I was attempting to walk into Walmart with my 3 kids when this occurred. I made it halfway. Walmart parking lots are always huge. It was 100+ degrees outside. I was due to be at work in a couple hours so I was in a hurry. My work shift assignment was a private party for a 50th birthday. Birthday girl referred to it as her “pre-party” before her cute husband flew her to Greece and then Italy to celebrate her “real” birthday. ANYWAY…. I needed a few cleaning supplies to work on my “always messy” house. I’m on a budget. Walmart is Cheap.
I took a step and the sensation immediately felt off but familiar. I looked down to see my broken flip flop slide from my foot. I’m carrying a 20 lb. baby and have 2 kids on each side. The ground is literally fucking FIRE. I describe this moment as familiar because not 2 weeks prior, another pair of my Haviana flip flops broke. Be jealous of my amazing luck! Be jealous!
I make the decision to give up – not the easiest of my 2 choices. I’m closer to concrete at this point, nearing the end of the hottest asphalt parking lot in the world it seems. The more comfortable thing for me to do would’ve been to run as fast as I can into Walmart, buy a cheap pair of flip flops, and continue on with my quick/inexpensive shopping trip. But, I’m tired. I’m frustrated. I’m ready to cry. And my fucking foot is literally cooking as I attempt to run with 3 kids, 1 in my arms, back to my (actually my friend’s) car. I currently don’t have a car. Longer story for another day.
At work that evening, the attendees of the party could not have been nicer. The tips were great. The birthday girl had a beautiful evening with 50+ of her closest friends. They kept thanking me for “being so great.” If they only knew.
As they said their final goodbyes, I wished them a safe and fun trip. For a moment, I envisioned myself at 50, preparing for a European vacation. I was envious. I couldn’t even get myself to Walmart.
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