Scouts

James is the scout master/counselor in the young men's presidency. This calling makes him a bit busy. Not too bad, but it does require that he goes on camp outs once a month.  I hate it when James is gone at night. Actually, I hate it when he is gone at all for any period of time, and this includes while he is at work.

Last night was one of those camp outs. James went to work in the morning, around 8:30, then came in the house a little after 5:00, showered as fast as he could, and walked out the door at 5:15 to go on the camp out. I saw him for maybe 30 seconds. Then he came home this morning, gave me a quick kiss, and walked out the door to work again. Ugh. I hate that!  I don't get to see him for 2 whole days! I do not begrudge his calling, although I admit to being grouchy on those days he has camp outs. What I begrudge is that he is not in the mood to go on a date after that. And I need a date! I need to feel as important to James as his calling and work is to him.

James is a really great guy. Super. He does more for me than I could ever ask for. But for crying out loud, he really struggles with this kind of stuff. I don't know why it is so hard for him to understand/remember that I need some one-on-one time with him - away from home. Something to make me feel special to him.

This reminds me of a story a girl in the ward told me. Her name is Mandy. She said that every year for her birthday her husband asks her what she wants, and every year she gives him the same answer. She wants a massage, from a professional. Every year he blows it off saying that he will give her a massage, so what else does she want?

I told that story to James, and he laughed, instantly recognizing that her husband is being stupid.

Need I mention how many of the "discussions" James and I have had are about me needing more of his special attention?  That if he wants me to stay cheerful, I need him to be more sensitive to my needs?

I fear that I am starting to sound selfish.  It's all about me, right?  Well, let me be clear that I have asked James on more than one occasion what he needs me to do for him to make him feel special or happy, or fulfilled, whatever you want to call it. You know, that man is the easiest person in the world to please. All he requires is a clean home and a happy wife.

I spent last night and all morning cleaning the house. Doing those cleaning chores that are once a year chores. Or once a month.

So, basically, I'm ready for James to take me on a date.