Today, like every day, is a gift—but this one feels a little sweeter. Today my husband and I are celebrating our 15th wedding anniversary. Both kids will be at the grandparents’, leaving us to enjoy both Saturday and Sunday together—uninterrupted, with the sole purpose of enjoying one another’s company.
Our journey will begin at Prototype, an experimental museum. Experimental—just like our relationship—is exactly what we’re looking for as we begin this new chapter together. From there, we’ll stay overnight at The Junto. Reservations have been made at Little West Tavern, and the prospect of the rooftop bar is likely in our future.
Excitement, anticipation, and hope are what I feel today—the same feelings I felt 15 years ago. However, back then I was much more naïve. The flurry of emotions is still present, and if I’m being honest, they feel more precious today. More precious because I know what it took to get here. What was does not need to define what is today. The things that built us do not need to define us. We are ever evolving and changing. I am deeply grateful for the growth my marriage has experienced over the years and can’t wait to see the story being written with each day that follows.
Located within walking distance of the Scioto Audubon Metro Park, we entered Prototype for the first time together. Having known about this adults-only experimental museum since its opening in November, I couldn’t wait to immerse myself in the experience.
Upon entering, we were greeted right away and offered a beverage at the weekend lobby bar, featuring locally sourced canned drinks. After selecting a canned wine, I knew we were off to a good start.
We journeyed through six levels, each completely different from the last. What I loved most was that we could go at our own pace—lingering in the experiences, reading the information, and dancing when the moment took over. It all felt completely natural, accepted, and encouraged. Inhibitions were all but forgotten. I loved it.
The last level—and arguably the best—was Prototype’s bar. I want to call it the sky bar, because the large screens transported you somewhere else entirely. While there, a rocket we had previously designed launched alongside others. Having designed our rocket with experimental technology, it unfortunately failed to launch, but my Caterpillar Cosmo made everything better.
Prototype, much like our marriage, is an experimental experience. Not every early or working idea pans out. Some ideas change, others get scrapped altogether—but what always happens is learning. With each new try, knowledge is added, making us wiser and more resilient. Success or failure, we remain grounded in our belief that we are better together.
Located on Bell Street in the heart of downtown Columbus, The Junto is where we stayed for the evening. Conveniently situated just steps from COSI and the Scioto River, it offers beautiful views of the city and is truly so much more than a place to sleep. As you pull up, parking is never an issue—your reservation includes valet service, making arrival effortless.
Once inside, you’re greeted by a stunning lobby, or as they call it here, the “living room.” The name fits perfectly. A large open-air fireplace, leather-clad furniture, and thoughtfully selected books create a warm, welcoming space you don’t want to leave. A sign on one of the shelves read: Lift each other up, make friends, collaborate—because together we are better. A motto we could all live by. The Junto knows what they stand for, and they deliver.
Also on this main floor are Little West Tavern, the Trade Room, and Maudine’s—more on each a bit later. After checking in, we took the elevator to the 8th floor, home to The Brass Eye. Once inside our spacious room, the Artist’s Suite welcomed us into a creative environment with additional living and lounging areas. Just off the living space, the primary suite offered a plush king-size bed and large windows that perfectly framed the city view. The lavish en-suite bathroom featured a large walk-in shower and Zenology bath amenities.
After freshening up, we made our way back to Little West Tavern, where our reservation awaited us. Seated in a cozy spot near the bar, we had a great view of the space. Inspired by the independent spirit of the West, Little West Tavern features wood-fired select cuts and a range of classic pours. Toward the back of the restaurant, a large open flame burned steadily. As the delightfully smoky aroma filled the air, we watched our selections being skillfully prepared. Hearing the sizzle, watching the flames, and breathing in the scent made it impossible not to begin salivating as we waited for our meal.
After enjoying handcrafted cocktails and a savory dinner, we returned to the 8th floor and found a spot at The Brass Eye bar. The service was top-notch, and the environment was dark, warm, and indulgent. Dark, warm, and delicious—exactly how our evening ended.
As morning arrived, I tiptoed out of the room, careful not to wake my husband, and headed to the fitness room on the second floor. From cardio machines to weight training, the space offered plenty of equipment and room for a great workout. Back in our room, I showered and dressed while my husband enjoyed an in-room drip coffee, the two of us catching up on work emails.
As more caffeine called our names, we made our way to Maudine’s, where Jeff greeted us warmly. Having met him just a few weeks earlier, he still remembered my name and said it with a big smile. He truly made me feel welcomed—and quite frankly, special. As he artfully prepared my latte, the foam perfectly designed atop my mug, Jeff shared some relationship advice: “As you get to know someone more, you see their quirks—but you learn to understand them and realize the relationship is so much more important than minor annoyances.”
I couldn’t agree more, Jeff. Deciding what matters most and forgiving others’ shortcomings shows true maturity.
With our mugs filled to the rim, we sat near the fire in the living room. As the flames illuminated the space, I couldn’t help but feel deeply grateful. When I got married, I don’t know that I had a specific expectation of what marriage would look like—but I hoped I’d have a friend by my side, someone to share the moments I was experiencing.
After sipping, writing, and resting, our stomachs let us know it was time for brunch. Just a few steps from the fire, we found seats at the Trade Room bar. After a cheerful “good morning” from our bartender, we ordered two morning mimosas. Ready in just minutes, we cheered to our love and commitment. The menu offered a wonderful selection, accommodating any dietary preferences. Flavorful and hearty, our dishes filled us up and set the tone for a beautiful Sunday.
Back in our room, we sat near the large windows, toe to toe, sunlight spilling over us as we exchanged anniversary cards. As I read my spouse’s words, I felt seen and valued. Seen and valued are significant words to me—they hold deep meaning and power. Meaning, because there was a time I didn’t feel either. Powerful, because when you truly see someone, you demonstrate to them their value. As humans, we don’t invest in what we don’t deem meaningful. We pour into what we care about, hoping it will return the connection we seek—to be seen and valued.
Next to us, on a small coffee table, sat a book titled No Idea Is Final. As I read the title, I thought about how true it is—just as our thoughts and emotions are never final. What you’re thinking now, and the feelings attached to those thoughts, can change. Just like a relationship, our ideas are not fixed. Give grace and patience—to yourself and to others.
For the past 15 years, I have called you my husband. You are the one and only person I can say this about. The only one who knows and shares the most intimate parts of my life.
We met in college and grew up together. We built our careers side by side. We built—quite literally—homes together. And we built a family. Together, we brought two children into this world, each of them drawing out different sides of us and reminding us who we are. We traveled together, cried together, laughed together, and fought together. Every experience shaped us, molding us into the people we are today.
As I reflect on our past, I turn toward the present and ask myself: How am I showing up in this marriage? What am I giving, and what am I asking for? Am I asking for everything from my partner while holding back what I am capable of giving? How we show up for the ones we love reveals so much about who we are and what we value most.
I’ve learned that the more you give, the more you receive. And if there is one truth our marriage has taught me, it is this: communication—like water—is essential for growth. Without it, love slowly fades. Without intentionally sharing our thoughts, experiences, hopes, and struggles, the bond between two people eventually weakens.
As we continue to grow, both individually and together, it’s vital to keep each other close—sharing victories and setbacks alike. To remember that your partner is your teammate. Teammates don’t quit on each other. They may play different roles, but they never leave one another behind. The more you show up for yourself and for each other, the deeper, stronger, and more beautiful the connection becomes.
Cheers to today and all that we are together!
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