January 26 – “Dream Date”

Chris had quite the brainstorm yesterday.  She figured out a way for us to go on a date.

That’s right.  Chris and I went on a date yesterday.  First one in … well, in a very long time.  We had to get creative to do it, though, since we can’t leave Mom alone.  Here’s how it went down.  I went to Shrimp and Stuff and picked up a to-go order of popcorn shrimp for the two of us.  Chris made some of her famous sweet tea.  Mom was peacefully dozing on the couch, her usual morning routine.  We grabbed the food, the ketchup and a few napkins and went out into the backyard.  I raised the umbrella over our picnic table and we spread out our feast and enjoyed the 70 degree weather as we munched our fried shrimp.  Doesn’t get a whole lot better than that during the rainy season here on Gilligan’s island. 

And after our lunch we took a walk.  Actually we strolled over and leaned against our fence, admiring the rolling field that is now our next door neighbor.  We noted our appreciation that the condemned structure that had once been a home was now gone.  We lamented the loss of our good neighbors.  We exulted in the breathable air wafting from the site.  We thanked the demolition crew for leave the small stretch of fencing that plays host to the butterfly bush that the hummingbirds enjoy during their time in Galveston.  We listed some of the adjustments to the tractor ruts near our house that we would have to make to insure proper drainage and a prettier look when grass starts to grow again.  We shared some of our dream of what we could do with the property if it belonged to us.  A huge yard for the grandkids to play in.  A garden … even a community garden for the neighbors to share in.  A place to plant the extra pecan tree the city gave away.  A baseball practice area (hey, I have to add a nod to the dreams of my own youth). 

The interesting thing is, we didn’t say all of those things out loud.  One of the perks of being married so long, I guess.  Never hurts to dream, though.  And it’s quite inexpensive, too.  Ah, well.  Thus ended the Vaughan’s dream date.  Short and sweet.  Not extremely romantic, but I’ll take it.  Sigh.

Psalms 62:2 says, “He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.”

Father, thank you for the special moments Chris and I get to share.  Amen.