Speaking of Weddings...

Today my husband and I celebrate our 7th anniversary. We met at the turn of the new millennium, thus beginning an adventure that would change both of our lives forever.

I remember sitting down with the minister during pre-marital counseling and hearing how difficult it was to succeed at a second marriage....and truth be told, if I had known all of the trials and tribulations we were to face these last few years, I wouldn't have gone through with it. I've always said that it's a good thing that God didn't bless us with money or I would've bolted long ago! But how glad I am now that I stayed...

It's fitting that in the book of James - my husband's name - it speaks of how we should be grateful for the challenges that come our way for they help build our character and strength. Two and a half years ago I wrote a post called, "Choosing to Love". I think it's as true today as it was back then. And even though we don't always have a choice in what happens to us, we do have a choice in how we deal with our circumstances. Often it is those decisions that bring us either sorrow or joy.

My husband knows that there are still parts of me that long for the city; for the diversity that is hard to find in small town (or country) living. He knows that there are people whose friendships I miss and that I wish for a neighbor to talk to across the fence, a front porch for my swing, and pavement beneath my feet. And yet, if we hadn't met, if we had not come here I wouldn't have experienced all of the beauty that lies beyond my back doorstep, nor been enriched by those who have crossed my path. Things happen for a reason and people happen for a reason. And so it is with us.

May our journey be just beginning, and may the road before us be lit by grace and love as we travel together in the years ahead.

Happy anniversary, sweetheart. I Love you.