Our First Ten Years!

My Beloved Joel,

Today we celebrate our tenth Wedding Anniversary! I decided what I wanted to say to you would be public this year because I wanted everyone to know what a celebration this is! I've been thinking about a classic poem or clever saying to post that would be fitting for today. Instead, the song that kept popping in my head is a Shania Twain song. (Yes, yes, I know we are not country music fans and the song is a little cheesy, but It's been in my head all day long.)

So glad we made it,
Look how far we've come, my baby,
Glad we didn't listen
Look at what we might be missing.

They said,
"I'll bet, they'll never make it"
But just look at us holding on,
We're still together
Still going strong...

Ten Years. WOW! It's been filled with ups and downs and to be honest, I'm sure there were those who thought we would never make it. But look at us now. We have grown so much in the last 10 years. We've learned about working hard for something even when it's not easy. We've learned that our common faith in God is what kept us strong when it would be easier to give up. We've learned that together we are stronger than each of our individual selves.

We could never have imagined the joy that was in store for honoring our commitment to each other those 10 years ago. I can't imagine my life without you. Our two beautiful, healthy, bright girls are such a visual reminder of how our love has grown and how God has truly had His hand on blessing this marriage.

You are my encourager, my supporter, my confidant, my comforter, my protector. I can honestly say that I love and respect you more today than I did ten years ago. I can't wait to see what the next ten (and more!) years have for our precious family.

I love you so much!
Me

PS. Here's your present. I hope you enjoy it!