Remember 1995?

That was the year I took a huge leap of faith and said "I do". In a world where marriage is mocked and commitments are for the short term, that could have been risky business. I stand in awe of how 12 years have now passed (we just celebrated our anniversary) and I can't imagine having taken any other path OR any other man. Are we perfect? No, who is. Are we happy? You bet!

Did I see back then where life would take me? Not even close, but what I have learned is that's God's plan for my life is ALWAYS better than I could have imagined for myself. It's not that I'm living a fantasy or living on easy street. Like one of my favorite songs says, "who am I, that the Lord of all the earth would care to know my name...?" I am humbled that He reached out to me and drew me to Him. What unexplainable comfort in knowing that the One who made me, walks with me through each day, carries me when it's tough, and points out the scenic spots I might otherwise miss. He even gave me my man, the right man, to brighten the path for me and make me laugh. I'm rambling now but I wanted to list 12 things about my man that I love and respect him for -- everyone should know.

1. He loves his Lord and is willing to surrender his own plans for God's plan.

2. He makes me laugh and that is Oh, so priceless!

3. He works hard to take care of us.

4. He is a good listener, better than I am.

5. Have you seen this manly hunk o' muscle? Hubba, hubba!

6. He's such an all-around good guy, everybody loves him

7. He is a man of principle and is COMPELLED to do the right thing.

8. He's super smart and knows how to think for himself.

9. He's versatile - he can change diapers, wash dishes, chop down trees and gut dead animals (so dreamy)

10. He's played a big part in giving me my four "little people".

11. He has a vivid imagination and is awesome with the kids

12. He's all mine, til death do we part.

I love you babe! May God give us many more years, many more laughs and may He help us survive this parenting thing :)