Merry Death

kids vs. no kids

I went to lunch today with a friend. I have known her for more than 7 years. She was by my side for my whole pregnancy. She was instrumental in executing my baby shower (which we called a baby barbeque and invited everyone we knew), helping take care of my cats while I was in the hospital, she was the first to come and see Vivienne when she was born.
She asked on Monday if I wanted to have lunch with her. Of course, she expected Vivienne as well. Her request was that we go to a place near her work, since she is riding a bike to work these days.
Today, its 48 degrees and raining. I have a 17 month old. We agree on 1130am. At 1115am I get a phone call telling me that she will be 15 minutes late. Goodie. Vivienne and I are already on our way, so I decide to stop by the post office and bank to kill time. Then I have to go into the city (only 2 miles from my house but no parking, traffic, etc) and locate a parking space in 48 degrees, raining, with a toddler and 2 bags. We circle the block a few times and find a place about 5 stores down from the restaurant.
I go in, first customer, and get a table and a high chair. I get Vivienne settled and get her some food. She eats at 1130, so today she is starving, of course. She gets her cheese and kiwi while I sip on a soda. 15 min later, on time, the friend shows up. We both order grilled cheese, fries and enjoy a shared macaroni and cheese. Did I mention the place was called "comfort"?
All in all, lunch was fine. But it did amaze me that she wasn't phased by all my efforts getting me, my toddler and all the crap from the car to the restaurant in cold rain. If it were me, I might have called and suggested some place with a parking lot. Those who have and those who don't are very apparent in these instances.

posted by Metalmeredith @ 2:51 PM