No kids...no crew...just me and you. (will our marriage survive?!!) Ep 249

[@joellynparks7805]

The greatest compliment is when your kids love being around you as grown ups. 🥰

[@beachliving3127]

No disrespect, but the younger two of the kids don't have any choice. The oldest flew the coop and the 2nd oldest has made the decision to stick around.

[@MadgazelleFilms]

@@beachliving3127 If you reread @joellynparks7805 statement, she clearly states it’s a compliment when kids love being around their parents when the kids are grown ups. The eldest daughter, also known as Anna, attends university because that was her dream, and her parents wholeheartedly supported her. The second eldest, Jack, loves sailing and makes himself useful as an ‘apprentice’ to Keith, which is probably a good idea since I think he’s planning to sail on his own someday once he’s financially prepared. As for Kate and Finn, “the younger two,” they are both very responsible as well. They’re finishing school, participating in family life, AND developing their own passions. I assume you haven’t been watching very long because Keith and Renee encourage the best from ALL young people. See also the two “crews” they’ve invited aboard over the last year - even those visitors participated in chores and responsibilities! Hopefully you’ll start from the beginning of their channel and binge through - the Whitakers are the real deal. 🤷‍♀

[@Koala63211]

I was so pleased to see the three young adults off on an adventure in a foreign Country on their own without their Parents. It is an absolute tribute to Renee and Keith, that your kids are as mature and bonding that you know they will be OK without you for a few days. I think the whole Med Crew thing was a coming of age for Kate, and she is now a mature young woman with a very responsible head on her shoulders.

[@jjdicarloutube]

Renee, you are just so cute. You do SO MUCH on that damn boat. Good Heavens! You are the heart and soul behind the whole shebang! You NEVER need to feel bad that you aren’t adventurous or social or know all the ins and outs of the boat. You do so many remarkable things and have such a wonderful vibe. You go girl!!!

[@drew6116]

Here, here.

[@raymorales9751]

This was an excellent video on classical "Empty Nest" Syndrome. This was a brilliant and authentic dramatization of what parents of grown children experience when their "reason for living" leaves. Thank you Keith and Renee for this very educational episode.

[@ijuggle42]

The "empty nest" is a problem for helecopter parents and those whose whole existance is lived vicariously through the children. It doesn't seem that these two have that problem. There are adjustments to be made for sure, like what to do with all that private/free time. lol If your reason for living is your kids that relationship is already doomed. Oh and our last moved out 6 years ago. js

[@firstlast1047]

@ijuggle42 You obviously did not critically pay attention to the entire theme of Renée and Keith's concerns and wishes

[@elaineevans7126]

It’s so painful and practice runs are important. 🥲

[@ijuggle42]

@@firstlast1047 Obviously I did

[@tomquinn5437]

One of the best lessons in life all wrapped up in a 23 minute video. Everyone has their dreams, regrets and challenges. Thanks “Rene” for making this video and thanks “Keith” for staying true to yourself, leading by example and making this all possible.

[@goblincamper2004]

One thing I have noticed with watching your videos is how your children are willing to take charge with sailing and doing what is necessary to be successful in life. You two complement each other. Keith seems like he enjoys sailing, and Ranee enjoys cooking and more of caring for her home and family. Your family seems like they appreciate what you do for them.

[@jennifer6833]

Same ❤

[@bdmenne]

I really want to see them keep sailing even if empty nesting it. It will be way chilled, but they could find meaning in it. Would be neat if jack n Finn had their own boats and they all create a flotilla on the open water.

[@brendariley8982]

Ya'll make me laugh and giggle, honestly, marriage is a funny damn thing. lol Okay, Renee. For safety reasons, you NEED to know how to sail this boat by yourself and make decisions. I know you don't want to honey, but you really need to learn this. There are really nice sailing schools all around the Med. Be the leader you're teaching your kids to be. Love you all.🥰🤩😍

[@Prodbymarra]

I agree 100%

[@ShaggyDA1]

As a man with younger kids, I feel exactly what Keith is talking about. I'm lucky in the fact that both my parents are alive and I get to see them frequently. My parents don't like to travel and move about to go places though, and I sure wish they did. So, I plan on doing exactly what Keith said, be involved even when my kids move out and start their own families. I don't want to be left to just visits occasionally. Active is the key to keep mind and body healthy.

[@genevievemay3461]

But will your kids want you in their lives as much as you them?

[@Dreama40]

Renee educated the kids, cooked them meals, washed their clothes, worked her butt off to share this journey with all of us, she has more than earned her place on that sailing boat Keith, go easy big fella!

