Here I sit in the middle of the day on the final Saturday of August, 2009. Nothing unusual in that fact. I am alone in the house. Once again nothing unusual about that, especially for a Saturday afternoon. Once again it is raining, or at least threatening to rain. Not unusual for this summer at all, seems it has rained most weekends this summer.
I have not taken my usual stroll through the park, in fact I haven't even dressed yet. I just haven't felt up to it today. This is unusual! I haven't phoned any of my children or friends. Very unusual! I didn't eat breakfast or lunch and am not even thinking about dinner. Most unusual!
What makes this day of all days so peculiar? I don't really know the answer to that particular question except to say that I have been out of sorts all day.
When Nathaniel and Anthony informed me that they would likely not return until late tonight (Anthony had football practice this morning and the band had an all day rehearsal in preparation for their first public performance of their new field show tomorrow.) This show is for family and friends of the band only, traditionally held over Labor Day weekend, but since Labor Day comes late this year the director has elected to do it early. This is fine with me as I have three grand-ones in the band this year and we will all be away next weekend.
The thing that troubles me is that my boys will not be here at all today, having chosen instead to go off by themselves to enjoy what may be their last chance this summer to get away alone. Anthony decided that after practice he and Nathaniel will go to one of the regional theme parks and not return until late. I was informed of their plans early this morning as I was coming down for breakfast.
Anthony will not be going to the shore with us as he has a non-league game next Saturday (newly added to their schedule this week) against one of the stronger teams in the area. He is looking forward to it as it will be a chance for him to meet some college scouts. It should be a total disaster for the team as they are surely well over matched, but the scouts will be there no doubt to get an early look at some of the talent. Anthony should get several opportunities to display his considerable talent as a receiver although and might spark some interest. I hope he does well
None of this however explains my mood today. I certainly could have had family around me had I made a phone call or two. The threatening forecast notwithstanding, I certainly could have done my usual stroll around the park. I most certainly could have prepared myself something to eat at some point, whether a real meal or not. Most of all, I could have (indeed should have) gotten dressed. I simply don't care!
This will pass of course, in due time. By the time Nathaniel and Anthony return tonight I will likely be back to my old self again, but in the meantime I sit, alone, without much purpose.
My mood is indeed most unusual!
