Growing Up

Bono's birthday was on Wednesday so some of us girls went out to Paddy Kelly's last night to help her celebrate. I didn't feel old when I turned 26, but going out for Bono's 27th definitely reminded me that I'm getting old. In my defense, it was a Thursday night and I knew I would have school in the morning. Regardless, I'm getting old. It took me only about five minutes to get ready because I didn't really care what I looked like. I didn't shower so I could redo my hair, I didn't blow-dry, I didn't put on flashy make-up. I put on jeans that must have shrunk because they always used to fit nicely but now are a tad tight. I wore heels that I used to be able to wear all day but instead, were hurting before we left the house. I was already exhausted. We left for Paddy Kelly's by 7:15, a time when Mal and I would just begin getting ready in college. We were seated at the bar by 7:30. We ordered food, I had one drink, and before 9, I was buzzed, exhausted, and ready for home. On top of that, our discussions are no longer about checking out hot guys or the newest movies. Instead, we discussed starting a book club so that we could meet monthly, have potluck dinners, and trade books that we voluntarily enjoy reading. We talked about weddings and babies (mine and PJ's respectively). We discussed getting together for an artist workshop. We griped about work and by 9:30, a time when Mal & I would just finish pre-gaming in college & begin to head out to the parties, I was home and asleep on the couch. What happened to staying up all night and partying? Maybe it's not possible without my cowboy hat on...