I find myself in the middle stages of life, and while that might sound intimidating, I actually embrace it. Middle-aged folks are often stereotyped as wrinkled, listening to talk radio while driving sensible cars. But I feel vibrant and youthful (at least in spirit). Sure, I’ve adopted some typical middle-aged habits, like tuning into “90s on 9” and investing in eye creams. My nightwear has become decidedly more practical, but that’s just part of the journey.
What’s more, my marriage has also matured. At 42, with my husband at 48, we’ve built a life filled with four children, a mortgage, a minivan, and retirement accounts. Evenings spent watching “Dateline” and enjoying Netflix reruns are our idea of bliss. The highlight of my Christmas season last year was scoring the last inflatable nutcracker and celebrating like we’d just won a game show. It was a stellar moment.
As my husband approaches 50, I cherish him for his low expectations. He appreciates me just as I am. When we first met nearly 20 years ago, I was the picture of youth with my model-like figure and trendy outfits. Now, my body tells a different story with its C-section scar and yoga pants that see no yoga. I even wear custom orthotics for my plantar fasciitis—definitely not glamorous! But none of this fazes him; he’s bought me a shirt that reads, “This Is My Christmas Movie Watching Shirt,” not for its allure, but for its comfort.
Date nights still happen, and I enjoy dressing up, but I feel at peace with who I am today—someone devoted to family rather than a high-powered career. Our middle-aged marriage isn’t boring; it’s comfortable. I’ve simplified meal prep, focusing on what our kids enjoy, like buttered noodles and Shake ‘N Bake. My husband, much like my own dad, will eat just about anything, but he claims my sandwiches are the best in the world. There’s nothing fancy about it; he appreciates the effort I put in.
Of course, our relationship isn’t without conflict. We argue like any couple, but with age comes a sense of perspective. Is it worth it to prolong disagreements? We’ve learned to agree to disagree, though I must say he’s often mistaken! Our squabbles usually end with me declaring my dislike for him, followed by his laughter.
I may not resemble that young woman in heels anymore, but my husband has journeyed with me through every phase. He was by my side during my C-section and supported me when I was scared for his safety after his accident. Together, we’ve navigated the challenges of parenthood, from dealing with a broken dishwasher to comforting sick kids. We’ve weathered storms but have never lost sight of each other.
What I cherish most about our life together is looking toward the future. We’ve conquered those hectic years of raising little ones and transitioned into fulfilling careers, fully supporting each other through it all. With a child soon entering high school, we’re savoring these fleeting moments before our nest empties.
And when that day comes, I believe we will still find joy in our companionship. On this journey toward old age, I relish the simple moments in our middle-aged marriage. Whether it’s making him a sandwich or greeting him with gratitude when he surprises me with flowers, these gestures signify our love. I’ll keep the bed made with fresh sheets, filling the air with the scent of Tide, something he adores.
As Huey Lewis and the News famously sang, “Yes, it’s true. I’m so happy to be stuck with you.”
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In summary, my middle-aged marriage has grown into a source of profound happiness. We’ve embraced the calm and comfort of our relationship, and I look forward to cherishing each moment as we continue this journey together.