Can I have "Get a clue" for $400, Alex?

Last evening as I was doing dinner dishes and putting dinner away, Ryan came over and asked me a question, "Would you like to go on a date on Valentines?"

I could have sworn we had a similar conversation a couple days ago.  Ryan asked me if I needed flowers, chocolates or some other big display of Valentine-inspired affection, after I picked him up from work earlier this week.  I said no, it is ok.  (But I was secretly hoping he'd do a little something after all.  Just something to say I love you.)

So I launched into reasons why we didn't need to go on a date.  Chances were we couldn't get a babysitter.  The kids will be sad we won't do a nice dinner with them.  There will be large crowds at the restaurants in town, as it will be a big night for dates.  (This being based on the last time I went on a date ON Valentines, which was something like 11 years ago.  AKA before I met Ryan....) 

I was kindly trying to let him off the hook.

But I could tell I'd offended him somehow.  And no, I didn't mention my last Valentine's out-of-the-house date.

"Oh.  Ok."

So then I started trying to back track.  "But we could go somewhere if you really wanted to."

"Well, if you don't want to, you don't have to go anywhere with me."

Great.  I've hurt his feelings.  "I always love going on dates with you. "  Then I tried to explain that I thought this was a continuation of that earlier conversation in the car.

This was apparently not a extension of the other conversation.  Ryan had a co-worker offer to watch the kids so we could go out.  (She's watched our kids before.)  And if I thought our restaurants in town would be too busy, we could go check out the Arco or Maverick mini-marts.

You know, I don't mind going to Subway on a date.  But I draw the line at gas station food.  I'd rather go to McDonalds, thank you very much.

So, ladies- be jealous.  I have a date for Valentines!  No plans just yet, though.  :) 

But next time Ryan offers to take me on a date, I will just say yes.