Marriage Monday: Men and Play

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

It’s Marriage Monday over at Chrysalis and once again e-Mom given me something to think about. Her motivational topics always light a fire under me and ignite great conversations with my husband. This month, e-Mom has asked us to discuss our husbands’ need for recreational companionship.

Whenever I think of men and recreation, I automatically think of outdoor activities (football, fishing, and such). Generally speaking, I’m not an “outdoorsy” girl. My outdoor exposure is usually limited to a comfy spot under a beach umbrella on the shore or sitting on my front porch enjoy the early evening breeze. (Important note: If the bugs or heat get to be too extreme, my outdoor stint comes to an abrupt end!)

On the other hand, JT is an outdoors, adventurous man. He’s done skydiving, made a home on board an aircraft carrier for months, and climbed mountains. During the nine years we’ve been together, he is S-L-O-W-L-Y bringing me out into the great outdoors through some fun outings!

• Great Falls, Virginia: Early in our relationship, JT took me to this state park where we explored mountain trails and enjoyed quality time together. As I recall I was too busy admiring waterfalls and trying not to slip off the amazing rock formations to be annoyed by insects.

• Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania: JT talked me into trekking around Bushkill Falls and I don’t regret it. It was another time I enjoyed exploring the beauty of God’s earth with JT. Even though he picked the steepest trail for us to attempt, we had a fantastic time together and spent a lot of time holding hands.

• California: This trip was the greatest outdoor fun I’ve ever had with JT! He planned the entire trip and we had an awesome time! After landing in San Diego we spent days traveling up Route 1 and stopping at great places along the way. My favorite part of that trip was our stay in Marina, where we stayed in a bungalow right on the beach. That night we sat on the beach and watched the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. It was absolutely breathtaking. JT’s favorite part of the trip was watching me do a slow, white knuckled drive up Route 1!

These outings and trips have taught me a few things. First, JT and I have the most fun when he drags me off the beaten path and out into nature. When I step outside my comfort zone and allow him to plan our outings we always have fun. Second, JT and I always engage in quality conversation during these outings because we’re not distracted by the sensory overloads found in typical dates at movies, restaurants, amusement parks, and the like. Third, JT and I need to do a better job of getting out and about. This time together breathes fresh air into our marriage, gives us both something to look forward to, and prevents life from becoming mundane.

Our sixth wedding anniversary is coming up on August 17 and JT is planning a bed and breakfast beach getaway for us. We’re both looking forward to this special time, a chance to enjoy each other’s company uninterrupted in nature.

To read other what other women have to say about men and play, be sure to visit Chrysalis over at her blog.

Photo: Courtesy of brendajo2

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