When I turned 50 I didn't want a party, I didn't want to take a trip. I didn't want to do anything but relax and ponder on the fact that I was now a 1/2 century old. My husband was fine with this because he hates buying presents so he felt he was off the hook in that regard.
My daughter convinced him, though, he had to do something to commemorate my day ( unbeknownst to me).
What he came up with is one of the most romantic things he ever could have.
We both live very busy lives. He works upward of 60-70 hours a week and at the time I was still employed and working 40-50 hours every week. We didn't get to spend to much time together that didn't involve eating dinner and then going to sleep.
Hubby's idea was the gift of...his time.
He devised a chart that he called 50 hours for 50 years, in which I could have him - all to myself - to do anything with for 50 solid hours. He would do anything I asked without arguing, go anywhere I wanted to go, happily, and let me take the lead.
Boy, did I take advantage of those 50 hours.
First I had him weed, rake, and redo my flower beds, something I'd wanted to do forever but never found the time. That took 10 hours.
Next I wanted to go clothing shopping, something he absolutely hates to do - shopping in general. He went, carried all my purchase bags, and never complained once when I wanted to try outfit after outfit on. 5 hours there.
I wanted to go to see a new movie in the rom-com genre that he typically avoids. He went, never complained and even sprang for candy and popcorn - something we never purchased at the overpriced prices in the movie theater. 3 hours. Dinner out was included with this at my favorite restaurant. 2 more hours.
I wanted to clean out my closets, reorganize my clothes, and get bags for charity put together - something I hate doing. He helped and with his help it took less time and aggravation than if I'd done it myself. 4 hours here.
The remaining 26 hours we spent going for walks together - something we rarely got to do - binge- watched a few tv shows we didn't have time for routinely, and generally just hung out together like we used to when we were dating, childless, and had easier jobs.
Best birthday present ever for me!
He didn't give me candy, jewelry, furs, or trips. He gave me something more precious than any of those - the gift of his time.
Like I said, best birthday present ever.
5 comments:
I love the idea of giving a gift of time for a present! How clever! and it sounds as if you both enjoyed your extra time together. Loved the post.
Peggy, I totally 1000 percent agree. I asked my women's circle to spend one day with me for my 80th. They chose a full weekend at the Oregon Coast. Truly The Best Birthday Ever!!! said by me multiple times with big grin and fist pumps.
Judith- I have to apologize for jumping the gun on my date. I thought I had it set for 2.27. YIKEs!!! sorry ~ Peg
What a lovely story, Peggy! Great idea to ask for those hours.
Peggy - a little late reading blogs - but WOW - what a wonderful birthday present!
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