My Valentine

Joe was supposed to be off work yesterday, the first Valentines Day he would be off in our entire 9+ year history together. Chef's usually have a BIG job on this day...as you can imagine. Why he was schedule to be off work, is beyond me....but I was excited. Mom was all lined up to take care of the kids for an afternoon of............. d.a.t.i.n.g? Well....the phone rang at 5:30am....and Joe got dressed, and went to work. DANG! Or.....not?

Joe worked a little over 4 hours. That is 4 hours of o.v.e.r.t.i.m.e....and was still home in time for our date. Mom came over. Joe and I took a little scenic drive, then went to see an awesome (non-Valentiney) movie, "Slumdog Millionaire" and then went to Kyoto for Sushi. Translate that.....Joe ate sushi and wasabi dripped from his brow, while I enjoyed good'ole Teriyaki shrimp with rice. Afterward....this conversation took place, walking out of the restaurant....

Me: Well honey, what do we do now? Mom said she has no time limitations.

Joe: What is there to do?

Me: I have totally forgotten how to date you.

Joe: Let's go out drinkin!

Me: (sarcastic laughter)

We went home to see our delicious boys.

Don't get me wrong. We had a good time. Maybe even a great time. We got to talk without being interrupted. Joe got to eat his favorite meal in the world, without having to make it himself. We didn't have to compete with our children for attention. And we were not in a rush. It was so nice.

This morning Joe left for work before the rooster crowed....and when I woke up, I had this email from him....

I had a great time on our date
I know you are busy with the kids
and real estate and everything
but I’d really like you see you again


Joe Irwin
sous chef cascades
Gaylord Opryland Hotel

Maybe Joe and I can start dating again.

What did you do for Valentines Day?