Abby and I bought an elliptical trainer as kind of a Christmas present for both of us. We chose it because it is so much easier on Abby’s knees, and because it was surprisingly affordable. It was her New Year’s resolution to use it and get in better shape, especially for hiking.

“Blog about how we managed to assemble it and stay married,” Abby said. That was the real miracle. Assembling stuff like that is frustrating and complicated, and brings out the worst in both of us. But as we got closer to completion, our moods brightened, and Abby was downright giddy when she finally stepped on it and got it going.

Now all we have to do is figure out where we’re going to put it.