[@mobileplayers5008]

Well said she's a true wifu to keep forever.

[@Dreama40]

She sure is, he's lucky to have her!+@@mobileplayers5008

[@aidiaa]

As much as I love watching you all together as a family, I really enjoyed this video. You guys are great together and made me laugh more than a few times. Enjoy the little bit of quite time before they are back lol. Cheers friends!

[@earlhunt2815]

Made me laugh several times too! Our kids are already grown with grandkids and now their children are grow and on their own.

[@Jubbable]

You wouldn't have show without Renee's filming and editing.

[@Resteasy8686]

Finally the 2 Main Stars of the Show!

[@rafaelmartinmeuldijk6030]

where are the kids !!...i miss them , Damn !

[@myshellee]

I think its great that the kids went exploring with the med crew for a week. i think the little mini vacay thats on land is EXACTLY what the kids needed. And some long overdue Keith and Renee time is probably a nice change for you guys... Its almost like a mini " reset" after the med crew leaves and you go back to the 5 of you. This video was great! i look forward to the video of you reuniting with your kids and and I can't wait to see what other adventures the Zatara fam experience!!! I think I speak for all of us. Thanks for sharing your life with us I truly look forward to Thursday's 🧡🧡

[@tkine97]

Loved the video. Make sure you do learn all you need to know to handle the boat, Renee. Practice them so you can do the jobs easily. You never know when you will need to because of an emergency. Circumstances change on a dime. My husband's life changed because of a baseball-sized tumor in Feb. and I have to do EVERYTHING now.

[@sandy-quimsrus]

My heart goes out to you, it's not easy being a carer. Too often people only ask after the patient not the person caring for them. If you ever want to help a carer roll up your sleeves and do their dishes, mop their floor, bring a dinner and don't just sit around drinking tea and making more work for them.

[@earlhunt2815]

Eventually health issues catch up with the best of us. My wife and I found this out 10 years ago when she was diagnosed with debilitating health issues. Fortunately, we had always been outdoorsy and active from day one of our marriage. We became committed believers to Jesus and his lifestyle and now We look back with no regrets a lifetime of awesome memories and wonderful awesome children and grandchildren. Just when you think life can't get any better it does.

[@racheldowning3976]

Spoken like a true mom Renee! And there is nothing more sustaining then to have a mom who loves and just wants to be with you (my mom is like that too, Thanks Mom!) 😃

[@MadgazelleFilms]

Is it bad that I appreciate y’all showing the chaotic side of the Amalfi Coast? I’ve seen way too many Instagram posts from there this summer and I just knew it was too good to be true! 😜 I’m so glad you guys were able to enjoy some time to yourselves (and also loved that the kids got some extended time with the MedCrew!)! Whatever you do once you’re “empty nesters,” you will thrive, guys. I am not worried!

[@28105wsking]

The kids have grown up to be really nice, responsible people individually, with solid life skills, active intellects, and a healthy senses of humor! I think they will all survive and have happy lives. You have definitely done something right for the world with this bunch! Well done!

[@freebird1ification]

you may be amazed how many young folks would love to spend a summer with you guys learning what the sailing lifestyle is all about -after yours are on there journey like anna is just a thought theres lots of folks that would love to help you out on the boat

[@selahwaylivinthedream7505]

My husband and I traveled by boat extensively for 4 years, but now it's more enjoyable to stay somewhere for 3-4 months, move elsewhere and stay 3-4 months and it's much more relaxing now. A little adventure from time to time is great!

[@abbecawthon1876]

In addition to taking and editing videos, Renee has also been significantly engaged home schooling 4 children all throughout your sailing years.

[@jllee9189]

Keith I am roughly 15 years older then you, instead of sailing around the world, I spent the better part of my past flying airplanes around the world (first in the military then for the airlines). Then one day it all came to a sudden hault (mandatory retirement). Although I saw it as the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next chapter (grandkids, actually taking time to smell and admire the roses), and never looking back at what I lost but continuing to look forward at my new beginnings!

[@jamesmp75]

Your content… your music… your editing… your family… in the reverse… all amazing! Us Texans are a thing.🥰

[@p-dubya]

Renee…while you have a couple big time side hustles (kids’ mom & Keith’s wife) always remember who you are! A smart, strong, independent woman who’s a savvy KZbin director, cinematographer, editor, narrator, chef, adventurer, educator, first mate, social director, great friend and all around good person! You are so many things to so many people, so I guess I can understand how sometimes you forget who you are… 😂

[@teamhaas7406]

Wow! I bet that was a fun week. A well deserved break after hosting the Med Crew for a month!

