Happy 4th Anniversary to Us!

This past week Derek and I celebrated our 4th Anniversary...Hooray for us! We had a low-key night and had a "date" after Emily went to bed. These are fun cheap nights where we can hang together and don't have to spend tons of moolah! For those of you that are thinking "wow, how boring?" if it reassures you, we have a weekend planned at the end of this month to really celebrate the past 4 years.

It is pretty amazing to think that Derek and I have known each other for almost 12 years and have been a "couple" for 10 years! Wow! It has gone by so fast and in just the past year, we have had so many changes. We welcomed our little girl into the world, we both had major job changes, and we have seen friends and family, and even ourselves, face some really difficult challenges. But one thing that has remained absolutely pure and steadfast and true is God's presence in our lives. He has been beyond good to us! We are thankful for this past year because the Lord has used it to strengthen us in ways that we didn't know He could. Marriage really is a beautiful gift that the Father has given us...we are thankful that He has allowed us the opportunity to know and love Him deeper through our iniquities, which can seem so abundant at times. I often think that I don't know how people that don't know God ever really learn how to love one another in their marriage. He really is the glue that keeps it all together!

All that to say, I have been blessed with a husband that loves me incredibly and serves me in so many ways. He has taught me so much about faithfulness and commitment. I never thought that I would marry someone like Derek and I thank God that he entrusted me with him. So, to my sweet husband and best friend, thank you for loving me with the love of Christ and for being the father that you are(amazing!!!!). I love you so much and look forward to many more anniversaries to come...now, can I get a "WOOT WOOT" for the Lord and marriage?...Praise God, despite what "the world" says it can be done!!!!