Anniversary Traditions: Happy 11 Years, Matt!

It’s no secret that I love rituals and traditions. I’ve got parenting rituals, birthday rituals, Valentine’s Day rituals, Christmas rituals. And probably other ones I’m not thinking of right now. So it’s no surprise that Matt and I have anniversary traditions, too!

We decided many years ago not to give each other gifts on our anniversary. Honestly, it’s tough enough thinking of meaningful birthday and Christmas gifts year after year! Instead, we decided that one partner would plan an experience for us to share. The other partner would write a letter to commemorate our year together. Each year, we alternate who does what. This year it’s my turn to write the letter. Here it goes…

Anniversary Traditions: Letter to Matt

Dearest Matt,

I am so grateful to have another year with you in the books. As morbid as it sounds, I would be okay if I accidentally died one day soon—my heart is full with everything I have gotten to experience in life: you as a lifetime partner, our children, our home, a meaningful career connected to social justice, adventures, daily fun. I could not possibly ask for more.

But don’t worry. I’m not planning on going anywhere. I can’t wait to scour the country to find the perfect retirement community for us in many, many years from now!

This year has been another great one. For Fall Break, we trekked to one of our favorite places on Earth: Stinson Beach. We even worked our way into the very elusive and protected city of Bolinas.

You were such a trooper on the Spring Break cruise. We made so many fun memories with our children. It was better than Golden Corral.

And our summer vacation to upstate New York definitely goes onto my list of Top Ten Family Vacations. I just love exploring new places with you.

Even the small adventures are a blast with you by my side. Lockhart. My 41st birthday party with a massive cheese plate and dancing.

When we aren’t adventuring, you make the day-to-day even better. You hold down the fort with your morning routines, bed time routines, steadfast commitment to laundry and lunch-making. My college feminist self could not have imagined a better partner. You are gentle, you are comfortable being vulnerable, and you are unafraid of being both masculine and feminine.

Years ago when I was running on the Memorial Park trail, my mind asked myself a question. It asked, “What was the best decision you’ve ever made?” Before I even finished getting the question out, another part of my brain instinctively answered, “Marrying Matt.”

And that’s still my answer.

Thank you for everything, Love! Happy 11 years. And here’s to many more!