My husband isn’t at home on a karaoke stage, nor in a choir or a Zumba fitness class. Similarly, I’m not at home on a fishing boat, in the woods hunting, or working deep within a technical, hands-on problem. Yet, we are home with each other.
As we celebrate our 27th anniversary this year—once again, from different continents—I’m reminded that despite the miles between us, those miles seem to vanish because we are ‘home’ together. I believe that in any marriage or partnership that endures over the years, there must be that shared feeling of ‘being home’ with each other, to navigate life’s trials and joys. ‘Being home’ means feeling safe to be yourself with one another. It means knowing your spouse or partner so well that you’re both committed to supporting each other in becoming the best versions of yourselves—and extending grace and forgiveness when you inevitably fall short. ‘Being home’ is about helping to make what nourishes your partner’s soul a reality.
Today, my husband is ‘home’ in our new home back in the US, working diligently to prepare it for our future life and feeding his soul through quiet and rest. Meanwhile, I am ‘home’ here in Germany, supporting our youngest as she begins her final year of high school. For the past three years, our anniversary has been celebrated across continents due to circumstances beyond our control, such as the challenges of helping our adult children with university moves while we’re overseas. Yet, even when we’re not physically together for these milestones, we’ve remained ‘at home’ with each other. WhatsApp messaging and technology certainly helps, but it still requires communication and prioritization—foundations that are essential in any strong marriage or partnership.
Over the years, we’ve lived in many homes, across the U.S. and now in Europe. I remember countless moments of uncertainty, not knowing where our next home would be—sometimes not even which state or country. Yet, we always reminded each other, and our family, that as long as we were together, we were home. I thank God for the incredible gift of an amazing, supportive, and loving husband with whom I’ve had the privilege of being ‘home’ with for so many years.
We’re not promised tomorrow, but we cherish the gift of the present. I am deeply grateful for the journey of the past 27 years—the ups, the downs, and the wisdom we’ve gained along the way. Most importantly, I am thankful for the gift of being ‘home’ with my husband. I love you, my dear. See you soon.
Embracing Second Half Wonders 