Dear Lee (on our 13th anniversary)

Today we celebrate our 13th anniversary. I can’t believe it’s been 13 years since we stood in front of our immediate family and best friends to proclaim our love until death do us part. And it’s been 13 years since you got teary-eyed as we said our vows. It’s been an amazing 13 years.

When we met over 17 years ago I had no idea I was meeting the man who would become the love of my life. I wasn’t even positive we’d make it past a first date…since you never called. We had a pretty rough ride from that first date to our wedding date. But all those mistakes, tears, break-ups and make-ups brought us to where we are today. And I have no regrets.

We’ve grown up together as we learned from our mistakes. We’ve raised five totally awesome kids. We encouraged each other as we both got our college degrees. We’ve supported each other through career changes and family crises. I love waking up next to you each morning. And kissing you good night each evening. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Thirteen is supposed to be an unlucky number. But, for us, I think it’s lucky. Many people didn’t think we’d make it this long. The odds were against us and several family and friends thought we were making a mistake. But we proved them wrong. We are lucky.

We are lucky to have found each other. We are lucky we survived all the heartbreak from the past. We are lucky we had the strength to fight for each other. We are lucky we had the courage to forgive. We are lucky we fell in love. We are lucky we’ve had 17 years to get to know and appreciate each other. And we are lucky we still have a lifetime to be together.

And I am lucky to be in love with my best friend.

I love you always and forever. And can’t wait to grow old with you.