We're headed out to a party that was supposed to be a pool party, but since it's rainy and not even 70, will probably end up being an eat-too-much-grilled-food, drink-too-much-beer party.

No more flags in my hair.

My son took some pictures of the patriotic shirt and new shorter hair. Tried to get Brandy to look at him but she was uncooperative. [link] Note patriotic red socks too.

Today is my sister's birthday; that's what the 4th is to me (well, and watching "1776" again, because I *am* John Adams.)

At least you get to hear his lovely squeal of laughter in person, not thru the headset hundreds of miles away.

HAHAHAH - except for those 3 times every Birthday Fragfest when I, having cleverly remained on the team OPPOSITE Pete, shoot his toon in the head with a sniper rifle, shouting "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!"

His obscenity-filled expostulation is a wonderment to hear. And then I die. Many, many times.

But it's so worth it.

So sad, I can't see Laura's picture!

Went to Talbot's and got some more interview-y and more dressy business clothes. Thank goodness my cousin works there, and I can get a discount.

Also saw flea, Mr. flea, Casper, and the Dillo- in addition to a rare Nutty sighting. Also Ellen S.!

Very exciting day. Definitely enjoyed the clear roads-everyone is out of town it seems.

Today, I had my first date in 2 years.

Excellent man. Certifiably brilliant. Sweet and solicitous.

Aaaannnnddd. Being me...I see things...and there are many things that I could see and lalala right past. This thing? Something that would directly impact me in a negative way. So, no.

But we had this amazing conversation about the thing and he was some parts amazed but most parts appreciative. We made a game plan for how he can address the thing and agreed that we would continue to know each other. While not being willing to throw myself into a relationship that would not work despite all the cool stuff, I really did like him.

So. In a way, I feel like I've just had healthiest, most time efficient relationship of my life. Usually, there is the running and the screaming t /jurassic park and then then the fixing up and sending them off to better things. Today's cut out all the sturm and drang, plus, I saw great art and had a lovely meal.

There really is something to this evolution thing.

Happy tourists are eating my town day, y'all!

Oh and, on the way home I got trapped on the Metro in a car with nonfunctioning doors with a driver who kept saying, "Quit pushing the [intercom] button and just get off somewhere else!"

Apparently, 'won't open' escaped her notice. Ultimately, I led our small band of car-aways through the emergency exit.

The two gentlemen did not fair the crisis well, but the young woman was great. Kept her cool and joked about the strongly worded email she intended to send.

Mine? Already sent.

Happy 4th, everyone. We are ... doing nothing, for once. House of Reason was not up to planning/hosting the giant BBQ we usually do, so Pete is going to go play board games with his gaming group, and I'm going to, erm, write a short story that is due in three days. And then go to Ye Olde Gothy Club tonight, even IF my StuntHusband has ditched me for family stuff.

I am still tired from last night's Zombie Walk. But it was fun!

Oooh, and I just saw that JZ linked to the Clockwork Couture site. I know the owner, and she's a darling.

The Clockwork Couture site is making me DROOL with want.

Yay pretty Laura with pretty hair!

Went to the mall earlier where Lewis and Nate got haircuts, Abby and I got books and I picked up a fantastic CD called Eclipse by a world music artist named Lura. Sounds like a gorgeous hybrid of Brazilian, Caribbean, and African.

Got home, went to the community pool with the kids for about ninety minutes, which was nice, since it wasn't anywhere near as crowded as it was yesterday.

Now the onions are caramelizing and the burgers are stuffed with blue cheese and ready to go as soon as the onions are done.

There will be hot cheese dip and chips soonish.

And brownies.

The Clockwork Couture site is making me DROOL with want.

Did you see the gorgeous reproduction button boots? I'm getting a pair in black.