Everything is better with a surprise. It is SO hard for me to keep something a secret from Paul in order to surprise him. But really, it is completely worth it when I muster up the self-control because the element of surprise makes all the difference. Being surprised means that someone took time on their own to plan something for you. It means they thought of you, did something for you, and made time for you completely on their own. Surprises make us feel special and loved.
After Jessica & Sergio’s Liberty State Park engagement session a couple of months ago Paul and I planned to go out for a little date. We already had the babysitter set so we decided to take advantage of that time, but did not actually get a chance to plan the date. On our way to Jersey City I tried to start the conversation of what we should do, but Paul said he already had it planned. This was already a pleasant surprise, but he made it even better by making me wait until we arrived at our destination to find out what it was. When Jessica & Sergio’s engagement session came to an end, we said our goodbyes, packed up our gear, and got in the car. But I still had to wait. As we’re driving I see a sign for the Lincoln Tunnel, and this is what followed:
Me: The Lincoln Tunnel? Are we going into New York?
Paul: What? We’re going into the Lincoln Tunnel?
Me: Shut up, you know exactly what you’re doing! (*beaming with joy*)
The only times we go into the city are (1) at Christmas time and (2) for photography related events. So this was totally unexpected and felt particularly special. Paul took me to a cozy little Mom n’ Pop Italian restaurant in NYC. It was not especially fancy or upscale, just ridiculously delicious eggplant parm and Chianti. MMMmmm. I felt so loved. Through something so simple. If Paul had told me what he was planning I probably would have analyzed all the possible options, going through all the pros and cons before settling on one place, still being aware of what I might have missed out on. I’m a bit decision-impaired. So not only did I feel super special for Paul taking the time on his own to surprise me with something different, but in doing so he also freed me from my own craziness and allowed me to be fully present and completely enjoy our date. It was lovely. Thank you, Paul for loving me and for using the element of surprise.
*Carolyn
ps. They had posted funny pictures and signs all over the walls. We got a kick out of it. (photo taken on Paul’s cell phone!)
