Decided to be more subtle, sat two rows behind and used a yardstick;>)

Actually, because it was an R-rated movie, I had to buy a ticket and go in with them, sit until the movie started, and then leave. (Two kids got removed from the theatre just before the movie started because they were too young and did not have an adult with them, so I guess theatres take this pretty seriously.)

So, while the starry-eyed young lovers watched Zombieland then had supper, I took myself to supper, bought a new charger for my cell phone and some ice cream bowls, wandered through Pottery Barn and Williams-Sonoma, then camped out at Barnes & Nobles for another 2 1/2 hours.   And ran into several other parents that I know who were doing exactly the same thing.

All of our kids are 15 with learner permits. In my case, I live 30 miles west of the Mall. Girlfriend lives 30 miles south of the Mall. Her Mom was kind enough to take her to the Mall, and I drove her home, so had a chance to chat with her some.

First impression? I approve.

And will I ever be glad when he has his driver's license and a job to pay for his own dates and gasoline!