- 1). Make a list of special events. This list can be a joint effort between you and your partner, and can take several days. Don't rush to remember all the events that are special to you; chances are high that after a few hours or days you'll remember one or two that you forgot. Begin by writing down the event and then determine the date. Sometimes, you might find that you don't remember the specific date, but that you do remember the month the event occurred. If after a few days you don't remember the specific date, you and your partner can discuss whether you should ascribe the first, middle or last day of the month as the specific date.
- 2). Decide the calendar's format. While traditional paper calendars will serve your purpose, using an electronic calendar means that you will not have to recreate it in future years. Many software companies provide scheduling programs that are customizable and can be programmed to repeat specific events on a yearly basis. It will be helpful if you and your partner can access this calendar easily through the Internet. A program installed on one of your computers will also work just fine.
- 3). Begin inserting specific anniversary dates. Start by entering dates in January, regardless of the current month. This will prevent you from becoming confused or forgetting to complete previous months. Include the location and type of event for each important anniversary date.
- 4). With each date, add a corresponding notification of the upcoming anniversary. This notification should occur at least a week before the actual date. If you are using a paper calendar, a star or other visible marking on the day a week prior to the event will suffice. Computerized calendars offer users the ability to schedule a notification.
- 5). Color-code the calendar. After adding your events to the calendar, review each one to see how you would like to celebrate. Indicate responsibility for planning the celebration by ascribing your partner one color and you another. This will help avoid any future problems or disappointments about celebrating the anniversary. If you are using a paper calendar, use different-colored pens for this purpose.
- 6). Make the calendar a work in progress. As you and your partner continue to be together, you will experience more anniversaries that you wish to celebrate. Periodically return to the calendar to add these events.
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