On Tuesday night, December 20th, we lost our heart, our soul, our James. There is more to say, just not today.
So yesterday I gave the boys the choice to attend their last day of school before the winter break, or to call-in a “mental health” day. Jacob chose to go to school, and Nathaniel chose a Nate Date with me. We dropped Jake at Laguna and then went to Scout to have cookies for breakfast. We had our favorite lemon pistachio shortbread and fancy hot chocolates with whipped cream and latte art. After a quick stop for gas and the drive-through carwash with the infinite blowdryer, we grabbed a soccer ball at home and headed to Avila beach. The sky was crystal clear. We explored two driftwood forts and played a bit of two touch against the overpass wall. After our walk, Nate decided we should go Christmas shopping downtown, particularly for Williams-Sonoma peppermint bark and presents for his brother. On our way home we made one last stop to look at backpacks at REI and endured the 1-star customer service experience currently on sale at Best Buy.
As soon as I pulled into our driveway, I noticed an alert on my phone. It said my small magnetic wallet had detached from the back of my iPhone and was at the SLO Promenade. Totally what I need— to lose my primary credit card and my driver’s license. I don’t have enough projects…
Nate and I race back to the parking lot while he watches the “Find My” app to make sure my wallet isn’t on the move. We check the parking spots where we were parked. It says it’s at the corner of Buffalo Wild Wings. We never went anywhere near B Dubs but that’s what it shows. I ask a homeless man if he’s seen it. Poor guy’s got nothin’. We search the bushes. I’m convinced someone has taken my cards and thrown the magnetic wallet into this trash filled landscaping.
As I’m driving home and kicking myself, I can hear James saying, “Geez Jame. How did you do that?” Just shaking his head. And then I can’t help thinking, “You’re supposed to be looking out for me!” And then I conclude, maybe he’s just busy checking-in or something?… I cancel my card and order a new license for $31.
Nate and I watch the World Cup final overtime and penalty kicks, and then it’s time to go back down the hill to pick-up Jacob. We’re waiting in the golf course parking lot and Jake jumps into the back seat. First thing he says, “Mom, why’s your wallet back here on the floor?”
January 2017, Avila Beach
December 2022, Avila Beach
That was the best story! The ending had us rolling with laughter and tears!