Midnight

When on a date with My Beloved, I like to imagine what the evening would feel like if we weren't married. It's a way to catch myself if I'm taking things for granted. Do I dress as carefully? Am I using my best manners? Have I given my undivided attention? Would I be more jealous of how the waitstaff (men and women alike) let their eyes rake over him? (Usually, I find I need to step up in one or more of these areas.)

It also makes me recognize how he treats me. If this were a date, is he doing the right things: being generous to the waitstaff, using his best manners, offering interesting topics for conversation, stealing a kiss when no one is looking. (Usually, I am struck by how well he is hitting all these marks - and he's not playing my dating game. He's 100% all the time.)

It's fun to tap into that girly excitement, but it also gives such a comforting feeling specifically because we are NOT on a date. We are married. I know who I'm going home with tonight. I know he's going to call me the next day. I know he's The One.