The @nepd family loaded up in Sylvia, our gallant minivan and headed out to see the latest Disney/Pixar animated feature. We didn't head to the nearest Cinemark Theater, however.
We travelled back in time to a simpler, but somehow more magical place. We went to the Valle Drive-In Theater, located in Newton, Iowa.
Our family of five paid $26 to see the show, plus another $14 for snacks - a popcorn, two drinks and some candy. The prices are certainly reasonable, even for Iowa.
The movie - Cars 3 - was very good. My wife and I enjoyed it and the kids paid rapt attention, pausing only for the occasional M&M.
Despite the laughs and story, the movie itself was utterly forgettable compared to the memories. Throwing the football around while we waited for the sun to go down, playing a game of UNO on a blanket, piling into the back of the van with your brothers and sisters... that is what a summer childhood is all about.
Want to go to an old-school Drive-In? Check out this list of all open theaters here.
(Images Courtesy Valle Drive-In)