Quirky Flash Chronicles

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Because therapy’s expensive and the woods are free, y’all.

Dear Bryson,

She hit me with the “Where are we going on vacation?” question. Jeez! Does that mean she’s trying to get me to put a ring on it?

— Backwoods Georgia

Dear Confused in the Backwoods,

Well, I’ll be darned if you ain’t stumbled into a classic romantic riddle, my friend! Sounds like you’re sittin’ by a campfire, scratchin’ your head, wonderin’ if this gal’s talk of vacations is her way of droppin’ a hint bigger than a bullfrog in a rainstorm. Let’s unpack this like a good ol’ tackle box and figure out what’s what.

First off, her askin’ where you’d take her on a vacation don’t automatically mean she’s pickin’ out a weddin’ dress. Could be she’s just testin’ the waters, seein’ if you’re the type to plan a grand adventure or if you’d rather stay home and wrestle with a TV remote. Womenfolk, like a good fishin’ spot, can be mysterious—you gotta read the ripples to know what’s brewin’ below. Maybe she’s dreamin’ of a getaway with you, maybe she’s curious about your sense of fun, or maybe she’s just makin’ conversation. Ain’t no need to jump straight to the altar!

Here’s my advice, straight from a fella who’s navigated more trails than a mountain goat: don’t overthink it. Treat her question like an invitation to show her your spark. Plan a vacation idea that screams you—somethin’ wild and free, like campin’ under the stars in the Smoky Mountains or fishin’ off a quiet lake where the only sound is the loons callin’. Me, I’d say, “Darlin’, I’d take you to a little cabin by a river, where we’d grill fresh trout, swim till we’re pruney, and watch the fireflies dance at night.” Paint her a picture that’s got your heart in it, but keep it light—don’t go proposin’ unless she’s droppin’ clearer hints than a neon sign on a honky-tonk.

Now, if you wanna get a bead on her intentions, turn the question back on her. Say, “Well, where’d you wanna go with me?” Her answer’ll tell you plenty. If she’s talkin’ romantic beach sunsets or far-off places like Paris, maybe she’s seein’ you in her future. If she says, “I dunno, maybe a waterpark,” she might just be fishin’ for fun. Either way, listen close, like you’re trackin’ a deer in the woods.

For now, take her question as a chance to bond, not a marriage contract. Plan a little day trip—hike a trail, pack a picnic, or find a swimmin’ hole. Cities can be an adventure too, so if she’s urban, treat it like a safari and explore a new spot together. Show her you’re game for makin’ memories, and you’ll learn more about what’s on her mind than any city lawyer could figure out with a flowchart.

Keep your boots on the ground and your heart open, partner. Let me know how it goes, and if you’re ever down my way, we’ll cast a line and talk love over a mess of catfish.

Yours in adventure,
Bryson