Today’s “give” was a really fun one because it gave to me too. The Princess and I went to the UGA game. There were two parts to this experience. First, we got to hang out with my BFF’s family before the game. I helped with the kids a bit and was just general navigational support. Oh, and I did the Chick-fil-a run. This excursion was extra special because our awesome friend V had managed to get them AMAZING seats down near the field and passes to get on the field before the game. This was HUGE because they are MAJOR Bulldog fans, especially Mr. B. I haven’t seen that man smile so much in probably a couple of years. With all that they’ve been going through, it was AWESOME to see them having such a great time as a family.

After we experienced the Dawg Walk together as a group, the B’s went to have their tour of the field, and the Princess and I spent the rest of the day together. Since he was getting awesome seats with the family, Mr. B gave us his season tickets to use. The Princess and I had great GIRL TIME together. First, we went shopping in the bookstore. Um, that was rather insane, but fun at the same time. We both enjoy crowds, so navigated it just fine. Then, we shared a cup of hot cocoa (it was FREEZING outside) before heading into the stadium.

Once inside, we cuddled up under our blanket (Thank God I had brought a blanket.) and watched the game. The ENTIRE game. She didn’t want to leave. We went and got snacks and had potty breaks, but for the majority of the time she was watching the game. This wasn’t her first Bulldog game, but it was the FIRST time she really paid attention. It was the FIRST time she asked questions and tried to understand the process. At one point, she asked “Mommy, why did the clock stop? The clock shouldn’t have stopped. They still have the ball.” I then had to explain about moving the chains on the first downs. I never pay attention to the clock. Do you?

By fourth quarter, we were up 55 to nothing. No, the Dawgs weren’t playing great. Idaho State was just not that good. I suggested leaving. The Princess said “No! I want to stay to the end!!” So, stay to the end we did. We stayed to the end, and enjoyed being together.

I love that the Princess and I enjoy being together. There of course are times when we fight, but right now we mostly get along. It is important that we spend times like these together. Just the two of us, enjoying one another. We’re building the foundation of a relationship that has to last through the teen years. It needs to be strong now so it can persevere later.

Today, I gave my daughter my time, which is probably the greatest gift I can give her.