Note to Future Self

We took the kids to A&W/KFC today for 90cent rootbeer floats, and overpriced overcooked chicken. There was a long line, so the kids and I went to wait at a table. McKenzie and her friend were awesome. They are almost 8 and just turned 8. Thomas was pretty good. He is almost 5. Mason (3.5) and Megan (2) were all over the place. I was able to keep them occupied for a short while, but soon they wanted to run around the restaurant and climb on other tables and chairs, and scream. (Of course I didn't let them run all willy nilly, but it was difficult to keep them in check. I was tied up with Thomas, Mason and Megan while Michael stood in line and ordered the food.) When the food came, Megan poured half of her rootbeer float on herself. She got very upset about it and cried loudly. Mason kept tilting his glass too much, and spooning out his drink, spilling it all over him. Neither one wanted to eat much. Thomas and McKenzie weren't too impressed with the food, either.

So, my note to my future self is this: DO NOT TAKE CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 5 TO A RESTAURANT WITHOUT A PLAY AREA. And in case I've blocked out my young motherhood when I am older, may I remind myself to have compassion on families with young children. Believe that the parents are doing the best they know how, and offer kind smiles and support where possible. Kids are kids, not little adults.