9 & 50 something

Tomorrow Kev and I will celebrate our 9th wedding anniversary. How fast time passes. I can still remember July 16, 1999, the night before our big day, like it was yesterday. We attended our rehersal at the church and then had a wonderful dinner at Mountain Jacks. After dinner, Kev headed to our new apartment that he had just moved into. I returned home to my mom's with one of my bridesmaids. I remember her asking if I was nervous and in all honesty, I kept waiting for the nervousness to set in. I thought it would be a long night, but it wasn't. I could hardly carry on a conversation once my head hit the pillow! I had peace...the peace in knowing that I was about to marry the most wonderful man.

Kevin is not only my husband, but also, without a doubt, my best friend. I cannot believe that God brought such a kind and loving man into my life (and for those of you who know our background story, you know that in the beginning this was not necessarily the case) At 16 I met a boy who drove me crazy, made me laugh,allowed me to cry and made me feel like the most important person in the whole world. Fifteen years later, I am happy to say, that man still does all those things.

We have seen "for better" and "for worse". We have been "richer" and have definitely been "poorer". We have experienced "sickness" and thankfully "health". Holding true to the vows we shared nine years ago.

I have not doubt that tonight, July 16, 2008, I will again have no trouble falling asleep because still today, I have no doubts. Kevin, I thank you for these nine years, for your love, your friendship. I love your thoughtfullness, your love for the Lord, your wacky sense of humor, your helpfullness, your honesty, your compassion, your smile, your predictability and your unpredictability, your strength, and your determination. I love you!

As for the fifty something....July 17th is not only special because of our anniversary,but also because it is my Dad's birthday. So Happy Birthday Dad! We love our Big Papa Chicago and hope you have a fantastic day.