My Legs Don't Lie

No, really they don't. They started out a tad lighter than a Lipstick Red crayola crayon. Now, still a bit swollen and wrinkled up and starting to peel, my legs remind me of just how much sitting still I got to do this weekend.

I had been looking forward to this weekend for a very long time. For two years now, I still haven't grasped the concept that 1) I deserve a break every now and then and 2) I need "me" time, whether I have the time to take it or not. I certainly got both this weekend in Myrtle Beach. The weather couldn't have been anymore perfect and neither the company. I taught myself to be still (something I'm still trying to teach Lily) and just be.

I remember sitting at Hard Rock Cafe on Saturday night, listening to a guitar duo mess up every other song. I looked at Laura and Kristi and said "I forgot what it was like to just be me." I did. I didn't know how to just be myself. You know, the saracastic, intuitive one. The one that won't let you get a word in, edgewise. The one that talks to total strangers, just because. The one who shops like she's rich, but then explains to her husband later every last reason for each purchase and why it was a "must have". I forgot how to get myself ready all at one time (Who does that these days without being interrupted by a curious toddler or hungry tot?). I certainly forgot how to put sunscreen on (For the record, Laura and Kristi reminded me a few times that my face was red, but I just kept blaming the redness on how hot it was AND the fact that this was the first time I had been in the sun this year.). I'll say! I still feel like I lost all muscle in my shins because they are burned so badly. I forgot what it was like to ride in a car and have adult conversation the entire time. I had seriously forgotten how to just be me. But, for purposes of this trip and probably to Laura and Kristi's benefit, I put away my Momisms and brought out my fun, easy going side. Sure, I was the one who admitted it might be time to get off the beach (Truth be known: I could probably feel years coming off of my life because of the sunburn!). And I was the first one to admit that I'd rather be in bed at the end of Saturday night. I was also the one rushing at the end of the day on Sunday to visit as many stores as possible all the while trying to get home in time for Kevin to play in his soccer game. I guess those instances were a bit of my motherly side coming out, but I couldn't leave it all behind, right? As Krisiti said, "You were right about leaving the beach and leaving the bar, so you are probably right about heading home, too." I secretly didn't want our shopping spree to end. I was longing to get back to the babies I had so desperately missed. I know Laura was ready to see her Mady! And Kristi had a TON or schoolwork to do. So, maybe I was right for a third time. Maybe. Maybe not.

Either way, I had a perfect weekend with two wonderful friends. I can't wait to do it again next year! Thank you girls for reminding me of who I am and why I am here. I love that about me. :)