Look how we’ve changed

We’re heavier (mostly me), move slower (mostly her), rely more on pain meds and sleep while standing up.

But look what else has happened after 24 years of marriage. We might be doing something right.

At first, we would draw up legal docs to see who would change the diaper first. I pretended to be asleep when the baby woke up in the middle of the night. Now I’ll go and do her laundry without being asked. I won’t moan (as much) when she needs me to get her some medicine.

Back when we started, I used to long for stuff. I couldn’t wait for our first VCR, our first computer and first television larger than a phonebook. Now I long for when I can get home to see my family. I relish dinner conversations, thoughtful notes and tender moments with the boys at bedtime.

When we were first married, I had to be right. I knew more about cars, the right way to get into bed or the best way to cook a steak. Now it’s easier to say, “you’re right,” and really mean it.

When we were first married, it was so easy to get angry, to red in the face and stomp around the room. Now it’s easier to just smile. It’s fun discovering how powerful a soft voice can be.

When we were first married, everything was more important than listening to her. Now more and more, I sit down just to focus on her and nothing else.

Still can’t believe how much I was the slob king when we first started. Now my biggest challenge is to shut doors and push in chairs.

Check back again in 25 more years. Who knows what will happen next.