I do.

I do.”

2 words.

Simple.

Powerful.

Full of promise, excitement and oozing with love when I spoke them exactly 24 years ago as a young bride. Wow! Twenty-four years is a looooong time. That’s a lot of ups and downs and in-betweens for two people to experience together!

To celebrate our 24th anniversary, here are twelve observations I’ve made about marriage…

1. It’s okay to have different hobbies and interests, as long as you are still interested in each other.

2. “I’m sorry” and “I forgive you” are the most effective and powerful words in a lasting relationship.

 

3. Marriage is work. Nobody tells you how much work when you are out buying a white dress.

4. The work is worth it when you realize it has created a safe, secure, fulfilling place to just be you. To be loved and respected even with all your quirks, faults and messy parts.

5. A marriage also requires compromise. Lots and lots of compromise. Especially when setting the thermostat.

 

6. God gave us a sense of humor so we can laugh at our wrinkles and diminished short-term memories together. Now why did I walk in this room again? Have you seen my glasses? Do you want some of my Retinol cream, honey?

7. After 20+ years of marriage, watching your husband empty the dishwasher could be considered foreplay. And yes, plaid flannel is considered lingerie.

 

8. A good marriage is one where each partner secretly suspects they got the better deal.

9. Having kids can make a strong marriage even stronger, but I wouldn’t recommend procreating as a way to save a struggling relationship. Odds are that will backfire. Kids are even more work than marriage.

 

10. Love is in the simple stuff, like having a husband make you coffee every morning. And telling you if you have a booger peeking out your nostril.

11. Marriage is not just a spiritual connection on a blissful wedding day, it’s also an eternity of snoring, sharing the TV remote, and taking out the trash.

 

12. Marriage is not a noun; it’s a verb. It isn’t something you get. It’s something you do.

Marty Radi, after 24 years, I’m still so very glad we said “I do.” I’m honored for the opportunity to be your wife and to grow old with you. Now, will you please help me empty the dishwasher?

6 Comments on “I do.”

    1. Thank you, Kathie. It’s hard to believe how quickly 24 years flies by. We must celebrate the good stuff!

  1. Very well said Kelly! 🙂 I have a few years on you in the marriage dept. and a couple of more kids, but I agree 100% with what you wrote. Happy 24th Anniversary. I am blessed to know you both!

  2. Happy anniversary to the 2 of you. Your observations are so spot on! I think I see another book series in your future Kelly!!!

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