Celebration of Marriage

Yesterday was a wonderful day. My husband and I celebrated 18 years of marriage. I am sure that makes me officially old, even though I do not feel old. I guess the fact that my oldest daughter is 14 years old, could attribute to my oldness, but I still feel about 25!

We had a fabulous anniversary day together, as we lounged by the pool all day, soaked in the sun, and watched the kids play in the water. I know that doesn't sound very romantic, but in my opinion, it was the best day ever. Enjoying the beautiful outdoors with my main squeeze, spending time with the kids, and cooking out delicious steaks that evening, is more than I could ask for. My husband topped off the day by saying, "he would rather be hanging out with his family than anywhere else", and these were sweet words to my ears. What more could a girl want than a loving husband, great provider, and super dad who loves his family?! Now don't get me wrong, I'll go for a romantic evening of candles, good food and private conversation any day- but you can't beat the love felt when spending time with family.

In years past, there were times when we struggled, and we still have our moments like any married couple, but God has blessed our relationship and I am so thankful. I remember a day years ago, when we were experiencing some rough times. The stress of jobs, small kids, finances, and relationship issues can be overwhelming for young couples. One day, I found myself crying out to God for an answer to our problems. For some bizarre reason, I decided to go get my car washed at Auto Bell (for the first time in many months). I sat in the car wash waiting room, feeling low in spirit and clueless about how to be a good wife, when I looked down at the table beside me, and there lay the book "The Power Of A Praying Wife", by Stormie Omartian. My heart skipped a beat. God has sent me a book! There was no one else to be found in the car wash that day, so I was sure God had arranged for me to have it.

I took the book home and began reading the first chapter - to my surprise, Stormie's husband's name was Michael - my husband's name was Michael! Kind of creepy huh? But a wonderful supernatural-surprise-which-gives-you-chill-bumps kind of creepy! From that day forward, I made a commitment to always pray for my husband, even when I didn't feel like it, or feel like he deserved it. I made a commitment to stop asking God to fix my husband's flaws, and start asking Him to open my eyes to what I could fix about myself that would improve our relationship. It was hard, and still is, but well worth it.

I truly believe it was that commitment to praying for my marriage that has led to the success of our relationship. Is life a peaceful harmonic melody at our house all the time? I would be lying if I said yes. We aren't perfect. We argue, fuss and squabble over silly things. We disagree about how to spend money or who we should visit first at Christmas. But no matter what we are going through, I know I can take it to the Lord,and that He will hear my prayers, and I trust that He will help us work through any issues, big or small. As long we continue to make Him a priority in our family, I know that God will continue to bless our marriage.

On a final note, I didn't really need an anniversay gift (but what girl doesn't love gifts?!) As usual, my sweet husband came through with flying colors. A few months ago, I had misplaced one of my diamond stud earrings (again). I was devastated, but no matter how hard I looked, I could not find it. And believe it or not, he really wasn't too hard on me about losing it (again). Without my knowledge, Michael had taken my still existing earring to the jeweler, and purchased a matching stud for it. What a man!

So with love to my wonderful husband Michael - happy 18th anniversary!