Sue who?

I guess growing pains like this are normal for any family. There were years, many of them, that I never thought eating in a 'nice' restaurant with my family would be a possibility. There were the spills, the tantrums, just the hustle of getting everyone out of their coats and seated. The meals that came well after the kids were willing to sit still. The years we were limited to a buffet because we could eat in shifts while entertaining. The times we just gave up and went to a fast food joint with a play center. When they were babies, and we would just get settled just in time for a bottle (or a diaper change.) I was always armed with notepads, crayons, and stickers. Times when I got everyone's food cut, then turned my elbow just right to catch a straw in my sleeve and tip a glass into my food. Yes, I am hoping that at least a few parents of small children reading this are shaking their heads.


Last winter something marvelous happened to our family. I was still in my wheelchair and we went to Logan's Roadhouse for lunch. The boys ate peanuts and flipped them on the floor, they ordered for themselves, and they sat and ate like little gentleman. Since, then it has been all up hill. I look for coupons and use gift cards at any turn because eating out with them has become such a fun experience! We relax, take our time, laugh a little, and I love it!


It seems like such a simple thing, and we don't do it often but I do enjoy it! Last night we upped our game and went to Ruby Tuesdays. I know....we do like to live on the edge. The kids are on a salad kick so when they ordered the salad bar and a side of mashed cauliflower, I wasn't too shocked. I smiled as Ian had a little jazz step to the music as I followed him up to the bar. The food was good, the kids were good and we were just relaxing and enjoying the meal. The service was slow, but no one seemed to mind. We were just having a good time!!


After completely cleaning up all their veggies, they asked if they could have dessert. We decided a dessert split was in order! We looked it over and I ordered; some chocolate concoction with two plates for the boys and tiramasu to split for Brad and I. Ian turned to look at me and said, "Who in the world is Terrible Sue."

I'm not sure who giggled more. That Ian gets us every time! What a great date with my guys! We have come a long way!