Yesterday, Tim and I celebrated 8 years of marriage. We were able to get away for one night to have some alone time and celebrate our love. We returned to the same place we went on our anniversary when I was pregnant with Luke. Ohio isn’t exactly known for its scenic hiking, but there are a few places that are like hidden gems among the mundane landscape that makes up much of this state.
I think it’s important to have time to spend with just your spouse, so we try to get away for a night every year on our anniversary. We’re blessed to have family that are willing to stay with our kids so we can have that crucial time to reconnect.
After 8 years of marriage, I’ve learned that marriage isn’t easy, but that’s okay. None of the good, valuable things in life are easy, right?
I’ve also learned that going through life with your best friend is a wonderful thing and I never forget how blessed I am to be married to someone I truly enjoy spending time with.
As with any marriage, we have our days when we are living in a bit of a haze. Life with kids, work, and a myriad of responsibilities can be draining.
One night away was just what we needed. We stayed in a cabin with no television and no cell phone service. No distractions. We had a quiet, long dinner and then a night where not one child’s little voice called “Mommy!” despite the rain that fell all night long. (Tell me my five-year-old isn’t the only one afraid of thunder storms?)
Then we hiked, and went home. An abbreviated trip, yes, but I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend my anniversary.
And I definitely could not ask for a better man to spend my life with. Here’s to 8X8 more years!
I’ll be back with recipes and the such soon. I hope everyone is having a great week!
Luna says
I loved this post! Happy Anniversary to you both and by the way, your legs are so awesome– please post more workouts soon!!
Maryea says
Aw thanks, Luna! More Fitness Friday posts will be coming your way soon (one will be up shortly actually, although it doesn’t have a workout in it). Summer+traveling+activities has made it tough to be consistent with the FF posts! I’m working on it though. 🙂
Amy says
Congrats on 8 years! It is important to do special things with just you and your spouse to keep your marriage strong. Even just getting away the one night does wonders… it’s crazy!
We are counting down the days till our 2 getaways this year. One in September (just us), and another weekend getaway in November with 2 other couples. I think the timing is perfect. We’ll need some alone time after our beach family vacation in August and the Nov trip will be great before the busy holiday times begin.
Oh, and my 4 year old is scared of storms too… It’s raining here today and he kept reminding me this morning how he did not like the thunder.
Maryea says
I agree–even one night away feels amazing! Have fun on your getaways! Both sound awesome.
Alina says
Happy Anniversary, Maryea! Reconnecting with your husband and having a much needed break fills your batteries up and makes you ready to get back to the kids and care for them with renewed force :).
My husband and I love to go on dates. Sometimes mini dates, for a few hours, other times longer, overnight. We have been married for 8 years as well (our anniversary is at the end of July) and we have 2 children like you do (a boy and a girl).
Thank you, Maryea, for the great recipes that you post. I love them!
Maryea says
Thanks so much, Alina! I agree–date nights are important, too! Even a couple hours at a quiet dinner is great for our marriage.
Jillian says
Happy anniversary! Glad you were able to get away for the night!
Maryea says
Thank you! 🙂