I married a bloke who had nothing, and my whole family had a good laugh at me.
Seven years ago I tied the knot with a man who was flat broke. My relatives didnt get me at all they even snorted in my face. I know most girls have their own ideas about what their husband should be like, and they usually keep an eye on the money side of things. Some are even hunting for a Prince Charming who looks like a model on a magazine cover. I had my own checklist, though. For me it was vital that he never reached for the bottle, because I know where that leads, and I didnt want my kids growing up watching a constantly drunk dad.
I also wanted him to be hardworking, not lazy, and straightup honest. Material stuff never mattered to me. I never cared whether he owned a car or a flat. I dont come from a family of millionaires, so there was no point trying to reach for something I didnt have myself. My mum raised me and my brother Tom on her own, so we never lived in any sort of luxury.
Jack and I lived together for a year before we said I do. Hes one of seven kids, and he works in his field at the university. At the time he was still living in his parents house in Manchester with his mum, Margaret, and his brother. Our wedding was a tiny affair just close relatives and a handful of mates. After the ceremony we moved in together and soon realised we had very different personalities. It took about six months for us to settle into each others rhythms. The first time I saw Jacks mens tears was when our first baby arrived.
Now weve got two kids, and Jack earns a solid salary even though he switched to a different industry. We started off renting a flat in Liverpool, but weve since bought a house in the suburbs and things are going well. Sure, we have our spats now and then, but we always talk them through and learn to sort out the conflicts. Were still far from being millionaires, but the most important thing is that were all healthy and happy.
Today were marking the anniversary of the day, seven and a half years ago, that we got married. Over the years Ive found myself loving Jack more and more each day, and I cant imagine letting go of him. It makes me over the moon to see him playing with the kids, looking after me, or giving me a quick call to ask if Im hungry. Its just brilliant.
I have a friend, Lucy, who married a rich guy. At first everything was peachy, but then he started cheating, threw tantrums, and even siphoned off money from her parents. Shes thinking of divorcing him, but she doesnt want the kids to end up with him. Seeing her story makes me grateful that I made the right choice. I genuinely wish every woman a partner who loves them and makes them feel loved dont let the size of the wallet steer you.
