I Wanna Be Pretty Again

Yesterday, I actually did something for myself. I fixed up (actually put on makeup), picked up my book bag and went to a Writer's Meet-up in Nashville. I've been wanting to go for months, but something has always interfered. I was nervous. I think it's because my most constant companion is a five-year-old and my vocabulary has diminished greatly. I'm good at nursery rhymes and yelling "Yo Gabba Gabba", but to actually carry on a real conversation...

When I was ready to go, I ASKED my husband, "How do I look?" His response: "You look nice." NICE???? The sofa looks nice, a newly dusted-surface looks nice, a clean car is nice, but I wanted to look pretty. What happened to that word in his vocabulary? I guess I should be content with his response, but I recall the days when I warranted more. I suppose I'll have to be satisfied with 'nice'. Dang! You think he could at least 'fib' a little for my self-esteem's sake.

Despite hubby's less-than-enthused appraisal, the writer's group turned out to be a nice mix of ages and genders, and I enjoyed myself. I would have felt a little more at ease if they had an appointed 'greeter' whose job it was to notice an unfamiliar face and extend a welcome since it was pretty awkward, standing with a group of strangers and not being acknowledged. Maybe I just have issues, but I didn't expect anyone to tell me I was pretty, just say hello or introduce themselves. *lol*

It was really nice being with 'adults' after so long. Oh, I live with three others, but we don't mingle, we just co-exist. Conversations are usually in the form of a nag or complaint, so it was great to have an actual exchange that required brain usage. I was impressed with the talent I witnessed (or heard) as chapters and synopsis were read aloud, and I actually participated by sharing chapter one of First Degree Innocence. The feedback was positive and I came home with an enthused muse, ready to make some improvements, but the mood dimmed as soon as I got here. Back to "Yo Gabba Gabba" and "Max & Ruby." My little guy, Spencer, ran a high fever yesterday, and when I got home, he needed his 'nee nee' to comfort him. Given the choice, I'll pick him over writing any day. Besides, I have him convinced I'm beautiful.