Ten years ago today I said "I do" to a North Dakota farm boy, computer science guru, swing dancing, tender-hearted wise-cracker who stole my heart on our first date. We brought together our closest family and friends for a day of celebration - including an hour long ceremony in a packed church sans air conditioning. (I'll never forget people greeting us at the reception while asking about someone passing out from the heat, a 911 call and an ambulance rushing to the scene. Thankfully it wasn't Jason's 90-year-old grandmother, but my sister's boyfriend who was fine after a quick trip to the ER - with her.)
But a little drama didn't take from the wonder of the day. We toasted, visited, hugged, beamed and danced the evening away. And, boy, did we dance. Thanks to the talents of local musicians, we celebrated with our own swing band, dancing until we dropped - Jason in his tux and me in my beautiful gown made by my aunt, perfectly tailored for swing dancing.
The next day, Jason whisked me off to Winnipeg for a week of relaxation. We cruised on the river, strolled through the zoo, dined in a revolving restaurant overlooking the city and cheered for horses and their jockeys at the race track. I love looking at the photos, remembering when everything was so new to us. Our hopes and dreams for our life together were still that - hopes and dreams.
Now, over the past year, we're seeing many of those come true. We've built a family together - complete with two children, two dogs and a newly added cat. Jason's finished another degree and we've each enjoyed several jobs that have pushed us as writer and programmer. We've traveled to Germany, Canada, Florida, Washington, D.C., and many more local states and cities. We've had our fair share of struggles - health, layoffs, etc. - but each time we push through together and come out the other side just a bit stronger. It's what marriage is about - holding each other up during challenges and times of great joy. Lighting each other up with a smile or kiss that carries a history of love, spark, trust and understanding.
I look forward to many more decades together with you, Jason. Happy Anniversary, love.
2 comments:
Ooh, this post made me tear up. I remember sharing in your beautiful wedding day. A perfect day for a beautiful couple. Your marriage and family is an inspiration to those of us who witness its magic. Congrats, you two. Here's to another 50+ : )
Oh wow, this was such a beautiful post, Amanda. Your way with words is amazing and brought tears to my eyes. You & Jason are a great couple and we're thankful to have you as friends. We wish you many more happy years together!
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