Happy Anniversary

“Sandi, they’re both asleep.” I hurried to my closet, selected a tie and knotted it about my neck.

“I thought they’d never drop off.” She applied the last of her lipstick, then plucked a tiny piece of lint off her gown. “I’ll be right down.”

I pulled on my jacket, tiptoed down the stairs, strode to the stove and flipped on the broiler for the steaks.

Sandi came into the kitchen and stood behind me. “Anything I can do?”

“Sure. Why don’t you get the salad? I’ll open the wine and light the candles.”

Ten minutes later, we sat across the table from one another. Soft music drifted through the room, her smile illuminated by the glow of the candles.

“You look lovely. Seeing you wear that gown makes you even more beautiful.”

Sandi placed her wine glass on the table and reached for my hand. “Thank you. You didn’t have to put on a suit, just for me.”

“Even though we can’t afford a sitter and go to a restaurant, I still wanted to make today special for you.” I gave her fingers a gentle squeeze. “Just looking at you makes my day special. Every day.” I released her hand. “Don’t let your steak get cold. Have you decided what you want to watch? Her Alibi? Shakespeare in Love? A Walk in the Clouds?”

“Her Alibi, I think. I’ve always loved that house.”

Dinner and a movie, the classic date. Except, this time it meant so much more. A suit, an evening gown. A tie, hose and heels. Even though it’s all in our home, the effort to look nice, create an ambiance and watch a DVD we’ve owned for years is worth any minor inconvenience.

We lifted our wineglasses and they met with a soft ring.

“Happy anniversary.”

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his wife and two boys.