Emma went on her first date tonight. She got all dressed up, double-brushed her teeth and hair, and even put on her favorite "shiny" shoes. She wore her black dress with the tutu on it, and pink tights.

So, want to hear about the lucky guy? He's tall(ish), dark, and very, very handsome. He's a bit older than Emma (by about 28 years), but he loves her very much. Emma's date was her Daddy. Geez! She's only 5! You didn't think we'd let her go on a REAL date, did you?

In any case, she was so thrilled to be out for a special evening with her very favorite person in the world. She has been talking about it all week. They went to dinner, and then were headed to a real live play at Stages Theatre, where Emma takes Drama Camp in the summer. I have to say, I am little jealous of Tom. It's a very special treat to be able to take a budding actress to her first live performance. Plus, he gets five hours alone with Emma, who is (usually) a joy to be around, while I am at home separating Jaws (Gracie) from Whiner's (Patrick) back. And, I get to force them to clean the playroom, which is never fun, even though it is a nightly routine. Not that I would ever trade my time with my kids for anything. I wouldn't. I just like to complain.