Descending the gentle slope toward the Chalet Theatre in my hometown brought back a flood of memories. I remembered my very first group date with a boy I had a crush on, watching the movie “Twister.” I could almost picture my mom’s auburn hair as she leaned out of the passenger window, telling me, “Meet me here when the movie’s over.”
As I stood outside the theater, waiting to attend the comedy show, I couldn’t help but reminisce about the places that once occupied the now widened sidewalks. I recalled the Linden Bookstore, The Kitchen where my aunt used to work as a cook, and the pharmacy that used to be there. Nostalgia’s magnetic pull left me feeling disoriented; should I consider moving back?
But back to the present, Dave and I were now seated at the Chalet Theatre, eagerly awaiting the comedian’s appearance on stage, just two minutes away. I decided to put my phone away, hoping to remember a joke or two to share with you later.
After the show, I turn to Dave and ask, “What just happened there? There were so many voices, sounds, and impersonations.” The headliner reminded me of a mix between Jim Carrey and Robin Williams due to his high energy and eccentricity, though he might have been a bit less funny. That was okay because the middle warm-up comedian alone made the $25 ticket worth it.
On our drive back home, we passed by my old preschool. I shared with Dave memories of eating actual green eggs and ham, napping on burlap mats, and playing the game of telephone with my classmates in a circle. I also thought about Evelyn being in preschool, and that she too may be able to recall our present moments fondly forty years from now.
With my energy depleted, I look forward to slipping into my pajamas and enjoying some reading. Tomorrow, we’ll wake up, pack, pick up Evelyn, and head to the ocean for a relaxing two-night getaway. I’ll see you there!
Love, Jaclynn
Going On 40 