Someone once told me that ‘marriage’ should always be a verb, not a noun. It takes hard work and it deserves to be rewarded. No one is going to hand you a medal for making it through the finish line of another year, but it should be celebrated because each year you are married brings you one step closer to defying the odds. Anniversaries are the perfect time to appreciate each other and this partnership you have with no one else. Sometimes work, kids, household chores, and family responsibilities will make you feel like it’s impossible to find the time to celebrate, but it’s so important that you do. I’m no marriage expert, but here are a few things I’ve picked up about anniversaries in the last 18 years:
ALONE IS IDEAL. When you have small kids it’s easy to just say, “Let’s bring them along.” But we all know that when kids are there it becomes all about them. This is the time to hire a babysitter or cash in on some favors.
NO GIFTS. Everyone is different, but personally, I don’t need a present on my anniversary. I feel like it’s not about giving anything except attention and time. (Although I’ll never say no to a card!)
STAY OVERNIGHT. This is the perfect time for a getaway! Head somewhere romantic where you can relax and be alone. One night is all you need!
NOT A PLANNER? STEP IT UP! Remember, it is an anniversary for BOTH of you and it’s nice if each person makes the effort to plan it instead of the same person doing it each year. This is the time to step it up, do a little research, and show them you care.
SURPRISE!! Most people LOVE surprises and an anniversary is the perfect opportunity to whisk someone away unexpectedly or surprise them with something they’ve always wanted to do.
CHEAP IS FINE! An anniversary doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of things you could do that cost nothing. Go for a nice hike, walk around the city and have lunch in the park, write a love letter.
DAY DATE: I have plenty of friends that go on lunch dates. Some even go out while the kids are at school. Yeah for free babysitting!
DINNER: Sometimes you just can’t find a sitter, so this is the perfect time to make a nice dinner together. Pour a glass of wine, put on some music, and make a meal you can enjoy after the kids go to bed.
RESCHEDULE…BUT BE SPECIFIC. Celebrating your June anniversary in September? That’s fine but be specific about WHEN you are going to celebrate. If you say “someday” it will never happen.
Whatever you end up doing, just make sure you do SOMETHING!
Reflect on your past year…the good and the bad. Show your kids that you value your relationship and give them couple goals to strive towards. Most of all, look forward to growing old together and celebrating this milestone for many more years to come!