[@amybeard2054]

Imagine how awesome the world would be if every kid had a dad as open, supportive and encouraging as Keith! You both are such amazing parents!

[@tiffanytegg3840]

You and Keith remind me so much of my husband and I. He can fix anything, loves adventure, and loves me. We have 5 kids, and dream of boat life. We had a boat on a lake for a while, and loved it so much. That's how we got hooked on life on the water! Thanks for all of your inspiration.

[@SailingZatara]

☺️ Thank you!

[@nutsandbolts432]

Inviting similarly aged crew as yourselves might be nice, especially on passages once the kids leave the boat. I think your absolutely right, you will have 4 or 5 years until the kids come back, with grandkids in tow once they leave. Whether they are buddy boating or staying as crew.

[@Minecraft-gw1jv]

Lmaooo they don’t know what to do without the kids there and that’s hilarious and cute… Amazing family.

[@angeliquebelluomini7797]

Renee, I think you would surprise yourself with how much you DO know about sailing. You’re a legend! You do it ALL 💃

[@Porcheria002]

I imagine that Keith says to the boys “take care of Kate” and both of them turn and look at him and say “well you hit her with a car, so…” 🫠🤣

[@mel_streetz2372]

😂😂😂

[@atglf733]

I can't stop laughing. iykyk

[@carolinaanthoness9428]

😂😂

[@LucasEllerNewYork]

Tough love. 🤣😆

[@jamesmp75]

Haha… my dad ran over my niece’s foot with a minivan when we were skiing… it’s amazing how bulletproof they are when they are young… now… not so much!😮

[@edcook9747]

A very cool episode and a preview of what is coming. This family around the world adventure was wonderful, but no thinking person knew it was never going to end. Soon to be a new direction for the whole family. Going to need some soul searching. Renee can learn detailed sailing but clearly would only be doing it for Keith. He knows it. I would know it about my wife. Something different will happen in these lives, my wish is, it ultimately will end happy for all. At least you have the resources ($$) to do what it takes! Good luck and God speed.

[@WilliamWBG]

I get a feeling that Keith and Renee know that the time has come for Jack and Fin to leave the boat and start living their own lives. I just can’t see it being healthy for 18-19-20 year old young men to still be living full time on a sailboat with their parents. This is a wonderful family. The last thing Keith and Renee want is for resentment to be the final chapter of their book. If you listen carefully to Fin and the comments he makes- he is ready to leave now. Yes, there will be separation anxiety but just because you’re not living within 40feet of each other- doesn’t mean you’re not going to ever see them again.

[@tellthetruth1964]

It’s really hard becoming an empty nester. It takes time to adjust. I’m getting ready for my 4th grandchild and it’s the most glorious thing every single time. I could never imagine the joy that my grandchildren bring me. My heart just keeps growing. Everyone have a blessed and beautiful day! Peace and love from Texas 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸

[@cruzinZ]

Keith, your outlook on helping your kids in business will make for a great lifelong connection with them. They are truly blessed. Enjoy & savor your time with them. Time passes way too fast.

[@Wodenseyes]

When my little cousin was 15 he went with me (22) and my little brother (16) to Mexico for a little biz trip of mine and to see Mexico. You’d be surprised how responsible teenagers can be when they don’t have someone to rely on. Ofc he had me but to a point he was on his own. His mom went from seeing him as a baby to a real young man after that and I think the kids doing this is a great idea ❤

[@chanj2109]

"Who am I without my children? 😢" "You're my wife." 😂

[@darrenykema979]

Skinny dipping is the only way to swim I'm with you Renee. No crowds, no people and a place to swim free Rene will learn to sail in time

[@yeah4me1]

Thank you for sharing your lives with us.

[@VivaldisonatainEm]

You got this Renee! Not sure if this would help, but true confession. We went sailing with another family of 4 in Tahiti 2 years ago and the young adult girls with had a melt-down. They were getting very very very detailed and constant instruction from the dads who had just made all their own mistakes re-learning how to sail. We don’t go often enough to be experts. Anyway, my solution, a girls learn how to sail trip with a real instructor in California. I went with them, learned a lot and it was a real special time. I feel much more confident and understand why we are doing certain things when we sail.

