Twelve Years and Counting

Perhaps I should have scanned a picture that was taken at our wedding twelve years ago, but I think I may be a bit embarrassed to think how much we have changed over the dozen years we have been married. Oh well. You will have to deal with the one we took last November. We don't have too many of us together. Perhaps I should rectify that!

I can remember vividly, not sleeping the night before we made our way to the Bountiful Temple to be married. I also think fondly on our day of chaos that was wonderful, filled with family and friends. But what I choose to ponder and place emphasis on most days, are the amazing experiences we have weathered together in the twelve years of married life.

We started married life off with a very, very short courtship and engagement. While it made a very bumpy first year, I would never change a thing. We learned about each other, and had a lot of growing pains that strengthened us for the trials that were to come.

Daniel held my hand as we experiences five miscarriages as we endeavored to start a family. We stood side by side through lost jobs, school mishaps, deaths of loved ones, and many moves, some more spontaneous than others. We smiled at each other as we welcomed child number one into the world and now laugh as we recollect the fact I tried to kick him out of the delivery room because his voice grated on my nerves. He tenderly helped my battle the mommy blues where I lost myself and everyone around me. I watched him as his chest swelled with pride when child number two joined us, although I wasn't too sure what to do with a boy. He knew and that was enough.

We have driven across time zones and numerous states together, sometimes caravanning with family, other times just by ourselves. It never ceases to amaze me that this man of mine can navigate strange places without a map and alway know where he is going. I always feel safe when we are together and to be honest, I don't know how we survive apart. Just ask me about our short separation last month. I didn't do very well.

All in all, the last dozen years have been a ride of magnificent hills and valleys, dips and turns. It has been exciting, thrilling and so much fun. I thank the Lord everyday that we are still learning and growing with each other. Twelve years.....just the beginning of eternity. Daniel, I love you!