I don’t believe in Disney princesses and Prince Charming.

I don’t appraise my life in fairy wings and tutus.

I doubt my love has ever noticed the shoes I choose because I rarely wear them.

We only quarrel when he uses his boss voice around the house.

I’m his wife, not his glass-encased ballerina, but not his subordinate either.

So asking instead of ordering works best. I’ve had enough of orders, thank you.

There’s more to love than a perfect wedding, costing thousands..

It’s the hard times that prove love’s strength to endure.

The saying goodbye to your beloved dog,

Crying together, each holding a paw, trying to be strong,

Though giving in to grief is all right too.

The year after Mama died when he thought I’d never smile again

And the sun still came out, and my heart was wrapped in gloom,

And he’d just say, “Come here” to hold me until the tears stopped

For a while anyway because I felt safe and cherished.

Love is so much more than little girls are taught to expect,

When their mothers are busy pretending the three-year old has a crush,

The real world is out there, so why not live in it, without Barbie perfection?

Caring for others, sharing what we have with the less fortunate,

Isn’t that beautiful too?

Love is laughing at dirty socks and smelly feet,

A yard not mown, a shirt not sewn, a knowing smile,

As the tools are thrown, and we give up and call the plumber.

Together we are stronger, smarter, richer, fulfilled.

Don’t bother with the white horse, okay?