I'm pretty sure the expression has looked the same for at least my entire life. I think it looks something like this:
Since I am awkward and it seemed presumptuous to announce my wife-hood, I made small talk with Steve and asked him what was the funniest or most interesting thing that has happened during one of his court cases. (He and Erik are both attorneys, and I remember Erik telling me once that he prosecuted a guy who stole 37 boxes of Crest White Strips. I'm guessing lawyers are storehouses for quirky stories, but I don't remember what he said because I was contemplating how this all would end).
Then he asked the big question: "So what do you do?"
Me: (Terrified Pause).
"Like, what would you say your life is all about?"
And I wanted to shout, "JESUS! My life is about Him!" (But I didn't, because that seemed like it would increase the level of awkwardness exponentially, and Katy, why did you even think this? It couldn't have gotten that much weirder).
But instead I said, "I stay home with my kids." (Insert awkward smile).
"Oh, really? How many kids do you have?"
"Three." (Now I saw the flash of fear in Steve's eyes).
"So, you're doing it all on your own, huh?"
"Well, actually, my husband is an engineer, and I stay home with our kids..."
And with that, Steve moonwalked away. Not really, but praise the Lord, an old friend happened to walk up and start chatting with me at that point. Steve disappeared into the crowd, and I never saw him again.
When I arrived home that night, I woke Dave up and recounted the story of my evening. Dave patted me and groggily said, "You've still got it, Babe."
A few days later, when I told my Dad about it, he responded, "It's like I always say: I can't blame the guy for having good taste."
With those two in my corner, being awkward didn't seem so bad anymore. But just to play it safe, I'm back to my old stomping grounds.
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