Fireworks, spicy foods and 3D

You’re wondering now, what do these things have in common?

These are some of the things we are rediscovering and enjoying in our daughter’s absence.  This summer she is at a Chinese language immersion camp, living away from home for the first time.

I had thought I would be an emotional wreck, crying into my pillow every night, howling at the moon and generally being mopey.  But to my surprise, many delightful benefits have emerged.

For instance, we were able to take in a fireworks show this past Fourth of July weekend.  In years past when she was younger, the fireworks were always held inconveniently past her bedtime.  Then as she grew older, the loudness of the fireworks frightened her.  So we had not gone to an Independence Day fireworks display since she was born.

We trekked out to a nearby town to watch their fireworks and enjoy the atmosphere of small town America celebrating the Fourth.  The fireworks were as brilliant as could be hoped for, amazing pyrotechnics of light and sound, color and wonder.  When it ended we wanted to see another one.

Then we reacquainted ourselves with the pleasure of spicy foods.  Last week I made a tofu stir-fry with hot red pepper flakes, garlic, spinach, mushrooms, and toasted sesame seeds.  Usually I omit the pepper flakes because my daughter doesn’t like spicy foods.  As the piquant kick from the red peppers slowly spread in my mouth, I said to my husband,

“You know, this tastes so much better.”

“Mmmmfh…” he answered, his mouth full.  I took that as an agreement.

Finally, we saw our first full-length 3D movie.  My husband had long wanted to see a 3D movie but both my daughter and I had been reluctant.

“I don’t like things coming at me,” says my daughter and I feel the same way.

With two against one, my husband never stood a chance.  But now that she was away, it was harder to say no.  So this weekend we saw Toy Story 3 in 3D and like the rest of America, we were wowed by the animation and technology.

Who knew life as an empty nester could be so much fun?  I wonder what other things we will rediscover this summer while she’s away?

Meanwhile, it’s Indian food this weekend.