Date Night Preparations: Then and Now

Earlier this week, R and I celebrated our ninth dating anniversary.  (As it also happens to fall on his birthday, some of the celebration may have been directed elsewhere.)  In the few moments I have before we head out on a well-earned date night tonight, it seems to be a good time to reflect on how my dating life has changed over the past nine years:

THEN:  Sleep late in the morning -- 10am or so -- wake up refreshed and thinking about how to get ready for the day ahead.

NOW:  Sleep late in the morning -- 7:02am or so -- wake up exhausted and thinking about how much needs to be done before the sitter our friend arrives.

THEN: Enjoy a leisurely morning of pampering -- perhaps a haircut, manicure, massage.

NOW: Enjoy an activity-filled morning of making breakfast, doing housework, and trying to catch up on lost time with A and C.  Haven't had a haircut, manicure or massage since my thirties.  And I turned 40 nearly three months ago.)

THEN: Chat with girlfriends about the upcoming evening, the gentleman caller and the prospects.

NOW: Chat with the preschoolers about the upcoming evening, and how mommy and daddy need to go out once in a while.  Listen to "I don't want you to go on a date" about 200 times and remember to try to appreciate that they want to spend time with you.

THEN: One hour to go -- cute outfit on, hair and makeup done.  Waiting for nails to dry.

NOW: One hour to go -- clean outfit on.  Makeup done.  Waiting for hair to dry.  Quickie manicure not even a possibility.

THEN: Nine years ago, your best friend and the man you want to make a family with arrives at your door.

NOW: That man is the one by your side.

Here's wishing each of you a wonderful weekend too!