I’d never asked anyone out and I’m so glad I did

I’m a date person. I love remembering dates for birthdays, milestones and anniversaries, and this week marked the anniversary of when I met my husband 11 years ago. I can’t help but look back on that day and cringe, while also feeling so lucky!

 

I was off work for a couple of weeks after having a minor surgery and was spending time at my dad’s to recover. After a few days I found myself going crazy with boredom so I went with my brother to his workshop. It was so nice being out that I didn’t care what I had on. I was wearing a 6 Nations Jersey, pale blue jeans and white runners... I don’t think I will be winning any style awards soon!

 

Not long after we arrived, I watched as a Silver Renault pulled up to the entrance of the workshop and out he stepped. One look and I was hooked! He looked like a man who clearly cared about what he was wearing and I cried on the inside over what I’d chosen to wear that day. On the outside, I was trying to be ‘cool’ and pretended I didn’t care.

 

As I swayed my hips back and forth, we all chatted away and I knew I couldn’t let him go without knowing when I’d see him again. I knew that because he worked for my brother – and in the past with my dad – it was unlikely he was going to ask me out. With that in mind I casually asked if he would be in the local pub that evening. “Yes” he replied! “Yippee” I said in my head and I casually replied: “I might see you there.”

 

Later that evening I popped down to local pub with my dad and there he was with his own dad! How good were we bringing our own chaperones! We spent the evening casually chatting away. My dad headed home early knowing I was in good hands to get me home safely. When it was time to leave both my future husband and his dad walked me home.

 

During the short walk, we had some drama helping a poor elderly man who was a little worse for wear after a few drinks. We called the Gardai as he seemed confused and it turned out he was known to them. He was a harmless old man that seemed lost and we felt very sorry for him.  

 

When we knew he was ok, we walked on to my dad’s house. As soon as my husband had the chance he took my hand into his and that was it! I knew, I knew he was the one for me. Our hands became one and I felt complete.

 

Five years later we were married with my dad proudly walking me down the aisle and his dad as his best man. After 11 years I still get that feeling when he takes my hand into his. I feel so lucky to have taken a chance all those years ago. Before then I’d never asked anyone out and I’m so glad I did. 

Eimear Kelly has worked in hospitality and recruitment but considers becoming a stay-at-home mum to her two children, Logan and Elise, her best career move. Becoming a mum has inspired her to believe in herself and follow her dreams. You can read more from Eimear on her blog Chirps from a Little Red Hen.