I was so excited to have the weekend to spend with Ben, my 10 year old son. I had big plans and gave Ben about 100+ suggestions on how we could explore Phoenix. I suggested hiking, a road trip, a visit to the science museum, cave exploration, etc. He had a basketball game Saturday morning and we could leave right after his game.
Ben said, “No. I want to just hang out with you. I don’t want to go many places.” He had his own agenda and I decided to go with the flow and say, “Yes!” to his plans.
So we went to Dave & Busters to play video games. After watching him play games, I think I’m safe to buy him a gun, as he is an excellent marksman. But he will NEVER drive anyone in our family. Oh my.
We saw 2 3D movies – Star Wars Episode 1 and Journey To The Center of the Earth 2. I’m not a fan of 3D movies, but he was in heaven. He picked our seats, got extra butter on his popcorn, and even got Skittles and Red Vines.
We watched the Slam Dunk Competition and ate spaghetti and drank rootbeer out of the bottle at Ben’s request.
And this morning, I offered to take him anywhere to eat for breakfast. Again I suggested about 20 places. He decided on Denny’s. That wasn’t a suggestion. 
So I put away my grand plans to mark items off my life list and said “Yes” to Ben and “Yes” to putting my list down, and “Yes” to relationships. And I’m a better person for it.
Before Jeff got home, Ben said to me, “Thanks mom for doing a lot of things that I really like doing. It was great.” Yes. Indeed, yes.
I’m really excited about the wonderful opportunities that are just around the corner. Really great things.
Thank you for your kind words from last week. My dream is not gone, it is merely postponed. Normally I respond right away, but wanted to take a few days to digest the events of last week and get my attitude back on track. Again, thank you. I’m beyond grateful for you.
Blessings sweet friends – Jenny
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Comments
Karen Moore
What a grand weekend – one I bet Ben never forgets! You didn’t just say YES, you made a very special memory for your sweet son! Nothing is better than that.
Jenny
Thanks Karen – it was a special memory for both of us that I will treasure for years to come. -J
Denise von Minden
It can be amazing when we slow down and really listen to what our kids want and need from us. Usually it’s just the gift of time and focused attention. I am so glad you and Ben had that this weekend.
Jenny
Thanks Denise. It was good to just follow his lead and listen. I learned quite a bit about Ben and our relationship this weekend. It was a gift. -J
Becca M.
LOVE. XOXO.
Jenny
Thanks Becca. I do feel your love. As you know, this past week has been disappointing and somewhat depressing. So appreciative of your kind words and your love. Ben and I had a great weekend. XO back at you! -J
Dana
I want to have weekends like that with each one of my three kids
Thanks for the inspiration to say YES!
Jenny
That’s exactly what I thought at the end of the weekend. My 4 kids are all so different – different interests and different ages, so the weekends would look so very different. Looking forward to more of these weekends in the years to come. Thanks Dana. – J