My wife and I are having a great time. Will it last forever and ever, Disney style? Of course not. Nothing is forever. But the important thing (and she and I were just discussing this) is that we are enjoying the here and now, even as we work toward our individual and shared goals.
5String said "it's work" and I somewhat agree with that. You do have to put in some effort, you can't just "walk away" when things get bumpy like in a fling.
However, the "marriage is work" phrase gets tossed around way too much. And I think 5String would agree with me, knowing what few details I know about his marriage, that it's also supposed to be fun. Most of it should come easily, just like a difficult job that you WANT to do. If you're not sufficiently motivated to get it done, you will be miserable. Your motivation will be drawn, in no small part, by your spouse and how she treats you. This is where the old "quality" debate rears its head, but it's more precise to say that when you maintain frame, your wife will (should anyway) reward you. Frame - game, amused mastery, confidence, decisiveness, etc - THAT too is "work" until it becomes internalized. The results you get make it fun.
As far as taking the plunge, that is up to you sir. I would only recommend it if you want to have kids and believe she would be an excellent mother and wife. (If you're of that demographic.)
