Married 25 Years Today and Happy About It

It doesn’t seem like Chuck and I have been married 25 years. He even mentioned today that time must have sped up or some time warp developed, because there’s no way we’ve been married this long.

When Chuck and I walked down the aisle a quarter of a century ago, we were both a little nervous. I’d read all those magazine articles about how to have a successful relationship, and it all sounded really hard. You had to think about every little thing you said and did. I’m not sure what Chuck was worried about, but he admitted shortly after we were married that he was relieved he still had some “alone” time to himself.

Time has flown by and marriage has been a lot easier than we ever imagined. Having said that, there is a thing or two we’ve learned that worked for us.

Great Grandma Was Right

My mom told me that her grandmother told her that when you met the right guy, you’ll know. After many years of dating and finding great guys, but not the right guy, I was concerned that I was too stupid to know a good thing when I saw it. Sure enough, it didn’t take long before I realized Chuck was the one; it was the day I realized I couldn’t imagine him not being in my life.

Great Grandmother Dema also said that you should “season a guy.” This is good advice, too. You need to know someone at least a year and see him in all types of situations before deciding to spend your life with that person.

Let Go of Preconceptions

I thought I knew how married life was supposed to be, but it turns out that the definition of how to act in a marriage depends on the folks involved. For instance, I thought as a loving wife I would need to cook dinner every night. Turns out I dislike cooking every night and Chuck loves it. Lucky me!

Be Thankful

When it comes right down to it, no one really has to do anything. A spouse can become a couch potato and not lift a finger and you’re stuck with the situation, unless you opt for divorce. So, when my husband cooks, takes out the trash, etc., I say thank you and he says the same to me. Doing things around the house for the other person is a sign of respect and love; certainly that deserves politeness!

Pollyanna Was on to Something

The author of the book, “Pollyanna” was given a hard time, because the main character was always looking on the bright side. I highly recommend it in a marriage. Focus on the good in your spouse and maybe they’ll focus on the good on you. Leaves room for not being perfect – and having the option of not being perfect is really important.

Be Lucky

This isn’t advice, but it helps if you believe in it. We do.

Here’s to 25 more years with Chuck and 25 more after that.