Dwayne left, and eventually, so did the rain. We went home and got dressed up to have dinner at this new, trendy pizza place in Newcrest. Not dressy dressy, but elevated everyday wear, I suppose. The kids never get to wear nice clothes anywhere, so that made it extra exciting for them. Luca’s outfit was the same as one of Ali’s summer outfits, and I thought it was adorable that he’d want to dress like his father. It made me smile because it reminded me of one reason I wanted to be a mother. Of course, it’s flattering when our children want to be like us, but it’s the influence I desired. I wanted to be a positive influence in someone’s life, just like Mommy was to me. Paying it forward, I guess.
When we settled at our table, I felt someone’s eyes on me from across the room. I peered sneakily over my menu and scanned the room to see who it was and saw Laurant dining with his sister, Blake. I know it’s natural to run into people, but good gnome! What’s happening with this weekend? I swear, if he comes over and starts trouble, my kids are going to see a different side of me. I don’t have time for people’s shenanigans right now.
Luca ordered for us, and when the server left, I felt him out about his birthday. I had a plan, but I wanted to hear his own thoughts first.
“Sooo…you have a birthday soon, huh? Do you know what you want to do?”
“I think so,” he said.
“Let’s hear it!”
He said he wants to get dressed up (like, proper dressed up) and go to a fancy restaurant. How cool! I guess he’s enjoying this mildly fancy dinner a lot more than I thought.
“We can definitely do that,” I said. “How would you feel about having your birthday a day early?”
Of course, he was keen. What kid wouldn’t want to celebrate their teen birthday early? Monday is Fall Break, so we all have a day off. That would make things easier for Ali and me. And we could do the same for Alessia. Her birthday is on Friday, but Harvestfest is on Thursday. Also, if we do hers’ early too, their difference in age won’t change.
Speaking of Alessia… I don’t know what got into her tonight. Luca and I were discussing birthday details, and she hops up and starts making a mess! Like, what in the world?? I was so embarrassed, disappointed, and if I’m honest, I think I was still holding an irrational grudge from this morning. I could have taken her aside and talked to her, but I yelled. In front of everyone. I felt terrible, and her embarrassed face made me feel worse. This is just not my day, and the faster it can be over, the better.
