My husband John and I have been on the road permanently for 12 weeks, and it’s like a dream. Before we set off I was panicked that our relationship would fall apart. I have to admit we’ve had our ups and downs over the past 30 years or so, and I was terrified that living 24/7 in such close quarters might send us over the edge. I could not have been more wrong. This is like it used to be when we first met. I guess we were in a rut at home but now there is no real routine, I am finding John full of surprises. He has skills and knowledge and a positivity that I haven’t seen for so long. I am crying as I write this but I am so happy to be able to say: “I am 62-years-old and I have just fallen in love with my husband.” Is this just a ‘honeymoon’ period or can it last?
Carly
Wow, Carly. I’ve got a tear in my eye, as well! What a wonderful email to receive. I am so happy for you. Of course, it can last! You have just re-discovered the wonderful qualities of the man you married all over again. Sometimes, our true characters can get hidden beneath an avalanche of work commitments, financial worries, children troubles and the grinding relentnessness of ‘life’. Taking off on the Big Lap can be like a weight being lifted of our shoulders. It can be the rebirth of individuals and of relationships. However, it doesn’t happen to everybody, Carly, so treasure it, cherish … and enjoy it. You are a very lucky woman.
Jaclyn
I’m happy you’re feeling like a teenager again, Carly … but I suggest you grow up again quickly! You are a sixty-something woman with a lifetime of experience, so you know the score as well as I do. I don’t go for this sentimental ‘lovey-dovey’ claptrap and, in my experience, it just sets you up for a major fall when things go wrong again. John is still John, warts and all. It’s just the sunsets, the scenery and the quantity of wine imbibed that has changed. And there’s nothing wrong with that, but enjoy it for what it is rather than romanticising your less-than-perfect partner. Take down the posters of One Direction and Justin Bieber, Carly, and be as cynical about love as the battle-scarred rest of us!
Heidi
