Lockout

I normally pride myself on how organised I am, pre-baby of course. I like routines, lists, calendars - basically anything that can assist with preparation and efficiency. I don’t like anything that hinders that, like forgetting basic items.

Yesterday I had a number of errands to be done outside the home and I had spent quite a bit of time preparing everything I needed to take with me. Sometimes I will save all the small trips for one big trip out and yesterday was the day. I stepped out the front door and as soon as the door shut behind me I knew I had done it. Forgotten my keys. Basic items don’t get more basic than that.

I rummaged in my bag to make sure - not there. Maybe I had left the side door unlocked? No. I peered in from the back and there they were hanging from the door handle, locked of course. I always make sure the keys are in my hand before I step out – but I should be way past blaming my absentmindedness on baby brain by now.

I attempted to phone my husband and was greeted with “Optus wishes to advise…insufficient funds…”. I find these days my phone either has no credit or is not charged. I also knew there was a number to call to recharge via credit card but I couldn’t for the life of me remember what it was. It was going to be a bad day, and a hot one at that.

I contemplated possibly breaking in as I had access to all my husband’s wonderful tools in the garage, but I couldn’t really set the baby down anywhere, and it was hardly a shining example for Katie to see. I hoped one of my neighbours was home so I could at least make a call. Fortunately it was Liz’s day off and I was able to call over and contact hubby. He would cancel his last appointment and return in a couple of hours.

We’ve always been friendly neighbours but Liz and I sat and chatted for a good while and learned we actually have a lot in common. I really enjoyed the time spent and as for the errands that had to be done – sometimes you learn that maybe they weren’t so important after all.