Sometimes spontaneous works
Eating out as a family is tricky. It doesn't always work and small children don't always make the best dining out companions. In the past we have probably avoided it more than most. The Batsman's sensory issues can make it hard for him to sit at the table, to focus on eating and most importantly to enjoy it. Too much noise, too much activity, lots of different smells and the possibility of different food than the home menu can all combine to have our boy become anxious, unsettled and unhappy.
Tonight was different.
We made a last minute decision at 4:30pm to have a 5pm dinner with the Batsman and the Bowler at a Mexican restaurant of which there are many around town. You know the one.
From the greeting at the door by the manager to the high five at the door as we left, it worked and the boys had a ball. There were a few factors that helped it all come together in this serendipitous, spontaneous way.
The Batsman was settled and happy to be bundled into the car to go out.
Both boys were hungry.
The manager of said Mexican establishment provided a pack of crayons and paper on arrival for instant entertainment.
The restaurant was fairly peaceful at 5pm.
Chicken nuggets were on the menu.
The table we chose looked out the window at the nearby trainline. Trains every few minutes provided constant delight.
Our food arrived less than 10 minutes after ordering.
As boys ate and their parents relaxed, the reduced stress levels reflected in the eyes of the boys and they had fun, we had fun. I am usually such a planner and have thought through every possible scenario before embarking on something new. Tonight, I just went with the opportunity that presented itself and it worked.
It felt good.
Sometimes spontaneous works. It does.
Tonight was different.
We made a last minute decision at 4:30pm to have a 5pm dinner with the Batsman and the Bowler at a Mexican restaurant of which there are many around town. You know the one.
From the greeting at the door by the manager to the high five at the door as we left, it worked and the boys had a ball. There were a few factors that helped it all come together in this serendipitous, spontaneous way.
The Batsman was settled and happy to be bundled into the car to go out.
Both boys were hungry.
The manager of said Mexican establishment provided a pack of crayons and paper on arrival for instant entertainment.
The restaurant was fairly peaceful at 5pm.
Chicken nuggets were on the menu.
The table we chose looked out the window at the nearby trainline. Trains every few minutes provided constant delight.
Our food arrived less than 10 minutes after ordering.
As boys ate and their parents relaxed, the reduced stress levels reflected in the eyes of the boys and they had fun, we had fun. I am usually such a planner and have thought through every possible scenario before embarking on something new. Tonight, I just went with the opportunity that presented itself and it worked.
It felt good.
Sometimes spontaneous works. It does.
I'm a big fan of spontaneous outings. Leaves little room for anxiety leading up to the event. So glad you all had a great time. It's nice when things just work themselves out every now and again. Revitalises the soul :-)
ReplyDeleteI'm the same. I abandoned my organised self yesterday and we took the kids out too. And don't you love restaurants that have the crayons and colouring in stuff? Makes it so much easier!
ReplyDeleteGood for you guys! I'm so happy this all worked out well with two happy and well fed boys at the end of the night. Oh, and a relaxed mum and dad as well, of course.
ReplyDeleteSuccess all around.
I can feel some of your caution at going out. Our two year old loves going places (even brings you her shoes) but my 7 month old likes quiet. And of course, since she is a reluctant eater, feeding her anywhere is impossible.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you got some good time out with the family! Nothing better than an evening that runs smoothly.
Reading this again, to remind myself we need to go here.
ReplyDelete