You know, since our daughter got married it’s been years, but every year it seems like we drift further apart. Sometimes it feels like shes forgotten she even has parents. The other day, I was missing her terribly, so I dialled Emilys number. The phone rang forever, and when she finally picked up, I could hear she was out of breath.
Hello?
Emily, its Mum. You sound puffedat the gym again? Is it a bad time to talk?
No, Mum. Im actually cleaning Daniels car.
But why are you doing that?
Well, who else? It costs a fortune to go to the car wash.
Bless you, sweetheart. Look, Emily, Im calling because your dad and I have our wedding anniversary this Sunday. Why dont you and Daniel come round? Well have some barbecue and a nice chat
What makes you suddenly want to celebrate? Midlife crisis? she teased.
No, darling, weve been together thirty years. Thats worth celebrating, isnt it?
Sorry, Mum, we cant. Were invited to a wedding on SundayDaniels best mate is getting married. Youll have plenty more anniversaries, but a first wedding only happens once.
I swallowed the lump in my throat, felt the sting, and managed to say, Thats a shame, we were so looking forward to seeing you.
We miss you too, Mum, but it wouldnt be right to say no. Promise well congratulate you later, okay?
All right, I said, trying not to sound too disappointed, Ill ring your brother.
But unfortunately, Charlie had his own plans too. After hanging up, I just burst into tears like a schoolgirl, unable to shake the disappointment.
Whats wrong, Nina? asked my husband James when he came in, looking confused.
Nothing, love. Just that the kids cant make it for our anniversary. Silly me, I was so hoping wed all be together.
Come on, dont get upset! This is our celebration, not theirs, after all.
That night I couldnt sleep. My heart felt heavy, weighed down with sadness and memories, replaying everything. What did I do wrong that the kids dont appreciate us? We got them through school, gave them their own homes, did everything so theyd never lack anything, and now it feels like were strangers. James tried to comfort me.
Theyve got their own families now, darling. Its just how it goes. Youve still got me, and Ive got you. Come here. Want a bit of chamomile?
I already had some. But youre always at work, and Im alone all day. It feels quiet, James.
The next day, James came home unusually early.
Is something up at work?
He was grinning ear to ear and held a bouquet behind his back. This is for you! Tomorrow, were going awayjust usfor a week by the lake.
The cottage James had booked was honestly gorgeousflowers everywhere and a view of the lake from our bedroom.
When I woke up the next morning, the bed was covered in petals and colourful balloons were tucked in corners. As I went to the mirror to wash up, I noticed a note written on the glass, Happy Anniversary, my love!
I nearly cried with joy. Out the window, I saw James carrying a wicker basket, and wondered what surprise he was planning next. When I peeked inside, I heard a tiny squeak and, lifting the cloth, saw a ginger kitten curled up.
Hows that? Will you keep him? James beamed, looking so pleased with himself.
James, this is the best anniversary ever.
We honestly had a honeymoon all over againeven if it only lasted a week, the memories will last for years. When we got back, our phone didnt stop ringingthe kids were frantic.
Mum, where have you been? Weve tried and tried, your phones been off!
Emily, calm down, I replied, are a mum and dad not allowed a little holiday?
Of course, but you didnt ring or check in.
Well, youve got Daniel to look after you. Your dad and I decided to do something just for ourselves.
For yourselves? Mum, whats going on?
We just had a honeymoon, and honestly, you two arent our priority right now.
Since then, weve turned our honeymoon into a year-long celebration. The kids suddenly pay more attention, James quit his job, and weve learned to live with less. Because, in the end, weve got each otherand thats really all we need.
