Drew and I just got back from our 15 year anniversary trip to the Excellence Resort in Punta Cana. I’m too sad to do much else so I’ll write…
On July 10th, 2004 we said, “Yes, I will, and I choose you…” in Arvada, Colorado.
On July 10th, 2009, we said, “Yes, again. I still will. I choose you…” in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.
On July 10th, 2014, we said, “Oh for sure Yes. It’s been a challenging season as we’ve moved, changed jobs and had another baby but I still will. I choose you in all of this…” in St. Joseph, Michigan.
On May 10th, 2019, (in honor of July 10th), we said, “YES! We’re different but better so we will. I choose you over all others for each day and always…” in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
The beauty of the resort, the pleasant and professional staff, the amenities for our affections (tennis courts, ping pong tables, the gym, the bikes) the spa, the in suite bath, the high ceiling, the top shelf drinks, the “Top Chef” food, the pool with the waterfall, the padded beach “chairs”, the shade, the sun, the pillow I got to pick from a “pillow menu”, the flowers, the sand, the waves for watching and playing, the snacks, the people with their smiles, the Spanish, the really, really relaxing, and most of all the seven days of together….surpassed our desires and expectations.
As a Lindsey List, it looked like this:
1 Man Drew, I love you, I enjoyed you. Thanks for doing everything WITH me for seven days. I had fun and felt loved.
2 Lobster Tails Drew ordered one which was delicious. Then Dionicio, our waiter friend, said, “Would you like another?” Yes. Yes please.
3 Mother’s Day Cards I got to open in a garden from the three kids I missed so much.
4 Novels I read Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, Fly Away by K. Hannah, Artemis, and The Lost for Words Bookshop.
5 showers, jets, saunas, and pools that made up the hydrotherapy hour. Bucket shower and ice rinse also included.
6 times of tennis. So fun.
7 days and nights of sun, connection, being away, being together, and being very much in love.
8 times we got tumbled in the waves. So sandy. So fun.
9 quality conversations in reflection, hope, encouragement, or intention.
10 mojitos
11 people back in KC who helped and held up. Eli, Andi, Oakley, June, Henley, James, Laura, Maama, GG, Pops, and Emma.
12 (times 12) Smiles and kindnesses shared by the Excellence staff. We were so grateful to get to know a few and cherished each humble heart.
13 coffee drinks we sipped together in the mornings. French Press at Magna. An americano for Linds, latte for Drew from Aroma. Nespresso shots in our suite. Poured with care at Kitchen Table.
14 Spanish Words we could say with proficiency. Oh shoot- wanted so badly to say much more to carry on in conversation. Oh, and for sure, 14 times Drew was mistook for a Latino or Italiano!
15 moments unmentionable.
The be able to afford such an experience is a gift.
While extravagant, we find it essential. We go away as a way to find each other, care for our connection, remember all we like about each other, mark the moments of change and growth, and deeply enjoy without distractions that sometimes divide or discourage.
We are a team, best friends, and partners.
We use harsh words, say no too quickly, overstep, second guess, forget, judge, and blow up.
We repair, forgive, let go, build up, believe in, support, share, dream, risk, care, love, hold, and say yes.
We don’t have it figured out but have energy to keep trying.
We count on our community and dig deep in our faith.
We give each other grace, know each other well, and say everything out loud.
We toast to the second phase of parenting and to the memories of our beginning moments as a family.
We think marriage is something you have to pick up, take care of, and work at every day.
Last week however, it didn’t feel like work at all. I love you Drew Osborne.
