This morning I felt like a kid again.
After padel, I drove to a shop known for its amazing breakfast sandwiches. Turns out they only make them on weekends.
I was bummed, but the server pointed me toward the pastries. I scanned the case and asked for the classic: a cream-filled donut.
One whiff of sugar and I was 12 again, pedaling home from the donut shop, balancing a box for the whole family in one hand. My pick from that box was always the cream-filled, with a tall glass of milk.
This morning, coffee stood in for the milk. The donut was exactly how I remembered it.
Back in the car, I glanced in the rearview mirror and smiled as I wiped the powdered sugar off my face.
It’s been a good morning.
TODAY’S PICKS
THE FEATURE
Sweetie, Please.
It sounds like a compliment. It’s dressed like a compliment. She has a better name for it.
THE REFLECTION
The Stranger in the Hoodie.
A sick dog, a fluorescent waiting room, and a long night at the animal hospital. The dog turns out fine. That’s not the story.
Your Life in 18 Words.
Not 17. Not 19. Exactly 18.
Here’s mine:
Three kids. Built businesses. Raised them, launched them, missed them. Picked up a racket. Started writing. Not done.
THE WILDCARD
The Wrong Side.
His shirt buttons one way and yours buttons the other. Nobody knows exactly why, and the theories involve swords, servants, and one very touchy emperor.
My answer:
A woman I’d never met, who took the risk of telling a stranger something about her child. My son was 18 months old. She was right. Nine months of therapy, and I thanked her silently at every appointment.
