Ordinary Day

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After a long, busy week, a peaceful dinner by the water was exactly what I needed.

Tim and I pulled into the parking lot at Two Ten Oyster Bar fully expecting a long wait and no chance of finding a good table. Instead, we landed the best seat in town, overlooking the water on a beautiful spring evening. As if that wasn't enough, we were greeted by Hannah, one of the best waitresses around.

I had Hannah in dance class when she was just a toddler, so seeing her all grown up, but still wearing that same bright smile, made my day. The big hug she gave me the moment she spotted us wasn't too bad either.

One of the things I love most about being a townie is the small connections that weave through everyday life. Deep roots, longtime friendships, familiar faces, and chance encounters create a sense of comfort that can only be found in a small town. Everywhere you go, there's a story, a memory, or someone you've known through one chapter of life or another.

A group of friends was heading out later for live music, but with the band not starting until 8:00, so, we had to pass. I needed to be home by then so I could get a good night's rest. Although it was Friday, my mind was already focused on the busy day ahead on Saturday, making it feel like the Thursday-est Friday ever.

I'm not quite sure when I became the person who refuses late nights on "school nights," but here I am. Is it maturity? Responsibility? Or am I simply becoming a nerd? Whatever it is, I seem to have developed a set of rules for myself, and I usually stick to them (not always). There's no sense putting myself in a position where I wake up already behind the eight ball.

I like to rise early, sometimes before it's even light outside, and have a little quiet time to ease into my day. Once my day begins, I take off like a racehorse out of the gate, so being well rested makes all the difference. I refuse to start the day in chaos if I can help it.

Tim had the day off and was more than happy to accommodate my dinner request, as long as it didn't involve him cooking. I had to laugh when I realized I hadn't heard from him all day and asked why he never texted me. Apparently, he was worried I'd give him a lengthy to-do list if he made contact, so he quietly enjoyed his day off and stayed completely under my radar. Smart man!

My brain is always overflowing with lists, projects, and things I want done yesterday. Sometimes it feels like there's never enough time to accomplish everything. But as we sat watching boats come and go from the marina, listening to the sounds of the harbor, sipping cocktails, and enjoying a delicious meal, all of that melted away.

For a little while, there was nowhere else to be, nothing else to do, and nothing demanding my attention. Just good food, good company, a beautiful view, and the comfort of my home town... 

Life is good and always better by the water. 

"There is nothing more precious than an ordinary day." ~ Suzanne Clothier