4 years ago ...

At this moment 4 years ago I was waiting with my dad to walk down the aisle. I remember it was such a surreal moment. I was closing a familiar chapter in my life and beginning a strangely unknown, yet exciting one.

I walked down the aisle to marry the man of my dreams. We said our "I do's", took some pictures, danced the night away at a great party, and began our lives together with a wonderful vacation in Mexico.

I knew marriage would be wonderful and yet challenging at times. I never expected it to teach me as much as it has ...

I have learned the value of working hard. Marriage is work, plain and simple. You have to work at it every day to make it great.

I have learned the value of 100%. Marriage is not a 50/50 split. It requires both people to put in 100% at all times.

I have learned the value of choosing my battles. Someone once said to me "If you want something done your way, you have to be willing to do it every time." So who cares how the towels are folded?!?

I have/am learning the value of prayer. Consistent prayer can accomplish more in your marriage than any book, counseling session, or argument.

I have learned to laugh. Life is too short to take seriously all the time. Thanks Bret for teaching me to kick back and relax and laugh at what life throws your way sometime.

I have learned about mentoring. It is wise to learn from those a few stages ahead of you in life. It never hurts to have a teachable heart and spirit.

Thanks Bret for 4 wonderful years. I am so thankful for you and all you are in my life. I can't wait to see where God takes us. You are the love of my life and the man of my dreams!