May Day musings

Yesterday was my middle son’s birthday. Delivering him was one of the greatest physical accomplishments of my life.

Today is my mother’s 87th birthday. Being able to navigate to the place where the relationship she and I share resides, is one of my greatest emotional achievements.

Once again this year, we have a pair of ducks hanging out in the woody wetlands at the end of the street. I admire their bravado in setting up camp next to a school playground in a neighborhood rampant with dogs and the odd stray cat.

Speaking of birds, my obsession with the eaglets of Big Bear Lake remains in full thrall. This focused attention is going to be a one and done for me. I cannot let myself get this invested in a single nest of eagles ever again. It’s a distraction.

In the intermission between Joss Stone’s smoking hot set (while 7 months pregnant) and Melissa Etheridge’s performance the other night, I predicted that I was going to witness a Stevie Ray Vaughan/Robert Plant situation. This is a personal reference to the time, back in the 80s, when Stevie opened up for Plant and then proceeded to blow him out of the arena with his energy and sheer talent.

I was right.

If you want a dynamite dessert for a crowd, talk to the nice folks at Sabor a Campo about buying a pan of tres leches cake. It’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

Two other neighborhood spots you’ll also want to frequent are Nicole’s for Winedown Wednesday, their weekly wine promotion when they feature select bottles at 50% off. We recently enjoyed a bottle of Montepuciano for $19, pretip*. Yes, a bottle.

Another special night of the week is Friday, or as The Delaware calls it, Fri-yay. That’s the night when a martini, with piping hot French fries on the side, will set you back only a ten-spot. Can you say “girl dinner?”

As I leafed through a special Sunday NYT’s publication featuring the fashion and cultural influences of Japan, I encountered an old school fragrance sample for Hermès’ Barénia and fell in love. Anyone going through duty free anytime soon? I’ve got a request.

I’ve never been particularly impressed by mantras, but I’ve adopted one recently: Bodies Change. It’s really helping me to shush that inner voice that constantly seeks attention.

Watching the sunrise from bed is one of life’s great luxuries.

It’s been a very busy week and I’ve got three commitments after school ends this afternoon. If I can find the time, though, I’ll be heading to Albany Medical Center for a planned 5:00 pm May Day protest in support of nurses and workers. Maybe you can make it?

As for making it, can you believe it’s May already? Summer is almost here, friends. Until then, may your May be merry.

*You don’t need me to tell you that you should tip on the undiscounted price, do you?