The Midlife

I’m thinking about getting a bowling night started with my co-workers. I’d love to start a league, because I’ve never played group sports and in my head I imagine it would be a good way to socialize. I don’t have a ton of what I would call good friends. Don’t get me wrong, I’m no loser. But I tend to keep my circle of friends (more like a semi-colon) small. I’d prefer to devote myself to a dedicated few. And I do. But an organized bowling night sounds like a good time. And when the world is less Covid-y, I do plan to do that.

In the meantime, there’s last night. I went bowling with my husband, daughter, and father-in-law. My father-in-law is low vision and hearing impaired. He plays on a league with other people like him. And with his league postponed during the pandemic and about to resume game play, he was hoping to get in some practice. And he managed to smear our behinds like creamed corn. So if you think people with challenges can’t give you a hurting in a game, I’m here to say: Don’t make assumptions.

We went to a bowling alley that exceeded my expectations. There was a small, socially-distanced and lively crowd. I’m convinced that much like roller skating rinks, most bowling alleys smell the same: a combination of sock sweat and bruised ego, with a hint of popcorn. We played two games, gave each other the expected high fives after our turns, and cheered each other on. It had been the first outing in quite a long time wherein I felt life may be on its way to feeling more normal. And that was a good feeling.

I’m not a skilled bowler. I barely broke 100 on the first game, and my confidence fell on the second game. But it had me thinking about my husband and how we went bowling on our first date. I don’t remember who actually won the games we played that night. But I definitely won that night. I won my husband. Twelve years ago, I scared that man into marrying me. Before we went into the bowling alley, I asked him for my good night kiss early. And he obliged. Strike!

So, to you, dear reader, I have an ask. What have you done recently that has made YOU feel like life is on its way to normal? Please leave a comment here or email me at themidlife2021@gmail.com. Have a great Sunday to all!