Before today, I fantasized about spending the entire day pampering myself in preparation for a romantic evening. And then I fantasized about a lunch date, where my little girl would stuff her face full of cheese and olive pizza, and another little girl would be sitting across the table from me, on her daddy's lap, getting help with her slices, and my little girl and his little girl would then join hands and run off to play in the kiddie area of the pizza parlor.

Instead, I pulled myself outta bed, cleaned and packed up some more things before getting myself and Miss J dressed, then surprised her with a little gift.

She pulled out the contents of the bag, then went back for the card.


She read the card and then burst into laughter.


And contemplated which side of her Princess and the Frog nightgown she would wear tonight.


And while I put on my makeup, she read all about how Marley the dog kept getting into all kinds of trouble. We had a table for two at McDonald's, where she ran into a little guy from school that she plays football with everyday.

Yes, instead of being sad about a lack of romance, I decided to make today all about my daughter's happiness. I'm blessed enough to know exactly what she likes, so her smiles are always abundant. Today was no exception. The perfect gift, the perfect meal... all for the perfect little person who appreciates me the most.