The Dating Game

Six years, 2 babies and 2 dogs later, Brett and I are sort of acting like an old married couple rather than vibrant, young, party animal, parents. Ok, so we've never really been party animals, but we definitely had more "us" time pre-kids. Obviously. We do LOTS of stuff as a family. We're always on the go. Local festivals, museums, ball games, the beach, the park, out for ice cream, out for dinner, etc... all this stuff we do as a family, which is wonderful, but the only alone time Brett and I get is when we're both snoring.

So, we're re-introducing dating to our relationship! Inspired by our recent trip to the NY Giants game in Charlotte, we've decided we need more husband/wife excitement. We had such a good time at the game and there's absolutely no reason why we can't keep that fun going!

The goal? One real date each month, minimum. Not just your typical dinner and a movie, but new and exciting things that one or both of us have never done, or very rarely do. I'm so excited about our October date!!!

Indoor Climbing and dinner at Subway! 

You may be saying, "Subway? Really?" This date isn't centered around food. It's all about the activity and spending time together. So since it's an active date, we'll go for something on the lighter side to eat. 

Cheers to Mommy & Daddy!

Superman

My Dear Sweet Boys,

Ryan, today you're 4 and Liam, you're 2. You will not understand until later in your life, (Light years away for you, but a quick blink for me.) but this is important. It could save your life.

You are not invincible. I'll say it again. YOU. ARE. NOT. INVINCIBLE.

Remember those words. One day, you're going to feel larger than life; like even a million grown men can't knock you off the pedestal you're standing on. You're Superman. It's ok. I felt like that too.

Do yourself a favor and don't listen to your ego or your friends. Listen to me. You are not indestructible. Your life is precious. Fragile. Don't take it for granted.

Yes, you are special. No one can do YOU like you do. You are strong, capable, smart, young men. You might be the popular one in school, you might be the bookworm, or the jock. Regardless of what mold you fit in to, do not allow a momentary lapse in judgement to change your life (or your family's life) forever.

Within the past two days, I have learned of two deaths that did not have to happen. Tragic deaths of a 30-year-old man, and a 16-year-old boy in two separate car accidents caused by excessive speed. Speed. Their families are devastated. Over the past 2 days, Ryan, I have quizzed you one the very first thing you do when you get in a vehicle and your answer is always consistent, "Put on your seat belt." Don't forget it. One day, God willing, you will both drive. I want you to enjoy and appreciate your privilege to drive. (Consider yourself lucky if your overly-paranoid mother allows you to acquire this privilege at 16.) The vehicle that you drive is not a toy. It is a weapon. A lethal weapon. Respect it and respect other drivers around you.

Too many lives are taken too soon due to preventable car accidents. The statistics are staggering. Don't be a statistic.

It's ok for you to feel like you're standing on top of the world. It feels good and is great for the soul. But don't get cocky. God is in control. Not you.