Week 14: Loud conversation

I went to the pharmacy this week, had to pick up some birth control and acne medication. The uptick in my sugar intake since being fired has been unkind to my face.

Fridays are busy at Wegmans, and so I waited in a small line.

The old man in front of me made loud conversation with the pharmacist. He said, “I feel like this winter’s gonna be a bad one, I can feel it in my bones. And these bones have never steered me wrong.” He paused for dramatic effect, and continued,

“Except when I try and walk.” Laughing, he motioned down toward his wheelchair.

My mouth made one of those involuntary “Pfff” noises and I reflexively covered my masked face with my hand. Fortunatley, my reaction went unnoticed and he left before I could do that thing, where I anxiously say something stupid to a stranger.

For example, that time I was, again, at Wegmans. Only this time in search of gummy bears. I was distractedly, one might say frantically, pacing close behind a woman in flats.

She was booking it too, until her path was obscured by an RIT couple. Taking far too long to pick an egg carton.

Not noticing the change of pace, I smashed the back of her exposed ankles with my empty shopping cart. Why did I grab an entire shopping cart for a single bag of gummy bears?

The first phrase of apology that came to my head was, “Sorry, I’m slow.” and abruptly continued on my anxious pursuit of gummy bears.

The first time I told this story, I realized I accidentally told Wegmans I was mentally disabled.

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I have a good friend staying with me this week. Jenna’s a travel nurse, and last month I asked her to spend this stretch sleeping on my couch.

I’ve missed spending quality time with her since she moved, and my “acts of service” ass has enjoyed taking care of her.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and we’re planning on going out. Like the kids do.

The holiday season typically gives me anxiety, and there’s a big probability I’ll remain unemployed through Christmas.

Humbling, let’s say.

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Creativity has come easily to me this past week, I plan to focus my energy there.

xxoo Ten