Tuesday, August 17, 2010

An old dog learns a new trick

Last weekend, I found myself YEARNING to do something I never would have guessed would sound appealing to me in the slightest. With the blessing of my sweet husband, who watched the kids, and $12 in my pocket, I went to the movies BY MYSELF.

I went to see Eat, Pray, Love. An appropriate choice for a gal going to the movies alone.

I sat alone in a dark theater. I ate chocolate covered raisins. I didn't talk to anyone. I didn't check my phone. I didn't take anyone to the bathroom. I laughed, I cried, I marveled at Javier Bardem, I craved pizza and I longed for Bali. I was refreshed and replenished.

The movie ended and I went home, hugged my kids, and unloaded the dishwasher. It's amazing how an experience that would have struck terror in my heart as a teenager was exactly what my tired mothering heart needed.

So, to all those moms out there who are going crazy at the end of having a house full of kids all summer, I suggest a solo trip to the movies. Two hours of air-conditioned peace and quiet is bliss.