The Good Kind of Anniversaries

I never really questioned the model for long term relationships when I was a young person, but as a woman in the second half of my life, I am amazed (and blessed) to have found someone when I was newly booted out of my parent's nest who I have happily spent the middle of my life with.

It has been 34 years, three cities, four children, ten dogs, two cats, and a number of fish and I am still enjoying the ride.  Our offspring are all in the adult age range and while not completely independent, they are acting their age. 

So the back end of a long term relationship that includes children looks very much like the front end in that it is just the two of you.  What you lack in vigor and youth you hopefully make up for with the comfort and joy that comes with knowing someone up close and personal for many many years.   That and the fact that you bred together.  So all those of you in long term relationships--cherish them.  This is the person who knows you best.  For those of you not, figure out why that isn't working for you and if it suits you, get that element of peace in your life.  Remember what the research shows: a good long term relationship is worth $100,000/year in income.  For those of us not in the rarefied air of the .01%, that is a good compensation for the work of keeping a relationship together.