date day adventure

*My studly, manly husband took me out on his sand rail. A non-weekend, pre-birthday date while the kids were at school. He took care of all the arrangements from babysitting for Gabriel (big thanks to Grandma Yancey) to the activity and lunch. Impressive, right?

I can think back to a time when I was a bit more adventuresome. Now my blood pressure rises as we go up or down a steep hill and I'm sure I will go tumbling off a cliff. Todd started off our ride fairly mild so that in the future I might want to go again - although that didn't stop me from repeatedly tightening the seat belt - but gradually became more daring/fun as the day went on.

The desert was, again, beautiful. (For those of you that feel I've been overly giddy about our spring weather, don't worry - by July/August I'm sure to be complaining that the devil himself lives right here in Arizona.) We stopped next to the lake and ate lunch along side some creepy crawlies. It was nice to relax in the sun and have no worries about hurrying home.

On our way back, my bravery was slowly returning and I was able to keep my eyes open going down a steep hill. I asked if I could take a turn at driving and was quickly rejected. Todd took us up a hill I had reservations about to begin with and then... we couldn't make it all the way. Besides barrelling off the mountain, my 2nd biggest fear is having to slide backwards. We started sliding backwards. I was freaking out. A tree behind us kept us from continuing backwards and Todd began to try to un-stick us. I insisted on getting out at this point and hiked up a ways. After many futile attempts he told me I was going to drive as he lifted the wheels up and turned the sand rail around. FREAK. OUT. Initially, I politely declined. Then it turned into an adamant refusal. When that didn't work, I threatened him with tears. I was NOT going to be alone in the sand rail as it careened down the mountain! Todd was particularly insensitive to my fears and made me take the wheel. He gave me some ridiculous drivel about there being no other option. Obviously, we're still alive, and I'm terribly impressed with myself - I could barely even reach the pedals.

I really enjoyed a day out with my sweetie. Thanks babe.

*this is the phrase Todd suggested I use to start a post about our day.

P.S. On my list of things to remember for next time: light jacket (to keep teeth from chattering), sunblock, more faith in hubby's driving skills (he's really quite skilled), courage, and a sports bra (who knew?).