Date Night

Tonight I went on a date with my son. He wanted to get a burger and shake from 5 Guys. It was an easy, simple way to spend time with him, and while I was there....
....I saw a couple on a date. It looked like a first date, but it definitely was not the 10th. It looked awkward, but sweet. And I remembered those first dates. 
....I saw a couple who were in a relationship. Still dating, but felt more comfortable as they had chosen to date each other. And I remembered those relationships. 
....I saw a newly married couple. They are young and the budget strings are tight, but it is date night. And I remembered those early days. 
....I saw a young couple with their first baby. Both were concerned about their newest addition behaving, but they needed a break and a time to see each other, so there they were, sitting near us. And I remembered my first new baby, all the changes he brought to my life and the adjustments that come with each baby. 
....I saw a couple just needing time away from the kids. They were stealing this time away because their spouse is still important to them, even though life is busy. And I know exactly what goes on in their day-to-day lives, because I am right there with them. Some days are calm and some days are insanely busy. 
....I saw an older couple come in and order and sit down together. They do not have kids at home anymore, but they are still taking time to get out and do something together. Focusing on each other for a few moments. And I know that will be me someday. 

So tonight, as I sat across from my son and we talked about school and friends and books and food, I felt so blessed to be in this stage. Sometimes I cannot believe I have been through those other stages. Sometimes I cannot believe I have children old enough to tell me where they want to go for our date night. And sometimes I have those moments that pull my attention back to look at where I am in life and where I have been. I am grateful for date night tonight. Grateful to spend time with my son and talk about Pokemon & soccer. 

Pull back for a minute today and plan a date night with someone important to you. Those relationships matter. Put it on the calendar and make it happen.