[@crdorado1195]

Keith/René, y'all haven't said it lately, but how many miles have you sailed in the past 7 yrs? It's been GREAT that you've shared your family and life with us(viewers). You both have been such great role models for your children. Thanks!

[@TaraTraeger]

Renee, my husband and I are full-time cruisers on our 45' catamaran. We're still learning how to sail and how to do everything alone. If we can do it, you can certainly do it with all of Keith's experience! It's very rewarding knowing you're 💯% dependent on each other!

[@jociexxstars]

this is for all of the whitaker fam: my family discovered your videos through finn's channel a couple months back and this has inspired my dad to want to do this, just staying in places for a longer period of time and doing mission work in the places we stay I signed us up for the bluewater cruising stuff, and we started researching catamarans very similar to yours (I made my dad promise to never get a monohull) and now we're just working on convincing my mom and figuring out how I will pull off school (I'm terrible at homeschool) so thank you guys for recording the experience and giving us the inspiration! maybe if we're lucky we'll get to meet you out on the water!

[@jpsaarin]

I truly love your honesty, one of the main reasons I follow your channel. What amazes me here as with my own family, is how one can spend so much time on a boat without true interest to learn as otherwise most of the things you need to do in a boat are not that complex, it requires just some time to learn them.

[@Twoaussieguys]

I am new to watching your journey of sailing life. All the way from Newcastle Australia. I simply love the bond you have with the boat, the sea, your kids and strangers . I especially loved this episode listening to you both talk about being alone together. Made me appreciate my husband more than I did yesterday!

[@CHICOB4261]

That was a fantastic video of you two without the kids! Thank you both for sharing.😊

[@muravi8167]

The Amalfi coast... was there last year and thanks for bringing in the memories. In fact was really surprised when you selected the anchorage, since its the busiest area cum time of year and the choppy tides.

[@yellowroses8736]

I think it's wonderful that you want to be an active part of your children's lives as they get older. You are both such a blessing to your children. Sadly, I had a non-existent relationship with my mother as an adult because she never took the time to foster that when I was a child. She passed away in 2021, and right up the to final moments before she was put on a ventilator and I never spoke to her again, we had nothing to talk about except whether or not her bills were getting paid while she was in the hospital. That's so tragically sad. We never know just how long we will have with people in this life, and more important than a job, a big house, you name it, is the relationships we have with our loved ones. I missed that with my Mom, but I can promise you that I won't miss it with my kids. You are giving your children quite a gift by wanting to be a part of their lives. It speaks volumes to both of your characters. God bless.

[@ramikhirfan7851]

Lovely episode, so touching moments when Keth and Renée were discussing future with kids and how much they seemed excited to see their grandchildren sailing along them. Great thoughts guys, you make such great and proud parents . ❤

[@farzana6676]

Fck Hamas

[@shades1959]

For me it's called dipping. Nothing skinny here. You guys look great together. Most be doing a lot right. Have fun.

[@bethf8314]

We call it chunky dunking😁

[@larsmartinaasgard]

I've been following you since season one and I need to tell you. Keep sailing solo when the kids move on, this episode definitely proves it :)

[@GaryMCurran]

I've been busy and exhausted, so lots of sleep. I've missed the last three videos, so I decided to watch them binge style. I am so happy that you've raised your kids where you can drop them off on the dock and they can go from Salanero Italy to Switzerland by themselves, and you don't overly worry about about them. Then, the two of you go gallivanting around the Med and the Italian coast by yourselves and have fun. This is truly a great family. Thanks for taking us along.

[@SailingZatara]

It’s taken many years for me to get there 😬 Thanks for watching our show! ~Renee

[@GaryMCurran]

@@SailingZatara Renee, both you and Keith are great parents. I wish there were a LOT more like you.

[@teresakinney955]

You two are so cute! A sense of humor is soooo important and you guys have that for sure.

[@lins8753]

I’m a native Texan (26) and I absolutely adore you two. You remind me of folk back home. Texans just got something else about em 😊

[@LucasEllerNewYork]

The accent.😂😋

[@archstanton9206]

So, for what it is worth from a guy about 10 years ahead of you in life. The empty nest deal doesn't last as long as you would think, it isn't forever. The next phase is the grandkids, and man are they a joy. For us it has been the best of both worlds, grandchildren and privacy. My wife finally retired (I have been retired for 10 yrs) a year ago and we have really enjoyed our time together rediscovering what it was to be "just us" again. Married 43 years together 46 , high school sweethearts and this is the best of times, seeing our children flourish and grandchildren in our lives is an incredible blessing...you are not far behind...so while "empty nest" is around the corner, you need to save the space in the nest for the reward you get for raising good kids... Keith...there is nothing like caving to a silly request from a 4 yr old who wants ice cream for breakfast, but don't expect them to not rat you out to Mom and Dad...I got busted with that last week. Seriously, tho...enjoy every day you two...

