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I find myself in the realm of middle age. It sounds a bit intimidating, doesn’t it? The stereotype is that middle-aged folks are wrinkled, listen solely to talk radio, and drive practical cars. But that’s not quite me. I still feel youthful and vibrant (at least I like to think so). However, I’ve picked up a few markers of this stage in life.
I now enjoy the “90s on 9” radio station and have lost touch with current top 40 hits. My skincare routine has expanded to include eye creams and serums, and I prefer sensible nightgowns. While I’ve embraced my middle-aged habits, my marriage has also matured.
Honestly, I’ve never been happier. At 42, with my husband, who is 48, we have four children, a mortgage, a minivan, and retirement accounts. We look forward to watching Dateline and are more than content with Netflix reruns. Our quest for excitement is minimal; in fact, the highlight of my Christmas season last year was finding the last inflatable nutcracker and high-fiving him as if we’d just won big on The Price Is Right. It was a memorable moment.
I truly adore my husband as he approaches 50. He has minimal expectations of me, which is refreshing. He loves me just as I am.
When we began our journey together nearly 20 years ago, I was a different person—fit and fashionable in heels that made me feel like a model. Now, I sport a C-section scar and yoga pants that have yet to see a yoga studio. I also wear custom orthotics for my plantar fasciitis. Doesn’t that sound appealing?
He doesn’t mind. He’s bought me things like a T-shirt that reads, “This Is My Christmas Movie Watching Shirt.” Not because it’s sexy, but because it’s comfy and oversized—his way of showing he cares.
Don’t get me wrong; we still enjoy date nights where I dress up. I haven’t completely let myself go. I’ve just found comfort in who I am now, someone devoted to home and family, not a corporate go-getter. And that’s perfectly fine with both of us.
Our middle-aged marriage isn’t dull; it’s cozy. We have a rotation of meals that come and go. I’m no longer crafting elaborate dishes as I did when it was just the two of us. Our kids prefer simple buttered noodles and Shake ‘N Bake, and he never complains. Maybe it’s a dad thing, but he’ll eat just about anything I serve. His favorite? A sandwich made by me. He insists that I make sandwiches better than anyone else.
There’s nothing extravagant, yet I believe he appreciates it simply because it’s me doing it for him. When he asks for something, I’m quick to oblige because it brings him joy. Those small gestures are what sustain our marriage.
Is everything perfect? Definitely not! We argue; that’s natural. But here’s the beauty of being middle-aged—you begin to realize that not everything is worth a prolonged debate. Sure, you want to be right, but dragging it out for days? No thanks.
As we’ve matured together, we’ve learned the value of agreeing to disagree. (Even though he should know he’s usually wrong). Our disagreements often end with me declaring my dislike for him, followed by his laughter, and that’s the end of it.
I may not be the girl in heels anymore, but I’m a new woman, and he’s been by my side through it all. He was there when I received that C-section scar, and he helped me during my recovery. I rushed to the hospital after his accident, praying for his safety. Together, we’ve tackled household chores and cared for our sick kids. We’ve supported each other through challenging times and have never given up on one another.
What I cherish most about our middle-aged marriage is our vision for the future—together for the long haul. We’ve navigated the chaotic years of parenting toddlers and are now in stable careers we love, wholeheartedly supporting each other. With a child soon entering high school, we realize how fleeting time is, so we’re savoring every moment until our nest empties.
And one day, when it does, I believe we’ll still find joy in each other’s company. As I journey toward old age, I hope for the chance to relish the ordinary moments of our middle-aged marriage. When he asks for a sandwich, I’ll pause to prepare one. On days he surprises me with flowers, I’ll greet him with a kiss and a heartfelt thank you, knowing he thought of me. I’ll make the bed with fresh sheets before he arrives at bedtime so he can enjoy the scent of his beloved Tide.
And I’ll continue to echo the wise words of Huey Lewis and The News: “Yes, it’s true. I’m so happy to be stuck with you.”
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Summary
This article reflects on the joyful aspects of a middle-aged marriage, highlighting the comfort and contentment that come with time spent together. The author shares personal anecdotes that illustrate the evolution of their relationship, emphasizing the importance of small gestures, shared experiences, and mutual support. The piece captures the essence of finding happiness in the mundane moments of life and celebrating the journey of love that matures over time.
Keyphrase:
middle-aged marriage happiness
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