Sometimes There Are Distractions. . .

I've been studying a bit at the kitchen table these days. Even in the midst of three wriggling kids "doing school" and a wriggling one year old "doing life" I'm able to get more done there than I'd ever have imagined.

Gretchen says I get so much accomplished because I have to concentrate so hard not to get distracted by the circus going on around me. She may have a point.

I've discovered, though, that there are some priceless benefits of distraction. . .

Hamburger 101

When in the course of family events it becomes necessary to make an emergency fast food run, the choice for our gang is usually McDonald's.  Gretchen and I, though fond of the sweet tea at this establishment, are usually disappointed, let down, and irritated by the quality of the burgers we receive in meager exchange for the dollars we fork over.

As we arrived in Myrtle Beach a few weeks ago, we drove by a Fuddruckers restaurant.  In our "married without children" days in Durham, NC we frequented this restaurant chain occasionally and remembered the hamburgers.  Hamburgers made with juicy beef.  Hamburgers made with lots of juicy beef on pillowy soft kaiser buns.  Don't even get me started about the melted cheese...

Pointing out the window at this wonderful hamburger joint, I told the kids that we'd be back...back to show them what a real hamburger looked and tasted like.  I told them that they'd never want another McDonald's burger again (wishful thinking I know).

Meg agreed.

Cole agreed.

Kate really agreed.

Molly, unable to get anyone to share a bit of their hamburger with her,

was forced to settle for some very big french fries.

Sorry McDonald's.  It was unanimous.  I'm building an imaginary Fuddrucker's next to my imaginary Chick-fil-A up at the Highlands!