Anniversary Celebration

The sun shone and fluffy clouds dotted the sky on Tuesday. A similar day weather-wise to the day that I married 41 years ago. My husband likes to celebrate our anniversary on the actual date. I was worried because on Tuesday I help cook, serve and clean up after dinner for my parents. But when I told my dad that we were going to a restaurant and that he didn't need to plan dinner for me, everything fell into place. I helped my parents and then we dined at a new Italian restaurant. I realize that I prefer privately owned restaurants. I splurged and ate a piece of bread, a bite of calzon, some pasta and a delicious ricotta-chocolate chip dessert. The wonderful meal has caused me to gain a pound! After, we passed some time at the mall and found a store featuring unique artwork. We then had a "private" showing of the movie starring Sally Field, "Hello, My Name is Doris." We both enjoyed it. Sally Field is a versatile actress and director. I am not focusing on my friend every moment, which is a nice break. She wants to go out next Wednesday, but I don't know if I'll be free. The repair shop did not order all the parts for the dishwasher vent, so it is remotely possible that they might come next Wednesday. My friend blathered about going to eat, to the grocery store, and to the fabric store. I can't possibly take her to all three places. I realize that when one is solely focused on oneself, that one becomes self-centered and inconsiderate. My friend does not converse with me, she blathers about herself.

Too much work

My friend called. The biggest issue is that I want to terminate this friendship of many years and am not sure how to do it, without hurting her badly. She wants to arrange a lunch date and a trip to the grocery store. She didn't ask me if I wanted to go, just asked which day off would work. Hard to resist her manipulations but I did not agree to anything. It is so much work to take her around. Stop near the door, drop her off, park the car, same to pick her up at both the restaurant and the grocery store. Exhausting!