At the last minute, Chris decided to go out to a party with some friends tonight.  As much as I love spending time with him, I had a few crap TV shows to catch up on our DVR, so I didn’t mind a quiet night to myself once the kids went to bed.

But, a few minutes after I tucked them in and kissed the tops of their heads, sweet little Evie snuck downstairs. She was so hopeful – would I let her stay up late??

Of course!

Now that I have three kids, I take any chance I can get to carve out special time with just one of them.  So tonight, Evie and I sat out on our balcony and enjoyed a date night together.  We put together a special snack – guacamole and chips and a fruit plate with strawberries and peaches from Chicago’s Green City Market. We sat together and chatted about the moon and the new nightlight she wants and what stars are made of.  Part of me wishes I recorded the whole conversation just so I could replay it again many years from now.

We needed something special to drink so we could toast to our fancy night “out” together.  We don’t drink any pop – ever.  In our house, its either water or milk.  That’s it.  So, whenever the kids want a little treat I offer flavored LaCroix and they are completely THRILLED.  I recently found RW Knudsen Spritzers. With no sugar or high fructose corn syrup, they are a healthier way to make a moment special.  Tonight, Evie chose the boysenberry flavor for herself, and I decided to join her with a quick boysenberry mojito.

A perfect date night with my best girlfriend!

Boysenberry Mojito

12 fresh mint leaves

Splash simple syrup

1-2 shots white rum

RW Knudsen Spritzer – Boysenberry Flavor (or, any flavor – there are a dozen!)

Muddle mint leaves in the bottom of a glass.  Top with simple syrup, rum and plenty of crushed ice. Stir.  Top off with the spritzer and enjoy!