It's that time again. It's halfway through August. Target has their school supplies out. My birthday is weeks away, the days are too hot to be outside, but you go outside anyway and drink beer and sigh.

I was always a big fan of this time of year. I loved the idea of going back to school. Still do, even though I've been out of school for three years. And this year is especially good, because I get to return. I gave up three sections at Normandale for one at MSU and an editing job on the hill. I feel good about it. I feel good looking over my haphazard notes from four sections of comp and deciding what activities stay, what activities need to go. My only fear is how to fill up 4 hours of class. I've never taught a one-day-a-week class. You need to be so careful with your time. If you forget something, you can't remind students for a whole week. It's going to drive me crazy.

Also of note: Two years ago today, at this moment, I was sitting in the middle of a long table in a large dance hall. I was toasting and drinking and kissing and eating and dancing. I was stealing glances at the man who was now my husband. I was fiddling with the additional ring on my finger. I was sighing, out of relief and out of sheer joy.

Two years ago today, I woke up early to buy flowers at the farmer's market. I squealed as water spilled down my dress in the car and Jess had to throw the car in park and pat me dry. I snagged fries from the boys. I made my dad promise not to cry. I said "I do." I didn't trip. I contemplated taking pictures in front of a naughty store. I listened to people toast. I watched the Panklett dance. I laughed at my mom's polka. I nearly fell over when P. streaked the dance floor. I ate cheese curds and Jake's pizza in bed.