A Most EX-cellent Week

Just because we’re divorced doesn’t mean we can’t share family time.

When Bill and I got divorced in 2023, I wasn’t sure how things would be between us in the future. After all, divorce isn’t fun for anyone. But I’m happy to report that we’re getting along just fine. In fact, I spent most of the last week with him, even spending the night twice. Now, before my sisters start texting me about boundaries, let me explain.

My “bonus” son, Christopher was in town along with my granddaughter Bella as well as Chris’ girlfriend Krystan and her two kids, Paxton and Abby. Bill knew I wanted to spend time with the kids, so he invited me to join them for a boating day at our old hangout, Picnic Island. Chris and Krystan had to do some errands in Key West, so they picked me up Sunday morning. We drove up to Cudjoe Key, where Bill had rented a beautiful home close to our old house. We all worked together to load up the boat and headed out for a day of fun in the sun. It was so fantastic to sit in a chair facing the back of the boat and watch the white wake from the boat unfurl into the beautiful blue water. When we got to the island, I saw that our old gang now hangs out on Bird Island, which is next to Picnic. We anchored and let Bill’s lab, Jack, jump off the boat with a coconut in his mouth, just like Conor used to do. I gathered up a chair and headed to the beach where I was greeted with cheers and hugs from my wonderful Picnic Island girlfriends. I hadn’t seen them for a few years, so there was lots of catching up to do.

I watched the kids playing in the sand and enjoyed a cold beverage or two. After a bit, I noticed Bella and Paxton down at the end of the island, working diligently on a large piece of driftwood. I went down to join them and was amazed how they’d stacked sand on all the limbs. They said they were building a house on the deserted island. I asked who was going to live there. They said all of us. I asked if there were any rules to their house and Bella said, “Yes, everyone has to be kind. No fighting. And we all work to help each other.” I thought, how lovely, what a sweet soul. Then, in typical six-year-old fashion she added, “And no farting in each other’s faces!” The conversation dissolved into fits of giggles as she and Paxton piled on the potty jokes. So much for lofty ideals.

All in all, it was a wonderful day. When we got back to the house, the kids all pitched in to clean the boat while Krystan made a fabulous chicken Florentine dinner. Since we’d had drinks throughout the day, I decided to spend the night. Much safer than driving the 23 miles back home. Bill was a true gentleman and offered me the bedroom while he slept on the couch. After a yummy breakfast, Bill drove me back home before the gang headed out for a day of fishing.

Tuesday, I was invited to join them again to go to my very favorite boating destination, the Content Keys. It took about an hour to get to the Contents, but the ride was spectacular. The water was like glass, thanks to the low wind. Although it was a bit overcast, the cobalt blue water was dotted by lighter green patches where shallow water exposed whiffs of white sand. When we got to the Contents the kids were amazed by the crystal-clear water and white sandy beaches. They snorkeled and explored the area, uncovering lots of beautiful shells. We grilled hot dogs and burgers for a late lunch before it was time to head home. But the outdoor excursion wasn’t over! As we got closer to Cudjoe we came across a pod of five dolphins. They swam right up to the boat and hung around for quite a while. What a treat! Once again, I spent the night and enjoyed a wonderful evening playing with the kids and catching up on news about Ohio family and friends.

Finally, on Thursday Bill and the kids came to Key West to visit the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, do some shopping and catch one of our famous sunsets. I met up with them at El Mason de Pepe’s for a mojito then walked out to Mallory Square to enjoy the street performers. The kids really got a kick out of the impressive juggling and acrobatic acts. Then, right on cue, the bright orange sun slowly sank into the ocean, ending our week of family vacation.

I’m so thankful to Bill for inviting me to share his week with the kids. There were a couple moments when I almost felt like a ghost, watching him and the kids playing in the water or hanging on the boat. It was like I was getting a sneak peek at Bill’s new life without me. And you know what? He’s doing just fine, thank you very much. We may be divorced but I’m proud that we can still get together and enjoy time with family. After all, that’s what life is all about.