We spent a lot of time at Sholom park in the beginning. We looked into each other’s eyes on Saturday afternoons. Evie’s father was happy about that; as nothing out of line would happen in a public place. We did flirt a bit while hiding underneath the picnic blankets (to the amusement of the passersby). It was in the peace of that place, however, that the layers around our hearts were slowly pulled back and we emerged as a couple.
The Garlic Pickle Episode was the first test through which our relationship went. It was a trying time. I’d been looking to get my first kiss for quite a while. The moment seemed right. The stars were out. Her parents were asleep. We were out on the front porch all alone. I leaned in and it was only then, after the fact, that I realized my mistake. The pungent aroma from her meal at Chili’s greeted me as I got closer to her lips. The garlic pickle breath haunts me to this day.
The first kiss did actually take place a few days later, in a sukkah (after I recovered). I was hoping that a sukkah booth, a temporary dwelling for Jews during the biblical Feast of Tabernacles, would not be indicative of a lone kiss, but of many more to come. Fortunately, that turned out to be the case. Although the first kiss was only a slight peck on the lips, it was at least a start towards getting Micah out of his 1950’s old man suits styled shell. The impending approach of Evie’s parent’s car coming up the driveway also provided a sense of sudden urgency; which heightened the excitement of the initial lip contact. We were still far short of Princess Buttercup and Westley’s kiss at the end of Princess Bride, but we were headed in the right direction.
As matters progressed, and our kissing skills were honed and developed, we found that an excellent way to deal with any unresolved tension in our relationship was to shoot each other -with squirt guns. By this method, we could deal with built-up resentments in such a way so as not to end up in prison -or the morgue. The method involves both parties dressing up in their bathing suits and going into the bathroom (so water won’t be sprayed all over the rest of the house). They then alternate yelling grievances at the other while squirting their partner with water. Grievances such as, “you’re trying to control my life”, or, “be a man and take charge”, can be heard amidst the exchange of water cannon fire. Evie and I highly recommend this method for couples looking for a healthy alternative to traditional arguments. (I’d initially suggested nerf boxing gloves as a means for Evie and I to playfully come to terms over differences, but with her neck issues, boxing seemed like a bad idea).
This is the first serious relationship for Evie and I. It’s been a learning experience for us. She’s taught me about sacrificing for someone else. She’s taught me that love is something that needs to be demonstrated daily. She’s taught me about the importance of communication. I’ve taught her just how difficult it is to domesticate a wild, lifelong bachelor stallion that loves its freedom. It’s been an interesting journey.
Holding Evie in my arms is like holding a gem. It’s unlikely that it was only a matter of chance on a dating site that something so precious was brought into my life. She’s a gift from the Lord. We’ve prayed together. We’ve traveled together. We’ve danced together. I hope you’ll dance with us as we take the next step on the journey this October.
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This is a truly beautiful and hearfelt story, and it exemplifies the elements of the creative and narrative nonfiction genre in the best possible way. I also love the story builds gradually and flows well. Really, really great work, and I’m happy that you’ve found a loving relationship. Best to y’all!