Like many of our readers, the Kramer family logs hundreds of windshield hours a year enroute to various competitions and activities. Within seconds of leaving the driveway, our kids don their headphones and electronic devices, remaining relatively quiet for the duration of the trip. That is, of course, until a battle for the last remaining charging cord breaks the silence.

Despite our best efforts to encourage books and conversation over device usage, my wife and I lost that battle years ago. And so, our road trips provide ample time for conversation and planning among the two of us.

Many conversations occur, and I do enjoy the chats. But I’ve also been known to sigh when my wife predictably positions her enormous three-ring, color-coded, organized and categorized planner on her lap to discuss a host of agenda items: summer vacation ideas, calendars, kids’ activities, work meetings and the lot. My wife is serious about keeping a tidy and detailed calendar.