The First Day of Autumn, Part 2

One thing that I didn't mention in the last post was that Scott was slow to wish me a 'Happy Birthday' that morning.

My first thought was that, in his busy schedule in working out of town, he forgot. And that is just unacceptable in my book. So, when he failed to tell wish me a great day in the first 15 seconds of our conversation, I let him know exactly what I thought about him, his mother, and his slow reaction.

Kidding. I didn't bring his mother into it. But he did explain that he was distracted and argued that he didn't forget. Not this year anyway.

Now, fast forward to later that evening. My mom and I were planning on going to a new pasta restaurant for dinner. She said to meet her at 5:30pm at her place, and even though it was slightly out-of-character for her to suggest a time so late, I went with it.

But, exactly in-line with MY character, I show up 25 minutes early. And find my dad's truck parked out front of my mom's house.

Thought #1: After a million years of getting divorced, major miscommunication issues, and two major independent personalities later... they are getting back together. (???)

Thought #2: My mom did it. It doesn't happen often, but she really freaking did it. She surprised me on my birthday by having my dad there too.

AND minutes later... my sister, her fiancee and my nephew showed up (from their 3 hour drive from their hometown) to go to dinner as well. (!!!!)

And not a moment after I gave Zach a hug, he asked, "Where are they?"

"Where is who? Grandma's cats?"

"No. Connor. Is he hiding?"

And so, after I explained to Zach the reality of a divorce decree, the dynamics of a broken home, but more importantly: the fact that Connor is probably having dinner with his own mom tonight... we left for dinner.

And so, for my birthday, I had all of my immediate family around me for dinner. Good food, fun tic-tac-toe games with Zach, my sister retelling their engagement story, Zach and I drawing black crayola mustaches on each other, and great dinner conversation with my family... Well, it was the perfect dinner.

And Scott knew all about this from day one. So, yes, I forgave him in a pinch abput the whole not-wishing-me-a-happy-birthday-the-second-after-he-said-'hello'...

Thanks family. And Mom, good one.

But Mom, unfortunately because I don't let surprises get past me that often, I can't let this happen again.