In haste, I pick up the pace trying to pump some life into my aorta. The go-getters, joggers, effortlessly pass me in light foot fashion. A herd of grustling German tourists in their dark denim pencil jeans rustle by on their bicycles. A pretty brunette in a vintage summer dress sits nestled in the arms of young man. As I got closer, “Please yew tek a photo?” The tall and handsome man spoke in the language that made my knees give in. I quickly took a picture of the darling couple. The French woman melted at the sight of Hunter. I melted in the presence of Frenchman. No sooner than I could say, “Hubba Hubba,” Chloe, in her speedy demon ways, picked up some heat and was a goner. I bid them adieu, and continued on my way.
There it stood tall and majestic, the base of Golden Gate Bridge. We made it! I placed my hands in the palm marker and Chloe placed her paws on the dog marker as European tourists looked on at the silly Americans. I continued to push the stroller in hopes of making good time. I strolled upon a playful group of Jack Russell’s trying to get their yayas on Chloe. I chuckled at the dog walker and was miffed at how they managed to keep the leashes untangled. I was slowly coming towards the end of my walk and realized the boot camp mamas were done. Hunter remained in his sweet slumber as my work out was almost at its end. “Sexy back. You mother effers don’t know how to ack …” The gaggle of Latina teenagers sang and chuckled and weaved through the human traffic on tourist bikes.
I made it back in under thirty minutes! I improved my time. I unlocked the tanker to let some cool air in. I unlatched the car seat and dropped him into the booster. Chloe followed my lead. I poured her a bowl of water, but she was too pooped to lap it up. In usual fashion, I let all the windows down and let the sun shine through the moon roof and turned up the rocksteady. I returned to Potrero Hill with the Golden Gate Bridge behind me, I thanked the blue skies. Some women are hardened by being at home with their child. Some women rejoice in the rewards of spending all of their time with their child. I am exulted. Honestly. Today is a good day. Ah, this is the life! I am living. I am alive.
