We're really not Valentine's Day people. I know you can't tell, but up until recently, we'd kind of chalked it up to a Hallmark holiday.
But as our kids get older, I'm becoming more of a fan. Not for chocolates and bouquets of roses, but the whole idea that there's a holiday that celebrates love.
Without my knowledge, Tom made reservations for us at our favorite restaurant, the one that takes a simple Brussels sprout and turns it into the food I would request as my last meal. And not just any reservation, but the kitchen seats.
The restaurant has an open kitchen, in full view of the diners. They've created just enough space on the dividing wall that you can cozy a few chairs up, and watch the chefs at work while you dine. It was like watching an expertly choreographed ballet while we ate.
I can only imagine how far in advance Tom had to make this reservation. The kitchen seats get snapped up quick, much less on Valentine's Day.
Lately we've been missing the "us" we had before children. The spontaneous folks who went out on the town and had interests beyond prepping mac & cheese and tracking nap times. For nearly two hours we sat amongst adults, immersed ourselves in the hustle and bustle, and ate fantastic food.
I can't tell you how refreshing it was.
Special shout-out to Chele, who watched the kids, which made it all possible.
(Shep really was with us today. He just never made it in front of the camera. Will make it up to him this week…)
