The Giant Artichoke

During "vacation" we took the kids to the Monterey Aquarium... and on the way home, we stopped at one of my old childhood memories - The Giant Artichoke. I have to admit, this place really only holds a soft place in my heart because it includes memories of my Grandfather and older brother... but it was worth stopping for lunch. AND it gave me a great opportunity to introduce a new food to my kids.

In addition to a normal meal (I had meatloaf), I tried artichoke soup. Robbie tried it, Lyssie didn't. It was good - but probably not memorable good.

And of course, we tried the deep dried artichoke hearts. Again, I was proud of Robbie for trying it while Lyssie scrunched her face. Again, good... but not memorable good.

I think the most memorable part of the stop was Robbie's $1 chocolate dipped strawberry that he went up to the counter and bought by himself. Look at that thing - it's huge! I'm happy to report that he dropped it halfway through and wasn't able to eat the whole thing. Haha - looks like Yoda is ready to attack it in the photo - I think it was the size of Yoda.

All in all, it was nice to take the kids to a place that lives in my childhood memories. However, I think it will remain there as I didn't really feel a need to return. Of course, who can resist the fun pictures in front of the Giant Artichoke. I think we have pictures of my brother and me in front of it was well.