One-on-One Dates

Jesse and I managed to squeeze in three "dates" this week to give the kids and one another some individual attention.

Tuesday: Movie and Park

Jesse took Jackson to the $1 movie to see Free Birds. Jackson proudly paid for his movie and popcorn from his very full piggy bank. Jackson lost interest in the movie after he took a restroom break midway through. He then "played" games at the arcade before stopping by the park for a few minutes of outdoor play.

Thursday: Mexican Fiesta

Jesse's mom came over so the boys (Jackson and his cousin) could play together. While the babies napped, Jesse and I escaped to our favorite Mexican restaurant. (In case you're wondering, we dismissed the chips and salsa but consumed a lot of carbs through beans, rice, and corn shell.) It's been nearly two months since our last date, so it was nice to get out of the house sans kids. After some serious job related stress, we are back to a more relaxed, playful relationship.

Friday aka "Dress Like a Cow and Eat Free at Chick-Fil-A" day

Maddie and I had an impromptu lunch date. I saw a few pictures of Facebook friends dressed like cows, and immediately recalled an adorable cow print cloth diaper passed down from my sister. Maddie was the only one small enough to wear it, so she accompanied me for our free lunch. For once, I didn't overthink anything or spend too much time on a craft. I spent less than 5 minutes cutting amoeba shapes out of black construction paper and safety pinning them onto a white apron. Voila!

They gave Maddie a 12 piece chicken nugget kids meal with a huge side of fries and apple juice! It was an absurd amount of food. Her three siblings helped eat the remains that we brought home. It was the first time any of the babies ate a french fry. They were a huge hit. I had my bunless chicken sandwich and a couple of fries. Free food always tastes better.

We also managed to have some family fun at the pool, the museum, and around the house this week. I wouldn't say that summer is any slower-paced than the school year, but it definitely helps having Jesse here to share the responsibility and attention.

Preschool Easter Celebrations

Jackson's preschool will be closed next week for spring break, which means today was his last day for the next week and a half. The school hosted Easter celebrations that included an egg hunt and a catered picnic lunch. The festivities were planned to begin at 11:30. I arrived on time and waited on the field with all the other moms in his class.  We continued to wait in the designated egg hunt area. About ten minutes later, the director came out front and said, "We've been looking for y'all. The 2's are in the back." When we all walked around, the egg hunt was already over. Disappointed, I took a few eggs out of Jackson's basket, tossed them on the ground, and asked him to "find" them for me.  Jack was in a great mood and played along.  Jack even shared his eggs with the babies. Though, he was quick to say, "They not eat my candy!"

Jack began the school year in October as the only boy in his class.  In recent months, two more boys have joined the class.  It's amazing how much I hear at home about his friends.

The Three Amigos

After the egg hunt everyone laid out their blankets for our picnic lunch from Chick-Fil-A. The weather was a perfect 70 degrees. Jackson nibbled on his chicken nuggets but devoured his fresh fruit and candy.

Amelia is a master at army crawling backwards. She frequently ends up stuck under the couch or pack-n-play. I guess I shouldn't have been surprised to find her trapped under the stroller when I returned with our food. James was also on the move and was adamant about eating the grass. I lost count of how many times I had to put them back on the blanket.

After saying goodbye to his teachers, Jackson requested we go to the park. With such pleasant weather, I couldn't resist. We had the park to ourselves for a few minutes before the whole neighborhood arrived.  I love carefree afternoons where the babies and I can relax in the shade while Jackson burns off some energy.

It was a pretty great Thursday afternoon.  Only one more day to go before spring break begins!