[@Prayforwindandsurf]

My wife and I are going to Italy in a couple months and I planned to bare boat the Amalfi coast. I think it would still be special but had the same reaction to over crowding, expensive marinas, limited anchorages. We decide on a land tour Venice, Florence, Rome then Sorrento and Positano. I think Sardinia by boat would be awesome but she wanted to see Amalfi.

[@joannhempen8210]

I love how long I’ve followed y’all. I was re-binging the way back beginning videos and there is so much nostalgia. What y’all were doing vs what I was doing in those early days compared to now. Life is Good❤

[@frantzhuby7687]

I enjoy your kids, watch their chanels but it is quite nice to see you isolated as a couple.. This video brought another dimension. Thanks! Frantz from Seychelles. Leopard 43

[@Is_this_handle_available]

One great thing about the Whitaker kids, other than the fact they are really good kids, is that they are experienced travelers with lots of experience with passport offices, border control checkpoints and so forth, these things would make most people nervous.

[@thinkforyourselfjohn3167]

You two are amazing parents and the epitome of cuteness ❤❤ Thank you for taking us along.

[@aliciaanderson3622]

You got this! No stress. You have a fantastic teacher. ❤❤❤ If you want to learn, it will come!

[@marvsdrone7334]

You can tell what a happy family you are by the number of times you said "we mis our kids". An inspiration to all of us admirers, keep it up! From a jealous Texan.

[@MikeB-in1nd]

You guys have been great parents as a father of 2 thirty something kids I can tell you it just keeps getting better!

[@sachamo100]

Keith is just like me. I love life and want to remain active with our kids. My dream would be to live on a boat but my wife said that is with my next wife! I told her I was going to miss her!😮

[@bnkwupt]

Loved this video of just the two of you! Glad you had a good week to yourselves.

[@ktsillin]

I am in Kansas. Enjoying watching y'alls adventures!

[@bobcat2960]

Keith and Renee, I'm sure you really enjoyed your quiet time without your children around, at the same time, missed having them around just as much. It was nice to watch how you both spent your relaxing time. It'll be a little while before your kids are all moving off Z so Keith has some time to refresh Renee's sailing skills, lol (loved that she admitted it's not her thing) and it's kinda understandable to not want to 'do' that. Maybe one of the kids will stay much longer and not want to leave Z, so time will tell. Hoping you all Stay Healthy, Happy and Safe.

[@grannygear1001]

Oh, Barcelona. A city on my bucket list with all it’s beauty and Gaudi’s amazing mosaics. You must see the church Sagrada Família and the mosaic park Gaudi designed. WOW, lucky you!

[@sheRoyals]

As an empty nester that saw my kids leave and now come back to visit and do life together, YES that is the goal for our family! To be in community together! It’s hard to let them go but they come back and it’s truly the best of life to live with your kids!!! Y’all are so great love your channel!!

[@kris3126]

As she's talking to the camera it's her real feelings she's not thinking of the audience lol her missing the kiddos is so genuine 😊

[@rafaelmartinmeuldijk6030]

yeah... i mis them too

[@Farmnflyin]

Watching the kids depart and the interaction shows how good a job you have done raising your kids.

[@GregSmith803]

What a great channel ... great family ... family values ... and marine travel to boot!!! Keep living the good life :)

[@peterrichards8762]

Love watching you guys Life has many journeys and I look forward to seeing what your future holds 👍

[@Native303]

You two are adorable 🥰. My husband and I have been married 15 yrs and we don't have kids, but it's so cute to see you both happy and interaction together. My husband is in privet equity so we get to travel a ton together. It would be a joy to meet up with you folks some time. ❤

[@cor10a]

I love that you let your kids experience life and explore!

[@SkylinersYeti]

Being empty nesters is different but great. We do enjoy our time when the children and grandchildren come to visit. Life is good. The week has given you time to think about when the children leave the nest and go our on their own. As a couple would you consider downsizing to a smaller boat?

[@lyndabell7402]

Keith, you certainly married the right girl! Renee, though you be small YOU are brave! Thank you for sharing your journey!

