June 16th - Hunter's Godmomma

June 16th
Sucky ass day. It just was – at least the first half. After leaving Pittsburg, we headed for Columbus and the kids fought the whole time. It was awful. Oh…news flash…there’s sun in Ohio. Who would a thought?
Columbus is where my girlfriend Kristen lives. We met at 18, when we both worked in the Sundry Shop at the Ritz Carlton Naples. We hit it off right away, eventually becoming roommates for almost two years (until I left for grad school). Kristen was my best roommate. I love her like a sister. She was one of my Bridesmaids and she’s Hunter’s Godmother. Sadly, we haven’t seen each other for a very long time. Much too long.
Once we were here…we had nowhere to go. I was here a week early, due to a last minute itinerary change and Kristen was working. I tried to entertain the kids with lunch and an outdoor mall…but it was too much. Back in the car, I made some calls to Rich and Marriott in the hopes of finding cheap accommodations. No luck…what-so-ever. I couldn’t drive around for three more hours either, cause someone would get seriously hurt. They were being BAD. Eventually, the Embassy Suites took pity on me, but for just one night! They’re sold out for tomorrow…not sure what we’ll do, but I will worry about it tomorrow. The more pressing question: what in the world is so exciting about Columbus Ohio that so many hotels are sold out?!?!?!?
Once in the room, I had to kick some butt. As I write this, I’m not talking to any of them. Kristen’s on the way with some wine. Perhaps that will help!
When Kristen finally got to the hotel…we were in PJ’s, eating room service. Kristen burst into tears when she saw the kids. I’m not kidding, honest to God tears. I was like, “are you okay?” It took her all of about 30 seconds to win the kids over…with presents and her sunshine personality.
She looks fabulous!
We played with the kids for about an hour before plopping them in front of a movie. Then we drank wine and talked for 3 hours. My Kristen hasn’t had an easy time. She’s a single mom, with a preteen and a SOB of an ex-husband. She’s killing herself to get ahead, but road blocks pop up all the time. She’s had some health issues lately, too – neck surgery and many accompanying complications. The poor thing has had it rough and I think she’s struggled mightily to keep her head up. I swear, I just want to pick her up, take her home and make everything better. She deserves a break…a BIG break. Her dating life, since the divorce, has been a frightening rollercoaster. I need to find her a mature, financially stable, caring, cute guy who will love her and her daughter. Anybody?

Traveled: Pittsburgh, PA to Columbus, OH 202miles/3 ½ hours
Lodging: Embassy Suites, Westerville
Silly band: Barrett & Cammy
Quote: Hunter, giggling, “Oh! Sorry! He has issues” – after Barrett stripped down naked in front of the bellman. Et tu Brute?