Paul and I went on a date Thursday afternoon, and it wasn't 'til we were out that I realized how long it's been since we had what I would call a "real" date. Yes, we've went out recently, but the dates have been kind of, "Go, go, go! Hurry! Gotta get back!" Because of something - kids' bedtimes, Paul's bedtime (if going to days), or other plans (band practice, etc).
Paul's dad came and picked the boys up just before lunchtime. The plan was to go see a movie at 2:50, and then go out to Outback Steakhouse (we had gift certificates for both). Since the boys were gone so early, that gave us two hours with no agenda - what to do, what to do? We ended up going on up to the city and wandering around three stores (Best Buy, Pier 1, and Borders). It's been forever since we've been able to wander like that, maybe even since before we had kids. I like to browse, but I find it generally leads to wanting to buy something, so I generally avoid it. (Not to mention, going with kids really take away the ability to browse.) But it was nice.
We went to see True Grit at AMC, and did their Fork & Screen experience. We really liked it. The food that we got (appetizers) was pretty good - nothing spectacular, but still not bad, and fairly decently priced - about the same prices as Applebees food. (Now, I did think that $3.79 for an iced tea was a bit outrageous.) I loved the movie! I am somewhat familiar with the original John Wayne one, but not so much that I was constantly comparing the two. I thought all of the cast nailed their characters. JC gave me the gift certificate last Christmas (2009) so we could try out Fork & Screen, and whereas I feel bad that it took us over a year to use it, I have to say, it was worth the wait.
Outback was fantastic, as usual. Paul's work handed out gift cards as a surprise for supervisors last week. I've had a major craving for steak. (I blame Pastor, for using that visual of the steak on Sunday - although this seems to happen every winter... I think I am actually craving warm-weather barbeques.)
Even though the iced tea kept me up 'til an ungodly hour, I had a blast, and I told Paul we need to do this much more often - like once a month, at least. Although, the biggest deterrent is money (or lack thereof), though thankfully that was taken care of this time.
But I think it's worth putting into the budget.
3 comments:
It is a must, a parental must!
Wonderful!
Wondering around stores is always free... you could do a picnic lunch... free... you could take a drive (gas money... but mostly free) but yes it is SO nice to get away.
If you ever get another gift certificate to the AMC try Cinema Suits...much more comfy and better food selection. We did that with a gift certificate last year. And yes dates are a serious must for every couple...even though if you're like us you spend most of your time chatting about the kids :)
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