Not a Happy Meal...

Matthew had his birthday party with his buddies yesterday. Yes, his birthday was a few weeks ago, but with schedules, basketball practices and games, etc., we weren't able to do it until yesterday. The kids had a great time. (I'll post a few pics later). Unfortunately, Steve had to work and missed out on the raging party. By the time it was all over and we'd cleaned up a little of the HUGE mess, I was not in any mood to cook and create more mess to clean up. I called my sis and she packed up her kids and met me at McDonalds. So on the way to Mickey D's, I asked the kids what they wanted to eat - to make the whole ordering while trying to contain my children thing a little easier once we got there. Now I was feeling all footloose and fancy-free, so I told the kids they could have Happy Meals. A little explanation: we never get Kids' meals when we go out. First off, we seldom eat out. When we do break down and go out, we are connoisseurs of the Value Menu. Happy Meals or any Kids meals are a special occasion kind of thing. When I offered the Golden Ticket, I expected to be met with the usual excitement and thrill in the air. Rachel didn't disappoint. In fact, she cheered. Matt, however, assumed the 'I'm going to break this to you gently' voice and said, "Mom, I think I'd just like a 10 piece chicken nugget." Not picking up on his subtlety, I replied, "Are you sure? You can even get one of those big kid meals." Matthew then went on to explain that a Happy Meal just isn't enough for him. I believe his exact words were that "a happy meal is more of a snack" and that he "could probably do 2 or 3 happy meals." I took the news in a very grown up manner and ordered him the 10 piece nuggets. (He polished that off and then ate some of mine and Rachel's to boot.)
So, I did take the news very calmly...but really...I was flipping out!! My kid is getting too big! This whole turning 10 thing was hard enough for me and now he's too big for kids' meals. What the heck?!? He's supposed to be perpetually five years old and excited about getting a whole meal in one bag or box! He's supposed to be excited about the dumb little plastic toy!
I need a coke.