Valentine's Day

Why we don't celebrate Valentine's Day: First of all, I don't mean to criticize those of you who do celebrate this wonderful day. No, it is not a religious standpoint that keeps us from honoring this day. It is simply that we care and lift each other up EVERY DAY. I can't explain to anyone who has never felt the quickening of a heart at thinking of her beloved but that is what happens to me every time I think of my husband.

It's not easy to put yourself second when you want to do something and your spouse wants to do something else. But it is always worth it. My life is so easy because he works so hard!

It wasn't always so wonderful. Raising kids is a wonderful time in a marriage with lots of hard work and laughter and bonding. But, it was hard on our relationship as a couple. Our time, talent, energy, everything was spent on the kids. There wasn't much left for the two of us. It is easier now that our youngest is driving and we are a little more able to spend time together, just the two of us. So we decided a few years ago that because life is short, we would make it great for each other! We started by walking together to get back into shape and while we walked, we talked. About. Everything. It was a time of great growth. Not always pretty, but so necessary. Honesty.Transparency. Did we really think we could hide stuff from each other? We've been together since high school for goodness sake. We are soul mates. In the heat of battle we never forgot that we were meant to be together. We still walk (and run but not well) together and talk all the time and our workouts have morphed into some pretty grueling weight training separately. But the reason is that we want to have as healthy a life as possible going forward so that neither of us should be a burden to the other. That may not be possible as accidents can happen, surely. But we take care of ourselves now.

A surprising and fun thing that happened along the way is that we now can laugh at ourselves and gently at each other.

We see so many marriages dissolving around us and feel it is important to share our story. Hang in there and make a commitment to each other while it still is possible. Forgive. Be Honest. Move forward on a new track. Laugh. Get in shape. See the world. Travel. Make memories.

With God and family sweetly supporting us as a couple we continue to learn and grow how to be good to each other and the world around us.

Thank you, sweetie! Have a great day!

And to the rest of you, Happy Valentine's Day!