We’ve been trying to be a little more mindful about carving out one-on-one (or two-on-one) times with our littles – the older ones in particular. As you can imagine, the dynamic is quite a bit different when all eight of us load in the van. I love when we’re all adventuring together but there are times when it is so special (and much more manageable) to have a trip out with just one or two little people.
It’s not been as easy as I’d expected (the fairness police, aka the 7 & 8 year olds, have been on the case) but it’s been a great chance to get some extra-special quality time. These aren’t big deal trips for the most part – a helper at the grocery store, a run with daddy for new skates, a trip to craft store with mommy (not everyone considers this a treat).
Along that vein I made a plan with my two oldest daughters (the aforementioned fairness police) while my sister was still in town earlier this week. The weather was glorious – sunny, warm and snowless. We wandered out in our light coats and shoes (shoes in January are a rare treat).
On the advice of a friend we checked out a new-to-us diner. Although it was fully booked, they directed us to their other, larger restaurant. I was thrilled to learn they use mainly local ingredients, sustainable practices, and serve both breakfast and lunch meals on their daytime menu (have you noticed I’m weak for breakfast?).
The stuffed french toast was yummy and the roasted potatoes even better The tea was black and hot (I chose to ignore how caffeine affects my body). The bacon was guilt-free – only because I measure bacon guilt in origin of meat not fat grams. The restaurant was bright and inviting.
Of course the company trumped all. Sweet girls and my sweet sister. So wonderful.
I’m so glad we enjoyed this time together. And definitely pleased we took the chance when we had it as the next morning was covered in a blanket of snow. Goodbye, TOMS, see you in the spring.
(Photos snapped on my sister’s iPhone – Thanks, K!)
Sounds like a special and lovely day. Bacon good. Coffee good. Time together alone good. I think I spotted 4 handknits?
I use to do the same thing when my children were younger and they still talk about it as they have gotten older. It’s all about making memories!
Have a great time with your babies!
Sounds like a lovely breakfast! We have a favorite breakfast diner down the street that we like to invade with our entire family. I love it because it hasn’t been “updated” since the 50s, it’s so out that it’s actually retro.
I get “special time” with the littles. That’s something we try to do as well. Zeke likes to help me cook or do something musical, or crafty. Reuben likes to go on a walk and find neat looking rocks and sticks to bring home and whittle.
Love your Toms!! And your photos look extra nostalgic today, how fun! New software?
What a special time for you. I love that one on one time with the kiddos!
My mom always took me out for lunch when I had half days in high school, I loved them 🙂 Glad you were able to wear shoes instead of boots!!
yum! glad you can take moments to have special time with each of the children. I can only imagine how hectic (and fun!)it is with your full crew!
love the pic of what looks like a little left over jam smeared on the plate and potatoes.
yuuuummmm.
I’m a huge sweet and salty fan. love the pics!
HaHa I had to giggle about the ‘fairness police’ 🙂 My 13 year old gets that occasionally regarding his 5 year old brother 🙂