Teaching Elementary, My Dear Watson

9 - Mountains

9

Mountains

Friday & Saturday, September 23 & 24

Kevin got on his little Honda and sped away from school, easily dodging traffic, letting the sun and wind wash over him. He skipped the TGIF, stopped by grad school to pick up his thesis, and headed home to prepare dinner. Monica called, saying she'd arrive around ten after work. Kevin ate solo and then felt beat, so he took a nap until she slid in beside him. They were both exhausted and just cuddled, then slept until well after dawn.

*****

Kevin woke up earlier than Monica did and took a shower, letting her rest. But when he emerged, she was already in the living room, dressed, looking elegant, and preparing their breakfast.

"What do you want to do today?" Kevin asked, worried that she might need to go to work.

"How about if we go to the mall and check out the new clothes selections at Now?"

"You're kidding."

She was and laughed with delight.

Then Kevin added, "Is that a new dress?"

"Yes, thanks for noticing. But like always, it's just borrowed. No cash out of pocket." She smiled. "How about a walk in the mountains?"

Kevin felt amazed. "That would be wonderful," he said. "Are you getting more into nature?"

"I miss being outside. Even though I'm near the ocean, I'm not seeing it much, just the inside of my store. So some outdoor scenery would be a welcome change."

"Sounds good to me. Picnic?"

"Yes. I'll make sandwiches. You pack snacks and a cooler with ice and beverages."

"Deal."

*****

They changed into outfits for the altitude, then drove halfway up Eagle Mountain, a mile high. Some wispy clouds did little to protect them from the sun, so they wore hats and applied plenty of sunscreen. They dressed similarly, with dark shorts to sit on dirt or rocks and white shirts to reflect the rays. The desert scrub dominated, but a few pines and hardy bushes gave some variety to the chaparral. There was a secluded place by the creek they had been to before, under a solitary pine tree offering welcome shade, and the soothing sound of cascading water over rocks providing background music.

Both unpacked their loads. They ate corn chips, sipped colas, munched on egg salad sandwiches with chopped celery and pickle relish, and agreed that Oreo cookies were the perfect combination of healthy ingredients (none) and flavor (lots) for chocoholics. Each smiled after the meal.

"I've been inside too much," said Monica. "It's great to breathe fresh air."

"True," agreed Kevin. "Especially with you."

Monica smiled. "I could use some sun. Just a little. Don't want to burn." She grabbed the camping pad and moved over to a large, flat sandy area. Then she started taking off her clothes, slowly, gazing at Kevin. "Yes, a little all-over tan but not too much." He stared, surprised by her brazen move. They had never seen anyone here, but you never knew. "Come on over here, lover." He didn't need to be asked twice and disrobed quickly. It didn't take all that long. Just right, no sunburn.

*****

They drove home, glowing, and arrived at about three. The phone rang as they entered.