Letting go

It was a blessedly quiet – and dry – Thursday night at my place as I wound down from too much fun.

I’ve saved a fortune on groceries while the kids are away – I was fed at fancy events for three evenings this week, then last night I dined on Venezuelan leftovers – Morena restaurant gave us doggie bags – and a giant Taylors Wines macaron.

No, the photo isn’t exaggerating its proportions. I could only get through half of its deliciousness before putting the rest back in the fridge.

I had such high hopes for losing a few kilos before going on holidays next month, but they have been dashed by too much temptation.

I have absolutely no self restraint. Fortunately I’ve been investing in drawstring pants this year.

My ex texted last night to say the kids had a fabulous time in France. He sent me a photo of the view from the hundreds-of-years-old stone farmhouse (pictured main) where they stayed. How glorious!

He said all you could hear when they pulled up out the front was the ringing of cow bells.

The kids have gone their separate ways in Europe. The eldest is heading home via Hanoi with his dad, while the youngest was waiting for her flight to Naples when I went to bed last night.

I woke this morning to the news she arrived safely at her accommodation. Phew!

The last time she was in Naples she was a bright little 10-year-old eating fried seafood with me in the atmospheric streets.

This will be her first-ever overseas holiday solo and her parents are slightly freaked out … Fortunately kids get international SIM cards for their phones these days and can text you.

I can’t begin to imagine what it was like back when I was their age, roaming the earth and very occasionally checking in.

It must have been terrifying for our parents … or maybe they didn’t worry so much back then?

Have a great weekend. Mine will be pretty quiet, just some spa time with my sister, followed by a double date on Saturday night. Catch you Monday.

Song of the day: Crowded House “It’s only natural”