Marriage is defined as voluntarily being joined for life. But to me, voluntarily joining as one was the foundation we created at the beginning of our relationship. It was the first step we made toward becoming husband and wife. Recently celebrating my 1 year wedding anniversary I have learned more about myself than I had before. I promised to give myself to a man. I promised to love, honor, trust and cherish him forever. And in that year not only do I feel I fulfilled my promise, but I enjoyed it. We battled through not only learning to cook, but cooking only for two – we quickly learned we cannot eat an entire 1 lb box of pasta by ourselves no matter how hungry we were. We argued over insignificant house tasks such as how to do the laundry or clean the house. But looking back on our 1 year together, I have come to realize how much easier life is knowing you always have a partner by your side, no matter what. I look forward to the end of a day to hear any funny mishaps at work or just listen when anger strikes. I dream of what it will be like to meet in our bed, side by side (of course with the barrier pillow between us) and just talk. Every night talking turns into silence followed by a dream. (However if I don’t fall asleep fast enough usually ends in a sleepless night listening to the roaring sounds of snoring). But what has marriage taught me. To sacrifice myself for another. To become vulnerable and continue to feel safe. To be able to open and speak my thoughts without that fear of judgment or guilt. I have learned I am safe – and I am voluntarily loved.

Marriage is the joining of
~Love
~Trust
~Dedication

Providing one another with
~Honor
~Respect
~Trust
~Cherish

Always being willing to
~Sacrifice
~Forgive
~Understand
~Encourage

And never being afraid to say
~I’ll be there
~I miss you
~I thank you
~Count on me

Husband – thank you for a wonderful year. I look forward to spending next year beside you, holding your hand, fulfilling the promise I made to you on February 23.