Not even sure what to say here, Scott. Places like you describe just do my head in. I don't have sons, but I have taught many boys. Girls and boys don't have the same responses to places like Mulligans.

My daughter is grown up now, and she was never drawn to such places, or maybe it was more tht we were drawn to outdoors experiences such bush rides, water fun, and things that don't cause such a sensory overload.

The deer in the headlight look sounds rather like the look my daughter had when she returned from birthday parties, high on sugar. It never boded well.

Glad you and your wife were able to step away from the situation and evaluate the situation for what it was.