This year has been one of the hardest of my life. (A post is in the works that delves into that.) And ironically -and unfortunately- this past June was also Daniel and my 10th wedding anniversary! Ten years! A decade together!
During these past 10 years we've endured SO much together- always together. We've endured health trials, the tragic diagnosis of special needs, financial hardship, marriage and personal counseling...
September 2006
But thanks to faith, our loving Savior, Jesus Christ, our patient and merciful Heavenly Father, and both Daniel and I working really hard on keeping our marriage, it is stronger today than I could have ever imagined it to be.
November 2006
Though we married not only young but quickly, I cannot offer much advice on choosing your spouse- except choose wisely! Do not marry someone because you love them, it's so easy to love people. Marry someone you admire. Marry someone who loves you so much that he will spend his whole life learning to love you better. Marry someone who will lift you up, who inspires you, who can carry on a conversation. Marry someone who treats his mother well and who treats strangers well.
Then, after you have chosen, LOVE HIM BACK!
I have to say, one thing I've found in my decade of marriage is so many wonder if...Stop wondering IF you chose right and focus your efforts on helping him become the best that he can be! How? By LOVING the best of him. Look beyond any natural flaws and love what you love the most!
I heard a quote, "A good woman knows that she is not just a partner, she is a gardener."
One thing this man reminds me of is how attractive I am when I'm comfortable in my own skin. I'm not sure when I'll reach the age when I'll fully accepted myself, but I'm close.
The other thing I've learned in this decade is how important DATE NIGHT is -and also how infrequently used and taken for granted it is! It is SO important to date your husband. In my opinion, double dates are the best. It's easier to be your fun-loving self when you are with another couple. I don't think dates are a good time to talk extensively about your children or your problems. You need this time away from the struggles of life to just flirt and laugh and be YOU: two adults who love each other.
My husband has taught me so much in the 10 years that we've been married- I can't wait to learn what's in store in this next ten years!
