I'm a huge fan of setting up a weekly night that you steal away from the kids all distractions to act like a married couple (PS - only if you are married or strongly considering it, no funny business).  Kristen and I have successfully been out on a date every Tuesday (95% of the time over 7+ years is a success in my book) and it is one of the things I'm most proud of in our relationship.  Very few things say "I love you" to me more than putting everyone else on hold for a time to invest and catch up on life.  There are pros (and a few cons) to having the set night of the week be a date night - ask me if you want more info.

Over the years some of these have turned out better than others.  We've had some that were outright horrible - some even when we had to turn the car around and head back home (it's always tough getting out of the house shortly after bringing a new baby home) - but last night was a sweet one that involved a throwback event that went way back to before we were married.

In the Spring of 2004, Kristen and I headed to NYC to stay with my brother.  We went maybe 5+ times while we were dating - we love NYC for many reasons, but especially because it reminds us of this time.  A friend, Maggie Lee, suggested if we were going to see a show that it be a new show I had never heard of called Wicked.  It had just come out and was still quiet enough to get good reviews and still be able to find tickets.  We did and we feel in love.

[picture below taken the night of our original Wicked date in NYC, sorry I couldn't find one at the theater even though I know I took one] 


When the event finally hit the road and made it to Memphis five years later I knew I had to find tickets.  Fortunately the day before tickets went on sale to the public I found a promo code (and shared it on twitter - another reason to follow me) and grabbed the best seats I could find to surprise my bride for a mothers day gift.

So to make a long story short.  We went last night.



I guess sitting so close gave me jitters, but I loved being there with my bride and hearing her sing every song and laugh at every joke. The show was spectacular and worth the investment. All in all it is just really well done - the plot, the acting, the songs and especially all references to original story The Wizard of Oz.  If you're still around Memphis (or if its coming to your town) know its worth it. And ladies feel free to send your husbands my way. I'm a fan and would be happy to bend his arm, talk him into it encourage him towards the idea.

[And yes, John I'm aware this post won't help boost my manly blog stats.]