Saturdays

I had little planned for the weekend, but as usual, the day was packed with activity. We were up early to arrive on time at Poly High School for the 8:30 exam. It was fun to see so many of Maya's old classmates and friends from her former school. I caught up with some of the parents I knew. There was just enough time to take a yoga class and return in time for the end of the exam to drive Maya to her orchestra practice.

The Enoch Pratt Free Library was just up the street from Peabody, so we joined and found better books on the violin. We then braved the mall to choose eyeglasses for Maya, and returned home to shower and change for our evening dinner party. Belina joined us at 7WEst, a Mediterranean restaurant near my work, where I met Rina for dinner. Rina had taken care of my patients while I was away in Ecuador for the year and for the course, so it felt good to catch up and share stories. Maya and Belina seemed happy to be 'grownups' in the 'bar' part of the restaurant. We sat on high chairs and ordered Mediterranean specialties and caught up with our lives. Rina works in a hospital and makes incredible amounts of money, but has little relaxation or fun in her life, It appears that our choices in life are entirely different. I was embarrassed when she came to see my very modest home in my very modest car. I guess I have chosen to live a simpler life at home so I can travel and play more often. If I did not spend so much money on adventure, I would have a nicer home, a more expensive car.

Belina and Maya had a raucous time with Emily, who came to visit after dinner. Emily does not do sleepovers, so left before bedtime. I was relieved that Maya used her room for the night. She has become accustomed to sleeping in my bed and spending all her time nearby. I almost missed her in my massive bed.