Happily Ever

I had a friend tell me once that she and her husband don't live together. I was horrified at this statement as it so nonchalantly rolled out of her mouth. I couldn't believe how casually she felt about their living arrangements. I couldn't for the life of me wrap my head around it...and then I moved in with my significant other. And completely understood why they live apart. Please don't misunderstand what I am saying here, I am just saying that I now understand why my friend and her husband live apart.

I find it ironic how as we grow up all we want to do is find that someone special, move in together and live happily ever after. The part that "they" (being the ever knowing gods) fail to mention is that before 'happily ever after' happens, there is the "adjustment" period. All women out there reading this know exactly what I am talking about. The toilet seat that use to always be down, winds up never touching porcelain again. That stash of chocolate that you use to keep in your fridge is never there when you need it. It seems as though you now have a fraternity of boys living in your house. Everything that use to be nice in your home is either broken or now contains something that looks like cheese. Is it a huge adjustment? You bet your ass it is. Is it going to get better? In time I believe it will.

It's these particular times that I long for my 1000 sq. ft. condo. When I would put something down (like the toilet seat) and miraculously it would still be down the next time I used it. But then I am shaken back to reality and realize that there are some good things about my new living arrangements. Like the fact that we see each other every night. We get to discuss the events of our day over a home cooked meal; sitting out on the deck enjoying each other’s company. We get to laugh at the same silly things the dogs do, it's all these things and more that make living together worth it.

I don't know how other couples have dealt with this, but we're both trying to make more of an effort to be less demanding and more conscience. For those of you who know us both, you will know which characteristic each of us is working on. Has it been successful, partially yes. We still have a long way to go but hopefully in time this "adjustment" period will be over so we can enjoy our 'Happily Ever After'.