I Just Want You to Know_ Letters to My Kids on Love, Faith, and Family - Kate Gosselin [17]
It was such a fun day. And at the end of it, I felt like we’d accomplished something important. I had been able to have a good time, and I know the kids had a great time too. My organization once again saved us! It got me thinking: I might be up for the organizational challenge of Disney next summer. Nanny Joan and Terry had offered to meet us at Disney to help, and for the first time I thought it might be a good idea.
Obviously, I was growing in confidence. We were also growing as a family, taking steps outside of the house, and exploring new things.
Before we could attempt a trip to Disney, we needed a few more experiences under our belt. We went to the “Purple Place” a few more times and learned that pulling directly up to the deck meant we could unload the kids without needing another adult. Cara and Mady helped Jon with the little kids while I placed the orders.
Aaden taking his sisters for a ride at Cocoa Castle.
In mid-July, we attempted the Cocoa Castle, a playground near the recreation center in Hershey. Built over fifteen years ago, the wooden play structure had stairs, slides, bridges, and other games. Using the lesson from the Purple Place, Jon pulled the bus as close to the entrance as possible to drop them off. I was nervous about watching eight kids by myself so I offered to park the car while Jon went in with the kids.
For the most part the kids stayed in a pack, and I snapped pictures as they ran through the playground. Unfortunately, we couldn’t let them play long, maybe twenty minutes, because Jon noticed dark clouds looming. When I tried to herd them into the bus, Collin threw himself on the ground and absolutely refused to go. Oh, it was lovely! But even with the tantrum Jon and I were glad we had taken them, and proud to learn that we could do it on our own.
A few weeks later, we decided to take the family to Friendly’s restaurant in Hershey. By this time our show had been on TV for a while and we were beginning to be recognized more frequently. I learned that if I called ahead, they could put us to one side where we’d cause less attention.
Before we left, Cara packed the comfort bag all by herself and very willingly. She did a great job and it was nice to have an extra set of hands getting things ready.
At the restaurant, we had a little trouble getting the kids out of the bus. Remember the dog licking my ankles and the rude lady? This was the trip. Once inside, I ordered food immediately because I wasn’t sure how the kids would do with the wait. Cara got a hot dog and fries. I ordered three chicken fingers kids’ meals—some with fries and some with broccoli. When the plates arrived I divided it all up and gave the other seven some of everything.
The kids did awesome. Jon sat next to Alexis, with Mady and Aaden across from him. Joel was on the end of the table. I sat with Hannah next to me. Leah was on the other end of the table, and Cara and Collin were across from me. I showed Hannah how to get
Enjoying a family meal at a restaurant in Georgia on our way to Florida.
napkins and she was able to get them for all the kids. Both Hannah and Leah were able to handle ketchup with their fries.
After dinner, we went back to our favorite playground—Cocoa Castle—and this time we were able to stay longer. They played until it was time to leave and everyone went willingly. I was so proud of them. “Good job, guys!” I said.
“Good job, Mommy!” said Hannah.
That was so sweet to hear. Especially because I felt like I had done a good job. I had spent the day cleaning and then I had the rare privilege of not having to make dinner and clean up the mess. When we got home, all we