How Our Anniversary Has Evolved Over the Years

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Updated: March 30, 2021

Originally Published: September 25, 2016

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Recently, my partner and I celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary, and with each passing year, it feels increasingly like we’re beating the odds. Perhaps it’s our deep love for one another that keeps us together, or maybe it’s just our shared stubbornness.

I often reflect on our first anniversary. We were so smug, well-rested, and wrinkle-free. Life had barely begun. At just 26, we had two incomes and no kids, making it through every dinner without a single tantrum or complaint. If I could, I’d go back in time, poke myself in the eye, and shout, “Cherish all that spontaneous intimacy, you fool!” But, as they say, times change, and so do anniversaries. Here’s how ours have transformed:

1. Marking the Date

   Then: Back then, my calendar was blissfully empty except for a big, red heart on our special day. I had little else to juggle besides taking my birth control and getting to work on time.

   Now: This year, our anniversary coincided with the first day of school, and while my calendar still featured that red heart, it represented a whole different kind of excitement.

2. Celebrating in Style

   Then: Our first-year celebration included a dreamy couples’ spa retreat—complete with candles, massages, and soft music.

   Now: This year, the only retreat involved hastily escaping the school parking lot after drop-off.

3. Gift-Giving

   Then: We exchanged gifts made of paper (I think I received a journal?) since that’s the traditional first-anniversary gift. Talk about cliché!

   Now: I had to look up the 15th-anniversary gift, which is crystal, and honestly, I didn’t bother with that.

4. Personal Grooming

   Then: Showering and shaving were daily rituals.

   Now: My husband knows it’s a special day when I manage to check both off the list.

5. Dining Out

   Then: We dined at a fancy restaurant, where the silverware alone was enough to impress.

   Now: We struggled to find a babysitter, but we did squeeze in a dinner—yes, with plenty of forks. Sadly, they were mostly on the floor thanks to our kids.

6. Creaking Sounds

   Then: The only creaking came from the bed.

   Now: It’s more about our knees than anything else.

7. Adult Toys

   Then: *ahem*

   Now: The only battery-operated item we have now is a plush snowman who randomly yells, “Hi! I’m Olaf! Wanna be my friend?” at the most inconvenient moments.

8. Future Aspirations

   Then: We envisioned a life filled with kids, a dog, and our own home.

   Now: Our dreams mostly revolve around sleeping in and hoping to pay off the mortgage in less than a thousand years.

After all these years together, my husband and I have mastered the art of romance. I support him during his parenting battles, while he ensures the toilet seat is down at night so I don’t fall in and have a heart attack. We’ve also learned that meaningful moments don’t need to be extravagant; they often happen in the shared glances across the room when we both realize our 4-year-old just exclaimed, “This is ridiculous!” and we can’t help but chuckle.

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Summary:

Reflecting on 15 years of marriage, Emily discusses how her anniversary celebrations have evolved from extravagant plans and gifts to simpler, more meaningful moments filled with laughter and understanding. The couple’s journey through parenthood has changed their perspectives on romance and life together.