As rare as it is for our whole family to be together, it is even rarer for our Dad to "get out". Kat had discovered through a very good friend of hers that you can actually rent handicap accessible vans. We'd talked about getting one and taking Dad somewhere, but he was never really interested. With Mom's passing, it was essential. But to be honest, it became amazing.
When the services were over, Kat asked if we all wanted to go to Applebees together? This same friend had given her a gift card to use as she chose, so off we went.
As Dad was being loaded into the van, it became clear that no one had actually asked him if he wanted to go to Applebees. Kat hollered: "Ask Dad if he wants to go?" Interestingly, Dad said yes and then: "Thanks for finally asking me."
Mike got on the phone to the closest Applebees, where not only were they handicap accessible; but, they even had a spot that could fit all 16 of us. We put Dad at the head of the table with Tom B. (Kat's husband is Tom M.), and the fun ensued.
Tom B. and Dad had burgers...the rest of us ranged far and wide in variety. At one point Dad said: "This is the best burger I've had in three years...it's hot!" It struck me that Dad had not left Hidden Lake for anything other than ERs, hospitals, and Dr.s appointments, in those three years that he had mentioned.
We all giggled, but then it hit me: Dad had not left 411 for anything other than ERs, hospitals, or Dr.s appointments either. I'm not sure the exact number of years, but I would guess that it has been close to 15 years since our Dad actually had dinner out in a restaurant.
Look at that smile on Dad's face. There should be no doubt...we will be doing this again!
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