One Woman Revival

One Saturday I attempted to do nothing. And I was tired enough from activities during the week before that I managed to lounge around and watch back-to-back episodes of Star Trek Voyager, but then I woke up Sunday with the urge to get on the move again. I do not know why it is so hard for me to rest. When I do pause, I get even more tired before feeling energized again. And so I put off taking a break which then makes the exhaustion hit even harder when I eventually slow down.

That Sunday morning, my partner and I were up early enough that only a few restaurants were open even in the bustling Sunset. We picked Café La Flore Irving, an underrated brunch spot and sister location to the Café La Flore in the Richmond. When we got there at almost 9 am, they were not ready yet (despite advertising an 8 am opening). Our lone waitress and a frazzled cook in the back asked us if we could give them 15 minutes.

We decided to backtrack a few blocks to Earth Tone Café, a tiny coffee shop with succulents in adorable pots and dried flower bouquets displayed for sale on the shelves. I struggled with a bubbling impatience as I ordered the coffee, though there was no need for this urgency. I sipped cucumber water from the dispenser and tried to appreciate the décor including plush armchairs upholstered in light pastels. But it was a relief to get the coffee and be outside. To be back on the move again.

October looks like it will be a busy month. Lots of birthdays, including my own. I will need to resist the urge to rush forever forward, remind myself gently apply the brakes rather than crashing into a wall when I need to stop. I have to make space to be still and savor the present. As we were walking back to Café La Flore, my partner noticed tiny, dried flowers taped to his iced coffee. We stopped to admire them.