[@Bigfish300]

Been following you for years and have never seen you two without the kids... Must be a huge change

[@10GOLDENWOOD20]

Admirable, how you share. Okay, it's no secret that I admire your anchor. What does the bridle do? I love how you love your kids...and one another.

[@Bentleyvillew2m]

Your the new Days of are Lives we enjoy your family keep posting from Kentucky,Randy

[@TheRewindKing]

Well said! Just good love it keep it up

[@davidthompson1583]

you too are great. love ya though i don't know ya. Such a great family. Really enjoying all the Whitaker family youtube videos...stay happy and healthy

[@sheilamcdonough5191]

You two are so sweet together. Love your family.

[@d.nelson8107]

Hi Zatara Family, We have been watching you all since the beginning, when you packed up and headed from Texas to the biggest adventure of all of your lives!! You are an amazing family and we love you guys! Everyone of you have such a sense of humor,especially you Keith! We also watch Finn’s channel and he’s a riot. We laugh so hard! Renee thank you very much for all the hard work you do, filming, editing it’s very much appreciated!! Love the Med Crew to their also amazing.Your Loyal fans from Northeast Ga Mountains USA ❤️❤️

[@genevievemay3461]

One thing I’ve learned is that you start out married life as a couple, you may or may not have kids, but hopefully you’re going to live out your life as a couple. The kids will forge their own paths and it’s difficult, but you have to let them go then they may or may not, choose to have you in their lives. It’s their lives, not yours. I’ve had to learn this so when my kids want me in their lives it’s great, but it’s ultimately their lives and not yours. PS. I’m 62 and love skinny dipping too!!!

[@John-co6mo]

Poor Keith, Renee is a wreck without the kids. I've never heard her whinge so much. I know the feeling. My adult daughters now live in Brisbane, 930kms from my home in Sydney since 2015 😢

[@margaretm9028]

You two are incredible parents. ❤

[@SturmVomAlk]

So glad to see a Keith and Renee centric episode. Would be very interested in watching more like this.

[@johnreynolds7546]

Ahhh marriage. Can't live with each other, can't live without each other. 🤠

[@Tom-vk6ij]

Keith likely will not say this, but he truly loves and worships his wife - heck - we agree, we watch because of her! ;)

[@zino6310]

I WAS WAITING TO KEITH SAILING NAKED🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤔🤔🤔👍❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️👍👍👍👍❤️🤣🤣😜🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊

[@MrTerrybp]

Loved this! Seasons of life , but that’s the challenge for change . I appreciate your focus on family life. Staying open and having time to communicate this as a family is awesome. Thank you

[@jackmacjr]

Empty Nest you two. Work together not against each other . You will love the results doing it together , I wish me and my wife could have done things like what you two are doing before she passed away !...!...!

[@carylcarbone3264]

I dont know if you 2 realize...but you set a really great example. Great parents....i really look up 2 you both..

[@jimjefftube]

Always enjoy your channel. You and Kieth will always be together because of your laughter. People that laugh together, stay together in spite of the rolly waves!

[@greglink9163]

I just love your family. Man keep it going. God Bless. Greg and Tammy Spokane, WA

[@TFP117morgan]

Another great one! And I loved what Keith said about being involved with the kids & wherever life takes them & keeping those bonds & sharing it with "new Whitakers" as they join the family! Thanks as always for sharing your journey with us all!!

[@outabeat]

A colleague of mine once told me, "when you have teenagers that leave home to go away to college, its like having one of those retractable leashes you would always put on your dog when you take him for a walk. The leash gets longer and longer and then the kid leaves for school and the leash comes off. And at that point you're still a parent and provide guidance but it's more like a friendship than mentoring." And yes when the kids are gone the house is unusually quiet. But the grocery bills are way more affordable.

[@justincase5272]

Your second, "significantly better" anchorage reminded me of how the lake would calm down in the evening after all the other boaters left for the day. Skiing late in the day was like skiing on glass!

[@bigkings.8804]

I enjoyed every bit of it. Thank you from Seattle WA.

[@chrisdunn3235]

I have every reason to believe that you two are going to be just fine. Life would be so boring without a little spat now and then anyway. The kids may leave some day but they'll never be very far away for sure. I see the way they all love you both and love being with you. So many kids these days just can't wait to get away from mom and dad and I certainly don't see that happening with your kids at all. At any rate, this was a really nice picture into your life together as a couple and everything's gonna be alright, as they say. Much love to you both from Indy!!

[@georgestone2083]

You and your family are so blessed to be able to do the things you all love. I enjoy all the different places you have gone to. Thank you