Celebrating Marriage

It was my 20-year wedding anniversary this week – quite the milestone. I never thought I’d be married 20 years. Now, don’t get me wrong, I would have never gotten married if I didn’t think it was forever, but 20 years!

People say marriage is a lot of work. I don’t see it as “work.” It’s more about patience, tolerance, acceptance…am I revealing too much? What do you think marriage is?

My husband is busy all the time. He loves socializing, parties, surprises and travel. I, on the other hand, love my home, small gatherings of family and friends, reading and pajamas (I’m in them as I write this).

For our 5-year anniversary we went to Las Vegas. The next thing I knew we were in the Little White Chapel renewing our wedding vows (surprise!) with friends. At 10 years we had a huge party with our family and friends with dinner, dancing and a martini bar that ended with breakfast and Tylenol. For our 15-year anniversary I was working in Chicago. We went out to a quiet dinner with just the two of us but then he surprised me with a private party weekend with 10 couples.

Did I mention my husband loves surprises?

So, I was prepared this year. I insisted on no surprises, just a simple dinner with a few friends. When I walked in and saw the ice sculpture, I knew I was married to the same man I fell in love with 20 years ago.

To my husband, thank you for being patient, tolerant and accepting of me.

Dr. Viv