It is October 26 and my wedding anniversary. A very special anniversary at that. On this date, my husband, Michael and I have been married 16,436 days. When I met Michael, I was 19 years old and just beginning to figure out what my life plan would be. I had begun a new job at Stouffer's hotel in the sales office, embracing booking and planning meetings, weddings, and social events in the hotel ballrooms. Little did I know my life would change forever when our HR director brought in a new summer employee home from college and his name was Mike.
We find ourselves 16, 436 days later very much in love, our family has grown from the two of us to 9 with family member number 10 due in 2020. We have had 4 homes, 36 cars (yes, I said 36!), 4 dogs. We have had good times and hard times and anyone who tells you they haven't had hard times isn't being truthful. It's how you recover and move on that is important. Through it all, 16, 436 days later, I can offer this advice.
Don't let a day go by without saying I love you. It's easy to take for granted your spouse just knows it. Tell them each and every day.
Acceptance. Accept you are both different people than when you met, but throughout the years, it's important to grow together and accept the changes as we all grow older together.
Respect. Respect their opinions and thoughts and be open to communication.
Appreciation. Always appreciate what they bring to your relationship and if it needs improvement, be willing to find time to discuss and find answers.
Affection. Let there be hugs, kisses, love, hand holding, and love, love, love.
We still go on dates, and look forward to being together. And if I can't sleep in the middle of the night, I know I have a strong hand to hold. Thank you Michael for your love and I look forward to sharing the rest of our lives with you. Happy Anniversary đź’•
