Normally, dinner at Chef Adrianne’s wouldn’t be as big of a deal as it was tonight. It’s not an indictment on this phenomenal establishment, but, rather, a sign of the times. Our new times, anyways.

Tonight marked the first time my wife and I went out as a couple in over a month. That might not seem like a long time to many, but for us it was an eternity. Our first child was born a little over a month ago, and the days have been as long as the nights have been sleepless.

The joy of your first child is immeasurable. This joy easily drowns out the buzzing caused by sleep deprivation. The bond between husband and wife is strengthened by the new roles as father and mother. But it is important for new parents to reconnect as a couple, and to re-establish a sense of normalcy.

Tonight was that night. Steak, wine, and a cozy atmosphere brought us back to where we started. Two months ago, this would have been just another night. Tonight, though, we appreciated it much more than ever.