Tonight, after a day spent with Grandma and Grandpa, we took the kids out to dinner at an old train depot that’s been converted into an elegant restaurant.  As we followed the hostess to our seat in the railroad car, the kids were eagerly taking in the moment.  Shortly after we sat, a train rolled by the tracks just outside and they loved it!

We spent the evening hearing about their extended trick-or-treating with Grandma and Grandpa last night, their afternoon and all the fun they had.  All the while we’re talking, Calder is busily drawing hand-turkeys on the back of his menu, and Seneca is sorting sugar packets by color.  Too often, I find myself shh-ing the kids through dinner and whispering question threats such as, “Do we need to go to the car?”

Not tonight.

Tonight, we talked and played.  We reminded them about inside voices, but shared smiles across the table when they giggled and chatted.  We played with them, engaged them and fell in love with them all over again.  So tonight, I’m thankful for the privilege of knowing, laughing, loving and raising two amazing kids.  I’m thankful for an altogether average dinner that I’m sure I’ll never forget.