There are few things in the world that get me more excited than when my parents tell me that they’re coming down to Dallas to see me (their most favorite son).
I’ve always been very close to my parents. Even when I was youngster, a time when most kids loathed spending too much time with their parents, I recognized how important they were to me and that I shouldn’t be embarrassed by them…or at least not embarrassed by them all the time. I mean, sure, my dad’s said a curse word inappropriately loud in a restaurant or made fun of a kid who has short arms to his face. But, hey, that just happens. And the older I get, the more and more I appreciate them.
They are excellent parents and they make pretty darn good friends too. Not only did they bust their butts raising me to be the best person I could (which believe me, that was no easy task), but they are just plain flat out fun to be around. From dining out at fun restaurants and going to baseball games to simply watching TV at home, I always have a blast when I’m with them.
And this past weekend was no exception.
Upon arriving, my parents certainly didn’t waste any time in their efforts to fatten up my already moderately fat ass. We headed over to Pappadeux for some deliciously large portions of Cajun seafood. I think I ate enough to choke a full grown rhino. In addition to the excessive amounts of grub, we reminisced about all sorts of fun things ranging from my dad’s college football experiences to how my parents met in a house of ill-repute…. okay it was just a casino. We had several such satisfying meals and conversations while they were here.
We also did a little shopping while they were in town. There’s always a few stores they like to hit up while they’re down here since, believe it or not, Wichita doesn’t offer all the same options as a major metroplex like Dallas. My mom got some bitchin’ new shoes and my dad when on the hunt to dip his pen in new ink. That’s not a metaphor, he literally just needed to refill his fancy pants pen with more ink because he ran out.
One of my favorite parts of their trip was just hanging out at the apartment and watching a movie. We watched Trading Places and had a grand ol’ time.
And to top off an already stellar visit, my parents made it even better by watching me play baseball. I can’t even begin to express how much it means to me having them in the stands while I’m playing. They provide a calming, yet inspiring presence, and I seem to suck a little less when they are there. After some initial struggles at the plate, my dad gave me a very small piece of advice, and wouldn’t you know, it worked! During my third at bat, I laced a line drive into right and tallied the best base hit I’d had all season. And it wouldn’t have worked without my mom inspiring me with a “Let’s go, Mark!” up in the stands. They make a pretty damn good supporting pair.
Thanks Mom and Dad for the much needed visit! I can’t wait until next time!