This evening, after Aaron got home from Cub Scout camp, I took my kids out to dinner. No one had any plans or obligations for the evening, so I thought I had better grab the chance while I could. Not fast food, The Olive Garden. We were seated at a large table in an alcove so we had plenty of room to talk and laugh and eat.I ordered two appetizers,bruschetta bread and a combo platter of baked ravioli and baked mozzarella, which were gobbled up in short order. I let the kids order whatever sounded good, and they all made reasonable choices. I had Parmesan crusted tilapia with angel hair pasta. It was incredible. And I treated everyone to dessert. I had lemon creme cake, the boys had chocolate gelatto, and the teenagers shared a chocolate dessert.
It was a really great meal. Everyone got along, talked, kidded,and shared bites of food with each other. Aaron sat like a little gentleman. I love the way the 3 older kids have so much in common, and when they want to, can get along so well.
The meal itself was pretty expensive, about 3 times more than a dinner for 5 at McDonald's, but the time together was worth it.
J.
15 comments:
Sounds like a great evening. And you're exactly right - the extra cost was worth the time and the enjoyment.
Even if your kids behave at McDonald's, you have other people's kids running everywhere!
It's often worth the extra cost for the extra time and togetherness.
I had one of the worst meals I've ever tried to eat at the Olive Garden in San Antonio a few years ago. Then last year I reluctantly agreed to go to one in Omaha NE. It turned out to be one of the BEST meals I've ever had at a chain restaurant. Weird huh?
I like talapia too.
J, what an incredibly delightful and quality gathering. The dinner table has a memory of the past for me. Having the family gathered around the table for dinner is the perfect time to also have good converation and discussion.
From your description, you got more than your money's worth, as I see it.
Sounds like a great time!
I LOVE the Olive Garden! Yummy!
You can't put a price on those kinds of family memories.
Times like that are golden. Hope you get to have more of them soon.
That sounds so nice and yummy!
Nothing like the Olive Garden to feed hungry boys though, keep the salad and bread sticks coming !
Peace
Thanks everyone for the great comments....it WAS fun. I asked Aaron if he had a good time going out to eat and he sighed and said, "Yeah, we got dessert....".
I guess the extra $15 for the desserts was worth it.
J.
You'll have the memory of that family outing long after you've forgotten what it cost. And, I realize that you were not complaining, just making a cost comparison.
Those dining alcoves at Olive Garden are nice. Cozy and semi-private. Treating the family was a great idea.
Sounds like a wonderful time. I'm sure they'll remember those types of family times when they're older. :)
Olive Garden? Isn't that the chain where they keep donkey cadavers in the kitchen?
I like the Olive Garden..also like Macaroni Grill too. Ravioli and lasagna are my favs. Its perfect for a family meal too-something for everyone. Glad to hear the kids did so well. Even if its just once in awhile, its a nice treat to do it!
Way cool! Good for you guys, those moments are far too few in these busy times. :)
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