Anniversary No. 3

Our wedding anniversary is finally starting to feel like a recurring important event. For the first two years of marriage, July 13 didn't feel nearly as special as June 21 (our dating anniversary). We'd had a lot more experience celebrating in June.

But after three years of recognition, July 13 is becoming one of my favorite days.

With all our upcoming travels, we decided to keep the celebrations low-key this year. Since the actual day was on a Monday, we kicked off the partying Saturday. Our gifts to each other were the kinds that mean nothing to other people and everything to us.

Ty's gift to me: run 9 miles with me on my 18-miler before working all day in the heat.

Seriously the best gift ever!

And such a handsome running partner!

My gift to Ty: go to the mall and pick out a new dress for dinner

The Kelly-and-Erin-approved winner

It also turned out that I had scheduled a hair cut, so I got extra spiffied-up!

New clothes and new hairs -- Woah! Let's not get too crazy!

I booked reservations at an Italian restaurant a few blocks from us. It's a neighborhood hit, and the road is frequently blocked by the valet parking action. They serve gluten free penne pasta, and when I spoke with them on the phone they were most obliging! Bonus: live jazz!

Our reservations were for 7:30, and needless to say -- we were starving! Did I mention Ty had run 9 miles that morning and I had run 18?! As soon as we arrived, we placed an order for an appetizer and drinks, and then they surprised us with complimentary champagne!

Brie platter!

I ordered a house salad and Ty order a Caesar -- both spectacular!

Ty ordered a pork and red sauce dish, which he raved about.

Ty with pasta = happy Ty

Per the waiter's recommendation, I ordered a chicken pesto cream sauce over GF penne pasta. Hands down, the best pasta I've ever had. Unlike Ty, I don't prefer Italian food, but I couldn't help but sing the praises of this dish!

My biggest regret is that we were too full to order dessert. I guess we'll just have to go back (oh, darn!). With full bellies, we hit the road and went for a short drive. We ended our romantic date with a lovely view of our city.

Monday came around, and it was a long day of work for both of us. We simply kicked back, opened a bottle of champagne, popped some corn, and watched Fun with Dick and Jane. And laughed our hearts out.

I loved this anniversary, because it was local and totally unique to us. Three years ago Tyler didn't even run a single mile, and I wouldn't have dreamed of setting aside practice and my never-ending to-do list for a day in the fitting room and salon. :) We've changed each other, and we're growing together. This is what I love.