I had this idea the other day. There’s been this commercial for a place in Portland called Jokers. It’s much like a Chuck E. Cheese, I guess. (I’ve never been to a Chuck E. Cheese.) Both and Matt and Nat mentioned to me they wanted to go. I had taken the day off today to recover from the gig last night. (Incidentally, that gig didn’t happen!) So I figured I’d take the family down. And, I figured I’d make it a surprise! I didn’t even tell Susan.
Then, I had another idea. Jim and Rachelle live in Brunswick, about 1/2 way between here and Portland. I thought “I’ll call Jim and Rowe and ask if they want to come.” I go t Rowe’s cell phone from her Facebook page, and asked if they’d be game. She and the kids were game, but she didn’t know if Jim could make it. We’d have to play that part by ear. Nolan (their son #2 of #3) had a birthday party to attend today, so Rowe asked if we could leave a little early. I told her I would be there promptly at 10am, which would get us to Jokers at 11am.
We got up this morning, had a quick breakfast, swung by the bank, and headed for the surprise. We ended up at the Gilbert’s about 9:45. Rachelle was just pulling into the yard; Nolan decided to go to his friend’s birthday party early, and hang with them instead of us. Rachelle also told us that Jim was at a job (he’s a dependable Maine tiler), but that he’d meet us there. Cool!
We had a great time at Jokers. For less than $40, the five of us got to play in the giant inside jungle gym, play games, win prizes, and split a cheese pizza and sodas. I’d go again.
After about 2.5 hours, it was time to leave. We said our goodbyes in the parking lot, and headed towards home. It was warm outside, and even warmer in the van. Matthew said something about wanting some ice cream. And thus was born Surprise Friday Idea #2!
There’s a Cold Stone Creamery in Brunswick. I’ve been once; the rest of the family had never been. I figured it would be a good place to stop. Nat wanted mint, so he and I split a Mint Mint Chocolate Chocolate Chip. Julia ordered a cheesecake with white chocolate chocolate chips. Susan and Matt had cotton candy. Julia couldn’t finish her’s, so Matt polished it off.
And then we came home. It was a nice day, and I had a really good time.
It WAS a fabulous time…and thank you for not mentioning that I was not ready to leave promptly at 10. (shocking, I know) Fortunately, it didn’t take an hour to get there and we still arrived at 11 🙂 We LOVE spending time with you guys!
OMG, there’s nothing better than Cold Stone chocolate chocolate chip. I’ll have to try the mint mint.