The weather was charming today, much better than the early morning rain and wind that greeted my rising from a deep sleep.  I awoke refreshed and ready to start my early day that began with a trip to the dentist for my semi-annual cleaning.  Afterwards I made the way over to teach my weekly SAT prep class and got there early enough to dismiss the students earlier than usual so I could attend an afternoon picnic with HAM and RAM.  I’m so glad I did because it was a great way to spend the day and just relax under the sun in what turned out to be a lovely day spent with friends.

I met HAM and RAM at the Iwo Jima Memorial where they were all seated on a blanket in the shade.  There was an impressive assortment of cheeses, meats, and fruit to snack on which I washed down with a beer….root beer, that is.  We shared time together talking about lots of things, including the plans for next week’s Thai dinner at our house.  The newest addition to the group, baby A, is getting so big!  He currently weighs 19 pounds and was as playful as ever.  Boy, does he really like Cheerios.  In fact, he enjoyed the plate the Cheerios were on just as much as the food itself!

Afterwards, RAM made their way back to Reston while HAM and I moseyed on back to their apartment for a brief respite before heading out for an evening stroll.  We walked for a while before settling on a place to grab a drink and a light meal.  I had a beer (a real one this time!) and a burger as we sat outside and talked for almost two hours!  We spoke about trust and relationships to start and, as the alcohol started to kick in for all three of us, ended up sharing what our Greek names would be if we had a choice.  The final selections will remain between the three of us. 

I also had a chance to listen to their stories of spending time in New York and I learned a lot of things I didn’t know from that time.  It’s amazing what alcohol will do!  I left well informed and enlightened.  Enough said.

Making my way back home, I look back on what was a very full day.  Next week we will all do it again as everyone is set and excited to come over our house for a Thai meal prepared by H, our well trained chef for the evening.