1.16.2008

Easy rider

Three days after our wedding and on a whim, Max and I visited Kings Dominion theme park. Driving down Interstate 95, heading home from our “mini-moon,” we couldn’t resist the temptation. We love to ride roller coasters. Twisted, floorless, suspended or old-time wooden ones—it doesn’t matter what type so long as the coaster is fast and furious.

As we made our way from the Anaconda to the Berzerker, I couldn’t help but think how appropriate it was to be riding with my new husband and how analogous it might prove to be. While we had coasted through our relationship up to this day, I understood there would be times in our marriage when we felt as though we were facing an uphill climb. After all, it’s inevitable. Life is like a roller coaster with all its ups and downs.

Success in our relationship would depend on how we handled these highs and lows. Would we be reluctant riders with gripped hands and clenched teeth, just praying to get through the moment? Or would we face the challenge head on, like a determined rider who throws his arms up above his head and smiles in the face of adversity? On this day, Max and I rode like champions (although this photo from a keychain kept as a momento wouldn’t necessarily prove my claim). We left the park feeling a happy high from our wedding, the glorious weekend, and the promise of the ride ahead.

Seven quick months have passed and, except that we’ve nested in a different country, nothing has changed. Max and I are still coasting through this life of ours. And today, I am even more confident we will handle whatever challenge is thrown our way.

8 comments:

Michelle | Bleeding Espresso said...

What a great first post for me to read! Looks like a lot of fun over here :)

I look forward to getting to know you better and hearing more of your German experiences. I responded to you over at my place, but I'll also tell you here that I'm enjoying my expat experience immensely (going on 5 years now!) and I'm actually preparing a meme to talk a little more about it....

Anonymous said...

Diane... when I'm blue and down about my dating life and all the "wrong" ones out there, I keep in mind how you found your Max and what a great love story you both have and I know deep in my heart that someday I will find my own Max to ride roller coasters with.

running42k said...

That was a great post. Here is to more uphills then down.

AmyB said...

Aww! You two are such a great example of a great partnership and marriage. I don't know if I ever told you this, but it was a GREAT and treasured compliment you gave me when you said CL and I remind you of you and Max. I didn't take that lightly, and look forward to cheering you along as you continue on this amazing ride. :o)

Sizzle said...

sounds like you are in a great partnership! :)

Anonymous said...

You two are something special thats for sure.

Diane, email me through my blog so I have your address. Maybe it IS time that I tell someone this story. Maybe an outside opinion is exactly what I need.

jaded said...

May the you continue coast, enjoying the highs, conquering the lows, and remembering fondly why you bought the ticket in the first place.

kenju said...

A nice anaology, Diane. I am scared of coasters, though my life can often be compared to one...LOL