Vonda and I start something new today. Today Vonda and I start experimenting with empty nesting.
So how do we plan to handle it?
Allow me to share a little history.
Years ago, my children and I planned every Friday in the summer and we called them “Daddy Days.” Friday is my day off, and since my kids were out of school, I decided to give them my Friday. We lived life very large and made some great memories during our Daddy Days.
Taylor would select our activities for one Friday, and the next Friday would be Kelsey’s turn. You name it we did it. We spent many Fridays doing simple things like going to the park, swimming at the pool, playing video games or bowling.
About every third Friday we would splurge. On those days we go to some of our favorite places in Atlanta or Chattanooga. The best days started very early and ended very late. Perhaps the most memorable days were ones where we had no plan. We’d just jump in the car and take off for fun.
“Daddy Days” accomplished two great priorities. First and foremost, those days gave me undivided time with my children. Those days also got the kids out of Vonda’s hair, since she spent the other six days of the week with them.
When the school year rolled around, “Daddy Days” were converted into “Vonda Days”. “Vonda Days” were just that, the days Vonda and I spent together. Again, we kept things simple. And we called them “Vonda Days” because we did what she wanted to do.
Today is a new day, literally. Today my kids are grown. They are in school. They have jobs. They have other interests and responsibilities. And they really don’t need me unless the need cash for food, gas or tuition. (That is another blog, entirely.) And since my kids are grown and we are no longer obligated to their schedules, Vonda and I are starting something new.
Today Vonda and I are starting what we are calling “Ryan Time.”
What is “Ryan Time”?
I am so glad you asked.
“Ryan Time” is what Vonda and I will do with our newfound freedom on my day off. This time, instead of Vonda picking the events and activities, I will do so. And today I have a real zinger planned for her. I wish I could tell you where I am taking her and what we are going to do but I have not decided yet. But this I know: we will have fun!
In the future we plan a 48 hour trip to Hotlanta. We plan other such excursions to Chattanooga or Nashville. Who knows what else we will do. I am certainly open for suggestions. Oh, and if you need me today, I will be busy with my wife. You are welcome to call my assistant, Kristin. I am certain she can help you.
I’ve got to run. It’s time for some “Ryan Time”.