I still remember being “set up” by our good friends and roommates Ginger and Jason. I thought I was doing you a favor; somehow your roommate had gotten it in your head you were doing me one. Unimpressed with each other, we both thought our roommates had missed the mark entirely.
Three years later we were walking down the aisle, not really having a clue what we would be getting into, but knowing that, whatever it was, it would be with our best friend at our side. Ten days later, 9/11 happened. While dating you had warned me that the military was due for another serious war…you said history had taught us to expect one every 20 years. I had brushed it off at the time. Yet, here it was. This is how our married life began.
While you were at work, I watched the news in horror. I spent weeks ill about the grief I knew families were having to endure, and worried about what this meant for our future in the Army. I had no clue the heartache and hardships we were in for.
But here we are. Five years, three deployments and a beautiful daughter later. I’m proud of us. I’m proud of this life and the people we are among – we know some of the most courageous people in the world. It’s been difficult. But I’d rather have this difficult life with you than an easy one with anyone else. You are my one Great Love.
Today (like every day) I will thank God for bringing me you, and I’ll celebrate that my heart has a home…even if it is thousands of miles away.
I miss you. I love you.
Happy Anniversary, Babe.
Phillip says
Happy Anniversary you two! love ya
Phillip
rebecca says
congratulations! 5 years is something to be quite proud of 😀
deb says
Happy Anniversary! Your post showed much love and appreciatio. Your dress was beautifu. enjoy the weekend
stephanie says
Happy Anniversary! I hope you can celebrate together soon!
Dorothy says
Happy Anniversary!
Mother in law says
Happy Anniversary and many more to come! Hopefully you will be together more in the future than you have in the last 5 years. I am proud of you both – for both of you have courage and determination and a love for each other that radiates to everyone around you. C, your love and support for J reminds me of my mother’s love for my father. J, your providing security and protection for C reminds me of my father’s love for my mother. This made for a happy childhood grow up, even though my dad was in the military and away from home regularly. When other families were falling apart, I knew my parents loved each other, and in turn loved my brother and me. This is one of the greatest gifts you could give E. Thanks for making my son so happy.
Susan Kern says
Congratulations to you both! We’ll celebrate our 5 years tomorrow. It’s gone so quickly. Reading your entry brought tears to my eyes. I hope J. will get to come home soon. You are such an awesome family.
Darlene says
I remember the day very well. It was beautiful. We all had such a good time. I think of ya’ll each 9/01. You and “J” make us all proud. Your 5 years have been filled to the brim and such a mentor to others about strength and endurance. I have you all in my prayers daily.