5th wedding anniversary

For our fifth wedding anniversary Ben and I decided to leave town at the very last minute.  Within 2 hours of making the decision, we were packed and on the road.  I think we both had been itching to get out of the city for awhile.  Pretty much every time we've gotten in the car the last month I've said "I wish we were going somewhere--I mean other than the grocery! I want to be in the woods" (or at the ocean or in the mountains, etc.)  We had numerous conversations that started with one of us asking "What if we just head north right now?  I mean we could wear the same clothes for a few days... hike, climb some rocks..."  So I certainly wasn't shocked when the moment came and we decided to get the heck out of town to celebrate our anniversary.  What a great excuse!  :) 

Ben and I both grew up in rural settings.  As a kid, I have a very clear memory of learning what the word "dusk" meant, because that's when I had to come home.  But other than that we would pack sandwiches and spend our days in the woods.  In the summer we tromped in Rocky Creek, in the winter we sledded Suicide Hill.  Ahh, sweet memories.

As a teenager I couldn't wait to escape country life and get lost in the city.  As an adult I've spent most of my time in cities, retreating to the country at every chance I get.  Having a baby in the city has cemented so many of my values, it still surprises me.  No matter whether we live here forever or end up somewhere else, it's crucial for me that my boy knows how things grow and where his food comes from.  He should know the leaves and the dirt and the sound of the birds.  He should know mud and wild onions and wild animals.  I remember with fond pride watching him pick his first (organic) apple off a tree and start munching.  He was 13 months old.

And now back to our story.

Shawangunks, NY  March 2011

For five years now Ben and I have been married.  For five years as a married couple, bound by law (!!) we've suffered each others' quirks and moods and enjoyed and annoyed.  And I'd do it all again.

We had unseasonably lovely weather for our anniversary, 2 days before the official start of spring.  Absolutely gorgeous weather, just like the day we were married.  I'm glad we were able to get out and enjoy it.  Together.