a date, a date!

Earlier this week, David and I went out for a date, our first in at least two years (I think the last time we went out was when we left the kids–only had the older two at the time–with their Grampa and went to see the first Transformers in the theater). We had a friend (bless her!) put the kids to bed while we went to see Natalie MacMaster in concert (squee!).

It was awesome! The kids were so busy trying to impress their babysitter (and watch a movie) that we had none of the crying clinging dramatics I had feared. David and I got to drive down in the sub-compact rather than the minivan, converse without interruptions from the backseat, and not have to deal with coats and carseat belts other than our own.

And, oh, the concert was fabulous. The best part about it for me was unexpected. I had sorta vaguely thought we’d just be seeing Natalie MacMaster, but she had a band with her–pianist, guitarist, percussionist and cellist (I’d always considered the cello as a more sedate instrument, but no more). It is so much fun to watch people who love what they do make music together. Writing is creative work, but it is solitary. I’ve never collaborated with someone in a creative enterprise, but now I want to.

On the way home, the stars were brilliant and crystalline in the deep dark night sky. I say the Big Dipper (sideways) and Orion–incidentally the only two constellations I can actually recognize.

We returned to a house still standing, and quiet. Kids went to bed with no more fuss than they give us. We are so grateful to our friend for giving us this opportunity to have some out-of-the-house couple time.

Have you had anything special happen in your life recently?