a rare thing...

  As parents of four children and living out in boonies, we don't often get an opportunity to go out on dates.  Part of it is still being newer to the town and not knowing anyone close to us that would be willing to watch all 4 together.  It's a ways to drive and the one teen girl that our kids are comfortable with lives too far away. It would be over an hour from her house and she doesn't have her license yet.  Soooo, we wait for Scott's family to come and a couple times a year ask ever so nicely if they'd be willing to watch the kids for a couple hours:).  We love our kids soooo much, but it is sooo nice to be able to go out and have a conversation that isn't interrupted 10 times in the space of 10 minutes of less.  Tonight we made reservations at the Colliseum.  We've been there before and like the quiet atmosphere, the delicious food and just the opportunity to talk freely without the little ones listening in.  It's the first time in quite a while that we weren't feeling tired and actually had the opportunity to discuss ideas about where we want to be as a family in the next couple years.  Such a nice feeling to finish a complete sentence:)  Those reading this, with small talkative children know what I'm talking about:))).  We had a bit of time before our reservation and we walked around town a bit, visiting little stores, browsing their selection for possible Christmas gifts, etc....  There's no snow on the ground right now and it was pretty nice to take that leisurely stroll.  After supper we picked up a few things, checked on the place we're watching over the winter, and headed home.  Boy were the kids ever glad to see us!  Grandad said Caleb was getting a little worried.  He didn't want him to put him to bed. Only wanted to snuggle with Mama:)  So, now, the house is quiet.  All is peaceful, except for the occasional sound from Hopper Jack and Rosie the Ribbeter(our frogs).  It's about time this mama headed to bed.  Tomorrow is the small business trade fair and a bridal shower.  Looking forward to some relaxing family time too.  Maybe I'll get to sleep in!  One can only dream....