ingrid

Any date night is a good date night.

This year I recognized that three kids was really going to put me over the top–”The top” being a place that was definitely not good to be.  Hence, I took out an “ad” in the neighborhood newsletter asking for babysitter contacts.  Enter Alexandria.  At first, her text-message misspellings and OH-MY-GOSH enthusiasm had me worried.  In my 37 year old exhaustion, I cynically could not believe that anyone could “really, really love kids!!!!!!!” (no exclamation points added).  But once I met her and listened to her (and more importantly watched her), I have become a believer.  She is not as well read, but she is perhaps a better parent than me, even at 17.  She is earnest, eager to do a good job, and she really does love kids.  She is dependable, has an excellent memory for times to do things, sticks by our rules, and is firm.  She is also fun.  The kids love her.  And did I mention?  She is 17 so she is affordable.

Now Brad and I have bi-monthly date nights.  We were going out once a week, but all those beers and desserts added up so we’re now switching to every other week.  I jump on the train and meet him downtown where we check out happy hours, chat uninterrupted by youthful questions and complaints (!), look at books at Powells and every now and then catch a movie at Livingroom Theaters.  It is THE BEST!  I highly recommend it for those who want to stay married.

Brad looking out the window on the train---I know he doesn't look happy, but he is because we are on a date night.

In: Awesome! | | #