Married Ten Years!

Goofy as ever, at "A Toast For Tails, May 2019."

Ten years ago I thought it was funny that one could use the words "Leanne" and "married" in the same sentence. By age 50, after several failed relationships, I'd considered myself a dedicated hermitess, having spent more time alone than most everyone I knew. "I'll probably learn more about myself by being alone, than in a relationship," I thought bravely.
Ha!
HaHa!
HaHaHaHaHaHa!

We've faced a number of obstacles and challenges, yet here we are, and not without a shyte-ton of work, each one marveling at our partner who, unlike many souls walking the earth, isn't the slightest bit interested in competing with the other.
​Mutual appreciation for things goofy and wacky also helps.

​We sought counseling when our difficulties seemed insurmountable. Thanks to our therapist who studied at the Gottman Institute, we learned about the "Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse" as regards relationships: Criticism, Defensiveness, Contempt and Stonewalling. Like most people, we had a hearty dose of 'em all, but were willing to work on banishing them. Of course, one of us still blows it now and then and we erupt into a short-lived argument followed by heartfelt apologies and often, dinner out!

When we first reconnected (we were make-out buddies in the drama department of our high school on Long Island, then lost touch for 36 years), I had little appreciation for country music, or the entire state of Texas. Thanks to Wayne, I've been to Austin a number of times, and although I still legitimately turn my nose up at mainstream pop country, I've developed quite a liking for the twang and swing varieties. Plus it's like visiting a whole 'nother country.

Extra points for us: We renovated our house, room by room, while living in it. During that time we survived mental illness, family drama, a few kooky contractors and one huge injury. But we carried on, warts and all. Luckily, we have design, taste, and check-writing skills that compliment each other. 

For our 10th Anniversary this year we decided to take a small road trip to the Historic Carousel and Museum in Albany, Oregon, relax in the hotel's indoor pool and spa, and eat the kind foods we rarely do. While we were gob-smacked over the beauty of the carousel and the diversity of animals, alas, we forgot to photograph ourselves...

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