Arriving back home, early evening

We went out this afternoon, alone. Tim and I.

Some things you just can't do easily with a three-year-old in tow, and standing around at an art opening and talking to people is one of them.

I'd been encouraged by a friend to put a picture in a group photography exhibit, and last Sunday, at the last possible minute, I got myself together and submitted one.

It was a weird experience to be a part of this thing. I have never considered myself an artist, of any sort. Still don't.

When I dropped the piece off last week, I felt like someone else was moving around the world using my body. It felt like I didn't know myself, and even the words that came out of my mouth surprised me, as if I wasn't sure what was going to be said until I heard it along with everyone else. You may think I'm exaggerating, or being overly dramatic, but you have to remember, I don't get out much.

It was really, for lack of a better word, cool.

So, that's where we were this afternoon; at the opening reception for this show that I have a piece in.

We were coming home later than expected, as dusk was settling on top of everything, and I got a little panicky. I'm not so often out Sunday evening, not without the kids, not quite so far a drive away.

Driving down alongside the Hudson, I could see the sharp edges coming off everything by the minute, and I felt like a huge magnet was drawing me toward home. We talked briefly about one of us running out to the store after we got to the house, but I knew that we would never leave again, tonight.

When we pulled in the driveway, there was a mist in the air, and the light was incredible.
Soft, still, and oddly bright.

And guess what? The kids were fine. They said hi looking over their shoulders on their way over to the neighbors, and I had to call them back, settle them into the idea of Sunday night.

Once they were all cozied away in their rooms, we heard some terrific noise outside. Startled at the lightning. And. Hail.

Be careful what you wish for.

My picture, by the way, sold. The first one of the show. I don't know to whom, and it's a strange feeling to know that something so personal to me, a piece of my time and my thoughts and my life, is going to be taking up residence with someone completely unknown to me.

I know, blahblahblah...but remember: I don't get out much.

Mostly, I just like being home.

More tomorrow. Thanks for reading.
tt