Eric and I have a lot of similar history. We hung out in the same towns as teens and probably crossed paths a few times before we finally met at 20 and 21. (I’m the “older” woman.) Both of our dads are from the great state of Ohio. Mine hails from Toledo and his grew up in Cincinnati. Our moms are both from Wisconsin. We have a lot of other things in common, too. For example, we’re both really really good looking. Really.
Anyway… for the past few summers, we’ve all (meaning me, Eric, and his entire immediate family) drove down across to the land of the buckeyes to visit my in-laws: more specifically my father-in-law’s siblings and mom. We usually all pile into their family van, but each year it’s gotten a little tighter as my family Micah requires more and more supplies. This year, however, we had plenty of space. Eric’s brother had to work and his mom elected not to come since she won’t go without bringing her beloved German Shepherd. No offense to Molly, but she is a big pain in the butt. She sheds all over the car and can’t leave her mommy’s side. We wouldn’t have been able to leave her in the car because it was so hot outside, so it would have been hard to go anywhere. She looks like a German Shepherd, but she acts like a little princess puppy.
She’s also got a naughty streak in her. Her nickname is “stinky.” One time, “it” (another nickname) ate Christie’s sub while she was in the bathroom and we’ve never let her down for it. So yes, Molly is a special dog, which means, it was a good thing she didn’t come. Unfortunately that meant Eric’s mom couldn’t come either.
The upside to not bringing Princess Molly was that we didn’t have to stay in a Motel 6 (the only inexpensive hotel that will let you bring in your pooch.) I have nothing against Motel 6. I hate Motel 6! The last time we stayed at one, I sat on the toilet to pee (big mistake) and when I got up the seat started to come with me. It was really sticky. While we were there, these little children kept knocking on our door to beg for things like plastic silverware, napkins and lighters… for their grandmother. It took a couple weeks for the smoke smell to come out of Micah’s pack and play when we got home. Lesson learned: you get what you pay for. Then again, I wasn’t paying, so I can’t complain too much.
This time, I got to pick the hotel. How did Eric’s dad know it was my birthday? It wasn’t, but it felt like it! I chose Spring Hill Suites by Marriott in Florence by the airport. It was a huge room, with two queen size beds, a sofa bed, two flat screen TVs, a desk, two bathrooms, a mini fridge and a sweet desk. It also had free breakfast and free internet. It even had ARTWORK. Compared to Motel 6, it was like staying in the Whitehouse. And wouldn’t you know, the toilet seat did not stick to my rear.
