Alex, at this point, is probably sporting her Obama dress in all its glory, a sight to see. I realize that I have been living in memories for the last month, a stringing together of loosely related experiences, day to day, stories swirling about, churning up the sediment in the bottom of my mind. Distracted as I move through life. A little homesickness, disappointment and unresolved sadness will do this to you! But today as I drove down Aurora, anticipating an afternoon with family, contemplating the onslaught of memories (with Bruce Springstein in the background), I became aware that I now have recent memories of Seattle.
This time last year, I was in Seattle. My most recent memory of the 4th of July settles on Alex, Greenlake, my dog fearing fireworks for the first time, Susie, Coby's party, meeting Rad for the first time (white rimmed glasses and all), Danny sitting uncomfortably close to me during the fireworks, a beautiful view of Seattle over Lake Union and finally... Alex and I running through the U-District towards Montlake, pausing to watch the boats slowly and peacefully stream towards Lake Washington from Lake Union.
Missing my friend Alex. Just this week, a Philly transplant with an impending trip to Philadelphia asked if I needed anything upon his return. Hmm. ALEX. I need Alex, I suggest that she can be trapped at Grace Tavern and stuffed into a suitcase. She's small, her unwieldy hair will be difficult wrangle, but I have faith that she and it can be contained. She suggests that there would be nothing more glorious than having her pop out of suitcase, smooshed cheesesteak in one hand and a melted tastycake in the other, covered in cheese wiz (just for the record, I prefer my cheesesteak with provolone or american cheese).
So I continue down Aurora, headed for West Seattle. I wonder when traversing the West Seattle bridge will no longer faintly and subtly remind me of a capriciously squandered potential. When will that space be replaced with new memories? I have been working on it. I cross the West Seattle bridge nearly every week. It's just on the horizon, re-association. It has to be, my heart is going to be filled with so much West Seattle located love in a mere matter of months.
Right now, we are all limited by the bounds of Danielle's abdominal wall - is that a head? That's probably his butt. Did he like dinner? I attempt to suppress my excitement but his impending arrival grows closer by the day. He's going to be such a great guy and he's already so active. I anticipate swaddling him only to discover that he's broken free, blanket a mess, legs and arms kicking about in all directions with a big smile across his face... ha ha! You can't contain me. You're right buddy, we can't contain you but you'll be appropriately directed towards a soccer ball before you know it. Your parents will put your kicking legs to good use. One thing is for sure, he will have a keen wit and sense of humor. Something Steve and I can agree on! Only time will tell if he's a match for Uncle Duck.
Today, as I sit in a lawn chair, overlooking the Olympic mountains, conversing with Danielle +1, the two of us sitting with our girl dogs in the sun, listening to kids playing in the distance, I have no choice but to create a new lovely 4th of July memory filled with family.
(Steve and Danielle Philadelphia Freedom virgins. Who's never heard this song before!?)
