Thursday, July 12, 6:30pm: finish our 3rd and final group hug and let Mommy check in at Maynard H. Jackson, Jr. International Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (said name deserves its own blog entry), with the intent of heading to the Varsity with the kids.
Think to put a call into uncle JP to see if he wants to join us, as JP is more popular with my kids than I am. A quick conversation redirects us southwards towards Cracker Barrel in Union City. A bit out of the way, but worth seeing the Halls (adding Pollyanna and Maddie).
Been to this particular CB many times meeting other southside college friends for a bite after work. Except... it isn't there. I turn around; not there... Turn around again, and confirm that what was a CB is now a cellular-phone store (where have our priorities drifted?). The exit is strewn with every form of fast food, but not a single proper restaurant. After another 10 minutes of indecision takes us another exit southward and 4 miles off the exit to the local Hibachi joint in Tyrone. It is 7:40, and time to eat.
For Louise, Garrett and Eliza, this is their first time. And while Garrett literally jumped out of his chair towards the back wall when the first flames leaped (even given notice), things settled into a great meal.
Had to borrow $4 from Eliza (who brings her purse everywhere, thank goodness) to leave a decent tip (she negotiated $5 repayment, a 25% usury), and got home at 9:40pm.
Welcome to life without mom.