How My Wife and I Took a Break
Yes, we decided it was for the best. It was a calm, mutual choice. We actually handled it quite well, even cracking jokes about it. After all, were both sensible, civilized people.
My wife packed her bags, and took our little dog with her.
She left.
Just to stay with her younger sister for three days.
The girls wanted a proper break during the holidays. Lazing around as much as they pleased, chatting, watching soppy films, eating chocolate in bed, giggling at silly photos on Instagram. And, of course, fussing over the little dog.
What did I do? Honestly, nothing dramatic. I didnt rush out for a drink, or call up my mates for a night at the pub. Didnt see the point.
The only wild thing I did was turn the music up loud in the mornings. Oh, and I gave the hob and the fridge a good scrubthats the extent of my craziness.
Yesterday, my wife and the dog returned. In the evening. Naturally, there were hugs and kisses all round. I even suggested we take the dog for a walk together. Normally, its my wife who takes her, and usually just a short wander. This time, we bundled the dog up in her warm little jumper and set off around the block. We walked side by side, chatting away. Somewhere along the way, our dog lost her little winter boot, and we didnt even notice.
Usually, wed spend our evenings watching a film or reading, but not this time. We just went to bed a bit earlier.
You know, Im convinced these little separations are actually good for a marriage. In fact, I think every couple needs one every so often, at least once or twice a year. No shouting, no Thats it, Im going to my mothers! Just a healthy, friendly break. A little solo tripvisit your sister, or see an old friend, or spend a weekend in Brighton, whatever takes your fancy.
Taking a short break from each other is really important, even when everythings wonderful between you. Every relationship needs a bit of drama and change of pacekeeps things interesting.
And honestly, every man needs some time alone now and then. Not going wild or getting up to mischief, just being by yourself for a bit. Maybe the same goes for women, though I cant really saywomen are often naturally more sociable, I think, but I might be wrong.
For a man, that brief solitude is almost a necessity. Ever wondered why so many husbands go fishing? Its not about the fish. Its about sitting quietly for a day or two, watching the river, listening to birds. Its a kind of meditation.
But the best part is always coming back together. The reunion. Theres joy in it, theres tenderness, theres a spark. Thats what its all about. Welcome home, love.
And perhaps hitting the hay a little earlier than usual. Just because you can.
A little time apart now and then isnt just healthyit makes you appreciate what you have. And thats a lesson worth remembering.
