Three Years Ago

I made one of the best decisions of my life. I stood at the front of a church in a big white dress and vowed to be with Ryan "until death do us part". It was a truly spectacular day. I had spent hours getting ready for the day. It started with hair, then make-up, and finally ended in getting dressed. Then I waited outside the sanctuary with my dad, in a church all decorated for Vacation Bible School, (Narnia theme, I stared at Aslan while waiting for my cue.) before I finally was able to get married.

 We were surrounded by friends and family who supported us and knew that we were making the right choice. At just 21 and 22 years old, we knew that we were meant to be together and to be partners on the journey of life. And I am so happy that we made that trip down the aisle that resulted in us being man and wife!

The ceremony itself was short and sweet. I wanted it that way.My whole family was a part of it, from bridesmaids to candle lighters to my escort down the aisle. And my sister, Kelsey, wasn't left out of the celebrations. I had a groomsman walk down the aisle with a single white rose for her.

When the ceremony ended we walked back down the aisle to a video montage that my younger sister had put together for us. We were so excited and happily welcomed all of the "congratulations". Then we took a whole bunch of pictures, jumped into a limo to take us to a place to take more pictures, and finally made our way to the reception!

We dance to "Amazed" by Lonestar and my dad and I danced to "I Loved Her First" by Heartland.

 And then we spent the rest of the time having fun. We talked with our guests, had lots of delicious food, had some cake, and of course danced the night away. When it was finally time to leave, I was almost sorry that the wedding part was over. But I am so happy to say that the marriage part has been just as much fun!

Sure we've had our ups and downs, but when you know you have someone who truly loves you and will fight for you by your side, somehow the downs seem to fade away. In three short years we have experienced so many things:

• Finishing college
• Getting pregnant and losing it
• Ryan getting a "big kid" job (My term for it)
• Moving back to our hometown 
• Getting pregnant with our wonderful daughter
• BILLS!
• Learning how to cope as parents AND a couple
• Finally settling into a routine that has all the people involved fairly happy
• The anticipation of our second child ( There is less than 2 months until his debut)

But honestly, I need to thank God every day for the man he blessed me with! I love you Ryan, always and forever!