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Simple Pleasures
Lunch with a friend
My best friend is busy. She still works full time, takes care of a business, her husband’s medical needs, and four dogs with various health issues. Getting together for a leisurely brunch or lunch is tricky. When it does work out, it’s a treat.
This week is Spring Break at the school where we both work. We made plans for a Tuesday brunch, but then she called that she had an appointment and couldn’t make it. Would Wednesday work? We agreed on Wednesday at 11 a.m.
Tuesday night she texted that she had errands to run. Would 11:30 be o.k. then? Wednesday morning she texted that there was an issue with Quickbooks she was trying to solve. I learned later that she was on the phone for over an hour with her accountant and someone at the bank.
She would definitely be there at noon.
At 11:40 she texted she would be on her way soon. No way would she make it to the restaurant by noon. I left on time anyway to get us a booth. The restaurant is popular and busy even on a Wednesday.
She finally arrived at 12:15 p.m. She drove 80 all the way, she said.
Finally we could settle down for lunch. We talked for two hours and had a great time. It’s funny that even friends who have known each other for decades can still share something new about their lives and their past.
Then she looked at her watch. She had to go since they had a show at four and she had to sell tickets.
We hugged, and then she left. I went home with a feeling of relief. I had nothing else to do that day.
Sometimes I remember my pressure cooker days. A full time job, kids to take care of, and never enough time. I am glad those days are over.
